Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Charlotte

What happens when you mix sushi and burgers? Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar serves this interesting combination of Japanese and American cuisines to its adventurous patrons. A good place to experiment with food, it allows diners to mix and match dishes calling it the 'Burgushi'. Try a Deliverance Roll which contains pork wrapped in seaweed and covered with barbecue sauce or sample a Bento Box with a burger-sushi combination. An open mind is all you need as you experience two diverse cultures come together in a memorable gustatory experience.

Italian food is well-loved by all, but who serves the best authentic Italian fare? Mama Ricotta's is one strong contender for this coveted honor. The Italian soul believes in hearty meals and lavish spreads of well seasoned and mouth-watering food. Mama Ricotta certainly seems to achieve that. This eatery is a quaint little place which serves up the most genuine of Italian food. The food is created out of made-from-scratch mozzarella cheese, fresh seasonal veggies and soft breads. Drinks, to go with the food are also stocked at the bar. Mama Ricotta's also hosts private events and caters for off site occasions.

Brain child of sibling duo Bruce and Kerry Moffett, Good Food on Montford is a restaurant focusing on extensive use of local and organic products. Serving American cuisine, this tapas-inspired restaurant is known for the quality of its food. Some of their popular dishes are pork bun, pork tenderloin and lamb belly. The place has a long wine list and seasonal cocktails for one to sip on while dining. The ambiance here is mostly trendy and intimate enough for a romantic dinner.

Lebowski's Neighborhood Grill sits just on the edge of the Dilworth district, offering fairly traditional American fare with a nod towards the Coen Brothers' classic "The Big Lebowski". The main area in which this theme comes through is the laid back, friendly atmosphere at Lebowski's, locals popping in regularly for the tasty food and diverse collection of craft brews. The menu goes through the general motions of casual American grill fare, featuring a scrumptious assortment of burgers, sandwiches and salads as well as comfort food platters. One distinguishing factor in these items is the weck roll, a variation on the salty Kaiser roll. Over 70 beers are available to pair with your food, many of the tap options sourced from North Carolina breweries. A relaxed place for an informal meal, Lebowski's is a great stop for something casual.

A name to reckon with in the local dining scene, Paco's Taco & Tequila is known for its flair in preparing a delicious spread of Tex-Mex cuisine to diners. Sit back at one of the tables and savor the rich taste and medley of flavors that are a part of the tacos. The specialties include the Beef Brisket Taco and the unique Criminal Combo fajitas, suggested by the chef. Tequila serves as a befitting accompaniment adding to the liveliness of the menu. Try the huge variety of the drink (60 kinds to be precise) that is offered here. Dining outside in the patio gives you the opportunity to gaze at the local passers-by.

Tucked away in Arts District, Crêpe Cellar Kitchen & Pub is a haven for both sweet and savory crêpes. It is the place to go for light snacks and comfort food with a group of close friends. All savory crêpes are gluten-free and there are a few vegetarian options as well. The buckwheat crêpe selection has options like Ham & Gruyère, Four Cheese and Turkey Apple Brie. The remaining menu displays pan-European influence, especially the Irish Steak and Guinness Pie. Hand-cut fries, sausages, oyster preparations, and cheese and beer pairings are other popular menu options. If you have a sweet tooth, do not miss out on dessert crêpes such as Mascarpone & Berries and Brownie in a Blanket.