Eat, Drink and Be
Merry
ALUMNI-AFFILIATED RESTAURANTS AND BARS
The holidays are a time for celebrating alongside friends and family — with good food and drink enhancing the merriment. As we head into the season, keep these alumni-owned restaurants and watering holes top of mind for delicious meals and festive spirits while supporting Niner Nation.
Are you a UNC Charlotte alum who owns a business? Contact Jessica Dunlow to receive more information about how to become more involved
Specialty Selections
Charlotte, N.C.
Bryan Li '08 and his business partners, Charle Au and Jason Cheung introduced Hong Kong-inspired cuisine to Charlotte with the launch of Open Rice. This popular restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, enticing diners with its modern take on traditional Asian flavors. From the mouthwatering roast duck to the viral bubble waffles, Open Rice's diverse menu offers a culinary journey through various Asian cuisines. Open Rice has two locations: Blakeney Shopping Center and Metropolitan Midtown.
A full Dim Sum spread is just one of the delicious options available at Open Rice.
Famous Pizza Pie from The Open Kitchen. Photo Credit: Alex Cason, CHARLOTTEFIVE (Open Kitchen).
Charlotte, N.C.
Dishes like Mama K’s Supreme Pizza Pie, Chicken Livers Grecque, Chicken Scallopini and the Eggplant Parmigiana are fan favorites at this family-owned Charlotte staple on West Morehead. The Open Kitchen has served up Greek and Italian comfort food in West Charlotte for close to 70 years and is one of Charlotte’s longest-operating restaurants. The Veal Barcelona, a healthy portion of veal with browned butter, oregano and lemon with mushroom marinara spaghetti is the family’s top pick. “We like to keep things real — all of our sauces are homemade. We specialize in really delicious, rich and hearty food,” says Christina Skiouris ‘76 who runs The Open Kitchen with her son Stephanos Skiouris ’13.
Charlotte, N.C.
Boardwalk Billy’s Raw Bar and Ribs opened in 1998 and has been a University City landmark ever since. In fact, it was just voted Best Bar in Charlotte. It’s famous for fresh seafood, award-winning BBQ and down home southern hospitality. Its kitchen has an in-house smoker so their pork, ribs and wings are smoked fresh every day alongside a full bar, signature drinks and an extensive craft beer selection. With a killer outdoor patio overlooking the lake at the Shoppes at University Place, you’ve got the perfect spot to enjoy the popular Crab con Queso or oysters on the half shell. Or head to their second location, Boardwalk Billy’s on Sardis Road, near Pineville. Jamie Jenkins ’97 and Darnaye Black ’99 have been with Boardwalk Billy’s almost since the beginning and have been owner operators for most of that time. Follow on Instagram for the latest specials and events.
Sneak peek into the bites and sights of Boardwalk Billy’s. Photo credit: Boardwalk Billy’s Raw Bar and Ribs.
Sizzling steak from Red Rocks Cafe. Photo credit: Red Rocks Cafe.
Charlotte and Huntersville, N.C.
John Love earned an MBA from UNC Charlotte in 1984 and helped open the first Red Rocks Cafe in 1992, tucked into Charlotte’s Strawberry Hill at the corner of Providence and Fairview. The concept proved so popular, Red Rocks expanded to Huntersville’s Birkdale Village in 2003.
The diverse menu has something for everyone, but check out crowd pleasers like Coconut Shrimp, the Cajun Ribeye or the Chicken, Spinach and Walnut Ravioli. Top off your meal with after dinner drinks like the Milky Way Martini or the Bavarian Coffee, and a slice of Double Decker Tuxedo Cake for good measure. They also offer a special Sunday Brunch menu from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individual menus vary by location.
Charlotte and Concord, N.C.
Brother and sister dynamos Ana Acela ’22 and Manny Perez ’21 are the driving force behind El Puro, one of Charlotte’s hottest restaurants, and Havana Carolina, a Concord favorite — both dishing out appetizing Cuban specialties. El Puro (an affectionate term for “dad” in the Cuban culture) brings the glamor of pre-revolutionary Havana to Charlotte with offerings like Langosta Macorina, lobster with an avocado cream sauce; Puriche, a twist on traditional ceviche; and Rabo Encendido, a Cuban classic take on braised beef oxtail. Head over to Havana Carolina for traditional favorites like Ropa Vieja, shredded beef brisket; Camarones al Ajillo, garlic sauteed shrimp; and Pargo Entero, an impressive whole fried red snapper. Both locations feature live music on certain nights — follow them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date. In late 2023, Perez and his wife opened the doors to Muraya, a stunningly decorated Colombian tapas restaurant and lounge in South End.
Ana Acela ‘22 and Manny Perez ‘21 with their mother, Dania Hernandez. Photo credit: Havana Carolina.
A few seasonal staples from Smallcakes Utopia. Photo credit: Smallcakes Utopia.
Charlotte, N.C.
Owners Steve “C.J.” White ’13 and Samantha White ’11 found their happy place with Smallcakes Utopia. When searching for cupcakes for their wedding, they realized the Charlotte market — especially University City — needed a sweet spot. Thus, Smallcakes Utopia came to life. Freshly baked cupcakes are their mainstay with tempting daily offerings like Lemon Drop, Wedding Cake and Red Velvet. But the seasonal specials are head turning as well: the Gingerbread features spiced cake topped with cinnamon, cream cheese icing and a gingerbread man. Feeling fruity? Try the Apple Crisp, an apple streusel cake filled with caramel and topped with brown sugar cream icing and toasted strudel. For those on special diets, they routinely have vegan, gluten-free and keto offerings. As if that weren’t enough, Smallcakes also serves up cookies, whole cakes and several varieties of ice cream — even a red velvet waffle cone. Follow their Instagram for your daily bliss.
PUBS + TAVERNS
Mooresville, N.C.
Chris Boukedes, a 1992 UNC Charlotte alumnus, has made a significant impact on Charlotte's culinary scene. His passion for food and hospitality began early, and he's since built a successful empire that includes iconic venues like On the Nines Neighborhood Bistro & Cocktails and The Comedy Zone. On the Nines, a collaboration with Chef Steve Jordan, offers a unique blend of Southern cuisine with European influences. The restaurant is known for its innovative dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and warm, inviting atmosphere.
On The Nines is Chef Steve Jordan’s Euro-inspired bistro featuring seasonal dishes,
craft cocktails, and expertly selected wines served with southern flair & hospitality. Courtesy of On the Nines.
Photo courtesy of Moo & Brew
Charlotte, N.C.
Discover elevated American favorites at Moo and Brew, where they serve up the finest Angus burgers, seasonal locally-sourced veggies and impeccably seasoned hand-cut fries. Their tap boasts an array of top-notch small-batch brews from the Queen City and coveted regional bottles that are a rarity elsewhere. At Moo and Brew, relish the perfect synergy of exceptional burgers and an extensive craft beer selection. Owned and operated by Zach Current ‘99, their establishment invites you to savor the ultimate burger and beer pairing experience, showcasing mouthwatering patties alongside an unparalleled assortment of brews.
Charlotte, N.C.
Perched on the cusp of uptown in the burgeoning North End of Charlotte, Petty Thieves Brewing Company emerges as a tribute to forgotten spaces, shunning conformity while championing grassroots innovation and unwavering resilience. The taproom, once sanctuaries, now offers an eclectic seasonal menu boasting both traditional and avant-garde ales and lagers. Wrapped in cozy couches, vibrant rugs, and a sun-kissed patio flaunting breathtaking skyline vistas, the urban oasis invites you to savor artfully crafted brews, meticulously steering clear of the mundane. Owned by Ted Rosenau ‘04, Petty Thieves embodies the spirit of defiance while embracing the extraordinary.
Photo courtesy of Petty Thieves Brewing.
Photo courtesy of Americana Beer Company.
Monroe, N.C.
Co-owner Justin Moore ’05 launched Americana Beer Company in the summer of 2022, nestled in the picturesque historic downtown of Monroe, North Carolina. The brewery embodies a singular ethos: brewing beer meant for collective enjoyment. With the guiding principle ‘Drink United,’ they specialize in crafting well-balanced and accessible beers to be shared among friends, family, and newcomers alike. Experience the diverse beer lineup firsthand at the downtown Monroe taproom or explore its availability across an expanding network of locations in the greater Charlotte, NC metro area.
Ballantyne, N.C., Indian Land and Fort Mill, S.C.
Restaurateur James Rivenbark is a Charlotte alum twice over, getting his undergraduate concentration in Commercial Bank Management in 2005 and his MBA in 2020. He opened The Office CBK in August 2019, serving up craft beers and cocktails alongside a mouthwatering menu including an Angus Beef Short Rib Grilled Cheese, the Deep South Pork Belly Burger and Chipotle Braised Lamb Shank. In October of 2020, Blue Bar and Smokehouse burst on the scene showcasing Southern favorites like fried pickles, smoked wings, pulled pork sandwiches and brisket burgers. Rivenbark’s latest concept, TWF Burgers (Tenders, Wings and Fries) opened in 2022 and offers $1 wings on Sundays!
Deep South Pork Belly Burger flanked by a side of fries and slaw. Photo credit: The Office CBK.
The Jack Mac with pimento cheese and smoked bacon. Photo credit: JackBeagle’s.
Charlotte and Mount Holly, N.C.
In 2012, co-owners Mike Crowley ’92 and Chris Ingram opened JackBeagle’s first location in Charlotte’s trendy NoDa district with one goal: make everything on the menu the “best I’ve ever had.” Serving up scratch pub favorites, draft beers and craft cocktails, the neighborhood pub quickly gained in popularity. Named for Ingram’s rescue dog, JackBeagle’s is known for its burgers like the Jack Mac with pimento cheese and smoked bacon and the Big Bear, a two-patty custom blend of chuck, sirloin and rounded out with american cheese, jalapenos and chipotle aioli. They also offer fresh sandwiches and salads, veggie fries, nachos and incredible waffle fries (including sweet potato). Business was so successful, Crowley and Ingram brought in third partner (and fellow 49er) Mike McGuire in 2019 and added a second location in Mount Holly, followed by a third on West Morehead in 2021. Follow on Facebook to stay up with the latest.
Belmont and Dallas, N.C.
For award-winning fried pickles, wings and sweet tea, look no further than Sammy’s Neighborhood Pub. Originally opened by Sammy Balatsias in 2005, John Bailey ’94 purchased the popular gathering spot in 2016 and has been keeping it hopping ever since, including opening a second location in Dallas, N.C. in 2020. Serving casual fare with a twist, Sammy’s mixes it up with specials like the Big Mack angus burger bowl, blackened chicken & bacon mac-n-cheese and loaded Greek fries. Keep Taco Tuesdays open to sample the pork, shrimp or steak tacos, or try the $5 nachos washed down with a mango mojito. They also offer daily lunch specials like the Philly cheesesteak pita and fish-n-chips. And then there’s the peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie sundae … Sit back, relax, and enjoy a pint or two where everybody knows your name. Follow Sammy’s on Facebook for specials, events and happenings.
Bacon Cheeseburger Quesadilla special from Sammy’s Neighborhood Pub.
Photo credit: Sammy’s Neighborhood pub on Facebook.
Wings from Dilworth Neighborhood Grille. Photo credit: Dilworth Neighborhood Grille.
Charlotte, N.C.
For some of the best American cuisine in Charlotte, head to Dilworth Neighborhood Grille. Matt Wohlfarth ’92 opened the popular pub in 2004 and has been serving the Charlotte area ever since. The perfect blend of southern goodness with a touch of northern flare, Dilworth Neighborhood Grille is a beloved hangout, highly rated by Charlotte Magazine and Charlotte Culture Guide, offering a gluten-free menu as well as a large selection of hearty dishes. Their most popular dishes include fresh wings, craft burgers and loaded tots. But be sure to save room for their spicy crab cakes, the three-time Taste of Charlotte winner. You can follow Dilworth Neighborhood Grille on Facebook and X.
LIBATIONS
Mooresville, N.C.
Larry Griffin Jr. ’84 earned his undergraduate degree in business administration and is no stranger to running a company — for years he handled the day-to-day operations of the family-owned Griffin Brothers Tire Co. Built on the philosophy that “In life and beer, balance is bliss,” Royal Bliss Brewing opened in early 2020. Lincoln County’s first brewery quickly gained popularity with beers like Denver’s First Pilsner; Cali King, a West Coast IPA; and Naughty & Nice, a winter ale just in time for the holidays. They also serve up bar munchies, wraps and sandwiches — but take note that every Tuesday and Sundays are Pizza Night. Adding to the fun, Wednesdays are reserved for Music Bingo, Thursdays for Trivia in the Taproom and live music on most Fridays. Follow them on Instagram for all the latest.
Larry Jr. ‘84 and Ginger Griffin, the owners of Royal Bliss Brewing on the outdoor patio.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing.
Kiel Arrington ’08 and Chuck Kistler ’06 on the patio of Vaulted Oak Brewing.
Photo credit: Vaulted Oak Brewing.
Charlotte, N.C.
Kiel Arrington ’08 and Chuck Kistler ’06 put their business degrees to the test and opened Vaulted Oak after meeting as students in the Belk College of Business. Designed for people to gather and relax, the brewery has several seasonal offerings to help you get in the spirit. Recently voted Charlotte’s best new brewery, they re-released a winter warmer named “Holiday Overdraft” and a Cranberry Cherry Gose from their Oakhurst neighborhood location. They’re also known for some fun one-off brews using toasted coconut and cacao nib, as well as some flavored coffees. And for the perfect stocking stuffer, they just released their flagship IPA, C-Note$, in a 16 ounce can 4-Pack. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for all the details on their latest specials, events and offerings.
Concord, N.C.
Cabarrus Brewing Company is a long-time 49er favorite. Offering a series of special craft beers for Niner Nation including the Axe to Grind IPA and Gold Rush Lager, Cabarrus Brewing not only sells at their brewhouse in Concord, but also throughout the region at Harris Teeter locations, select bars and restaurants. One of the best ways to enjoy one of their brews is at a Charlotte 49ers home athletic event (completely unbiased opinion, of course.) Alum Jason McKnight is behind the team at Cabarrus. “As a partner and our founding brewer, I’m beyond excited about joining with Charlotte Athletics and creating a series of beers that reflect the Niner spirit,” says McKnight. Go Niners!
Gold Rush Gold Lager artwork from partnership between
Cabarrus Brewing Company and Charlotte Athletics.
A few of the wine offerings from Wine Vault. Photo credit: Wine Vault.
Charlotte, N.C.
The wine-lover’s take on a comforting, laid-back coffee shop. But don’t let the name fool you — in addition to wine, they also serve up an impressive assortment of beers, cheese, crackers and other goodies with cozy nooks for casual indoor gatherings and an outdoor dog-friendly patio. Tim Wallace ’99 took over University City’s Wine Vault in 2002 and with his touch the charming wine bar has become an area favorite. They regularly offer up live music and boast some great specials — join Wednesday Wine Tastings where you can sample six wines for just $5. And they’re available for private bookings, perfect for intimate parties. Wallace unveiled Wine Vault’s second venue in late 2023. Explore the fresh addition situated at the corner of Hawthorne Avenue and 7th Street, nestled in the vibrant Elizabeth neighborhood near Uptown.