Uptown is well known for its beautiful rooftop patios, intimate bars and walkability. But this time we’re putting the spotlight on the area’s cuisine variety: you can taste flavors of Mexico, Italy and more, without leaving the Queen City.
Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, Uptown serves up something for every craving.
Angeline’s
“Traditional Italian with a southern twist”
Angeline’s is where Italian tradition meets local Southern flavor in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. This stylish spot takes seasonal ingredients sourced right from our region and gives them the Italian treatment.
Think handmade pastas, rich sauces, and unexpected flavor twists that just work. Don’t miss the whipped ricotta with lavender honey (a sweet little dream) or the porchetta that’s served alongside fresh local veggies.
Pair it all with an Italian wine, a craft cocktail, or a North Carolina brew. Bonus points for the cozy outdoor patio, perfect for people-watching and pasta-twirling.
What we had:
Appetizer: Avocado Toast, Zeppoles (Italian deep-fried donut holes) and Bruschetta
Main Course: French Toast, Steak and Eggs, Margherita Pizza
Drinks: Angie’s Punch, Tryon Park Old Fashioned, Sangria
Honorable mention: Calamari Semolina, the chef proudly perfected their signature Arrabbiata sauce—spicy, savory.
Que Onda
“A melting pot of Mexico”
Que Onda is located just around the corner from Truist Field and Bank of America Stadium, making it perfect stop before a game.
This vibrant spot serves up street-style tacos, handcrafted cocktails, and delicious desserts in a space that feels like a party and a family gathering all at once.
Que Onda is all about intentional flavor. With a focus on fresh ingredients and regional Mexican comfort food, everything here—from the hand-squeezed margaritas to the juicy tacos—is made to satisfy without breaking the bank.
The owners take a trip to Mexico every year to discover new dishes and bring unique flavors back to Charlotte.
What we had:
Appetizer: Chicharrones, Flautas, Tradicional Guac
Main Course: Salmon Veracruz, Fajitas, Steak Tacos,
Dessert: Tres Leches Cake
Drinks: Paloma Flaca, Smokey Hibiscus
Honorable mention: Sorbet Margarita Flight, this was one of our favs! 4 different sorbet margarita variations.
Merchant & Trade
Merchant and Trade pairs carefully curated cocktails and elevated bar bites with an unbeatable view of the Queen City. Reservations aren’t needed to enjoy this popular spot, just join the walk-in list and choose from bar, indoor and outdoor seating.
Aside from getting picture-perfect moments with a city-scape backdrop, you can enjoy elevated southern favorites like a Fried Chicken Slider or Caribbean Duck.
Plus, they even have a Charlotte FC game day menu which includes three exclusive cocktails and a BLT with a bourbon glaze.
What we had:
Appetizer: Bruschetta, Truffle fries
Main Course: Pork Belly Tacos
Drinks: M&T Espresso Martini and Jungle Juice
Coquette
“Authentic French cuisine and culture in the heart of uptown Charlotte.”
Step into Coquette and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a charming corner of Paris (minus the jet lag). This Uptown gem serves up French-inspired snacks and drinks all day long in a space that’s elegant and effortlessly cool.
Think classic French cheeses, pastries, and dishes that tell a story. Every item on the menu is thoughtfully crafted to make French cuisine feel familiar and approachable, while still giving you that “ooh la la” experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a croissant and coffee or settling in for wine and small bites, Coquette brings a taste of France to the Queen City, no passport required.
What we had:
Appetizer: Croissants aux Escargots, Oysters, Charcuterie Fromage
Main Course: “Coquette” Duck Fat Fried Chicken, Monkfish a la Veronique
Dessert: Apple Tarte Tatin
Drinks: Kir Royal, Champ de Lavande with Gin, Crème de Lavande, Espresso Martini
Mariposa
“Spanish for butterfly, Mariposa signifies change, evolution, and growth.”
Located inside the Mint Museum, Mariposa invites you on a flavorful journey around the world, without leaving Uptown Charlotte. This beautifully designed space radiates warmth, elegance, and intention, making it the perfect backdrop for everything from casual bites to memorable dinners.
Every detail, from the signature cocktails to the balcony views of the city skyline, is curated to provide an elevated feel. It almost makes you forget you’re there for dinner until you taste the amazing food!
What we had
Appetizer: Wagyu Beef Nigiri, Octopus Al La Plancha, Oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp & Crab Cakes, Saffron Arancini
Main Course: Braised Lamb Shank, Belizean Chicken Ballottine
Dessert: Charlotte Tres Leches Cake, Crème brûlée
Drinks: Lavender Sky, Sunshine Spritz, Strawberry Sunrise
Fahrenheit
“Unparalleled dining experience with panoramic skyline”
Sky-high views and standout flavors? Fahrenheit brings both—and then some. Perched on a rooftop in Uptown Charlotte, this sleek restaurant offers stunning city views that are just as impressive as what’s on the plate. Chef Rocco Whalen serves up contemporary American cuisine with bold Asian influences that make each dish stand out.
It’s a place where the food is just as photo-worthy as the skyline, and the vibe is upscale without feeling stuffy.
What we had:
Appetizer: Ahi Poke Nachos, Shrimp Tempura Sushi
Main Course: Slow Braised American Wagyu Short Ribs, Chicken
Dessert: Kokuto Peach Croissant Milk Bread, Chocolate soufflé
Cocktails: Lady of the Dynasty, Bluegrass Gold, Summer’s Jewel, Espresso Martini
Honorable mention: Sushi! Nigiri and Sashimi. New to Fahrenheit’s menu, a must-have when you visit!
Arbol Eatery
“A healthy grab & go in Uptown”
Arbol Eatery is Uptown Charlotte’s go-to spot for healthy eats with a Latin twist. Whether you’re fueling up for the day with a smoothie, grabbing a fresh sandwich on your lunch break, or treating yourself to a pastry and coffee, Arbol delivers feel-good food that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Their menu is packed with healthy options that are both satisfying and flavorful. Inside, the cozy seating is perfect for catching up on emails or enjoying a quiet bite, while the patio offers gorgeous city views. Oh, and don’t skip the smoothies—they’re as fresh and delicious as they come.
What we had:
Lunch: Italian Caprese, Chicken Quesadilla
Dessert: Pound cake
Drinks: Tropical Smoothie, Berry Smoothie
Tattoos & Booz
“Eat.Ink.Drink.Party!”
If you’re looking for a sports bar with serious personality, Tattooz & Booz is where it’s at. This Uptown hot spot isn’t just about wings and beer—it’s a full-on vibe.
Think southern comfort food with flair. Fried shrimp baskets, mac and cheese, and saucy wings served up alongside creative cocktails and high-energy fun.
Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can get a fresh tattoo or piercing on-site. It’s unapologetically fun, and the only place where you can grab a drink, a bite, and a new tattoo—all in one unforgettable night. Tattooz & Booz is redefining the Uptown bar scene, Carolina style.
What we had
Appetizer: Oxtail Quesadillas, Seafood Egg Rolls
Main Course: Fettuccine Alfredo with Fried Lobster Tail, Mac-N-Cheese Skillet with fried chicken, Shrimp and Grits
Drinks: Fine Line, Geisha Girl, Yellow Dragon
Honorable mention: Shrimp and Grits! Chef Edward Walker is a native of Savannah, GA, and brought his special sauce to the Queen City!