29 Best Black-Owned Restaurants in Charlotte, NC in 2025
Searching for the most worthy Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte to try? Not sure where to begin? We’ve curated an extensive list of the top options that foodies should consider. With a wide variety of cuisines covered, including Southern soul food, Caribbean fare and Ethiopian dishes, there’s sure to be a choice (or several) that calls out to you.
Black culinary heritage runs deep. As the National Museum of African American History and Culture explains, Africans transported to the Americas brought with them planting and cooking techniques, as well as memories of ancestral and regional recipes. These influences have laid the foundation for many of the food traditions that continue to thrive today.
This legacy lives on in the many Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte. A lot of these businesses have family roots and the warm-hearted dedication to match, which means there’s sure to be a delicious meal just around the corner. Read on to explore some of the most celebrated Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte and the stories behind them.
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The 29 Best Black-Owned Charlotte Restaurants
1. Fumée
First on our list is Fumée, a gorgeous Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte with a stylish business casual dress code to match. This spot specializes in small-course dining and stunning, creative cocktails to pair them with, as well as shisha.
The Vibe
Enjoy an upscale, suave atmosphere here with moody lamp lighting above to set the tone for an intimate meal.
What to Order
Customers come for brunch specials like the chicken and waffles, as well as a variety of tapas like the wagyu sliders with smoked gouda pimento.
Fumée | 9539 Pinnacle Drive, Ste. 203, Charlotte, NC 28262 | $$
2. Mert’s Heart & Soul
For over twenty years, Mert’s Heart & Soul has been serving up comforting soul food for all to enjoy. This retro Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, led by a husband-and-wife duo, takes you back in time effortlessly.
The Vibe
The checkered floors and colorful walls, which are lined with vintage photographs and posters from bygone times, add to the lively diner-style spirit at this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte.
What to Order
Go for famous house specials like the Southern fried chicken or fried catfish. If you’re popping in for breakfast, grab the savory shrimp and grits.
Mert’s Heart & Soul | 214 N. College St., Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
3. 3rd & Fernwood
If you’re looking for one of the most impressive Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte when it comes to incorporating themes of nature, 3rd & Fernwood is the one to choose. This spot offers a thoughtful seasonal menu that showcases the best of Southern cooking.
The Vibe
Enjoy a spacious, light and airy atmosphere with high ceilings and windows, letting natural light spill through.
What to Order
For a unique experience, try the braised oxtail meatloaf for a small plate or the oxtail bog for a larger one. These are customer favorites.
3rd & Fernwood | 1100 Metropolitan Ave., Ste. 170, Charlotte, NC 28204 | $$$
4. Don’s Restaurant
Calling all seafood lovers! For a delicious seafood restaurant and lounge experience, plan a visit to Don’s Restaurant. Be sure to make a reservation first, though. This is one of the most popular Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte.
The Vibe
The loft-like dining space and patio of this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte feel industrial-casual, making it a great spot for catch-ups with friends and family.
What to Order
The Creole Coastal Medley is a popular dish here, featuring plump shrimp, sausage, clams and pasta in a house special Creole sauce.
Don’s Restaurant | 321 N. Caldwell St., Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
5. Kitchen + Kocktails
Litigation attorney-turned-restaurateur Kevin Kelley is the creator of Kitchen + Kocktails, which boasts five locations across the country. Every spot serves up tasty soul food and handcrafted drinks to match.
The Vibe
Blue velvet seats and flower-covered ceilings make this one of the most fun Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for those looking to celebrate a milestone or simply enjoy a date night.
What to Order
The menu boasts delicious options, such as the Cajun crab cakes and the Caribbean jerk lamb chops, both of which are perfect for fans of spice.
Kitchen + Kocktails | 210 E. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
6. Freshwaters
Originally based in New Jersey, Freshwaters has brought its signature soul food to North Carolina. This is one of the most favored Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for simple, fresh seafood dishes and other classics.
The Vibe
Simply put, dining here is like eating with family. The rustic wooden seating and single lamp centerpiece make this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte feel like a cozy living room, with the warmth and Southern hospitality to match.
What to Order
Start with a shrimp cocktail. For your main, the St. Louis ribs are a top contender for many diners because of their soft, rich texture.
Freshwaters | 516 N. Graham St., Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
7. Lottie’s Café
Nestled in Uptown, Lottie’s Café is one of the most exciting Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for breakfast and brunch. Known for its handcrafted sandwiches and welcoming vibe, it’s a go-to spot for locals looking to start their day right.
The Vibe
Bright, energetic and community-focused, this modern café features cozy booth seating, local art accents and a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for coffee breaks or casual meet-ups.
What to Order
Try the Beattie’s Bagel, an everything bagel sandwich filled with sausage, cheddar cheese and an egg patty. You’ll se why it’s one of the favorites.
Lottie’s Café | 210 E. Trade St., Ste. 104A, Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
8. Lagz Restaurant
Craving authentic African cuisine? Lagz Restaurant is considered one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for Nigerian food. For traditional foods like egusi stew, vegetarian options and more, there’s something for everyone.
The Vibe
Simple digs and traditional Nigerian artwork on the walls, including hanging vases, make this a fantastic option when it comes to different date ideas Charlotte locals can try.
What to Order
The Ghana jollof rice is a featured item here that many customers come for. This authentic dish comes with sweet fried plantains and stewed meat of your choice (like chicken, beef, goat or even fried whole croaker).
Lagz Restaurant | 2539 Little Rock Road, Charlotte, NC 28214 | $$
9. Abugida Ethiopian Café & Restaurant
For freshly made Ethiopian cuisine, look no further than Abugida Ethiopian Café & Restaurant. As one of the many great Black-owned restaurants Charlotte has to offer, Abugida (meaning the name of Ethiopic letters) provides a thoughtful menu.
The Vibe
The warm orange-brown walls, light curtains and casual seating create a cozy feel that makes Abugida one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte, NC.
What to Order
If you want the full experience, go big with the Abugida feast. It’s a sampler-style house special with your choice of chicken or beef and vegetable dishes.
Abugida Ethiopian Café & Restaurant | 3007 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC 28205 | $$
10. Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish
From fried chicken and fish to hot dogs, barbeque sandwiches, desserts and more, Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish does it all. Even better? There are three locations of this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, making your next visit both convenient and exciting.
The Vibe
This casual eatery has a spacious dining area, a monochrome brown color scheme and televisions hanging on the walls so you can stay updated on local happenings.
What to Order
The two-piece dark dinner is a balanced dish of marinated fried chicken leg and thigh with signature seasoned crispy breading, plus homemade sides.
Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish | Multiple Locations | $$
11. Spice
Nestled in Uptown Charlotte is Spice, a popular space inspired by global travels and a mission to transform the dining experience by bringing it to new heights. The menu features international flavors, from sushi to jollof and more.
The Vibe
This is one of the top Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte when it comes to a lively atmosphere, complete with exciting contemporary décor, rhythmic music and plush velvet seats to relax on.
What to Order
At this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, reviews show that it’s vital to try the juicy bang bang shrimp complete with savory Japanese mayonnaise. For a sushi craving, try the Spice roll with hamachi, asparagus, masago and tempura flakes.
Spice | 515 Ellis Lane, Ste. 101, Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
12. Jinya
First opened in 2021, the two Charlotte locations of Jinya are co-owned by restaurant industry expert Jahzmin French. The popular ramen chain has locations all over the world, with an emphasis on freshly made noodles in a modern, lively atmosphere.
The Vibe
The youthful energy here is captured by the vibrant music and authentic traditional Japanese decorations everywhere, making this a great Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte to try.
What to Order
The spicy chicken ramen is a favorite for many. The signature tonkatsu black dish is also delicious with savory notes and an egg on top.
Jinya | Multiple Locations | $$
13. Bird Pizzeria
Looking for a customizable handmade pizza made with equal attention to creativity and heart? You’re in luck. Bird Pizzeria specializes in these exact things and more. It’s one of the top Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for hand-spun pies, salads and drinks.
The Vibe
With minimal white walls, a tiled bar and an open kitchen, the focus at this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte is clearly on the good times and company to be had.
What to Order
Many enjoy the pepperoni pizza with a topping of hot honey for that sweet and salty flavor profile.
Bird Pizzeria | 510 E. 15th St., Charlotte, NC 28206 | $$
14. Uptown Yolk
Southern brunch fare is no game at Uptown Yolk. This next Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte serves up a fun family-friendly environment to go along with your perfectly cooked pancakes. Or fried chicken and drinks. Uptown Yolk does both.
The Vibe
Sit back in the eclectic comfort of this art deco-inspired space. The pops of vibrant colors, pop culture art references on the walls and industrial ceilings make the dining experience all the more fun.
What to Order
The sweet potato is a popular choice, with its pecan butter and sweet maple whipped cream.
Uptown Yolk | 1220 S. Tryon St., Ste. 500, Charlotte, NC 28203 | $$
15. Romeo’s Vegan Burgers
A North Carolina staple chain is our next pick on this list of the most amazing Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte to consider. Romeo’s Vegan Burgers is all about plant-based options, from the burgers to the shakes.
The Vibe
With a retro-style orange and red theme, comfy booths and a neon “vegan” sign by the door, all the details harken back to the good ol’ days.
What to Order
At this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, try the signature Tobacco Road Burger with house-made chili, coleslaw, dill pickles and grilled onions, served with crispy fries.
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers | 5518 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28217 | $$
16. Nana Morrison’s Soul Food
With five locations in total, two of them in Charlotte, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food is a place that feels just like home. The Morrison family leads this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, offering family recipes of Southern homestyle soul food fare every day of the week.
The Vibe
Enjoy a casual meal with friends or family at this counter-serve space with cozy, no-frills seating. The laid-back vibe makes this a hidden gem when it comes to restaurants in Charlotte, NC.
What to Order
The famous crispy fried chicken is seasoned perfectly and comes with a side of vegetables.
Nana Morrison’s Soul Food | Multiple Locations | $$
17. Sub One Hoagie House
For over 30 years, Sub One Hoagie House has been serving up the most satisfying sandwiches and salads in the city. With family roots, this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte is dedicated to building community through food.
The Vibe
Think classic old-school vibes here. Faded checkered floors and wooden seating keep things casual enough for an impromptu lunch stop or easy dinner.
What to Order
First up on the menu and in many customers’ hearts is the New Jersey Steak, a classic combination of juicy steak, cheese and all the fixings.
Sub One Hoagie House | 516 N. Graham St., Ste. A, Charlotte, NC 28202 | $
18. Salata
Originally hailing from Houston, our next option of the top Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte to try is Salata. The city’s location of this beloved multi-state salad chain first opened in 2021, after investments were made by venture capital firm owners André Walters and Derrick Brown.
The Vibe
Pastel blue booth seats on black-and-white walls with green accents to add that pop of color make this one of the more calm, fast-casual Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte.
What to Order
Every salad is build-your-own-style. Customers rave about key ingredient options like the pesto chicken and the sun-dried tomatoes.
Salata | Multiple Locations | $$
19. Sol’Delish
American, soul food, seafood and drinks? Sol’Delish does it all. This is a newer Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, but it has already gained a cult following in the city for its on-par classic dishes with innovative twists.
The Vibe
A sleek monochrome color theme and iconic art on the walls keep this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte stylish and chic in every way.
What to Order
Start with the Everything Green Dip with collard and kale, plus a three-cheese blend. Then try the fried flounder with crispy French fries on the side for an elevated fish-and-chip experience.
Sol’Delish | 9211 N. Tryon St., Ste. 1, Charlotte, NC 28262 | $$
20. The People’s Market
For farm-fresh-style clean eats, visit The People’s Market. The market is one of the top Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte for brunch and burgers, including vegetarian and vegan options.
The Vibe
The friendly, down-to-earth energy makes this a great space for hanging out and grabbing a bite before an event or a busy day. It’s an option for hosting a birthday dinner in Charlotte that locals often choose too.
What to Order
The breakfast burrito here is not to be missed. It features scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, creamy guacamole and more.
The People’s Market | 1609 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204 | $$
21. Mad Dash
Street food, elevated? Sign us up. Mad Dash is a unique Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte led by the expertise of Chef Corey. Tucked away in the market at 7th Street, the menu includes gourmet-style fast food options.
The Vibe
True to its name, this eatery is all about matching a fast-paced lifestyle with its tiled service counters. Grab and go throughout your busy day.
What to Order
The signature Dasher chicken sandwich at this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte is a revelation to behold, featuring creamy buttermilk fried chicken, coleslaw, and house sauce on a soft challah bun.
Mad Dash | 224 E. 7th St., Charlotte, NC 28202 | $$
22. Enat Ethiopian Restaurant
Another important mention on this list of Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte is Enat Ethiopian Restaurant, a special place hidden in a strip mall. It captures the vibrant, creative spirit of the food it serves.
The Vibe
The hole-in-the-wall location, combined with a homey dining space with comfortable seats and dark yellow patterned walls, turns Enat into one of Charlotte’s best-kept secrets.
What to Order
For meat lovers, consider the family-style meat platter to try a variety of delicious traditional flavors with your family or friends.
Enat Ethiopian Restaurant | Multiple Locations | $$
23. Nick & Mike Bar and Grill
Many describe Nick & Mike Bar and Grill to be a well-loved neighborhood gem. This sports bar-style Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte offers an extensive menu of American dishes.
The Vibe
This Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte is the exact kind of spot to visit if you’re looking to kick back with friends and catch up on sports, alongside some delicious food.
What to Order
Start with some Southwest eggrolls served with pico. For your main, try the artfully seasoned Cajun shrimp po' boy, which has a great kick to it. The collard greens deserve a special mention, too.
Nick & Mike Bar and Grill | 11524 N. Tryon St., Ste. 7, Charlotte, NC 28262 | $$
24. Mama’s Caribbean Grill
True Caribbean fare, anyone? Mama’s Caribbean Grill combines traditional cooking methods, fresh ingredients and all-natural seasonings to create an impeccable menu of classic dishes that are sure to transport you to Jamaica with every bite.
The Vibe
At this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte, enjoy a seascape mural and other tropical decorations while you dine in this relaxing fast-casual space.
What to Order
Go for the tender, flavorful oxtail, which comes with two sides, along with seasoned Jamaican rice and peas.
Mama’s Caribbean Grill | 1504 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC 28205 | $$
25. Lulu’s Maryland Style Chicken
Get your fried soul food craving fix at Lulu’s Maryland Style Chicken, formerly known as Lulu’s Express. From fried chicken to various classic seafood dishes (and famous crab cakes), this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte serves up the heartiest of meals.
The Vibe
The eclectic chalkboard walls and casual, laid-back bar countertops and tables for seating make this one of the more relaxed Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte.
What to Order
The fried chicken wings are one of our favorites. If you’re a seafood lover, try the salmon fillet, paired with creamy grits and topped with a rich, savory sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.
Lulu’s Maryland Style Chicken | 2400 Tuckaseegee Road, Charlotte, NC 28208 | $$
26. Red Sea Restaurant & Bar
Our next pick on this list is Red Sea Restaurant & Bar, a specialist in Ethiopian and Eritrean fare. Since 2001, this has been one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte, NC to enjoy the best of both cuisines.
The Vibe
This homey Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte is decorated with colorful seating, traditional artwork on the walls and a lingering scent of coffee in the air.
What to Order
The house special, called the Red Sea Combo, consists of rich beef stew, chicken, eggs and an array of vegetarian dishes that come together beautifully.
Red Sea Restaurant & Bar | 4301 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28205 | $$
27. Zoewee’s Restaurant
Pay a visit to Zoewee’s Restaurant, one of the main Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte that specializes in authentic Liberian cuisine. The menu is crafted with fresh traditional ingredients to make staple dishes.
The Vibe
Dine in an unassuming space filled with natural light in the right moments, with simple walls and a hanging TV. Great for a casual catch-up or to grab a solo meal.
What to Order
Go for the egusi soup and fufu for something filling and warm. The jollof rice is also well-seasoned, as noted by loyal customers.
Zoewee’s Restaurant | 4112 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28206 | $$
28. Mr. Seafood
For almost a decade, Mr. Seafood has been bringing the freshest fried seafood cooking to city locals and visitors. For Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte that specialize in seafood, this is the place to be.
The Vibe
As far as Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte go, Mr. Seafood ranks high when it comes to its nautical theme. Fish murals splash playfully on the walls, with blue and orange accents surrounding the casual bar seating.
What to Order
Go big before going home with the steamed jumbo garlic shrimp basket, complete with a famous house-made garlic butter sauce.
Mr. Seafood | 5430 N. Tryon St., Ste. 1, Charlotte, NC 28213 | $$
29. Primo Prime
Find a taste of Italy right here in Charlotte at Primo Prime. Since 1993, Primo Prime has joined the many Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte to provide the elegant experience it offers today.
The Vibe
With historic art, classy white table cloths and an intimate dining space, this is the perfect date night option for you and your significant other.
What to Order
Start with the crispy fritto misto, a delightful fried seafood dish. For mains, the spinach ricotta gnocchi is a smooth and buttery choice at this Black-owned restaurant in Charlotte.
Primo Prime | 116 Middleton Drive, Charlotte, NC 28207 | $$
Other Foodie Experiences in Charlotte
After exploring all these different Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte, it’s easy to feel inspired about finding other ways to explore food in the city. Another great way to do that is by signing up for cooking classes in Charlotte. These classes are always exciting, fully immersive and memorable for everyone involved, including both the student and the expert chef teaching them.
Master the tips, tricks and expert skills needed to craft some delicious gourmet food for your friends, family and loved ones. With the guidance of a professional chef and all the learnings to be found from their experiences, you’ll be whipping up your own delicious meals in no time.
There is truly no shortage of Black-owned restaurants in Charlotte to explore. Whether you crave fresh seafood, regional African cuisine, Italian fare or any other kind of satisfying meal, there is a place in Charlotte calling your name.
The community of Black-owned restaurants is thriving and growing all the time, offering a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to experience it. For even more ways to explore Charlotte and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
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