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Diners' Choice: Contemporary American restaurants in Charlotte

OpenTable

Updated September 05, 2024

Looking for restaurants with the best overall Contemporary American cuisine in Charlotte? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyses more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favourites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

A photo of Customshop restaurant

4.8

4.8 (1711)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Elizabeth

About the restaurant

Customshop is a chef-driven restaurant that showcases local farms and purveyors in an effort to bring our guests the highest quality ingredients within our community. Executive Chef and Owner Andres Kaifer along with his team believe in crafting honest straightforward food with an elevated modern touch that delivers something truly unique. Weekly menu changes allow us to highlight the seasonality of food and the beauty of North Carolina produce, seafood, and specialty items. With stylistic inspiration from Spain, Italy, and France, our neighborhood restaurant aims to make everyone feel welcome. We are proud to offer a seasonal cocktail menu that also takes an ingredient-first approach and looks to mirror the creativity and ingenuity of our culinary team. Our wine list is curated around a balance of old-world staples as well as new and emerging producers pushing the envelope. We cannot wait to serve you on your next date night, post-work drinks with friends, or at a family celebration.

Top review

W

Williamvip

Dined 2 days ago

One of the best meals I've had this year. The menu changes were spot on and all of the food we tried was top tier.

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A photo of NC Sea Scallops of a restaurant

NC Sea Scallops

A photo of Beets of a restaurant

A photo of Blue Crab Ravioli of a restaurant

Blue Crab Ravioli

A photo of Bernardin's Restaurant - Charlotte restaurant

Bernardin's Restaurant - Charlotte

4.7

4.7 (2794)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Uptown

About the restaurant

Bernardin's Fine Dining is renowned for its impeccable service, Elegant atmosphere and sophisticated, succulent Modern American Cuisine. Specializing in Seafood, Lamb, Steaks, Game Meats, Poultry and Pasta. Relax and enjoy soothing music, inviting accommodations, unbelievable entrees, specialty desserts and an extensive wine list. Serving the Triad of North Carolina since 1992, new to Uptown Charlotte. We are confident you will enjoy your dining experience.

Top review

R

Ruby

Dined on Aug 30, 2024

Bernardine’s never disappoints. The ambiance is both warm and sophisticated, making it perfect for our 27th Anniversary. The menu is a masterpiece, with every dish showcasing creative flair. We usually start with a nice glass of wine and some gluten free Calamari (I’m Celiac). We especially love the Filet Mignon, and grilled Emu which are always cooked to perfection. The service is consistently top-notch—attentive yet unobtrusive. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, Bernardine’s remains one of our absolute favorites. We can’t wait to return! ❤️

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A photo of Grilled Emu of a restaurant

A photo of Peppervine restaurant

4.8

4.8 (2052)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

SouthPark

About the restaurant

Modern American Fine Dining meets elegance and innovation. General Manager/Wine Director Tommy Trull and Executive Chef Will Stephenson offer a memorable dining experience that blends comfort with sophistication, along with creative, locally sourced dishes with international influences, complemented by an extensive wine list (winner of Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence every year since 2021) and expertly crafted cocktails.

We blend formal and informal service to make every visit special. Whether you're celebrating a birthday with our complimentary key lime pie bar or enjoying a free glass of Cava for your anniversary, our team ensures personalized attention to every detail.

We also have monthly wine dinners, showcasing exquisite pairings and fine selections from around the world. With flexible seating options, including a cozy mezzanine and private dining room, we cater to all occasions. Reserve your table today and discover an exceptional dining experience at Peppervine.

Top review

E

Elliott

Dined 3 days ago

Best restaurant in Charlotte. Always wonderful food and service.

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A photo of General Tso's Cauliflower of a restaurant

General Tso's Cauliflower

A photo of Fried Oysters of a restaurant

A photo of Diver Scallops of a restaurant

A photo of Gallery Restaurant restaurant

Gallery Restaurant

4.7

4.7 (1900)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Ballantyne

About the restaurant

Gallery Restaurant serves contemporary American fare for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Menus change seasonally to provide fresh regional ingredients. An exclusive art display from a local gallery establishes an authentic gallery feel. Enjoy an impressive wine selection honored as a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Gallery Bar offers a casual option for lunch and dinner and has an extensive Whiskey collection. Diners enjoy monthly culinary events and seasonal Al fresco dining. Private dining offers an elegant space for small social events and meetings up to 20 guests. Gallery Restaurant is located at The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte on the corner of Johnston Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway. Dress code is business casual or nice dress, no baseball caps please.

Top review

DN

DebraNvip

Dined 6 days ago

We had an amazing dining experience- wonderful food and outstanding service! Everything was first rate- from the pre dinner cocktails to dessert. The wine list is extensive and intriguing. My husband had scallops - I had fresh catch. Unbelievable preparation of the farro! Peach cobbler with blueberry gelato was a great finish. Highly recommend this spot - for travelers or locals.

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A photo of 8oz FILET of a restaurant

Thanksgiving Prix-Fixe Menu

A photo of Napa on Providence restaurant

Napa on Providence

4.7

4.7 (3712)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Myers Park

About the restaurant

At Napa on Providence, we're bringing the heart of California to Charlotte. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes made from scratch, paired with bold wines, all in a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Just think of us as your friendly neighborhood restaurant, with a serious wine obsession.

With small & large plate offerings, Napa on Providence is perfect for a business luncheon, friends gathering for cocktails, or families craving brunch. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended. We look forward to your visit!

Top review

G

Garyvip

Dined 2 days ago

Awesome good! Loved the Napa Salad with Chicken. Highly recommend!

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A photo of Roasted Salmon of a restaurant

A photo of Switchback Ridge Wine Dinner of a restaurant

Switchback Ridge Wine Dinner

A photo of Monthly Wine Tasting- French Wine of a restaurant

Monthly Wine Tasting- French Wine

A photo of Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant

Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails

4.7

4.7 (416)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Southend

About the restaurant

Nestled next door to Craft Tasting Room and Growler shop in South End. Alyson and Dan Davis designed Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails to be local inside and out, from the small plates menu to the space itself. The seasonal menus’ are inspired by the roots of the region and local farmers. A local gem for both Brunch and Dinner where health is the forefront our philosophy as a seed oil free restaurant that has a variety of menu items that are both gluten free and vegetarian. The restaurant is also known for innovative bar program led by Beverage Director Amanda Britton with cocktails featuring house made shrubs, sodas, barrel-aged cocktails, zero poof and curated wine list. The restaurants midcentury nostalgic rustic yet refined design finds the balance between nature and modern, featuring a moss wall, lime washed brick, a walnut live edge bar, 48 seat dining room and a 30 seat roof top deck.

Top review

S

Sean

Dined on Aug 31, 2024

We enjoy coming to Lincoln Street when we are in town. Good vibes good cocktails.

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A photo of Happy Snacks at Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails of a restaurant

Happy Snacks at Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails

A photo of Napa at Kingsley restaurant

Napa at Kingsley

4.7

4.7 (3216)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Fort Mill

About the restaurant

At Napa Kingsley, we're bringing the heart of California to Fort Mill. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes made from scratch, paired with bold wines, all in a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Just think of us as your friendly neighborhood restaurant, with a serious wine obsession.
We offer complimentary Valet with Validation Thursday, Friday & Saturday Evenings from 5-11pm. To access Valet you can enter on Textile Way off of SC-160 and make a right hand turn onto Broadcloth and valet is located across our restaurant on the right hand side.

Top review

S

Sarah

Dined 3 days ago

We enjoyed a wonderful birthday dinner at Napa with great service by our waiter, Yeti, who took excellent care of us. Cocktails and wine were spot on. We loved the roasted duck special, which I recommend, if you have the chance.

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A photo of Seared Scallops of a restaurant

Seared Scallops

A photo of Filet Mignon of a restaurant

A photo of Roasted Salmon of a restaurant

A photo of Fish Market - Fort Mill restaurant

Fish Market - Fort Mill

4.5

4.5 (1157)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Fort Mill

About the restaurant

A unique restaurant in a unique neighborhood. We serve the finest fresh seafood available in a comfortable, warm setting by a team of knowledgeable and attentive staff. Chef's signature menu features are inspired by fresh local produce and high quality ingredients. We also offer live Maine lobsters, chicken and steak, and a daily selection of desserts made in house.

Top review

C

Carolyn

Dined 7 days ago

Very good value- prices were reasonable for seafood.

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A photo of Chilean Sea Bass of a restaurant

Chilean Sea Bass

A photo of Salmon Tacos of a restaurant

A photo of Shrimp & Grits of a restaurant

A photo of Red Rocks Cafe - Birkdale Village restaurant

Red Rocks Cafe - Birkdale Village

4.6

4.6 (2593)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Huntersville

About the restaurant

Red Rocks Cafe - Birkdale Village, with its comfortable booths, low lighting, intimate feel and jazzy background music, offers a touch of class and a comfortable atmosphere that appeals to everyone. The lively restaurant scene is enhanced by a popular bar and covered patio overlooking the shops at each of the locations. The menu boasts of quality with a variety of steak, seafood, poultry and pasta entrees. Each entrée is named for a famous (or not so famous) customer and adds a personal touch to the varied selection.

Top review

P

Patriciavip

Dined 1 day ago

Loved our experience and food was hot and delicious

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A photo of Sunday Brunch of a restaurant

A photo of Stoke restaurant

4.5

4.5 (934)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Uptown

About the restaurant

The warmth of wood-fired cooking complemented by meticulously sourced seasonal ingredients from Carolina farms and local partners. Simple, rustic yet refined flavors served in a gathering space with a laid back, neighborhood vibe.

Located within the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Please note Stoke Restaurant validates parking for restaurant guests who valet park at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Please provide your receipt/valet ticket to the Host/Hostess.

Top review

S

Shane

Dined on Aug 17, 2024

This is a wonderful place to dine right before a Blumenthal event and only 2 minute walk away.

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A photo of Chilean Wine Dinner Experience | 6:00PM - 9:00PM of a restaurant

Chilean Wine Dinner Experience | 6:00PM - 9:00PM

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