Haven’t visited Optimist Hall in a while? Chances are you’ll find several new tenants filling the hallways. Take a look at our updated guide for the latest, greatest and most popular businesses at this food hall in Optimist Park.
Keepin’ it Safe
No doubt a venue with such a variety of food and drink options draws a pretty strong crowd on the regular. Luckily, the folks at Optimist Hall are keeping things safe with COVID protocols. Dining is at limited capacity with outdoor seating available. Many of the food tenants also offer delivery (check DoorDash, Grubhub or Uber Eats), online ordering for takeout or even curbside pickup. The current hours of the hall are Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Hours of operation vary per business.
Let’s Eat
The possibilities are endless at this hall! From sushi and pizza to gelato and Cuban pastries, there’s something for everyone. The full list of tenants can be found here, but here’s a rundown of new or top picks.
Botiwalla Indian Street Grill: Executive chef Meherwan Irani of the popular Indian restaurant Chai Pani (Asheville, NC) recently opened the doors of his Indian street food stall. The menu is made of finger foods, snacks, handhelds and drinks full of color and flavor. Be sure to try the Vada Pav (vegetarian spicy potato dumplings), Lamb Boti Kabab Roll and a piece of hot, fluffy naan. Don’t leave without a Mango Lassi (chilled yogurt drink) or cup of Chai in hand.
The Dumpling Lady: It’s hard to resist these spicy homemade dumplings and noodles that Charlotteans absolutely love. Go on and order a variety of Sweet Pork Belly Dumplings, Dan Dan Noodles, scallion pancakes and sichuan smashed cucumbers. While you’re ordering, throw in in a jar of sichuan chili oil or frozen dumplings to cook at home.
Felix Empanadas: Enjoy traditional empanadas like steak, chicken or chorizo or mix it up with pepperoni pizza, Shepard’s pie or lobster, corn and chive. These delightful stuffed Argentinian pastries are so good, you’ll back again the next day for the breakfast options (like bacon, egg and cheese.)
Harriet’s Hamburgers: The list of Charlotte’s top burgers is forever debated, but many claim Harriet’s is their number one pick. The menu simply consists of a hamburger (with housemade pickles, red onions, simple sauce, and white American cheese), cheeseburger, fries and soda, but real fans know you can also order a Juicy Lucy (an indulgent cheese-stuffed burger.)
Suarez Bakery & Barra: Find the sweet treats you love from Suarez Bakery at Park Road Shopping Center plus Cuban-inspired sandwiches, bowls and snacks. A cup of Café con Leche (espresso, milk, raw cane sugar) will be sure to give you the energy you need to knock out that project you’ve been putting off, too.
Xiao Bao: This Southeast Asian eatery is super popular in Charleston, SC, and lucky for us, it’s now open in Optimist Hall. We can’t wait to dig in to Okonomiyaki, a Japanese cabbage pancake, and Crab Fried Rice with a KFC Sando (Korean fried chicken bao) to start.
Let’s Drink
Billy Sunday: The award-winning cocktail bar from Chicago, IL serves up crafty drinks, wine and beer from their location below the main food hall. They have a few snacks on the menu, but if you need some grub with your booze, feel free to order a pizza from Ava Pizzeria (located in the hall.)
Fonta Flora: Find this popular taproom from Morganton, NC in the lower level of Optimist Hall. Stay a while and enjoy a brew on tap or pick up your favorite cans, bottles, or growlers for home.
Spindle Bar: It’ll be hard to walk past this bar without sitting down for a Daiquiri (rum, lime, sugar, seasonal fruit) or Flower Child (vodka, elderflower, grapefruit, soda.) Fun fact: Their mimosas and Bloody Mary’s can be bottled to-go!
Treat Yourself
Collier Candy Company: Stock up on goodies for the family (or yourself) at the candy store offering old favorites and modern-day treats. Dare ya to leave without a bag full of candies…
Honeysuckle Gelato: Get a cone stacked with your fave flavors or opt for a Gelato Sandwich (gelato between a brownie, blondie or cookie.) You can’t go wrong with a stop at this creamery.
