The “Queen City” is quickly rising to become a hot spot destination for young professionals. They are also rising in the ranks of being one of the best culinary cities across the country, too.
Local restaurant Leah and Louise was recently named ‘No. 2 Best New Restaurant in the Country’ by Esquire magazine. Did we mention it’s also Black-owned?
If you have Charlotte on your list of places to visit in the near future, or you’re a resident, we put together this list of restaurants that offer outdoor seating.
Charlotte native Chef Chris Coleman opened this concept in early 2020 and it has quickly become a favorite in the NoDa neighborhood. The restaurant features a large outdoor patio with string lights. Feast on dishes like Chef Coleman’s Frybread or chicken-fried crab. As the weather gets colder, the outdoor patio will have dining pods aka personal igloos for patrons to dine in safely.
Literally one of the best views in the city, you’ve likely seen photos of this spot on social media. The beautiful rooftop also doubles as an eating space while you sit eye-to-eye with Charlotte’s skyscrapers. Most folks pop into the the restaurant for the weekend brunch offering, but they also offer dinner during the week.
Chef Greg Collier and his wife Subrina are a dynamic duo working to elevate Charlotte’s culinary scene day-by-day. This concept is considered a modern day juke joint, and you can bet there isn’t a bad thing on the menu. Bar manager and mixologist Justin Hazleton also curates an insane cocktail menu, that changes often. Be sure to make a reservation to guarantee a seat at the outdoor patio area. There is additional outdoor seating just across from the restaurant, too.
This vegan restaurant features a huge outdoor space under a giant tree, to bring an authentic backyard feel. From pastries and cocktails, burgers and more, you will be in heaven. It is the first concept of its kind in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood, and you can expect live music in the garden as well as fun decorations and graffiti art.
This is Charlotte’s first food hall and no matter what you have a taste for, there is likely something here that you will enjoy. From Harriet’s Hamburgers and Suarez Bakery, to The Dumpling Lady and Velvet Taco, the possibilities are endless. There are two courtyards with outdoor seating, and most of the full-service options have patios, too.
This section of Charlotte’s Camp North End is home to 4 walk-up food stalls. Saru Ramen, Bleu Barn, La Caseta, and Plant Joy each bring a different flavor to the pedestrian-only area. Just across the walkway you will also find PopBar and Wentworth & Fenn who both have you covered for dessert.
This upscale restaurant in Charlotte’s Elizabeth neighborhood, recently extended its patio and added outdoor heaters. Stay warm and cozy as you indulge on braised Wagyu short rib, sweet potato gnocchi, and all the wine your heart desires. Be sure to make a reservation.
Related: Inside Charlotte’s Most Popular Black-Owned Seafood Spot, LuLu’s
