Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Hidden Gems in Charlotte, NC

Purple Star emoji 20 items
If you’re trying to find some new spots in Charlotte, this list is for you! I’ll cover every area from mooresville to rock hill (yesss that’s still CLT to me lol). I include eateries, fun recreational spots, activities, shopping, etc.
Sections
4
 
 
 
 

Food spots

 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
You know when it’s in a gas station is about to be authentic Mexican food lol. Don’t be fooled by the lack of aesthetic, their recipes are golden. I don’t recommend eating there since there’s like 2 tables, but it’s a great to-go spot! Pro tip: phon...
Las Meras Tortas
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
Locally owned by the sweetest family. Their ice cream is home made, in house with actual fruit! The flavors are rich but not overly sweet. Their other bocadillos are also delicious, like the: elote, tostilocos, fresas con crema) First responders, ...
Bajo Cero San Marcos
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
If you like any kind of Asian food you will love hawkers! Think of it as Asian street food. They have everything from bao bao, to Korean wings and pad Thai! Everytime someone is in town we take them here because there’s truly something on the menu ...
Hawkers Charlotte: Asian Street Food in Historic Southend
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
You NEED to go here for dessert, but don’t walk in here thinking you’re going to get just one thing. You’ll be tempted to order an entire box of goodies as soon as you see their selection. Their puddle cookies, cupcakes & brownies are fabbbbb!
The Batch House
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
Cuzzos has the bestttttt lobster Mac & cheese known to man kind.. might as well order 3 servings because once is not enough.. but if you’re not a fan of lobster, their regular Mac & cheese is just as good! Their lemonade is also to die for.
Cuzzo's Cuisine II · Charlotte, North Carolina
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
If you want some authentic 🔥 soul food, Bobbee O’s is the spot. Here’s my usual order that’s been 10/10 every time: - bbq pulled chicken - Mac n cheese - candied yams - hush puppies My husband also swears by the ribs & brisket. We’ve both ...
Bobbee O's BBQ
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
The staff is so friendly. Prices are reasonable (if you tell them it’s your first time they’ll probably give you coupons too lol). Each smoothie I have tried there has been soo good, even their greens one with kale and spinach lol. Don forget your wh...
Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar · Cornelius, North Carolina
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
Wafflery has delicious waffles with the perfect crunch and softness. They have such a creative menu, but everything my husband and I have tried is always delicious!!
The Wafflery
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
They sell delicious & healthier made Italian ice. It’s locally owned by a family too. Every flavor is tasty, especially tigers blood, blue raspberry, mango, strawberry, pretty much everything in the menu lol
Concetto's Italian Ice
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
OBSESSED with this cute little coffee shop in Cornelius. Their chai tea is to die for & so are their pastries. I love their quiche, fruit tartes, breads& scones. You will not be able order just one lol. Don’t be deceived by the long line… Ev...
Cocotte
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
You have been warned, you will be back for seconds, thirds, fourths, etc. Superchix has the BEST chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had. When I’m trying to be healthier I get a salad or grilled chicken sandwich, both are just as amazing!! You also can’t fo...
Super Chix - StoneCrest · Charlotte, North Carolina
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
I am an acai bowl addict. I’ve searched near & far for the tastiest, most wholesome bowl… not the blended ones but the ones with actual açaí sorbet. Palm berries is your best bet! They load every single bowl with açaí and toppings. Their menu off...
Palm Berries
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
100% authentic Mexican food. I’ve tried all kinds of items off their menu multiple times and am always highly impressed. My faves: aguas frescas, tacos, esquite, sopes (but you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu)
Tacos El Peladito

shopping

 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
A perfectly curated thrift store where you’re guaranteed to find something you love! If you’ve heard of buffalo exchange the vibe is sort of like that, but much more affordable. The vibe inside is also cute, girly and eclectic! It’s in camp north e...
Thrift Pony
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
Welcome to the LARGEST PLATOS CLOSET TO EVER EXIST!!! Prepare to spend at least 90 minutes there, probably more to be honest. They also have shopping carts, which are limited, so keep your eye on them while you’re shopping. Items are priced very re...
Buys and Sells Teen Clothes and Accessories | Charlotte, NC
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
This store always has a stunning curated collection! You will find cute and trendier finds compared to other standard goodwills. The prices are still very reasonable even if the brands are higher end. It’s also organized nicely, so you won’t get as o...
GW: A Goodwill Boutique · Charlotte, North Carolina

For the kids

 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
If you have kids Playland is a MUST. It’s aesthetic, sanitary & also a great time for you and the kids. You can easily spend hours here tiring your kids out before naptime. Of course weekends are busier—but it’s large enough that there’s plenty...
Playland Pineville
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
My son has a blast here every time. There’s something for every kid: slide, water tables, sports section, immersive ambulance, airplane, etc. this is one of those place where you can just let your kid run wild and be entertained. I also had my son’s...
Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville

outdoor activities

 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
If you’re looking for an outdoor waterside place to get some fresh air in, Jetton Park is your best bet! They have a playground, paved walking paths, mixed terrain, a sandy beach & fishing piers. The landscape and greenery all around is gorgeou...
Jetton Park
 
Dianna Melvin profile picture
Right in lake Wylie this entire nature press is a dream! This is a family friendly place if you want to take your littles on a mini paved hike by the water. Kayaking here is a blast, especially in the calmer waters by the residential areas. The gree...
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve - Park and Recreation