Whether you just moved to the area or are a local looking for a new dinner spot to throw into your regular routine, there are several hidden, and not so hidden, gems around the QC. Some of these favorites have been around 30 years while others have only recently opened their doors. Either way, hopefully you have heard of maybe one or two of these spots.
It is time to explore the side roads and outskirts, away from all the buzz of new restaurants and trendy new foods. Perhaps travel to areas of town you have never been before and experience a new dish or new atmosphere. All of these establishments are worth the visit and deserving of their own buzz.
So you can easily plan your next outing with family and friends this list is by neighborhood. While many of these have several delicious foods to offer, we have mentioned what we love or have heard is the best.
Ayrsley
Jolly Rolls Icecream – Rolled Icecream. Family owned and operated with four locations. Over 20 flavors to choose from or create your own, or their Flavor of the Month.
Cotswold
Woflman Pizza – New Mexico Pizza – secret black bean sauce, cheddar, mozzarella, diced chicken, salsa Fresca, and a light dusting of tortilla crumbles. served with a side of sour cream.
Eddie’s Place – Breakfast. Southern Fried Chicken Biscuit with Gravy or Chicken & Waffles.
Eastland
Seafood Connection – Shrimp & Grits, Crab Legs, Fish Tacos. Not open every day so double check before you go.
Midtown
Omaggio Pizzeria – Seasonal Pizzas + Prosecco, Coffee & Dessert.
Eastover
Pasta & Provisions – Take home scratch made pasta + sauces, take home pizzas, deli sandwiches. Second location off Park Road in Madison Park, and launching their third location in Wilmore this summer.
Elizabeth
Lupie’s – Nachos, big Salads or anything else on the menu. Made from scratch.
Montford
Charlotte Cafe– Breakfast.
Plaza Midwood
Deli St. – Italian sandwich on their homemade balillo bread.
Sardis Woods
New Zealand Cafe – Any of their specialty sushi rolls. Fresh sushi. Usually a wait so go early.
Steele Creek
Carmella’s Pizza Grill – Side Spaghetti + Garlic Bread. Their side spaghetti is the size of a large dinner portion. Other locations in Fort Mill and Montford.
Luigi’sPizza – A slice of their NY style pizza.
Shamrock
Lang Van – Pineapple Fried Rice + Tofu
Yorkmont
McKoy’s Smokehouse – Double Char Grilled Thai Chili Smoked Wings + any of their homemade sides
Let us know about your favorite under the radar dining spots and we will check them out.
Jessica Moore
@finickylady @charlottefoodguide @waxhaweats
