Restaurant chain with ‘classic comfort food’ to open second spot in Ballantyne
An American gastropub serving comfort food classics and “killer cocktails” is expanding this fall in Charlotte.
Culinary Dropout is opening a second location at the Bowl at Ballantyne, according to a permit request viewed by CharlotteFive.
The new restaurant, slated for 15220 Bowl Street, will occupy an existing two-story building in the dining and entertainment district. Work on the project includes a new commercial kitchen, restrooms, finishings and furniture, along with structural, plumbing and mechanical upgrades, documents show.
A sprawling 9,986 square-foot hangout, Culinary Dropout Ballantyne will feature a dedicated live music stage on the first floor, plus an indoor bar with unobstructed views of the open kitchen, a news release sent to CharlotteFive says.
Customers can grab a seat upstairs at the rooftop bar or enjoy a meal on the indoor/outdoor patio. There will also be a private dining room for special events.
The Arizona-based chain has more than a dozen locations in nine states, including its only North Carolina spot in South End that opened in 2023.
It’s part of Fox Restaurant Concepts, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Sam Fox.
South End “has become a hotspot for young people, families and professionals, making it a prime location for Culinary Dropout,” Fox told CharlotteFive at the time. “Whether you’re enjoying a family dinner, grabbing a drink after work, hanging out before a Panthers game or just out for a fun night with friends, this restaurant is a special place that is all things to all people.”
On the menu, foodies will find classic pub bites from soft pretzels and BBQ pork belly nachos to fried chicken and hot wings. Salads, pizza, sandwiches and other “comfort food classics” are also available.
Other offerings include:
- Whipped Feta & Tahini Dip served with fresh pomegranate, a house-made apricot preserve and grilled ciabatta.
- Crispy Chicken Katsu sandwich topped with napa slaw and spicy miso aioli.
- Turkey Pastrami on a baked pretzel bun.
- 36-hour Pork Ribs
Customers can choose from 17 handcrafted cocktails, alongside curated wines and local beers.
Culinary Dropout Ballantyne
Location: 15220 Bowl St, Charlotte, NC 28277 (coming fall 2026)
Location: 1120 S Tryon St #100, Charlotte, NC 28203
Cuisine: American gastropub + bistro
Instagram: @culinarydropout
This story was originally published February 2, 2026 at 11:40 AM.