February may be the shortest month of the year, but it offers no shortage of foodie news, must-try openings and events to tempt your palate. Read on for the latest food news you need to know around Charlotte:
Openings & Closings
The Loft at Duckworth’s, SouthPark – Open now!
From restaurateur Rob Duckworth comes the latest venture specializing in craft cocktails and bar bites in a mid-century modern space. Expect a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping on any of the menu’s 38 (and gradually expanding) classic cocktails from Beverage Director & Mixologist Ron Oleksa or bar bites including paninis, flatbreads and sweets. For now, they’re open Thursday-Saturday 4pm to midnight.
Taco Boy, LoSo – Just Opened (Jan. 30)
via Facebook
Taco Boy, a beloved Charleston-based restaurant, will open its first Charlotte location on Jan. 30 at The Station at LoSo. Diners can expect scratch-made Mexican-inspired cuisine like Al Pastor Tacos, Ceviche, Crab and Shrimp Enchiladas, made-to-order Guacamole en Molcajete, vegan-friendly Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos, Jicama Salad, Quesataco, and Steak Tampiquena. Late night hours will also offer rotating DJs, a rooftop and more.
For opening week, Jan. 30 through Feb. 6, Taco Boy LoSo will be open for dinner only from 5-11 p.m., and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. On Wednesday,Feb. 7, the restaurant will host Taco Boy’s LoSo-pening Fiesta from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., featuring $5 casa margaritas, complimentary churros for each table, live DJ music, hourly prizes, and a giveaway for a rooftop private party for 10.
Mano Bella Artisan Foods, SouthPark (Morrison) – Open now
Created by husband and wife, Raffaele and Madison Patrizi, Mano Bella Artisan Foods uses simple and pure ingredients to create authentic Italian food made by hand or “fatto a mano.” They’ve expanded beyond their 7th St. Market spot into SouthPark, located in the Morrison Shops (old Earthfare center) and now serving authentic and local Italian cuisine Wednesday through Sunday. Mano Bella offers indoor and outdoor seating, wine, cocktails, a pasta bar and live pasta making demos. Plus, pick up to-go treats like biscotti, sauces, handmade cheeses, dried and fresh pasta.
Little Mama’s Italian, Rea Farms – Open now
PC: Remy Thurston
With three incredible years in SouthPark under its belt, Little Mama’s Italian is now open in Rea Farms. The lunch and dinner menus will be identical to the original Little Mama’s with the addition of a handful of pizzas from Mama Ricotta’s with some new twists. There will be two special pies available only in Rea Farms: Diavola Pizza with Calabrian salami, caramelized onions, cherry peppers, provolone picante, homemade mozz, and a Calabrian hot honey sauce & Stracciatella Pizza with olive oil, mozzarella, house stracciatella, provolone picante, Fontina, wild mushrooms, and a white truffle oil drizzle.
Kudoku Sushi & Asian Kitchen, Plaza Midwood – Open now
Don’t miss trying the new sushi and Asian kitchen in Plaza Midwood. Kudoku Sushi is now open in the former spot that housed The Warmack. Expect sushi, small plates, cocktails and more.
Another Brewery, NoDa – Open now
Across from the original Amelie’s spot in NoDa, Another Brewery had its soft opening on Dec. 31. Find them at 2509 N Davidson Street.
The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar, Concord – Open now
via Facebook
Satisfy your sweet tooth in a whole new way. Crazy Mason Milkshakes, originally based in Myrtle Beach, is now open in Concord. Dessert-lovers can try a variety of gourmet milkshakes, ice cream sundaes and sandwiches, waffles and more.
Cuzzo’s Cuisine, Charlotte Premium Outlets – Open now
via Facebook
While you’re out shopping, stop into the newest Cuzzo’s Cuisine location, the brand’s third, inside the Charlotte Premium Outlets. The menu includes seafood combination plates, wings, lobster Mac and cheese, waffles and more.
Ka Udon, NoDa – Open now
via Instagram
Inside Urban District Market, KaUdon is now open, offering Japanese udon noodles and tempura options. Choose from beef, tofu, spicy, curry options and more.
Eight & Sand closed, tapas spot Catalú will open in its place
via Facebook
Sadly, Eight & Sand in South End is now closed. A new tapas restaurant called Catalú is expected to take its place. Catalú will be operated by the owners of Que Onda and Que Fresa.
Yama LoSo – Opening soon
via Facebook
The beloved sushi and Asian fusion spot, Yama, is expanding in the next few months into LoSo. Stay tuned to social media for the official opening date and then check out their new location at 3533 Dewitt Lane.
Foodie Events News to Note
Secure your wing order at Duckworth’s now for Super Bowl Sunday
Don’t wait to place your wing orders for the big game! Choose from plain, medium, hot, BBQ, sweet n’ bold gold, lemon pepper or garlic parmesan.
“A Vulcan & a Jedi Walk into a Bar…”
Thursdays-Saturdays, February 1-March 16 | Supperland
Tickets for “A Vulcan & a Jedi Walk into a Bar…” Part II at the Supperland Speakeasy are now available. This 4-course cocktail tasting menu includes carefully crafted drinks paired with specialty dishes from our kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of these two galaxies located far, far away or just love a good drink, go on and book your tickets to this exclusive tasting menu experience. If you missed Part I, have no fear — your starry excursion will be just as magical.
Details:
- When: Thursdays-Saturdays, February 1-March 16
- Time: Seatings at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. each night
- Price: $160/person (+ tax/gratuity)
- By Reservation Only: Book at the link in bio
Ace No. 3 Spirit Night
Feb. 5th from 5pm-close
Ace No. 3 is proud to support local schools, sporting teams, and non-profits by hosting a Spirit Night. Join us once a month from 5-9pm when 20% of all in-store purchases are donated directly to the selected group/nonprofit. February non-profits:
- Ace BV: Piedmont IB MS
- Ace CM: Rise 2 Thrive Family Resource Center: their mission is to empower children and families by creating pathways to success and eliminating barriers to economic mobility through education and advocacy.
- Ace MP: Oakhurst STEAM Academy
Dockside Dinner Series | Carolina Classics
Drift on Lake Wylie | February 7
For Drift’s next Dockside Dinner, they’re getting back to their roots and highlighting the Carolina Classics. Expect a 5-course menu full of our state’s staples. They’ll also be pairing each course with wine. View the full menu here.
Galentine’s Day Cocktail Party
The Duke Mansion | Feb. 13
Join The Duke Mansion for a special Galentine’s Day at the mansion with live music, one drink ticket with a charcuterie and dessert display. $45 per person; reservations required.
Love is Blind watch party and specials at The Garrison Cocktail Bar & Restaurant and Margaux’s Wine
The Garrison Cocktail Bar & Restaurant and Margaux’s Wine in Pineville were BOTH featured during the recording of the hometown Charlotte episodes of Netflix’s Love is Blind. Join them on debut day – Wednesday, February 14 @ 8PM – for Episode One and to enjoy Half Price Wine and Signature Love Is Blind Sangrias. Plus, Half Price Apps from 4-6PM.
Orin Swift Wine Dinner
Napa on Providence | February 21 at 6:30pm
2024 is upon us and that means an all-new slate of fantastic wine dinners. Join us the evening of Wednesday, February 21st at 6:30PM for the Orin Swift Wine Dinner. Chef Brian Farrell and acclaimed winery of Orin Swift are sure to provide a memorable evening of fine dining and a four-course guided tasting experience. $115++ per person
The Waterman Neighborhood Night
Feb. 21st from 5pm-close
Join The Waterman Fish Bar at either location for Neighborhood Night in support of nonprofit organizations. From 5pm to close, 20% of sales will be donated to the featured group/charity. February’s non-profits:
- South End featured group: Rivergate Elementary School
- Lake Norman featured nonprofit: Angels & Sparrows: their mission is to empower families to reach their potential by providing access to food security and educational opportunities that lead to a fresh start.
Waterside weekday specials at Port City Club
Port City Club by David Burke continues to offer a sensational lineup of specials.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
- 1/2 Price Bottle of Wine Featuring a selection from our House Selections
- Burger + Taco Specials
- Beer Specials
Plus a Daily Bar Bites Menu and local live music lineup Saturdays 6 – 9 pm
Drink well and do good with the Rising Tide Cocktail at Sea Level NC
Sea Level NC proudly supports local non-profits and fundraising groups through its ‘Rising Tide’ cocktail initiative. Whenever the featured cocktail is purchased, 20% is donated directly to the featured partner. The latest Rising Tide Cocktail (“Drunk In Love” made with Rosé Vodka, strawberry, lemon, Cava Brut Rosé) will be available Jan. 29-Feb. 25. The featured nonprofit is Community Link: their mission is to enable individuals and families to obtain and sustain safe, decent, and affordable housing.
The Fox & Falcon by David Burke
Welcome the Mint City Shake to Ace No. 3
Grinchy Mint Shake rebrand! Your favorite holiday sipper is now called the Mint City Shake (named after Charlotte ofc!). Same delicious ingredients just a different name 🙂 Mint City Shake is made with vanilla soft serve, crushed Andes mints, and mint syrup. Available at all locations for a limited time only!
Chef David Burke’s Special Dinners:
These spontaneous events curated by Chef David Burke present a unique opportunity for guests to indulge in specially crafted dishes by the renowned Chef himself. Announcements for these exclusive dining events are made through the restaurant’s social media channels. Known for their impromptu nature, they often require quick responses. Priced at approximately $100 per person, guests also have the option to add to the experience with a thoughtfully selected wine pairing.
Weekend brunch at Angeline’s
Don’t forget – Angeline’s serves up mouthwatering food, libations and good company for brunch on Saturday and Sunday brunch, 8 am until 2 pm. Menu here. Pictured: Granola and Berries – Whipped Ricotta and Greek Yogurt, Berry Jam, Fresh Berries, Mint, Lavender Honey
