News Summary
Charlotte is witnessing a surge in Mediterranean cuisine, showcasing both fast-casual and upscale dining experiences. Diners can enjoy health-focused options at chains like Zoës Kitchen and local favorites such as Mezeh and Yafo Kitchen. Upscale restaurants like Limani, Chapter 6, and the newly opened Mazi offer unique and vibrant flavors. The trend highlights an exciting culinary evolution, catering to a growing demand for fresh, healthy Mediterranean dishes that promise to elevate the local food scene.
Charlotte is experiencing a culinary revolution as Mediterranean cuisine rises to prominence, emerging as the next major food trend in the city. This popularity shift follows the recent boom of Italian restaurants, with both fast-casual and upscale dining options now making their mark on the local food scene.
Several fast-casual chains have taken advantage of the increasing demand for fresh and healthy Mediterranean dishes. Notably, Zoës Kitchen, recently acquired by Cava, and local establishments like Mezeh and Yafo Kitchen are driving this trend forward, catering to a growing base of health-conscious diners.
Additionally, Charlotte has welcomed several new upscale Mediterranean restaurants. Among them are Limani, Chapter 6, Yassou Greek, and Albertine, each offering a unique dining experience that highlights the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The latest addition to this scene is Mazi, which opened in March 2025. Developed by Built on Hospitality, the team known for The Goodyear House and Folia, Mazi has garnered attention for its creative approach to Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
Mazi features a modern design with green velvet banquettes and marble tables, accommodating up to 55 guests. The focus here is on family-style dining, promoting a shared experience of vibrant flavors achieved through the use of fresh herbs, spices, and citrus. Among Mazi’s signature cocktails are the $16 Mazi Cocktail, which combines vodka, pomegranate liqueur, lemon, and mint syrup, and the refreshing Blueberry Dreams, made with vodka and blueberry-chile syrup. The drink menu also includes local beers, Mediterranean wines from various countries, as well as a selection of spirit-free cocktails and coffee.
Patrons at Mazi can look forward to a wide array of food offerings. Starters include Grilled Bread, Whipped Feta, Hummus, and Black Walnut Muhammara. For a lighter option, the restaurant offers Crudo selections such as Chilled Oysters, Scallops, and Wagyu Beef Carpaccio. Vegetarian choices include the Lion’s Mane Mushroom Shawarma and Veg a La Plancha, while meat and seafood dishes feature Cast Iron Prawns and Braised Lamb Shank. For dessert, diners can indulge in the Baklava Sundae and Tahini Mousse, both crafted to be satisfying yet not overly heavy.
Another notable arrival is Nazo’s Mediterranean Bowls & Salads, a fast-casual restaurant in South Charlotte that specializes in Turkish-inspired Mediterranean offerings. Founded by Murat Veziroglu, Nazo’s allows customers to customize their bowls and salads, offering various protein and vegetable options. The restaurant also caters to vegan diners with selections like chickpeas and lentils, and features gelato sourced from Gelarto in Wilmington for dessert.
The momentum in Mediterranean dining does not stop there. Greco Fresh Grille, which will soon open in Cotswold Village, aims to bring a taste of Greece to its 10th location in the Charlotte area. Founded by Vasili Pahountis, Greco Fresh Grille will offer a menu inspired by family recipes, featuring gyros, kebabs, and baklava.
In September 2025, the fine dining restaurant Albertine opened its doors, further enriching the local Mediterranean scene. Designed by restaurant entrepreneurs Joe and Katy Kindred, Albertine boasts an elegant interior and a sophisticated menu led by Joe Kindred. Located in the Duke Energy Plaza on South Tryon, Albertine is positioned to attract both locals and visitors seeking an upscale dining experience.
The swift emergence of Mediterranean cuisine establishments in Charlotte reflects a significant transformation in the region’s culinary landscape, cementing its place as a versatile and appealing dining choice for residents and guests alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte’s Culinary Scene: A Taste of Global Flavors
Charlotte Welcomes Albertine: A New Gem in Fine Dining
Greco Fresh Grille Expands in Charlotte’s Cotswold Village
Charlotte’s Culinary Scene Thrives with Healthy Dining Options
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: C5 Development
- Axios: Mazi Opening Soon in South End
- Eater: Albertine Charlotte Opening
- Charlotte Observer: C5 Food & Drink
- Axios: Albertine Restaurant in Uptown Charlotte
