This is one of my absolute favorite coffee spots. The atmosphere is so welcoming, they play Christian music, and the coffee is some of the best I’ve ever had.
This cozy little spot is one of my favorites! The coffee is great, but it’s really the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it so special. They have really cute indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for morning bible study!
This was such a special place for me during my senior year of high school! I loved working here, and it was always a fun spot to take my little siblings on a sister date. The sodas and cookies are absolutely delicious - definitely don’t go here if you’re on a diet, but if you’re looking for a sweet treat, I would totally recommend it! My personal favorites are the Raspberry Beret (Dr. Pepper, raspberry purée, & coconut cream), Peaches (Dr. Pepper, peach syrup, & vanilla cream), and the Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookie (a fudgy peanut butter cookie with chocolate cream cheese frosting!). It’s one of those places that’s full of sweet memories for me.
This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants, and I’m so excited to share it with you! Everything I’ve ever ordered has been delicious, but a few of my personal favorites are Fried Pork Belly Buns, Mango Summer Rolls (I always ask for extra peanut sauce!), and the Five Spice Pork Belly Banh Mi - trust me, you’ll love them. It’s a lively, energetic spot, so if you can, try to snag a table outside. It’s one of those places that just makes you happy to be eating. I can’t wait for you to try it!
This bistro is one of my go-to lunch spots when I am back in NC! Their Mediterranean and French inspired menu is fresh, flavorful, and just plain delicious. The sandwiches and salads are always amazing - I especially love the Goat Cheese Baguette and the Quinoa Tabbouleh. It’s the perfect place for a healthy, satisfying meal that still feels like a treat!
If you love tacos with a twist, this is the place for you! Their menu is full of unusual and delicious options like the Thai Peanut Chicken taco, the Chilled Shrimp Ceviche taco, and the Buffalo Chicken taco. It’s a fun, lively spot that’s perfect for trying something new and sharing a few tacos with friends!
This is my favorite Mediterranean spot in Charlotte! I can’t get enough of the Grilled Chicken Gyro, the Street Gyro, and of course, an extra side (or two!) of their Tzatziki. This is one of those places that always makes me happy, and I frequently visited when I lived in NC!
This is hands-down one of my favorite brunch spots! Everything on the menu is delicious, but if you go, you have to order the Million Dollar Bacon - it’s seriously amazing. Its savory, sweet, and spicy and everything I wish normal bacon was! It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch with friends and family!
One of my favorite places in Charlotte is Rea Farms Park! I used to meet friends here all the time, and it’s such a lovely spot to spread out a blanket for a picnic, sip coffee, or read your Bible in the sunshine. The open green space and peaceful vibe make it the perfect little escape!
I absolutely love walking around downtown Matthews - it’s one of those places that always makes me feel at home. The streets are lined with quaint shops, cozy cafés, and local restaurants, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll with friends or family. Two of my favorite restaurants (also included in this list) and a favorite coffee shop are all within walking distance, so you can grab a bite, sip a latte, and soak in the small-town charm.
Squirrel Lake Park is a wonderful 36-acre spot with something for everyone! Whether you want to enjoy a picnic in one of the shelters, cast a line from the fishing pier, play on the swings and playground, or try your hand at cornhole or the 12-hole disc golf course, there’s plenty to do. You can also explore the walking trails and connect to the beautiful Four Mile Creek Greenway. It’s a perfect place to relax, get outside, and enjoy some fresh air with friends or family.