The Absolute Best Black Owned Restaurants in Charlotte [Updated 2025]

Having explored the vibrant culinary landscape of our city, I have fearlessly tasted my way through 12 incredible establishments.

Each one tells a unique story rooted in culture, tradition, and creativity, inviting diners to experience the richness of the community.

From soul food staples to innovative takes on classic dishes, these restaurants not only serve up delicious meals but also foster a sense of belonging.

Join me as we uncover the culinary gems that showcase the talent and passion of Charlotte's black-owned dining scene.

LAGZ RESTAURANT & BAR

Highlights
Authentic Nigerian Cuisine
Great Music and DJ
Nice and Clean Atmosphere
Attentive and Friendly Staff
Diverse Seating Options

LAGZ Restaurant & Bar is a delightful gem that transports you straight to the heart of Nigeria, right from the heart of Charlotte. As soon as you step inside, the vibrant atmosphere, with its eclectic decor and inviting layout, instantly sets the mood for an extraordinary dining experience. The music fills the air, creating a lively backdrop that makes it impossible not to tap your feet or sway a little in your seat.

The friendly staff greets you with a warm smile, ready to guide you through an impressive menu bursting with authentic Nigerian dishes. Each plate is a revelation, with flavors that are both rich and comforting. I particularly enjoyed the jollof rice, which was perfectly seasoned and accompanied by tender meats that practically melted in my mouth.

LAGZ doesn't just stop at great food; it offers various seating options that cater to couples, groups, and everyone in between, ensuring a cozy ambiance whether you’re out for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. If you're looking to indulge in delicious cuisine while soaking up the vibrant energy of a Nigerian setting, LAGZ is simply a must-visit.

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Abugida Ethiopian Cafe & Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine
Communal Dining Experience
Outstanding Doro Wet
Delicious Ethiopian Coffee
Exceptional Customer Service

Visiting Abugida Ethiopian Cafe & Restaurant was an exciting culinary adventure. Nestled in the heart of Charlotte, this gem is a celebration of authentic Ethiopian cuisine, and trust me—it's a vibrant journey for your taste buds! From the moment I stepped in, the inviting aroma of spices whisked me away, setting the stage for what would be a memorable meal.

One of my standout dishes was the Doro Wet, a delectably spiced chicken stew that left me craving more. The flavors danced on my palate, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia. What made this experience even more delightful was the communal dining setup, encouraging a friendly atmosphere where sharing is optional but highly encouraged.

To top it all off, I indulged in a cup of their Ethiopian coffee—brewed to perfection. It's a ritual steeped in tradition that you simply cannot miss! The exceptional customer service made me feel right at home, as the attentive staff guided me through the menu with enthusiasm.

If you’re exploring the vibrant scene of black-owned restaurants in Charlotte, be sure to add Abugida to your must-visit list!

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Freshwaters Southern New Orleans

Highlights
Cozy, Home-Like Atmosphere
Delicious Soul Food Options
Generous Portion Sizes
Friendly, Attentive Service
Authentic New Orleans Classics

Freshwaters Southern New Orleans is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Charlotte, and let me tell you, it’s a culinary experience that feels like a warm embrace from a beloved family member. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a cozy, home-like atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.

The menu is a testament to delicious soul food options infused with authentic New Orleans flavors. I couldn’t resist trying their famous gumbo, and wow—each spoonful was a burst of rich, savory goodness. The generous portion sizes left me in awe; you definitely get your money’s worth here!

What really made my visit stand out was the friendly, attentive service. The staff seemed genuinely enthusiastic about the food they served, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal. Whether you’re craving seafood, po’boys, or classic Southern sides, Freshwaters delivers it all with flair.

If you’re searching for a restaurant that captures the essence of New Orleans right here in Charlotte, look no further than Freshwaters. It's truly a celebration of flavors, community, and culture. Bon appétit!

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The Don’s Kitchen LLC

Highlights
Amazing wings and plantains
Welcoming atmosphere
Generous portion sizes
Highly praised Jamaican cuisine
Convenient location near Harris Teeter

The Don’s Kitchen LLC is a delightful gem in the heart of Charlotte, and it’s easy to see why it stands out among the city's black owned restaurants. The moment you step in, you’re enveloped by a welcoming atmosphere that instantly feels like home. This place is all about good vibes and even better food!

I couldn't resist trying their famous wings—each bite is a flavor explosion that mixes just the right amount of spice and tang. And let’s not forget the fried plantains, which were perfectly caramelized, offering a sweet contrast that kept me coming back for more. The portions are impressively generous; you certainly won’t leave with an empty stomach!

Their Jamaican cuisine is highly praised, and for a good reason. It’s authentic and crafted with love, making it a standout in the area. Plus, being conveniently located near Harris Teeter makes grabbing a bite easy for both locals and visitors alike. If you’re craving a savory meal that warms the soul, The Don’s Kitchen LLC is a must-visit! Whether it's for lunch or dinner, you’ll walk away with a smile and definitely a full belly. Don’t skip this culinary treasure!

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Ty's Wing & Tings Restaurant

Highlights
Deliciously seasoned wings
Tender and crispy texture
Well-marinated dishes
Clean and friendly atmosphere
Generous portion sizes

At Ty's Wing & Tings Restaurant, I was greeted by an inviting and friendly atmosphere that set the tone for my culinary adventure. The moment I laid eyes on the menu, I knew I was in for a treat; the selection of deliciously seasoned wings caught my attention immediately. I opted for the classic buffalo and a side of garlic parmesan, and let me tell you—heaven on a plate! The wings were not only tender but boasted a perfect crispy texture that left me wanting more with each bite.

What truly impressed me was the marination that infused every ounce of flavor into the meat. You could taste the passion behind each dish. The portion sizes were generous, making it a challenge to finish, but every morsel was worth it. I appreciated the clean and inviting environment, which added to the overall experience.

If you're looking for a spot that celebrates rich flavors in a vibrant setting, Ty's Wing & Tings is the place to be. This gem is not just about food; it's about community and flavor—two things that make Charlotte truly special!

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Mr. Charles Chicken and Fish - Uptown

Highlights
Delicious fried gizzards
Tender pork chops
Quick service
Live music atmosphere
Nostalgic dining experience

Visiting Mr. Charles Chicken and Fish - Uptown was an unforgettable culinary journey! As soon as I walked through the door, the sizzle of fried gizzards and the mouthwatering aroma of tender pork chops enveloped me like a warm hug. This eatery, a beloved staple in the community, offers a delightful menu that resonates with tradition and flavor, so be prepared to indulge your taste buds!

What truly sets Mr. Charles apart is the quick service despite the bustling atmosphere. Even during peak hours, my food arrived promptly, which I truly appreciated because I could dive right into the deliciousness. The venue also hosts a lively backdrop of live music, contributing to a vibrant dining experience that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

The atmosphere is charmingly laid-back, combining both elegance and comfort, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a celebration. Whether it's their crispy fried chicken or the juicy pork chops, every dish is lovingly prepared, and you can taste the passion behind it. I left with a happy heart and a satisfied palate, eager to return for more of this Charlotte gem.

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Mert's Heart And Soul

At Mert's Heart And Soul, I was greeted by an atmosphere bursting with warmth and vibrant energy. The menu, a delightful homage to Southern comfort food, left me in a state of culinary bliss. I devoured their famous shrimp and grits, each bite a perfect harmony of flavors that danced on my palate. The soulful hospitality of the staff made me feel like family, enhancing the already rich dining experience. Whether you're craving a cozy dinner or a joyous lunch with friends, this gem is a must-visit in Charlotte. With dishes that nourish both body and spirit, Mert's has truly captured my heart!

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Nana Morrison's Soul Food

Nana Morrison's Soul Food is a delightful gem that captures the essence of Carolina comfort cuisine! From the moment I stepped in, the inviting aromas wrapped around me like a warm hug. I indulged in their signature fried chicken, perfectly crispy and succulent, paired with homemade mac and cheese that was sheer indulgence. The collard greens were a soulful nod to tradition, while the cornbread was moist and slightly sweet! The ambiance feels like family, making it the perfect spot to savor authentic flavors. Nana Morrison's treats your taste buds while ensuring every bite is steeped in history and love.

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Quidley's Delight

Tucked away on a vibrant street, Quidley's Delight is a culinary gem that instantly felt like home. The lively ambiance perfectly complements the irresistible aroma wafting from the kitchen. I savored their renowned fried catfish, which was perfectly crispy and seasoned to perfection, while the mac and cheese was a creamy delight that had me coming back for more. Don’t skip dessert—I indulged in their decadent sweet potato pie, a true showstopper! With warm hospitality and soul-satisfying dishes, Quidley's is a must-visit for anyone seeking the heart of Southern comfort food in Charlotte.

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Good Food By Food Geeks

I recently dined at Good Food By Food Geeks, and let me tell you, it’s a culinary delight! This cozy gem captures the essence of soulful cooking with every bite. Their hot chicken sandwich packs a flavorful punch that left me craving more. The inviting atmosphere and warm service create a sense of community, making you feel right at home. Don't miss their delectable Southern sides—they're the perfect companion to any dish! If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional flavors, Good Food By Food Geeks is a must-visit. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Londa's Place

Londa's Place is a delightful gem in Charlotte that effortlessly combines home-cooked nostalgia with a lively atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, the tantalizing aroma of Southern soul food enveloped me, making my stomach rumble in anticipation. I savored a plate of their signature fried catfish—crispy, seasoned to perfection, and served with buttery cornbread that practically melted in my mouth. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, adding to the inviting charm of this vibrant establishment. If you're looking for good vibes and great food, Londa's Place is not to be missed!

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Sunset Soul Food

I recently dined at Sunset Soul Food, and let me tell you, it was a delightful journey of flavors! The moment you step inside, the warm ambiance feels like an embrace from grandma herself. I savored their fried chicken, perfectly seasoned and crispy, paired with velvety mac and cheese that transports you straight to comfort food heaven. The collard greens were a symphony of flavors, and the peach cobbler? Absolutely divine! This gem is not just about food; it's about community and heritage. If you're in Charlotte and craving soulful dishes, make sure to pay Sunset Soul Food a visit—your taste buds will thank you!

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