Nothing screams weekend plans like a bomb brunch full of all the carbs my little heart can stand. Luckily, as Charlotte continues to grow more and more restaurants are choosing to make my hometown their new home as well.
I’ve been able to try quite a few of them (although I try to limit how often I brunch) and I wanted to give you all my top five at the moment. (Knowing me, they will remain that way for a while. Once I like something, I obsess over it.)
These are in no particular order…
(1) Snooze, an AM eatery
Location: 1331 Central Ave Suite 100
This is a newcomer to the city. But, they are quickly solidifying themself as a top contender. What I like about this place is (1) the dope vibe and music, (2) the variety in the menu, and (3) you can easily turn a regular brunch into a boozy brunch with their breakfast cocktail selections.
They also have a really nice patio for those of us that like to be outside and people watch while we eat. It’s really the best of both worlds.
My fav item: I’m definitely going to have to go with the pancake flight. You basically can pick out any 3 pancakes on the menu for one set price. Pictured: the Caribbean pancake (it was the feature that day and had pineapple, strawberry, and toasted coconut baked in), the sweet potato pancake (lord Jesus it’s something special), and the Peachy Keen (a peaches and cream like pancake)
(2) Uptown Yolk
Location: 224 E. 7th Street (Inside the 7th Street Market)
If you follow me on social media or keep up with my articles on Travel Noire, you know I rave about this spot. Owned by Tennessee natives, Greg and Subrina Collier, this Black-owned spot deserves all the press that it gets.
What makes it even better, is that Chef Collier will often experiment with fresh ingredients to create some pretty amazing things that you can’t get anywhere else.
My fav item: THE MF’N Pecan waffle (ok that’s not the real name, it’s just the pecan waffle, but it’s like that!)
(3) Famous Toastery
Multiple locations (My go-to is the University location- 8933 J M Keynes Dr #2)
Pictured:Rainbow flapjack combo
I know most folks are “iffy” about chain establishments, but this is one to add into the rotation. If you plan to go on a Sunday after church, just be prepared for a long wait. The food is pretty darn good so it’s expected.
Just like any other great restaurant, they offer daily specials which includes special brunch items. You can also get some pretty great mimosas too. BOOZY BRUNCH for the win!
My fav item: The raspberry walnut flapjack combo. (Yes, a COMBO) It comes with a larger than life pancake, choice of meat, and eggs.
(4) ROOTS Cafe
Location: 2135 Southend Dr.
This is one of those spots that makes you feel healthy just by walking in the door. While they have a perfect balance of healthy and hearty, the outdoorsy feel of the interior just makes you feel like you are making great life choices.
They have a small outdoor seating area that is also great for those who like to brunch and work.
My fav item: The avocado toast (why? Because avocado is bae…end of discussion)
(5) Legion Brewing- South Park
Location: 5610 Carnegie Blvd
It’s not common to automatically associate beer and brunch. But, now that Charlotte is becoming one of the most popular brewery cities around, it’s bound to happen.
I was pleasantly surprised on this one. They recently rolled out a newer brunch menu and it is pretty darn good. (It will likely change again eventually, so the item I like may not be a permanent thing. Sorry)
My fav item: The Anson Mills Cheese Grits Skillet (I’m from the south and I like grits…so when you know how to do them right, I instantly become a fan)
Famous Toastery is my fav, but I need to try Roots cafe I’ve heard great things.