Charlotte’s Culinary Highlights: Our Favorite Meals of 2024
Hey there, Charlotte! You know we love our food scene, and as the year wraps up, we can’t help but reminisce about the incredible meals we’ve had in our great city. With a mix of classic delights and new adventures, 2024 has given us so many reasons to eat out. So, let’s dive into some of the finest dishes that have made our taste buds dance this year!
Aqua e Vino – A Northern Italian Dream
Location: 4219 Providence Rd #3, Charlotte, NC 28211
What I ate: Cauliflower flan with bechamel and black truffle, rock shrimp risotto, braised short ribs with carrots, and tiramisu.
Price: Braised short rib is $45.
Let’s kick it off with a dinner that felt like a trip to Northern Italy! Chef Gabriele Grigolon at Aqua e Vino surprised us with an array of classic dishes bursting with flavor. The savory cauliflower flan was a melt-in-your-mouth delight, while the rich risotto was a comforting hug on a plate. And who could forget the nostalgic braised short ribs? Pure bliss!
The Crunkleton – Brunch Lovers Unite!
Location: 1957 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204
What I ate: Steak and Eggs + N/A cocktail.
Price: $38 for food and $15 for the drink.
If you’re into brunch, The Crunkleton is where you need to be! Weekend mornings call for a nice, slow start, and the extended brunch hours mean you can hang out until 3 p.m. I went classic with a perfectly seasoned steak and eggs alongside a refreshing cocktail crafted just for me. Trust me, every bite was pure perfection!
Curry Gate – A Taste of India
Location: 630 W 24th St, Charlotte, NC 28206
What I ate: Chicken tikka masala and garlic naan.
Price: $25.
When it comes to Indian food, Curry Gate takes the crown! Their chicken tikka masala is so comforting, you’ll want to indulge on chilly nights. Plus, their generous portions mean you can enjoy it for days! Don’t skip the garlic naan; it’s perfect for dipping!
East Meets West – A Cultural Culinary Adventure
Location: Private residence in Concord
What I ate: A multi-course dinner featuring rice fritters, groundnut soup, and stuffed quail.
Price: $125.
Chef Awo Amenumey and Chef Ammalu Saleh brought a delightful gastronomic journey through African cuisines to our table this year. Each bite transported us to the coasts of Africa with bold flavors and beautiful presentations. The dinner ended on a high note with a super refreshing baobab-hibiscus ice drop. Culinary heaven!
El Puro Cuban Restaurant – A Cuban Delight
Location: 5033 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28217
What I ate: Ropa Vieja with congri rice and sweet plantains.
Price: $30.
If you’re ever in the mood for Cuban food, El Puro needs to be on your radar. Their Ropa Vieja is a standout — tender brisket and a sauce that just melts in your mouth, paired with sweet plantains. It feels like a mini vacation to Miami with every bite!
Menya Daruma – Ramen Lover’s Paradise
Location: 201 W. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28204
What I ate: Shoyu ramen.
Price: $15.50.
Nothing warms you up like a steaming bowl of ramen, and Menya Daruma delivers! Their shoyu ramen is pure comfort; the broth is seasoned to perfection, and the toppings are fresh and delicious. It’s like a warm hug on a rainy day!
Mico Restaurant – A Special Treat
Location: 2001 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204
What I ate: 8 oz. 1855 Filet of Beef and South American Parmesan Fries.
Price: $90.
For a special occasion, nothing beats the luxury of Mico Restaurant. The was juicy, tender, and absolutely exquisite. And let’s not forget about those Parmesan fries—a crunchy, cheesy delight that had us craving more!
Now it’s your turn! What was your favorite meal in the Queen City this year? Let us know, and here’s to a delicious new year ahead!
