Charlotte’s Best New Restaurants And Bars, According to Zagat

CHARLOTTE, NC -- Charlotte is brimming with dining options, with new restaurants coming online and opening their doors regularly. Which ones are the best bet? Zagat dining ratings has released its picks for the top new restaurants and bars in the Queen City.

Here are Zagat’s top picks for new Charlotte restaurants and bars:

• Yamazaru -- 2173 Hawkins St., Charlotte. “The modern, rustic space offers seating along the sleek bar, at the sushi counter or at intimate booths creating a happening, stylish atmosphere,” Zagat said.
• The Porter’s House -- 7417 Waverly Walk Ave., Charlotte. “Breaking the classic steakhouse mold, the bright space, decorated with whitewashed brick, turquoise blue accents and hints of Americana decor, boasts a stylish bar area, a private whiskey room and a patio complete with firepits and loungey seating,” Zagat said.
• Luca Modern Italian Kitchen -- 1523 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. “The Passion8 team goes back to its Italian roots with this Elizabeth option serving classic pastas and grilled plates alongside cocktails and wine in a modern setting with a happening bar and a relaxed patio,” Zagat said.

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• Carolina Beer Temple -- 2127 Ayrsley Town Blvd, Suit 101-B, Charlotte. “The focus is on the beer at this Ayrsley offshoot of the Matthews beer and bottle shop from local brew guru Rob Jacik (Temple Mojo, Seaboard) offering 26 rotating taps–half of which are regional Carolina drafts–over 300 beers by the can and bottle and several wines by the glass in a chill space with communal tables and a few TVs,” Zagat said.
• Dilworth Tasting Room -- 300 East Tremont St., Charlotte. “Original brick walls surround a custom handcrafted copper and mahogany bar and made-to-order tufted red leather sofas at this chic Dilworth wine bar, preserving the turn of the century vibe in the renovated space, historically home to the Dilworth Billiards,” Zagat said.
• Kinship -- The Ritz Carlton, 201 East Trade St., Charlotte. “Set in the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton hotel, this stylish lounge draws adventurous palates with inventive cocktails (smoked, flasked and infused with seasonal ingredients) and gourmet bar bites like caviar-topped deviled eggs and angus beef sliders. Traditionalists can also find basic beers, wine and spirits behind the swanky bar surrounded by dark wood furnishings and sleek metal accents,” Zagat said.
• Popbar -- 3123 North Davidson St., #120B, Charlotte. “Gelato, sorbet and frozen yogurt are served up on a stick and dipped in toppings like melted flavored chocolate, sprinkles, coconut and pistachios at this NoDa offshoot of an NYC original,” Zagat said.
• Haberdish -- 3106 North Davidson St., Charlotte. “Everything from the food to the furniture is locally sourced at this NoDa Southern stop, spotlighting fried chicken paired with classic sides like mac ’n’ cheese, charred okra, kale grits and biscuits, all washed down with cocktails from the soapstone bar. Gray brick walls enclose the rustic-chic space, complete with handcrafted tables made of reclaimed wood and mood lighting from hanging copper bulbs,” Zagat said.
• The Hop Shop -- 818 Lamar Ave., Charlotte. “Craft beer served in a relaxed atmosphere is what it's about at this Plaza Midwood bar and bottle shop. Exposed ceiling beams, white brick walls and hanging Edison bulbs above the wooden bar create an industrial-chic look,” Zagat said.
• Que Onda Tacos + Tequila -- 333 W. Trade St. #101, Charlotte. “From its name – Mexican slang for 'what's up' – to its casual street eats, including tacos, tortas and burritos, along with its deep list of tequila, this hangout brings a playful sensibility to Uptown. Dark woods and steel furniture create an industrial-meets-rustic vibe, while colorful Pop Art adds a touch of whimsy,” Zagat said.

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