New restaurants and neighborhood attractions tend to get a lot of buzz. We get it. We love trying new places too, but there is also something to be said for the long-standing businesses that have been a fixture in the area for decades. Whether these restaurants are hidden gems or already in your weekly rotation, give them a try and keep supporting local.
The Diamond
Opened in 1945
The Diamond may have changed hands several times over the years, but one thing has stayed the same: its old-school diner vibe. You can’t go wrong with their diner classics like burgers and hotdogs, but their menu is also full of Southern staples that shouldn’t be missed. Plus, the prices are phenomenal. When the weather is nice, be sure to enjoy the patio while you take in Plaza Midwood.
Address: 1901 Commonwealth Ave.
Website: www.thediamondrestaurant.com
Gus’ Sir Beef
Opened in 1969
On an unassuming corner of Monroe and North Wendover, this family-run restaurant has been serving Charlotteans for over five decades. Known for its daily specials and vegetables, Gus’ Sir Beef has not only has attracted locals over the years, but celebrities as well. Legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor even enjoyed Gus’ signature fried chicken in the early 90s (with her 7th husband) when in town to promote her White Diamonds fragrance. Another thing it’s known for? Its iconic “Fresh My Farm” sign, the late owner’s way of saying he grew a lot of vegetables served in the restaurant.
Address: 4101 Monroe Rd.
Website: www.gussirbeef.com
Brooks’ Sandwich House
Opened in 1973
You don’t find many restaurants like Brooks’ Sandwich House in Charlotte anymore. With a simple menu and no seats, this seemingly humble, cash-only restaurant has been a fixture in NoDa before the neighborhood was even called that. It’s that sense of community and nostalgia that have people coming back time and again… that, and the incredible burgers, of course!
Address: 2710 N Brevard St.
Website: brookssandwichhouse.com
House of Pizza
Opened in 1978
Family-run and still housed in its original Central Ave. location, House of Pizza may be a pizza joint, but its large menu has a ton of variety. They have been dishing out pizza, pasta, sandwiches, salads, and other Italian and Greek specialties for decades. Restaurant regulars especially rave about their famous cheesesteaks. Comfort food is always a win in our books!
Address: 3640 Central Ave.
Website: www.houseofpizzacharlotte.com
Cajun Queen
Opened in 1984
Cajun Queen is Charlotte’s premier spot for New Orleans-inspired food. Located in a historic 100-year-old house in Elizabeth, Cajun Queen brings a taste of the Big Easy to the Queen City every day thanks to its live jazz and undeniable flavors. With fresh seafood, pork chops, steaks, and crawfish, it’s no surprise that it has been voted Best Cajun Restaurant year after year.
Address: 1800 E 7th St.
Website: www.cajunqueen.com
Lupie’s Cafe
Opened in 1987
Lupie’s Cafe fully embraces its old-school charm. From the fun collectibles on the walls and roomy wooden booths to the hand-written daily specials on a chalkboard just outside of the kitchen, this restaurant exudes a down-to-earth, homespun atmosphere. That feeling carries over to the kitchen as well with its great-tasting comfort food and Southern-style home cooking.
Address: 2718 Monroe Rd.
Website: www.lupiescafe.net
If you have a favorite long-standing restaurant, be sure to give it a shout-out in the comments below or let us know if there is another spot we should add to our list. We would love to hear from you!
