Charlotte Welcomes a New Culinary Gem: Flight
Charlotte, a city bursting with culinary diversity, recently celebrated the grand opening of a restaurant that promises to take taste buds on a journey around the globe. Tucked away in the vibrant Elizabeth neighborhood is Flight, a charming establishment conceived by Dwight and Vicki Bailey, who, until now, have dedicated their lives to the medical field.
A Dream Undeterred
Though neither Dwight, a physician specializing in pediatric critical care at Levine Children’s Hospital, nor Vicki, a nurse practitioner and director of clinical and quality outcomes at Providence Anesthesiology Associates, ever envisioned themselves as restaurant owners, their passionate quest for hidden culinary treasures during their travels sparked the idea to create a unique dining experience right at home. “Wherever we are, we try to find those hidden gems where the locals go,” Vicki shares, reminiscing about their gastronomic adventures across Spain, northern Portugal, Tuscany, Belgium, and the French Riviera. The duo realized they wanted to capture that essence and bring it back to Charlotte.
Introducing Flight
In August, their dreams came to fruition with the opening of Flight. The name itself carries a double meaning, merging their love for travel with the concept of wine flights, where guests can sample various selections. “It’s also our first venture into something creative outside our healthcare jobs,” reveals Dwight. “We view this as our ‘flight’ into this new aspect of our lives.”
A Menu to Savor
As you sit down at Flight, the menu immediately invites exploration with its European-inspired small plates and artisanal pizzas freshly cooked in a custom Italian wood-burning oven. A highlight—the Classic Pepperoni with a Twist, topped generously with red sauce, mozzarella, fontina, artisanal pepperoni, and dried marjoram. Don’t forget to explore the wine list, which boasts around 150 global selections and 30 by-the-glass options. They even offer wine flights, allowing diners to experience a world of flavors without leaving their seat.
Not just a wine bar, Flight also serves up a variety of signature cocktails, many of which can be made non-alcoholic, along with local and imported beers. As Vicki shares an artisan bread basket with charcuterie and delectable desserts on display, you can sense their commitment to quality and flavor.
Family Affair in the Kitchen
To ensure that Flight embodies a family-oriented atmosphere, Vicki’s daughter, Kayte Morton, took on the role of general manager, bringing experience from her career with FS Food Group. “I was thrilled to join the family venture,” says Kayte, a testament to their closeness and shared vision. With a vibrant mix of personal and culinary influences, the family crafted a menu alongside a chef consultant from Nashville, ensuring a blend of international flavors and family recipes.
A Cozy Space with Character
After a long search for the perfect location, the Baileys found a spot in the historic Dollar General building, formerly Stanley Drug Store, dating back to 1934. They rolled up their sleeves and renovated the space, collaborating with Southwick Architecture & Interiors to blend the charm of the building’s industrial elegance with soft, cozy touches. “We aimed to create a neighborhood gathering place,” Vicki notes, highlighting the stunning steel trusses and exposed walls that add character to the space.
Engaging the Community
Flight is not just concerned with crossing borders through food; they also place tremendous value on engaging with their neighbors. “We want to get to know our guests by name and build relationships,” Dwight expresses, noting their commitment to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. Though they plan to keep their jobs in healthcare, they are excited to remain actively involved while Kayte and Executive Chef Clayton Sanders manage the day-to-day operations.
As Charlotte’s dining scene continues to evolve, Flight is a breath of fresh air, offering both residents and visitors an opportunity to indulge in flavors inspired by travel. With a dynamic blend of global cuisine and community spirit, the Baileys have truly opened a culinary window to the world in their beloved Elizabeth neighborhood.
