26 Cant-Miss Best Restaurants & Bars in Uptown Charlotte

With a population of 6,468 people, Uptown is a lively neighborhood in Charlotte, and restaurants in Uptown Charlotte contribute to this atmosphere.

You are probably wondering, why Uptown? Well, it’s the name given to the downtown area.

The busy metropolis is separated into four wards as you zoom in on the recognizable Charlotte skyline to the city’s core at the intersection of Trade and Tryon streets.

City creatives, coders, and entrepreneurs can be seen working side by side with company executives and CEOs every morning.

While at night, both locals and tourists go to the numerous upscale cocktail bars and roofs.

There are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks in Uptown. In fact, there are more than 50 pubs and eateries and a wide variety of attractions.

Whether you go to fine dining or a comfortable, homey place to hang out with friends, you will have a great time here.

Restaurants in Uptown Charlotte

1. Rooster’s Wood-fired Kitchen – Uptown

Rooster’s wood-fired kitchen is great for dinner just before a show uptown. It is in the complex with Bank of America parking and Blumenthal Auditorium.

The restaurant is one of the top restaurants in uptown charlotte.

You can observe food preparation while dining at the kitchen’s antique granite countertop on a hand-made pub bar stool because the kitchen is open to the dining area.

Finishes in leather, old stone, exquisitely crafted woodwork, and wrought iron are some of the aesthetics you will come across.

The menu is varied – with dishes cheap enough not to break the bank and other dishes in the $20-$30 range if you own a bank.

They also have an upstairs and downstairs area. You’ll want to make reservations if you’re going on a busy night.

The menu has a nice variety of meats and seafood with a few exotic dishes.

Address: 150 N College St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

2. Que Onda Tacos + Tequila Uptown

QUE Onda is a small, unassuming Mexican restaurant in Uptown Charlotte.

The food here is delicious, the presentation is great, and the price is not over the top. However, it’s a little loud, so it might not be the best restaurant for intimate conversation.

They have all the regular menu selections that you would find at any establishment.

Their authentic menu choices with wonderful flavors, including great taco combinations, are unique & tasty.

Address: 333 W Trade St #101, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

3. Alexander Michael’s

Are you in Uptown looking for restaurants in Uptown charlotte for some drinks and meals? You shouldn’t miss Alexander Michael’s.

Al Mike’s, or “Al Mike’s,” as regulars call it, is the ideal neighborhood diner and bar tucked away in the Fourth Ward.

The restaurant is in a beautiful old home with a historic feel, giving it a great atmosphere and adding charm.

The structure that now houses Alexander Michael’s was first erected in 1897 and was used for many years as “The Berryhill Store.” It is known historically as the Crowell-Berryhill Store.

In fact, so much history still gleams on the streets and the inner walls. AM has a dimly lit seating area with a bar stretching most of the main seating area.

Al Mike’s has delicacies such as the What It Is spaghetti and London Broil Sandwich, which locals adore, setting its food apart from other pubs.

Additionally, standard bar fare like nachos and fried pickles won’t let you down. For drinks, diners have a wide variety of import and microbrew options.

Don’t forget to have a stroll in the neighborhood after supper to view the Fourth Ward’s historic houses.

Address: 401 W 9th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

4. Sea Level NC

If you are looking for some really cool restaurants in Uptown charlotte serving seafood, this is the place.

For those who are familiar with the North Carolina coast, Sea Level, NC, is a little coastal village that has been fishing on the Pamlico Sound for years.

For the enjoyment of the “uptowners,” the Sea Level restaurant in Charlotte brought that beach culture and cuisine into the urban environment of the Hearst Tower.

The decor of Sea Level is beautiful and elegant. When you step inside, you automatically get a feeling of tranquility.

Similarly, their main specialties, such as their famous oyster, are sourced from NC farms and Carolina fishermen.

Enjoy traditional dishes like NC Shrimp Grits or a Maine Lobster Roll. Or, try a novel dish like the Catfish Rueben.

You can even try different oysters from around Canada and the US. The lobster roll is full of lobster and served on delicious bread.

Also, be sure to check out Oyster Happy Hour.

The restaurant is also terrific for a business lunch, celebratory dinner, or date night.

Address: 129 E 5th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

5. 204 North Kitchen and Cocktails

So you’re going to the Broadway show at the Belk Theater and need a place to eat beforehand? Right next door is 204 North! You should visit.

In fact, if you are a fan of farm-to-table places like Kindred in Davidson, or Roosters in Uptown, then you will probably like 204 North as well, with one notable twist: their awesome handcrafted cocktail menu.

This restaurant is right in the middle of lots of perfect places to eat and drink, so they must be on their toes to compete, and they compete so well.

The vibe in this restaurant is fantastic; there is a lot of dark wood, chic lighting, and eclectic decor.

Similarly, it has an open feel and provides tables that run the wall length toward the bar.

The menu offers a nice selection of signature cocktails. They are not very strong and offer a nice blend of flavors.

Address: 204 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

6. Luce

If you are looking for one of the best Italian restaurants in uptown charlotte, Luce is a great choice, especially if you are having a special evening outing.

Luce is Italian for light, and the glow achieved by the interior of this restaurant is indeed no coincidence. It is run by Gabriele Grigolon, an actual Italian chef, and serves lunch and dinner.

In fact, the travertine floors, Venetian plaster, and Murano lights provide a luxurious dining atmosphere.

Seasonal Italian cuisines, such as specialty salads, hand-made pasta, and daily fresh fish and meats, are all available on the menu.

The osso buco is a favorite here – tender, flavorful, and served with the bone marrow.

The fish dishes are also a delight – never dried out or smothered in sauces.

Risotto doesn’t disappoint either; the pasta is made on the premise, and the gelato and sorbet desserts are made with real cream and fruit.

Address: 214 N Tryon St J, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

7. French Quarter Restaurant

For more than 25 years, French Quarter has been a mainstay of Uptown Charlotte.

This is the classic “cheers” type tavern that we all would like to find down the road from our house.

It has physical sitting at the head of a small alley. There are also a couple of decorations on the wall,

They are most famous for their daily lunch specials, salt-and-pepper wings, drink specials (LITs), and in-out service.

There are usually two to choose from their daily specials, or you can choose a combo of both.

Make sure to check out the Monte Cristo sandwich; it’s like a grilled cheese sandwich loaded with turkey and ham and dipped in an egg batter, deep fried and dusted with powdered sugar like french toast, and served with raspberry jelly!

Address: 321 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

8. Angeline’s

Angeline’s is a delicious Italian restaurant in Charlotte.

Located inside the Kimpton Tryon hotel, it has fantastic bartenders who are super knowledgeable and can make you drink.

It is a cozy meeting place for locals and tourists to bond over Italian-inspired dishes.

Angeline’s serves a contemporary Italian-inspired menu that includes house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and tasty small plates.

They offer an extensive wine list covering almost any wine flavor and region.

They have a huge patio too! After dinner, be sure to go upstairs if you’re lucky enough to get in at merchant and trade! They have a rooftop bar with music and amazing views of Charlotte.

Better yet, just get a room at the Kimpton, dinner at Angeline’s, and drinks at merchant and trade!

Address: 303 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

9. Latta Arcade

If you are in uptown charlotte, Latta Arcade is a favorite go-to place for lunch, happy hour, or supper. They host everything from renowned regional restaurants to well-known national eateries.

The two-level art deco arcade was constructed in 1914 and inaugurated in 1915.

Under a skylit roof initially intended to provide natural light for grading cotton, it now houses rows of retail stores, restaurants, and offices.

It’s a tiny alleyway next to The French Quarter restaurant that leads into a commercial district surrounded by crowded bars and outdoor seats.

There are people virtually everywhere in this place.

Getting sucked into the festivities in this crowded, high-energy location is incredibly simple.

If you are going with kids, be sure to look out for them, so you all don’t get separated in the crowd.

Address: 320 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

10. 7th Restaurant & Lounge

Located in the First Ward in Uptown Charlotte, 7th restaurant is a locally owned restaurant and lounge.

The restaurant has a vibrant black and orange color scheme throughout.

With big bulbs, it is well-lit. The dining room and open bar at the 7th District are connected. The bar’s aroma of fresh fruit gives the atmosphere a tropical touch.

The live band, which has a violinist, pianist, and saxophonist, creates a beautiful mix of contemporary and vintage music.

Cocktails and unique beverages are the focus of the 7th District.

With creamy butter, the jalapeño cheddar cornbread is offered.

Their chicken and waffles are amazing, and the drinks are always on point.

They even have a live DJ on the weekends when folks are leaving the club and still want to enjoy some music.

Address: 321 N Caldwell St #100, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

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11. Aura Rooftop

Aura Rooftop is one of the few rooftop restaurants in Uptown charlotte. It is a lovely spot for a date or girls’/guys’ night out.

The restaurant is located on top of the JW Marriott, Uptown. When entering this rooftop, you feel like you’re in Miami or Cali.

It is tucked away amid the skyscrapers, furnished with comfortable lounge seats and a spacious bar.

The terrace is separated into two areas: the Aura Rooftop Bar and the Aura Rooftop Pool.

Various expertly created signature cocktails, rosé, and sparkling wines are available at the bar, along with delectable small meals, including Ahi Tuna Tacos, Scallop Ceviche, and Spicy Tuna Hand Rolls.

The food menu is also very accommodating to vegetarians.

The pool area is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm for hotel guests and those who have reserved a Day Ticket or Cabana.

Overall, you shouldn’t miss aura if you like a high-end feel that wouldn’t cost you a kidney.

12. Aria Tuscan Grill

Aria is a great place to pick when attending a Belk Theater show.

This is a busy, energetic modern room with an open glassed kitchen.

The restaurant features a striking wine wall highlighting a wide selection of Italian wines, music every weekend, a street-level view of Uptown Charlotte, and more.

Although the menu is not old-school Italian, it is still fantastic. The tagliatelle bolognese is excellent. The carbonara is also a popular choice.

Similarly, they make a nice caesar salad, not overwhelmed with dressing.

The drink menu has interesting options, and the bar makes excellent cocktails. In fact, the wine list has a very nice list of Italian reds in particular, yet priced well.

Once they know you are going to the theater, they ensure your dining experience is well-paced to get you there in time.

The theater also offers a 10% discount if you’re going. There is even a way to get from the restaurant to the theater without walking back outdoors if the weather isn’t ideal.

So, go early and enjoy the appetizer pizzas and a cocktail, or, if time allows, enjoy a nice relaxing dinner.

Address: 100 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

13. Chima Steakhouse

Chima Steakhouse is one of the best restaurants in Uptown charlotte to visit if you want great steak and large servings.

Situated a few blocks from the Belk Theatre, and Overstreet Mall, Chima provides authentic Brazilian food and a stylish eating environment.

The Chima Steakhouse is named from the chimarrao, a local beverage from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, which stands for friendliness and hospitality.

Here, you will most definitely get more than your fill with the endless supply of delicious meats and ample salad/buffet bar.

If you’ve ever been to a rodizio steakhouse, you know they try to stuff you up from the moment you sit down, so you keep eating and eating.

Well, this is no different from all their partners; from the moment you sit and – even more if you forget to turn your sign to “No, thank you”- the meat keeps coming and coming, though this is a very enjoyable experience.

They have a huge selection of charcuterie-type sliced meats, cheeses, butter, and many specialty salads made with grains, rice, olives, and assorted vegetables.

When ready for your eat servings, you turn a token over on the table, and “the meats” start arriving, cut onto your plate.

Address: 139 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

14. Mert’s Heart and Soul

If you are doing anything around the stadium, this is an excellent place for a quick meal or a giant plate, especially if you love soul food.

They serve you cornbread way before your meal comes out.

The menu offers a range of local (Southern) soul and Low-country dishes, and each is likely to be accompanied by a loaf of warm fresh baked cornbread.

The menu is also full of ribs, fried chicken, and all manner of Southern side dishes. They also have lots of vegetarian options.

The restaurant is one of the top restaurants in uptown charlotte, and you should definitely try it if you are looking for some southern comfort food.

Address: 214 N College St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

15. Rí Rá Charlotte

Ri Rá is a pub in the uptown area of Charlotte and is easily accessible to local hotels and attractions.

On March 1997, Ri Rá first flung its doors open.

The restaurant is everything you would want in an authentic Irish pub.

The bar was painstakingly reconstructed using elements from vintage Irish pubs and associated salvaged antiquities, such as an original shop bar and a Victorian bar from the 19th century.

The terrace at R’Ra is an excellent place for lunch, supper, or a leisurely drink after work. Its patio offers distinct views of the uptown Charlotte cityscape and is a little-known retreat.

Ri Rá’s Whiskey Room is located upstairs and offers a wide selection of whiskey, bottle-conditioned cocktails, punches, and craft beers in a cozy, enjoyable setting.

Address: 208 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

16. Fahrenheit Charlotte

Fahrenheit is one of the best restaurants in Uptown Charlotte if you want a magnificent panoramic view of the skyline of Charlotte.

The restaurant is located on the 21st floor of the Hyatt hotel in Uptown Charlotte.

The eatery has a chic inside dining area and bar and a rooftop terrace with lounge furniture, dining tables, cozy fire pits, and even a seasonal herb garden.

There is also a sizable wine selection, inventively made cocktails, and regional draft beer on tap.

Linear fire pits, a social pool, and a seasonal herb garden are other features on the roof. In addition, weekly brunch service is available from 11 am to 3 pm.

You can dine on Chef Rocco Whalen’s creative New American cuisine on the rooftop for supper or a Sunday rooftop brunch.

A wide variety of specialized cocktails, a lengthy wine list, and handcrafted local beers available on tap or in bottles are available at the rooftop bar.

Address: 222 S Caldwell St, 21st Floor, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

17. Tupelo Honey

If you’re looking for a hipster breakfast restaurant in Uptown Charlotte, this is one to check out.

Tupelo Honey is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains we call home.

Entering Tupelo, the ambiance and decor is instantly a standout. The high ceilings, clean and airy feel, and the sweet hanging lights and plants create a cool, clean, and unique vibe!

While the setting is perfect, the service is slow, so you might need patience.

You can try the chicken, waffles, salad, and avocado toast if you are vegan.

Address: 101 S Tryon St #130, Charlotte, NC 28280, United States

18. Haymaker

Owned and conceived by Chef William Dissen, this restaurant brings farm-to-table fresh ingredients to the uptown dining scene.

The two-story restaurant offers small plates, large plates, sharable plates, and sides.

Open seven days a week, Haymaker is known for using Appalachian and southern cuisine and ingredients in a fine dining setting.

In fact, Haymaker does the upscale bar experience right. From location to atmosphere to food, it’s one of the must-visit restaurants in Uptown Charlotte.

The space is open and modern, with both upstairs and main-level seating.

Romare Bearden Park is across the street, and BB&T baseball park and Bank of America Stadium are also nearby.

You will enjoy the chef’s table if you like watching all the kitchen activities. Similarly, if you prefer quiet and private conversation, we recommend picking a different spot to enjoy your dinner.

19. Courtyard Hooligan’s

If you need a place to stop with some good beer specials and shot specials and are not too particular about ambiance, then this place will do.

In fact, if you are a football fan, you need to visit here.

While Courtyard Hooligans is a “Soccer Bar,” there is no requirement to love Football or watch it.

The beer selection is excellent, and your bartender will conjure up your favorite shot or mixed drink as well.

They show all the games no matter what time. You better get there early when there is a big game because it fills up downstairs, upstairs, and outside.

The bartenders are always excellent and quick. The location is cool too, because the Brevard Court area makes you feel like you’re not in the heart of Uptown.

They don’t serve food, but you can get food from any one of the restaurants in the alleyway right there.

Address: 140 Brevard Court, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

20. The Corner Pub

Corner Pub is another townie sports bar you should visit if you are a sports fan. Lots of local regulars come to this bar because of its atmosphere.

Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere with an established crowd of regulars in the heart of the city.

Good friends, tasty food & plenty of brews are just around the corner.

It is also positioned close to several uptown entertainment options and the Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers.

So, you can visit other places easily once you are done.

21. Coin Bar at Omni Hotel Charlotte

The chic rooftop terrace, Coin Bar, has two standout features: a cool pool in the center and dual 22-by-12-foot LED displays.

With a chic bar and grill, The Coin Bar offers visitors a modern urban hideaway.

The pool bar is the go-to location for all sports and entertainment events in the city.

During specific summer days of the week, Coin Bar, which is situated on a stairwell of the Omni Hotel, grants non-hotel visitors uncommon access to the rooftop pool.

Address: 132 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

22. Fin and Fino

Fin & Fino is a social seafood house featuring oysters from around the country.

The restaurant is divided into two areas. First, there are two bar/seating areas: one next to the front has high-top tables without tablecloths, while the other has tables with white tablecloths with an upscale feel.

They focus on seafood, mostly small plates, but offer plenty of larger dishes as well as meats like ras el hanout lamb loin and several steak options.

Furthermore, the majority, particularly the salads, can be shared by two people; others, by up to four.

The 12 species of oysters available from Pacific and Atlantic sources are excellent.

The mixologist also takes the cocktails to an elevated level.

If you are a bourbon lover, you will appreciate their take on the Manhattan with chai bitters.

Address: 135 Levine Avenue of the Arts #100, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

23. Cedar Street Tavern

Looking for a place to enjoy a casual drink and appetizer with a friend? Then visit cedar Street tavern.

Cedar Street Tavern is located on the corner of Cedar and 5th. It is a great spot for lunch, especially for those that work at the Gateway location.

First, you know you chose a great place when the bar seats are occupied by locals who all know each other.

Second, the server pays excellent attention to you while not ditching the regulars.

The menu has a very decent amount of options with a touch of eccentricity

You can try anything from their menu. Chicken tenders, grilled chicken club sandwich, quesadilla, and even super delicious Italian Chicken Fettuccine.

Address: 120 N Cedar St #755, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

24. Graham Street Pub & Patio

Graham St. Pub & Patio is a solid stop for an easy and enjoyable (not rushed) lunch, especially if you love great views.

Located only a few blocks from Bank of America Stadium, the pub gives skyline views and an eclectic selection of handcrafted beverages and snacks.

Graham St. Pub and Patio is a neighborhood bar with indoor seating and a street-level patio. The restaurant also has a rooftop with views of Knights Stadium and the picturesque Queen City skyline.

The menu offers bar classics like wings, nachos, loaded fries, ribs, and food truck-inspired dishes, including sliders, tacos, grilled cheese sandwiches, and vegetarian options.

Address: 400 S Graham St #4, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

25. The King’s Kitchen

If you visit uptown Charlotte, you need to go to Kings Kitchen. It is one of the must-visit restaurants in Uptown Charlotte; its mission is beautiful, and its food is fantastic.

The Kings Kitchen is a non-profit restaurant serving farm-fresh southern-inspired meals.

The setting is also casual, comfortable, and suitable for large groups, small groups, families, or couples.

And the best part – the idea behind the restaurant is great. The fact that all of the profits go to assist Charlotte’s homeless population and its jobs program is a great plan to help those at risk develop a marketable skill.

So, come eat with pleasure, knowing that every meal you buy directly supports job training for others and a free supper for the homeless.

This restaurant has a number of beautiful options for dinner, fresh with a southern flair.

The home cooking here is fantastic, without the “greasy spoon” feel. Try the Southern-style vegetables (a vegetable plate makes a great meal) or the fried chicken.

Address: 129 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

26. Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse

Duckworth’s offers up a great variety of lunch options that can satisfy your fast business lunch needs.

From their rotating daily specials to salads, sandwiches, and pizzas, they offer a bit of everything.

In fact, Duckworth’s beer menu is overwhelming, with more than 100 to choose from.

The restaurant also has an unbelievable number of TVs in the bar area, making it a great spot to catch a game.

Address: 330 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

Final Remarks

Whether you decide to eat at night or during the day, restaurants in Uptown Charlotte are sure to satisfy every one of your cravings.

Bon Appetit!