Food and Drink

These are the Top 10 ‘neighborhood gems’ in Charlotte, according to OpenTable

Local eateries across Charlotte keep raking in the accolades.

OpenTable recently released a list of top “neighborhood gems” in the Charlotte area, highlighting restaurants that diners consistently praise for atmosphere, hospitality and food. The rankings are based on verified diner reviews submitted through the platform.

The list features a mix of lounges, Latin restaurants and nightlife-driven dining concepts spread across the city.

Here are the 10 Charlotte restaurants recognized by OpenTable as neighborhood gems:

El Puro Cuban Restaurant

Location: 5033 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28217

El Puro serves upscale Cuban cuisine inspired by the glamour of pre-revolutionary Havana, with classic dishes, cocktails and live entertainment.

A close-up shot of a pressed Cuban sandwich, cut in half, on a light-colored plate. The cross-section clearly shows layers of shredded pork, sliced ham, melted white cheese, and pickles. A large pile of golden french fries is served alongside it in the background.
The Cuban sandwich at El Puro. Alex Cason CharlotteFive

Astra Restaurant and Lounge

Location: 529 N. College St., Charlotte, NC 28202

An uptown spot offering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes alongside cocktails and a late-night lounge atmosphere.

Marquee Charlotte

Location: 3131 Tuckaseegee Rd., Charlotte, NC 28208

Marquee blends tapas, cocktails and nightlife vibes in a trendy lounge setting with DJs and hookah service.

Dos Caminos

Location: 601 S. Tryon St. #135, Charlotte, NC 28202

A Mexican restaurant in uptown known for tacos, margaritas and an energetic atmosphere.

The patio at Dos Caminos.
The patio at Dos Caminos. Dos Caminos

Matador Charlotte

Location: 1215 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203

Matador serves tacos, burritos and cocktails in a casual South End space popular for group outings.

The Matador’s non-alcoholic Scratch Margarita is made with Lyre’s Agave Blanco and Lyre’s Orange Sec, plus fresh citrus notes from lime and orange, with a dash of agave.
The Matador’s non-alcoholic Scratch Margarita is made with Lyre’s Agave Blanco and Lyre’s Orange Sec, plus fresh citrus notes from lime and orange, with a dash of agave. The Matador

Muraya

Location: 200 E. Bland St. Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28203

The restaurant offers Latin American dishes in a restaurant known for its vibrant ambiance and cocktails.

An overhead, high-contrast shot of a crudo dish served in a matte gray bowl. Thin slices of raw fish are arranged over a base of thin sticks, immersed in a light green sauce, and garnished with bright red chili strips and green microgreens.
Tartare from Muraya in South End Charlotte. Catalyst Creative

OneSixty Cocktails & Kitchen

Location: 4847 Shopton Rd A, Charlotte, NC 28278

OneSixty Cocktails combines comfort food, handcrafted drinks and nightlife energy in southwest Charlotte.

LulaBelle’s Restaurant & Lounge

Location: 9335 Center Lake Dr #100, Charlotte, NC 28216

A Southern-inspired restaurant and lounge serving soul food favorites alongside live music and brunch events.

Frida’s Mexican Cantina

Location: 8740 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Charlotte, NC 28226

A Mexican restaurant known for tacos, margaritas and an upbeat atmosphere.

Inside Frida’s Mexican Cantina on Pineville-Matthews Road.
Inside Frida’s Mexican Cantina on Pineville-Matthews Road. Alex Cason CharlotteFive

Teranga City Restaurant & Lounge

Location: 750 W. Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28208

The restaurant serves West African cuisine and cocktails in a lounge setting.

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Evan Moore
The Charlotte Observer
Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.
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