Charlotte offers an abundance of unique and fun eateries to enjoy for locals and visitors alike.
Known for its southern cuisine, you’ll find some of the best barbecue, burgers, chicken, and seafood at these classic Charlotte diners.
Diners in Charlotte range from long-standing establishments, holes in the wall, to many amazing joints featured on the Food Network hit show, ‘Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives’, with host Guy Fieri. With numerous options, you’re sure to find some of the best menu items on the North Carolina map.
Pulling up to Midnight Diner, you’ll see a picturesque, glimmering silver 1950s diner. The good old American comfort food they serve is hard to beat.
Some of Midnight Diner’s breakfast favorites include Chicken and Waffles, French Toast, and the Midnight Special.
Why we like it:
Midnight Diner is the perfect treat to bring you back in time and enjoy some nostalgia while savoring a classic American homemade dish.
#2 Redeye Diner
Redeye Diner is another look into the 1950s with bold, vibrant colors, red leather booths, and checkerboard floors. This Charlotte diner is known for their Chicken and Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, and the Redeye Burger.
Why we like it:
Redeye Diner has old-fashioned appeal and a wide range of menu options to fulfill any craving. We also love the upbeat atmosphere and exceptional service.
Featured on Food Network on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri, Landmark Diner Restaurant is a hometown favorite. This charlotte diner is known for its baked fresh daily homemade desserts and Spanakopita, a favorite of the Greek family-run business.
Why we like it:
Of all diners in charlotte, Landmark Diner Restaurant has the best Greek entree options.
Big View Diner is a family favorite with a casual atmosphere, a lovely outdoor patio, and an extensive menu. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner options of both traditional and creative dishes, this Charlotte diner has options for everyone.
Why we like it:
Aside from delicious menu options, we love that Big View Diner offers fun for the whole family with drive-in movie nights.
#5 Tryon House
Tryon House serves classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with complimentary homemade soups. They are known for their delicious daily specials, the Breakfast Special, and Omelets.
Why we like it:
Always fresh and hot with great service, we think Tryon House is a must-try Charlotte diner.
#6 Sunflower Family Restaurant
Sunflower Family Restaurant is a local favorite serving up homecooked delights. The family-owned business is dedicated to a family-friendly atmosphere with great service and even better breakfast and lunch food.
Why we like it:
Sunflower Family Restaurant has a fan club for the consistently good food they serve, and we can attest!
#7 The Dive N
The Dive N is another local favorite and a hidden gem for out of town visitors. From the gigantic pancakes to delicious burgers and to-die-for specials, this is a must-stop in Charlotte.
Why we like it:
We love that you can order from the counter at this diner and eat your meal next to a giant Elvis painting on the wall!
New York Diner offers made from scratch menu items, including massive burgers and authentic gyros. This Charlotte diner is sure to please with caring staff and a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Why we like it:
Of all diners in Charlotte, New York Diner has the best coffee!
Angie’s Diner offers the best soul food in Charlotte. Made with homecooked love, Angie’s serves up some of the best fish plates, turkey legs, and mac and cheese.
Why we like it:
We like Angie’s Diner for the authentic southern food and excellent wait staff.
Originally opened back in 1945, Diamond Restaurant still boasts the old-timey fashion of checkerboard floors, booths, and a retro jukebox. This Charlotte diner is known for its Greek, Italian, and Southern comfort food.
Why we like it:
We like Diamond Restaurant for their long history of commitment to their customers and their fantastic Greek dishes.
South 21 Drive-In is a classic diner through and through. Featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri, and operational since 1955, this Charlotte diner offers an authentic drive-up experience.
Why we like it:
The South 21 Drive In experience is unmatched. We feel like we are truly back in the 1950s when we visit and order right from our car.
#12 Dish
Another feature on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri, Dish is a beloved hole in the wall that offers some of the best Southern cooking. Staples of Dish include Deviled Eggs, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Meatloaf.
Why we like it:
We like Dish for their classic Sothern cooking and their loyalty to their long-standing customers.
#13 Jake’s Good Eats
Jake’s Good Eats offers a wide range of eclectic American food and was also featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri. Customer favorites include seafood dishes such as Fried Oysters, Crawfish, and North Carolina Shrimp.
Why we like it:
We like Jake’s for the delicious homemade desserts.
#14 Krazy Fish
This restaurant is another hot spot featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Krazy Fish serves unique seafood dishes as well as inspired dishes from around the globe.
Why we like it:
We like the quirky atmosphere and decor that greet us at the door, the outdoor patios, and the wide selection of craft beers and cocktail specials.
Shuffletown Grill, open since 1957, is a local go-to that provides the traditional diner aesthetic. Delicious, homecooked breakfast and lunch plates have kept customers coming back for years.
Why we like it:
We feel at home at the comfortable and inviting Shuffletown Grill, where the server remembers your name. It’s a great local establishment with great classic American food.
Whether you’re new to Charlotte, simply passing through, or a born-and-raised resident, you won’t want to miss these stupendous spots to get your next bite.
