JUNE 2019 // CHARLOTTE 99
THE WORKMAN’S FRIEND
IRISH
Inside the rustic dining room you’ll nd Irish classics
such as sh and chips and shepherd’s pie alongside
trendy small plates. A large bar makes this a popular
nightlife spot, too. 1531 Central Ave. (980-224-8234)
(Fri-Sun) -YAMA IZAKAYA
ASIAN
Enjoy true, labor-intensive ramen, complete with add-
ons such as corn and pork belly, as well as traditional
Japanese small plates and a sushi menu. 1324 Central
Ave. (704-910-6387) ZADA JANE’S CORNER CAFE
SOUTHERN
This funky neighborhood restaurant with shueboard
courts, a large patio, and colorful walls serves breakfast
and brunch all day. 1601 Central Ave. (704-332-3663)
-^South End
BARCELONA WINE BAR
NEW AMERICAN
Nosh on Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired tapas, or
customize a charcuterie board with meats and cheeses
from dierent regions in Europe. Choose from over
400 wines, and don't miss the olive oil cake. 101 W.
Worthington Ave. (704-741-0300) BARDO
NEW AMERICAN
A foodie destination, Bardo serves interesting small
plates. The dining room is small, but looks into a big,
open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at
work. The cra cocktails are also intriguing. 1508 S. Mint
St., Ste. B. (980-585-2433) BEEF ’N BOTTLE
STEAK HOUSE
An old favorite, this steak house is just what you’d
expect, serving up thick and juicy cuts in a dark inte-
rior. 4538 South Blvd. (704-523-9977) BILL SPOON’S BARBECUE
BARBECUE
Stop by for true eastern-style barbecue, mustard-based
slaw, homemade banana pudding, and Mr. Spoon’s
special sauce. 5524 South Blvd. (704-525-8865)^ ^BREWERS AT 4001 YANCEY
AMERICAN
In addition to cra beers, this LoSo brewery has South-
ern-inspired bar food like fried pork rinds and fries
topped with jalapeño gravy and bacon crumbles. 4001-
A Yancey Rd. (704-452-4001) ^FUTO BUTA
JAPANESE
This ramen house promises authenticity, irreverence,and delightful, salty bowls of the hot noodle soup. 222
E. Bland St. (704-376-8400) ^LET'S MEAT KBBQ
KOREAN BBQ
Marinated meats at this all-you-can-eat hangout are
served with Korean sides like kimchi and steamed egg
soué. 1400 S. Church St., Ste. B. (980-299-4389)
$$-$$$LUNA’S LIVING KITCHEN
VEGETARIAN
This vegan gem is known for its raw version of lasagna,
made with zucchini noodles, sundried tomato sauce,
mushrooms, and a cashew-basil cheese. Its juice bar is
also a popular draw. 2102 South Blvd., Ste. 150. (704-
333-0008) MAC’S SPEED SHOP
BARBECUE
Solid barbecue and cold beer (150 choices) in a bike-
themed space draw fun-loving crowds. 2115 South
Blvd. (704-522-6227) MIDNIGHT DINER
AMERICAN
This 24-hour classic diner has everything you’d ex-
pect, including an all-day breakfast, onion rings, milk-
shakes, burgers, and hand-cut fries, along with South-
ern fare. 115 E. Carson Blvd. (980-207-3641)
MOCCO BISTRO
GREEK
Despite the sounds of South Boulevard, the Greek pas-
tries and coees here can transport you to the Aegean
Sea in just one taste. 4004 South Blvd., Ste. E. (980-207-
0508) ^NIKKO
ASIAN
Excellent sushi, a moody interior, and thumping
sound system bring in dinner and late-night crowds,
but quick service makes it a great lunch spot. 1300
South Blvd. (704-370-0100) (weekdays)
-OKU
SUSHI
This second location of the Charleston-based Indigo
Road restaurant group’s Japanese spot has great service,
a beautiful interior, and dishes full of ¥avor. 2000 South
Blvd., Ste. 510. (704-594-1922) -PIKE’S OLD FASHIONED SODA
SHOP
AMERICAN
Classic soda shop and apothecary décor makes the
look, and ethereal milkshakes and a menu that goes
beyond burgers keep ’em coming back. 1930 Camden
Rd. (704-372-0092) ^$ Most entrées under $10
$$ Most entrées $10-$17
$$$ Most entrées $18-$25
$$$$ Most entrées $26 & up
Editors' Picks
Breakfast
Weekend brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Vegetarian friendly
Beer and wine only
Full-service bar
Patio seating available
Reservations suggestedDISH
SOUTHERN
A true neighborhood joint with an eclectic clientele,
good, down-home Southern food, and a funky wait
sta. 1220 Thomas Ave. (704-344-0343)
^
INTERMEZZO PIZZERIA CAFÉ
FUSION
Even the pickiest eater can nd something to order
here, with menu options ranging from burgers and piz-
zas to cabbage rolls and stued peppers. 1427 E. 10th
St. (704-347-2626) -^
LANG VAN
VIETNAMESE
Regulars love this no-fuss spot for its authentic and light
cuisine, with loads of ¥avor and fresh ingredients. 3019
Shamrock Dr. (704-531-9525)
MIDWOOD^ SMOKEHOUSE
BARBECUE
With North Carolina pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked
chicken, and dry or sauced ribs, there’s a ’cue for every-
one—and traditional sides to pair. The restaurant has a
number of Charlotte locations including Ballantyne and
Park Road Shopping Center, but the Plaza Midwood spot
is its ¥agship post. 1401 Central Ave. (704-295-4227)^
^
MOO BREW
AMERICAN
A playful list of burger options, a well-selected cra beer
selection, and friendly servers make this restaurant an
easy choice for a casual dinner out. The patio is packed
on nice nights. 1300 Central Ave. (980-585-4148)^
^
SOUL GASTROLOUNGE
NEW AMERICAN
Expect to wait a while at this no-reservations spot,
known and loved for creative small plates, such as pork
belly tacos with compressed watermelon, and a rotat-
ing list of delicious cra cocktails. 1500-B Central Ave.
(704-348-1848)