Country Suites By Carlson, Lake Norman, NC

SUGAR CREEK. If you're prone to let appearances fool you, then you may miss one of Charlotte's most genuine culinary...

SUGAR CREEK. If you're prone to let appearances fool you, then you may miss one of Charlotte's most genuine culinary gems: Bubba's Barbecue. Renowned all over the Southeast, Bubba's doesn't try to impress customers with smoke and mirrors ­ no, what you get here are a few tables, wood panel walls, some metal chairs and, of course, awesome hickory-smoked Eastern North Carolina BBQ. From ribs to pulled pork, hushpuppies to Southern-style coleslaw, for many a meal at Bubba's is nothing short of life-changing. And if you're in need of directions, just follow I-77 north to exit 16-B ... as the saying goes, "The 'B' stands for 'Bubba.'"

Hours: Daily 11am-8:30pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Diner's Club

UPTOWN. Harvest Moon exudes a quality of sophistication befitting the austere Dunhill Hotel. Indeed, such is the...

UPTOWN. Harvest Moon exudes a quality of sophistication befitting the austere Dunhill Hotel. Indeed, such is the property's reputation that many companies have their out-of-town clients stay there. This amazing Farm to Table restaurant certainly does its part to enhance the experience by delivering impeccable homemade dishes prepared using ingredients straight from North Carolina farms.

Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am-10pm; Sat-Sun 7am-10pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

UPTOWN. Perched on the 27th floor of Charlotte Plaza, Bentley's is sure to impress with its panoramic views of the...

UPTOWN. Perched on the 27th floor of Charlotte Plaza, Bentley's is sure to impress with its panoramic views of the impressive Uptown skyline. The scene inside features sharp, contemporary angles, recessed lighting and smartly appointed tables. The influence of France, meanwhile, shines through in dishes like veal chop with snow peas and bacon-whipped potatoes or mahi mahi with crimini mushrooms and carrot-ginger sauce. In addition, Bentley's employs a guéridon (a cart used for tableside cooking) to add a touch of theater to the dining experience.

Hours: Mon-Thu 11:30am-2pm, 4pm-10pm; Fri 11:30am-2pm, 4pm-11pm; Sat 4pm-11pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

SOUTH END. Behind Uptown Charlotte and near the railroad tracks, Price's has been in business since 1962, and it hasn't...

SOUTH END. Behind Uptown Charlotte and near the railroad tracks, Price's has been in business since 1962, and it hasn't changed much since opening. Price's is famous for having the city's best deep-fried chicken and perch plates, served with coleslaw, hushpuppies, and fried potato rounds. Two can easily share one plate. Although it's take-out only, you can call up to half an hour ahead with your order.

Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm

Payment Methods: Cash Only

SOUTH END. 300 East has a sophisticated European feel ­ a bit Bohemian, a bit Champs-Elysées ­ and always...

SOUTH END. 300 East has a sophisticated European feel ­ a bit Bohemian, a bit Champs-Elysées ­ and always makes for a memorable evening. The antique mahogany bar is where you'll find one of the best martinis anywhere, and, unlike some bars, 300 East's food is the perfect complement to your libations. They also boast a full Sunday brunch menu, including veggie eggs Benedict and a light breakfast of bagels and fruit. Sandwiches, salads and selected entrées are also available. On seasonable days, snag a table on the outside patio surrounded by cascading lantana and black-eyed susans.

Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 10am-10pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

DILWORTH. One of the best values in Charlotte, Mama Ricotta's pleases with Italian fare that includes minestrone,...

DILWORTH. One of the best values in Charlotte, Mama Ricotta's pleases with Italian fare that includes minestrone, aromatic garlic rolls, a large salad bowl for the table, and Italian classics. Pasta lovers shouldn't miss the penne a la vodka. For diners who love to share, family-style platters are available.

Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

ELIZABETH. Looking for a place with old-school appeal? Lupie's has been filling that niche since 1987. In the years...

ELIZABETH. Looking for a place with old-school appeal? Lupie's has been filling that niche since 1987. In the years since its debut, this friendly, red-brick dining room has given folks from all walks of life a warm, friendly place where they can gather for great-tasting comfort food, wings, and Texas-style chili, along with a few after-work brews. From Southern classics like chicken & dumplings to fettucini alfredo, daily specials are hand-written on a chalkboard that hangs just outside the kitchen.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-10pm; Sat Noon-10pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

SOUTH BOULEVARD. Eastern North Carolina style, South Carolina style, forget the distinctions...this is just plain...

SOUTH BOULEVARD. Eastern North Carolina style, South Carolina style, forget the distinctions...this is just plain "suey-perb" barbecue. The meat is slow roasted for a smoky, rich and tender culinary experience. You add the sauce (however much or little) you prefer. The hushpuppies are hot, the tea is sweet, and the staff is pleasing! So, bring your appetite and save room for some "nanner puddin'" (banana pudding).

Hours: Mon-Wed 10:30am-3pm; Thu-Sat 10:30am-8pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club