Fire Up the Grill - The North Carolina Gastroguide

Checking out Charlotte, The Queen City, as well as some of North Carolina’s prominent foodie towns along the way, we go in search of the best Spanish tapas and cuisine. It’s the North Carolina Gastroguide y’all!

Bulla Charlotte 

The East Coast is no stranger to Bulla - Carlos Centurion’s concept for stirring the senses via Spanish dining. Backed by Chef Diego Solano’s classic menus, along with that warm Southern hospitality, at Bulla Charlotte you can expect seasonal tapas menus and a feast fit for a queen!

Must-try: Charlotte’s Queen’s Feast Menu

Miró Spanish Grille  

Miró Spanish Grille down in South Charlotte gets the vote from locals - as well as Zagat and Tripadvisor - as one of the best Spanish restaurants to try in the Queen City. With live flamenco shows setting the scene for prized steaks and traditional Spanish dishes, it’s an authentic Spanish experience. 

Must-try: Zarzuela de Mariscos Seafood Stew

Barcelona Wine Bar Charlotte  

Conveniently located where East meets West (i.e. East/West Station), Barcelona Wine Bar is our date-night special in Charlotte, NC. The welcoming red-brick and vintage vibe, rustic dishes from every corner of Spain and an award-winning wine list make for a romantic setting.

Must-try: Charcuterie and Cheese Board

Cúrate  

Celebrity chef Katie Button and partner Félix Meana basically transformed the Asheville foodie scene back in 2011, with their flagship Cúrate Bar de Tapas. The brand has since expanded to include a bodega, boutique and experiences so, for tapas in Asheville, Cúrate is your best bet.

Must-try: Rossejat or the Escalivada

Mateo

With its heart in Spain and its soul in Southern-style dining, Mateo is Durham’s original tapas and paella joint. That’s tapas with a twist, mind you, as chef Matthew Kelly packs the local farm-to-table produce with some interesting Spanish flavors designed to appeal to diverse palates. 

Must-try: Remolacha beets, or the Cangrejo al Arroz