Often, it seems like the most stressful few minutes of preparing for a night out with the family or an outing with friends starts with: “Hey Siri! Find restaurants near me.” And while a quick search can offer a plethora of options, sometimes it’s just better to have a recommendation from a real person.

So, what restaurants should you add to your dinner plans in Charlotte? That answer will, of course, depend on who you ask.

We turned to 14 Charlotte creators and food bloggers who are passionate about the city’s culinary scene. We asked them about their favorite places to eat, standout dishes they’ll never forget and the spots where they’ve experienced the best food service.

Here’s your go-to guide for whenever you just can’t decide out where to go for the night, as recommended by Charlotte foodie influencers (whose answers have been edited for grammar and clarity)…

 

DAILY DRE CLT: ANDREA FOX

Must-visit dining spot in Charlotte: “When it comes to a restaurant that consistently wows me, Customshop is always a standout. They take their food seriously, and it shows…”

Best food service experience in Charlotte: “…Alternatively, if you sit at the bar at Dot Dot Dot, they will have you leaving feeling like you just met a new friend.”

 

JENSEN SAVANNAH NICHOL

All-time favorite meal in the city: “It’s really hard to pick just one. But a few of the ones that are my personal favorites are the Masitas de la Loma at El Puro Cuban Restaurant, the Classic Grilled Chicken Platter at Greco Fresh Grille, the Japanese Wagyu at MOA Korean BBQ, the filet mignon at The Gallery — located within the Ballantyne Hotel — and the Ropa Vieja at Verde in Huntersville is well worth the drive. You really can’t go wrong with any of these.”

 

SLICE OF JESS: JESS BENTLEY

Best food service experience in Charlotte: “Hands down, Dot Dot Dot. You need to be a member (which is only $10 per year … and totally worth it), and I recommend making reservations before your visit. Dress like you’re a character in Mad Men, and treat yourself to inventive cocktails and phenomenal food pairings. Ask Stefan what to start with for drinks (I’ve even dined here while pregnant and he made a mocktail specifically for me ), then Nori (their GM) or Chef Matt will have awesome recommendations for dinner. It’s an experience for sure.”

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ORIGINAL PUBLICATION VIA CHARLOTTE OBSERVER.