Skip it and summarize: I’m a New Yorker searching for the best pizza in the Charlotte area and I just might have found it at Inizio’s Pizza Napoletana in Dilworth.
I have been searching high and low for pizza that compares to my favorite New York Pizzeria Aniello’s which is located in a small town called Corning, NY. Warning: Once you have Aniello’s Buffalo Chicken Wing Pizza, you simply can’t go back.
Needless to say I had my work cut out for me, going as far as a pizza poll in my Instagram story to determine which Charlotte pizza spot would feed my high standards. More to come!
With two separate locations in Dilworth and Providence Rd., Inizio’s did not disappoint. Although the pizza options aren’t quite typical they are authentic neapolitan style with fresh ingredients and strict standards. All pies are handcrafted and made with world class ingredients.
Inizio’s gives you a variety of choices separating our favorite red sauced pizzas from the none-red sauced pizza. The variety actually pushed me out of my pizza comfort zone. Yes, I’ll ask for chicken or bacon on pretty much anything. I highly recommend the Pistachio pizza made with a pesto sauce base and strung together with passion, texture, authentic buffalo mozzarella, and a very specific taste that will have you begging for more.
Not a pizza person? Well first off, you’re in the wrong post. Second off, they have other options including salads and an assortment of sweets including cannolis, gelato, and cakes!
$$: Although Inizio’s does not have an option for slices they do have a smaller pizza option that starts at 10 for a Marinara. A large pizza, depending on flavor will run you from 15 – 22.
Bonus, they have Gelato and it’s everything you need after a perfect pizza experience. The gelato is rich, creamy, and only $2 on Thursdays! Plus, they typically have live music on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Dilworth location.
Inizio – Dilworth
2230 Park Rd
Charlotte, NC 28203
Inizio – Providence Commons10620 Providence Rd
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday
11am – 9:30pm
Friday – Saturday
11am – 10:30pm
(or until the dough runs out)
Suggestions:
Try the Pistachio pizza! It’s nothing I would’ve chosen but I’m so glad I did because it is definitely my new favorite. This pizza is comprised of Rosemary, Sea Salt, Ricotta, Buffalo Mozarella, Garclic, Pistachio, and Pesto Sauce and will make your mouth do a happy dance.
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Follow my newbie adventures around Charlotte @NicholeEaton.Xo
Skip it and summarize: This restaurant/bar combo has a little something for everyone with surprises around every corner.
Located in the heart of Southend Charlotte, across from another fave of mine, Tupelo Honey, The Manchester has a little something for everyone. A separate whole bar area designed with bird cage chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. The lighting and booth seating in the dining room, give it a modern yet cozy feel. A summer’s night can be spent out on the patio.
The Manchester is a poppin’ little place that does not take reservations for parties less than 8, so plan on waiting a good half hour or more to get seated. The good news is they take your phone number so you can wander around taking in Southend while you wait.
With a group of 5 ladies we all loved our meals. My meal included the Bishop’s Chicken which is fried chicken bites tossed in a special honey sauce topped with candied pecans, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions over rice.
Don’t tell anyone but there’s a prohibition themed speakeasy underneath The Manchester. You need a password though, which you can find located on Room 1812’s Instagram story renewed daily! Learn more about Room 1812 here.
$$: The Manchester is comparable to an average in Charlotte, averaging around $20 per entrée, not including any beverages.
Bonus, there’s a GIF maker when you walk in. Yep – you and your friends get to pose under a sign boasting “You are exactly where you need to be” for all of your social media fans to fawn over.
Why you should go: It makes for a great girls/guys night, Instagram story, and you get to sneak downstairs through a door hidden in the wall to Room 1812 and see what all the buzz is about!
The Manchester
1812 South Boulevard Charlotte, NC 29203
Opens Monday-Friday at 11am Sat-Sun at 10 am (serving brunch)
Suggestions
Make sure to snap a GIF in the entrance way and don't forget to slip downstairs and scope out their speakeasy, Room 1812.
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Make sure to keep up with all of my adventures as a newbie in Charlotte on my instagram.
Skip it and summarize: Self-pour beer/wine bar… Need I say more?
Possibly the coolest place I have been to yet in Charlotte. The atmosphere is chill, open, and covered in good vibes and patches of moss. This is the perfect hang out spot, instead of waiting in line to have a bartender pay attention to you on a Saturday night, you and your friends can take it upon yourself to pour as many (or few) drinks as you wish. You can even just simply sample the wide selection of local and international brands, rinsing out your cup (or get a new one) in between pours.
When you check into Hoppin’ you give them your credit card to have on file and they give you a wrist band in exchange. This wrist band activates each tap. You simply scan your wristband and then fill up your cup as much as you wish. Your wristband has a 32 oz. limit which you can always reload (unless you're deemed too intoxicated.)
Hoppin’ has on tap over 60 beers, wines, and even kombuchas. There’s plenty of variety. Taps include local brands, too!
$$: Each tap varies in price from 20 cents an ounce to $3. Be extra mindful that you are paying for what you are filling up. Seems like a simple concept but your final bill can sneak up on you. I spent around $16 for a couple glasses of vino but a few girlfriends ended up with $40-$50 bills.
Bonus,Your dog can come! The night I went they had a food truck and live music. When the live music ended, they played 90s music which always makes my heart skip a beat.
Why you should go: Hoppin' is the absolute perfect place to have a chill night out with your favorite people. Spend less time in line and more time with the people you love.
Hoppin’ CLT
1402 Winnifred Street,
Charlotte, NC
Opens at 4 p.m. Mon-Thur, 3 p.m. Fri, 11 a.m. Sat & Sun
Suggestions:
If you're not a beer person, this place is still fantastic with a whole area devoted to wine and kombucha.
Bonus feature: You can make MIMOSAS by loving on their OJ or Cranberry taps!
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Don't forget to follow my adventures as a newbie through Charlotte on my instagram.
Skip it and summarize: The Crunkleton fulfills all of your vintage glam dreams with a vibe straight out of the Gatsby era.
All the things: Prior to heading to the Dilworth Tasting Room for dinner, my girlfriends and I decided to check out the bourbon selection at The Crunkleton. We fell in love the quaint atmosphere (hosting only 84 seats) so much, we ended up staying for dinner. Their Hearth Charred Wings were the perfect balance of spicy, sweet and our table split sides of the burnt garlic and herb fries, mushrooms & walnuts, and the roasted brussells, all of which were delectable.
I went with my favorite vegetarians but, I’m dying to try their “for the table” option, a 36 oz. Dry-Aged Tomahawk Ribeye with Rescoldo potatoes and veggies.
The stand-out knowledgeable and attentive staff suggested a Barrel Aged Cocktail called the Vieux Carre which is a perfect combination of Rye Whiskey, Cognac, Sweet Vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters. I also hear the Old Fashioned is to die for.
The Crunkleton is an exclusive club which requires a membership. Don’t worry, it’s only $10 for the year and you get to bring 1 guest with you per visit. This exclusive membership also includes invites to members only parties and tastings throughout the year.
$$: The Crunkleton was curated by a true barsman and co-owner, Gary Crunkleton meaning you’re served classic drinks with top spirits from around the world. You can spend however much you’d like at The Crunkleton with a basic Bud Light starting at $3.75, cocktails averaging in around 14, or get a bit extra by enjoying a $200+ pour of bourbon.
Bonus, you get to say you’re a member which Is like an adult version of being in a treehouse club or having a secret handshake.
Why you should go: There are many wonderful places to visit in Charlotte, but The Crunkleton has a truly nailed the special upscale, personal vibe. From the impressive interior, open kitchen, to the top-notch spirit selection this visit will be everything your bougie heart has been waiting for.
The Crunkleton,
1957 E 7th Street Charlotte, NCOpens at 4 p.m.
Cocktail Suggestions:
Vieux Carre
Rye Whiskey, Cognac, Sweet Vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters.
Old Fashioned
Overproof Bourbon, Demerara Sugar, Angostura, and Orange Zest.
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Skip it and summarize: I freaking loved this place and will absolutely be back. If you're looking for a healthy cafe choice, The Lights has you covered!
I’ve recently switched up my diet (from consuming 90,000 everything bagels to seeking out a place that fails to clog all my arteries). I’m located in Fort Mill and as much as I love everything in NODA and Uptown Charlotte, It’s way easier for me to (avoid traffic) go to Ballantyne. If you haven’t had the pleasure of checking out Ballantyne. It’s a MUST.
If you are not from Charlotte, you might have heard of Ballantyne (rhymes with Valentine) because word on the street is Obama stayed here during the DNC once upon a time.
Anyway, in my search for the perfect acai bowl, I stumbled upon the most adorable juicery and café’ called The Lights. This juicery sits in a plaza strip perpendicular to a Harris Teeter which means you can pick up those last minute groceries when you are finished, you’re welcome.
I’m hanging here on a Tuesday Morning, getting work done and enjoying the 75 degrees on their quaint patio. Although there are people in and out, I have found it the most pleasant place to quietly sit and get work done.
$$: I think The Lights compares favorably to similar businesses price wise. I grabbed an Acai smoothie bowl, jam packed with acai berry, banana, brazil nuts, raw honey, fruit, coconut flakes, granola, and cacao nibs ($9).
Bonus, the sign when you walk in is extremely Instagram worthy.
They have plenty of other offerings including toasts, salads, smoothies, and various espressos starting around $3.
Why you should go: Outside of the welcoming atmosphere, kind and thoughtful staff, and delicious food. This Is the perfect place to write, read, or enjoy friendly company.
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