Things to do

'Almost retro hangout haven': 4 must-visit spots in Charlotte's Montford neighborhood

Stories by Charlotte Observer journalists, with AI summarization

The articles share a focus on Montford Drive, a vibrant neighborhood in Charlotte known for its diverse dining options and unique community atmosphere. Each article highlights the area's standout culinary hotspots or charming neighborhood vibe.

In the first article, Angry Ale's gains recognition for having the best french fries in Charlotte. Known for its classic bar food, the restaurant attracts locals with its seasoned fries and comfort food options.

Another article delves into the Montford neighborhood itself, describing it as an 'almost-retro' social hub alive with cozy bars and eateries. The article highlights Angry Ale's and Moosehead Grill, known for its wings, as key parts of the area's character.

The Roasting Company, affectionately called RoCo, offers Costa Rican rotisserie chicken, a staple since 1991. Doug Bell, the owner, emphasizes the community vibe and commitment to fresh, quality food.

Good Food on Montford introduces new weeknight deals to offer high-end meals at wallet-friendly prices. The spot is recognized for its small plates and adventurous flavors, aiming to attract both regulars and newcomers to explore diverse cuisines.

Montford Drive's establishments are celebrated for their contributions to community character, culinary variety, and maintaining authenticity over the years.

NO. 1: ROCO’S COSTA RICAN ROTISSERIE CHICKEN REMAINS A HIT THREE DECADES LATER IN CHARLOTTE

Charlotte’s Classic Eats: Chicken is the star, but homemade marinades, queso and sauces also shine at this restaurant. | Published September 12, 2022 | Read Full Story by Philip Freeman

Angry Ale’s has been voted as the winner of the CharlotteFive Readers’ Choice Best Fries poll. The restaurant’s Dirty South fries are topped with house-smoked pulled pork, queso cheese, barbecue sauce, grilled onions and charred jalapenos. By Alex Cason

NO. 2: CHARLOTTE NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT NAMED FOR THE CITY’S BEST FRENCH FRIES

A winner has been chosen for the CharlotteFive Readers’ Choice Best Fries poll. Here’s which restaurant is the top fry spot. | Published April 28, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

Customers hang around outside Jeff’s Bucket Shop on Montford Drive. By Alex Cason

NO. 3: THERE’S NO PLACE IN CHARLOTTE LIKE MONTFORD DRIVE, AN ‘ALMOST-RETRO’ HANGOUT HAVEN

Come along on a nostalgic journey through one of Charlotte’s longest enduring social hubs. | Published July 10, 2025 | Read Full Story by Timothy DePeugh

Good Food on Montford in Charlotte. By Alex Cason

NO. 4: GOURMET BITES ON A BUDGET ARE UP FOR GRABS WITH GOOD FOOD’S NEW WEEKNIGHT DEALS

$10 small plates, half-price wine and other specials await at this Montford neighborhood restaurant in Charlotte. | Published July 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley, CharlotteFive Generic

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.