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Summer is all about sun, friends and fresh food, and there’s nothing fresher than farm-to-table fare. Luckily, Charlotte is filled with a wide variety of true farm-to-table eateries.
With June just around the corner, many of these popular spots are rolling out their summer menus.
Prepare yourself for mouthwatering goodness.
(1) Heirloom Restaurant
Heirloom is all about the fellowship of food, and Executive Chef Clark Barlowe offers an ever-changing menu of locally sourced, globally inspired dishes (and amazing cocktails). Pro tip: Every other Sunday, starting May 29, Heirloom will host family-style dinners. $20 for those in the 28214 and 28216 zip codes/ $25 for everyone else.
(2) The Asbury
Located in the historic Dunhill Hotel in Uptown, The Asbury offers Southern favorites with a twist. I’ve got my eyes on their deviled eggs and Maw Maw’s cast iron biscuits. They recently welcomed new Executive Chef, Matthew Krenz. Pro tip: Check out their cocktails as well. Their bartender, Pete Ladino, has a local following.
(3) The King’s Kitchen
This Uptown spot isn’t just a killer farm-to-table restaurant; it’s also a nonprofit. Proceeds go back into the Charlotte community, and the mission-based business model includes feeding the poor and operating an on-site job training program. Pro tip: They’ve also got a more casual grab-and-go counter, if you’re in a rush.
(4) Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen
From their smoked and spiced wings to their succotash, Rooster’s is all about no frills, classic (and amazingly good) farm-to-table food. They’ve got two locations – one in Uptown and the other in SouthPark. Pro tip: The menu is a la carte, so go with friends and order a bunch of plates to share. The cheese board never disappoints.
(5) Passion8
Nestled in Elizabeth, Passion8 works with a long list of local farms. Their menu offers items such as Wild Boar Meatballs, Coriander Crusted Scallops and a first course dish dubbed ‘Infamous Calamari,’ tossed in a jalapeño honey citrus butter… yum. Pro tip: Sunday brunch features $12 bottomless mimosas.
(6) Kindred Restaurant
From the atmosphere to the seasonal menu, this is one of the dreamiest restaurants you’ll ever visit. It’s located in Davidson, but talk to anyone who’s been and they’ll tell you it’s worth the drive. Pro tip: Order the milk bread. Enough said.
(7) Heritage Food and Drink
Located in Waxhaw, Heritage offers a Southern-inspired, seasonally changing menu. Their Sunday brunch menu offers freshly baked doughnuts, Southern Eggs Benedict and an item called the Hangover Helper, which features toast, pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, pulled pork and onions. Pro tip: Go to Sunday brunch.
(8) FORK!
Spending a hot summer day on Lake Norman? Head over to FORK! in Cornelius. Their menu is chock-full of locally sourced meat and produce. They even use local herbs. Pro tip: Sip on a glass of wine on their wrap-around porch for maximum summer relaxation.
(9) Halcyon, Flavors from the Earth
Located in the Mint Museum Uptown, Halcyon is known for its seasonally inspired menu. They showcase a variety of artisanal farms, cheesemakers and wineries from the local community. Pro tip: Look for their specialty cocktail(s) infused with moonshine.
(10) Block & Grinder
Farm-to-table? How about butcher block-to-grinder? From corned beef and pastrami to a steak burger that will make your mouth water, this spot is all about high quality meat, and everything is hand-cut in house. Pro tip: Pay a visit to their butcher counter before your next summer cookout.
(11) Dogwood Southern Table & Bar
Located in SouthPark, Dogwood Southern Table & Bar is, you guessed it, all about Southern cuisine. Think items like pimento cheese, smoked barbecue, North Carolina shrimp and oysters on the half shell. Pro tip: They frequently partner with local breweries for multicourse community suppers.
(12) Sea Level
Located in Uptown, Sea Level is a new addition to the Charlotte farm-to-table scene and the only seafood restaurant on this list. Expect farm-to-fork oysters and craft cocktails. Pro tip: Snag a seat at the oyster bar on the patio. Bonus pro tip: Parking is free.
(Note: This content was co-created with Charlotte’s got a lot.)
