Charlotte, NC, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The Painted Rooster restaurant has opened in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, featuring a striking 10-foot cast-iron rooster sculpture. With a focus on comfort food and a nostalgic ambiance, the restaurant aims to provide a welcoming dining experience with seating for 68 inside and 50 on a dog-friendly patio. Owner Zach Current hopes to create job opportunities in the area, while street artist Matt Moore will enhance the restaurant’s artistic identity.
Charlotte Welcomes New Painted Rooster Restaurant
The Painted Rooster restaurant has officially opened at 1601 Central Avenue in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, bringing a unique dining experience to the area. Situated in the former space of Zada Jane’s, the restaurant features a striking 10-foot cast-iron rooster sculpture designed by local artist Matt Moore. This impressive art installation weighs approximately 2,000 pounds and was transported from Cabarrus County to its new home in Charlotte.
Owner Zach Current, who is also a co-founder of Moo & Brew, aims to generate more job opportunities for employees in the Plaza Midwood area. The restaurant can accommodate 68 guests inside, along with an additional 50 guests on a covered, dog-friendly patio, making it a welcoming space for all visitors.
Interior Design and Ambiance
The interior design of The Painted Rooster embraces nostalgic and classic Americana themes. Patrons will find vintage Coca-Cola ads and large metal barn stars adorning the walls, enhancing the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere. To complement the decor, music played at the restaurant is primarily classic rock, featuring artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Eagles.
Menu Offerings
The Painted Rooster focuses on serving straightforward and affordable comfort food. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of satisfying options such as:
- Crispy Chicken
- Hearty Mac and Cheese
- Buffalo Chicken Dip – $11
- Fried Pickles – $9
- Signature Dish: Dyn-O-Mite Chicken – $14
- Wings – $9 for 6, $17 for 12, and $32 for 24, served traditional or char-grilled
- Handheld Hootenannys (Sandwiches or wraps) – $15 each
- Mac Daddy & Cheez – Starting at $13
- Desserts including a Chocolate Chunk Cookie Bake ($8) and Root Beer or Cheerwine Floats ($8)
The beer list is extensive, featuring a selection of domestics, lagers, ales, IPAs, sours, as well as options like ciders and seltzers. Signature cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Bloody Mary, Rooster’s Garden, and Roose-Rita are also available, accompanied by a range of wines for guests to enjoy.
Future Developments
In the coming days, street artist Matt Moore is scheduled to paint the rooster installation, further enhancing the restaurant’s unique artistic identity. This creative addition is expected to attract both locals and visitors, contributing to the cultural landscape of Plaza Midwood.
Conclusion
The Painted Rooster aims to provide a comforting, family-friendly dining option in the heart of Charlotte, enriching the community with its delicious menu and artistic flair. With its nostalgic atmosphere and delicious comfort food, it is poised to become a beloved spot for residents and visitors alike.
FAQ
What is The Painted Rooster?
The Painted Rooster is a new restaurant located at 1601 Central Avenue in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte.
What unique feature does The Painted Rooster have?
The restaurant features a 10-foot, cast-iron rooster sculpture designed by local artist Matt Moore.
Where did the rooster sculpture come from?
The rooster weighs approximately 2,000 pounds and was transported from Cabarrus County to the restaurant’s location.
What is the seating capacity of The Painted Rooster?
The restaurant seats 68 guests inside and an additional 50 on a covered, dog-friendly patio.
What type of food does The Painted Rooster serve?
The menu focuses on straightforward, affordable comfort food, including crispy chicken, hearty mac and cheese, and a variety of beers.
What beverages are available at The Painted Rooster?
The beer list includes domestics, lagers, ales, IPAs, sours, and offers options like ciders and seltzers.
Are there any signature cocktails at The Painted Rooster?
Signature cocktails available include the Old Fashioned, Bloody Mary, Rooster’s Garden, and Roose-Rita, along with a variety of wines.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1601 Central Avenue, Plaza Midwood, Charlotte |
| Former Occupant | Zada Jane’s |
| Rooster Sculpture | 10-foot cast-iron, 2,000 pounds, designed by Matt Moore |
| Seating Capacity | 68 inside, 50 on patio |
| Interior Theme | Nostalgic Americana with vintage décor |
| Signature Dishes | Dyn-O-Mite Chicken, Fried Pickles, Buffalo Chicken Dip |
| Signature Cocktails | Old Fashioned, Bloody Mary, Rooster’s Garden, Roose-Rita |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
