Little Alley Steakhouse
Atlanta-based steakhouse concept (operated by F&H Food Trading Group) reviving long-discussed Uptown Charlotte location inside Hearst Tower. A $3.7M construction permit was filed for the space. Plans call for ~8,600 sq ft with private dining rooms, patio seating, and large wine display. No official opening timeline announced. Project was originally announced in 2020 but went […]
Heartbutter
Non-alcoholic cocktail and community-centered pop-up concept founded by Dre Thomas. Two pop-up events planned: June 25 at CHNO Coffee (4612 Gilead St, Lower South End) and July at Lottie’s in Uptown Charlotte. Long-term goal is a brick-and-mortar location with owner eyeing a Fall 2027 opening in Charlotte. Beverage program developed with mixologist Donnell Owens featuring […]
Fatbackzz Grill
Fatbackzz Grill is opening its first brick-and-mortar location inside Sam’s Mini Mart, targeting the first week of June 2026. The food truck will continue operating alongside the permanent location.
Heist Brewery
Heist Brewery in NoDa is preparing to reopen after a July 2024 kitchen fire forced an extended closure. The location has undergone extensive remodeling including a redesigned kitchen, expanded bar, added seating (~100 new seats), and conversion of former brew house space into dining area. Brewing operations moved to Barrel Arts location. Owner Kurt Hogan […]
Finders’ Coffee
Finders’ Coffee is a café concept focused on classic espresso drinks, matcha, and simple high-quality staples. Also features a four-ingredient cheesecake in multiple flavors. Space includes indoor and outdoor seating. Soft opening targeted for mid-July 2026, grand opening planned for mid-August 2026. Owner is H Kim.
Karak House Coffee
Karak House Coffee is a Middle Eastern-inspired café franchise preparing to open in Uptown Charlotte. The concept features signature karak tea, specialty coffees, and a menu incorporating cardamom, rose, pistachio, and saffron. Franchise owner Lythe Elhulu, a Charlotte native, is bringing the brand to his hometown. Co-founder Rohail Malik noted Charlotte’s cultural diversity as a […]
Cook Out
Cook Out is expanding in Charlotte with a new location at 10820 Woodland Beaver Road. The company’s website lists the location, signaling planned expansion. No opening timeline has been announced. Separately, Cook Out acquired five adjacent properties in Thomasville, NC for ~$1.07M for potential future development. Drive-thru-focused concept serving burgers, barbecue, hot dogs, chicken, and […]
Dairi-O
Dairi-O is planning a new location in Sanford, NC at 127 Marketplace Drive, just off Highway 1. The company purchased the 1.78-acre property for $2 million. The restaurant will feature a double drive-thru, dine-in seating, and Dairi-O’s full menu of burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, frozen treats, and milkshakes. This will be approximately the 14th […]
Dave’s Hot Chicken
California-based Dave’s Hot Chicken cult favorite chain confirmed opening in Fayetteville, NC. Article also mentions Raising Cane’s coming to 1812 Skibo Road in fall 2026.
South End Hideaway
Day-to-night entertainment venue opening in the former Slingshot space. Operated by Olsen Hospitality Partners (behind Queen Park Social). Features two bars, pool tables, darts, lounge seating, DJs, and live music across two levels. Will serve cocktails ($11-$14), local draft beer, wine, and food in partnership with Atlanta-based food truck YUMBII (Korean/Mexican street food). Sneak peek […]