3 Best Restaurants in Uptown Charlotte, Charlotte

Background Illustration for Restaurants

We've compiled the best of the best in Uptown Charlotte - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Mert's Heart and Soul

$$ | Uptown Fodor's Choice

Business executives and bohemians alike make their way to Mert's, an old-school gem that hides out under one of the city's many nondescript office buildings. Owners James and Reneé Bazzelle serve large portions of soul food and Lowcountry and Gullah staples, like fried chicken with greens, mac and cheese, and red beans and rice. Buckwheat and sweet-potato pancakes draw a weekend brunch crowd.

214 N. College St., Charlotte, NC, 28202, USA
704-342–4222
Known For
  • Classic soul food
  • Pancakes for brunch
  • Famous Soul Rolls: egg roll wraps filled with black-eyed peas, rice, chicken, and collard greens
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.

Something incorrect in this review?

Optimist Hall

$ | Uptown Fodor's Choice

Charlotte's most impressive food hall is the state's biggest and best, with plenty of exposed brick painted in striking colors, multiple outdoor areas, and stall after stall of fresh-pressed juices, gourmet grilled cheese, ramen bowls, gelato, and craft cocktails.

Haymaker

$$$ | Uptown
With a spacious bar and an open and inviting multilevel dining room overlooking Romare Bearden Park, Haymaker is focused on showcasing the bounty of the Piedmont and Appalachia regions with locally inspired, seasonal farm-to-table cuisine. The ever-changing menu features both small and large plates perfect for sharing. Staples include house-made pickles, heirloom cornmeal hush puppies, and a chili-rubbed local pork shoulder served with Carolina Gold rice. Wash it all down with a craft cocktail or an old-fashioned glass of sweet tea. Brunch is a hit on the weekends.
225 S. Poplar St., Charlotte, NC, 28202, USA
704-626–6116
Known For
  • Locally inspired, farm-fresh cuisine
  • Weekend brunch
  • Inviting dining room and outdoor patio overlooking a park

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

Not finding what you're looking for?

We've got a few suggestions for nearby spots.
$$ Greater Charlotte

300 East1.3 miles away

American
300 East Blvd., Charlotte, North Carolina, 28203, USA
We recommend 1 Restaurants in Greater Charlotte
$$ Plaza Midwood

Midwood Smokehouse1.6 miles away

Barbecue
1401 Central Ave., Charlotte, North Carolina, 28205, USA
We recommend 2 Restaurants in Plaza Midwood
$$$$ Plaza Midwood Fodor's Choice

Supperland1.9 miles away

Steak House
1212 The Plaza, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28205, USA
We recommend 2 Restaurants in Plaza Midwood
$ North Davidson Arts District

Amelie's2.6 miles away

Bakery
136 E. 36th St., Charlotte, North Carolina, 28205, USA
We recommend 1 Restaurants in North Davidson Arts District