Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but the thought of dressing up and fighting for a table feels like a Herculean task? Or perhaps you’ve had a long day at work, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Don’t worry, Queen City residents, because Charlotte’s vibrant and ever-expanding takeout scene is here to save the day (and your appetite)!
Charlotte offers a diverse and exciting array of takeout options, from upscale entrees to comforting classics, satisfying every craving and accommodating every budget. Forget the bland, uninspired takeout of yesteryear. Today, Charlotte’s culinary scene is fully embracing the convenience of to-go dining, bringing gourmet experiences right to your doorstep.
Why Takeout is a Great Option in Charlotte
Let’s face it, life in Charlotte moves fast. From the bustling Uptown area to the vibrant neighborhoods of South End and NoDa, Charlotteans are constantly on the go. Takeout offers a convenient solution for those seeking a delicious and satisfying meal without sacrificing precious time. No more struggling to coordinate schedules for dinner reservations or dealing with the dreaded wait times at popular restaurants. With takeout, you can enjoy your favorite restaurant dishes in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace.
Beyond convenience, Charlotte’s takeout scene is a reflection of its rich and diverse culinary landscape. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Southern comfort food, spicy Asian delicacies, or flavorful Mexican cuisine, you’re sure to find a takeout spot that satisfies your cravings. The city’s growing number of restaurants are committed to offering high-quality takeout options, ensuring that you experience the same delicious flavors and textures that you would expect when dining in.
And let’s not forget the opportunity to support local businesses. By choosing takeout from independent restaurants, you’re directly contributing to the local economy and helping these establishments thrive. In a city that values community and entrepreneurship, supporting local businesses is more important than ever. So next time you’re considering takeout, make the conscious choice to support a Charlotte-based restaurant.
Top Takeout Restaurants by Cuisine Type
Navigating the vast world of Charlotte’s takeout scene can be overwhelming. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve curated a list of some of the best takeout restaurants in the city, categorized by cuisine type.
American/Comfort Food
When you’re craving something familiar and comforting, these American-style restaurants offer delicious takeout options that will warm your soul.
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South 21 Drive-In
A Charlotte institution for decades, South 21 Drive-In offers classic diner fare like burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes. Their curb-side service makes getting your food super quick and easy. Perfect for a nostalgic takeout experience. The famous Super Boy is always a great choice!
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Pinky’s Westside Grill
This quirky and beloved spot serves up creative sandwiches, burgers, and sides with a Southern twist. Their dishes are packed with flavor and make for a satisfying takeout meal. Their famous Ding Dong Burger is a must-try.
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Cowbell Burger & Whiskey Bar
This popular burger joint boasts a wide array of burger creations, from classic cheeseburgers to inventive gourmet options. Their burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a takeout indulgence. Don’t forget to pair your burger with their crispy fries.
Italian
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these top-notch Italian restaurants that offer convenient takeout options.
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Mama Ricotta’s
A Charlotte staple, Mama Ricotta’s offers a wide range of classic Italian dishes, from pasta and pizza to seafood and meat entrees. Their generous portions and flavorful sauces make for a satisfying takeout meal.
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Stagioni
This sophisticated Italian restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Their takeout menu features a selection of pasta dishes, pizzas, and antipasti that are perfect for a romantic dinner at home.
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Portofino’s Italian Restaurant
Serving Charlotte for many years, they have many delicious, classic Italian food options. Perfect comfort food to pick up!
Asian
Explore the diverse flavors of Asia with these restaurants that offer delicious takeout options, from Chinese and Japanese to Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.
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Hawkers Asian Street Food
This popular spot serves up a variety of Asian-inspired street food dishes, from bao buns and dumplings to noodle bowls and curries. Their flavorful and shareable dishes make for a fun and diverse takeout experience.
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Lang Van
A Vietnamese restaurant offering truly authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere. Their pho is fantastic!
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Ru San’s Japanese Restaurant
This sushi restaurant offers high-quality sushi and other delicious traditional Japanese dishes. They are well-known for their quick and convenient takeout service.
Mexican/Latin American
Spice up your takeout routine with these restaurants that offer authentic Mexican and Latin American cuisine.
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Superica
This Tex-Mex restaurant serves up delicious tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes make for a festive takeout experience.
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Three Amigos Mexican Grill and Cantina
A Charlotte favorite, Three Amigos, is known for its generous portions, good prices, and delicious authentic food.
Southern/BBQ
Experience the quintessential flavors of the South with these restaurants that specialize in Southern comfort food and barbecue.
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Midwood Smokehouse
This popular barbecue joint offers a variety of smoked meats, from ribs and brisket to pulled pork and chicken. Their tender and flavorful meats, paired with classic sides like coleslaw and mac and cheese, make for a satisfying takeout feast.
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Mac’s Speed Shop
More than just a biker bar, Mac’s has excellent BBQ at very reasonable prices.
Hidden Gems & Unique Takeout Experiences
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Charlotte is also home to a number of hidden gems and unique takeout experiences that are worth exploring.
Food Trucks
Charlotte’s food truck scene is thriving, with a diverse array of trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers and tacos to international cuisine and desserts. Check social media to find your favorite truck’s location!
Ethnic Eateries
Explore Charlotte’s diverse culinary landscape by venturing into smaller, family-owned restaurants that offer authentic international cuisine. You might discover a hidden gem that becomes your new go-to takeout spot.
Meal Kits
For those who enjoy cooking but don’t have the time to shop and prep, some Charlotte restaurants offer meal kits that include all the ingredients and instructions you need to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Tips for the Best Takeout Experience in Charlotte
To ensure a seamless and satisfying takeout experience in Charlotte, keep these tips in mind:
Ordering Online vs. Calling
While calling in your order might seem like the most straightforward option, ordering online often offers several advantages. Online ordering systems typically provide a more detailed menu, allow you to customize your order with ease, and offer a secure payment process. However, if you have specific questions or dietary restrictions, calling the restaurant might be the best option.
Pickup vs. Delivery
Choosing between pickup and delivery depends on your preferences and circumstances. Pickup allows you to save on delivery fees and avoid potential delays. Delivery is ideal if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of having your food brought directly to your door. Keep in mind that delivery fees and delivery times can vary depending on the restaurant and the delivery service used.
Check for Specials and Deals
Before placing your takeout order, take a moment to check for any specials or deals that might be available. Many restaurants offer online coupons, discounts for first-time customers, or loyalty programs that can help you save money on your takeout orders. Also check sites like Groupon and LivingSocial.
Plan Ahead
Especially during peak hours, such as lunch and dinner, it’s best to plan ahead and place your takeout order in advance. This will help you avoid long wait times and ensure that your food is ready when you arrive.
Transportation
Consider the distance you will be traveling from the restaurant to your home or office. Insulated bags can help keep your food warm (or cold) during transport. For items like salads, consider requesting the dressing on the side to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Charlotte’s takeout scene is a vibrant and exciting reflection of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. From classic comfort food to innovative international cuisine, there’s a takeout option to satisfy every craving and suit every budget. By embracing the convenience and variety of takeout, you can enjoy restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home while supporting local businesses and experiencing the best that Charlotte’s food scene has to offer. So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and convenient meal, skip the dishes and explore the wonderful world of Charlotte takeout! What are your favorite takeout places in the Queen City? Share them in the comments below!
