Taste of Havana
5534 albemarle rd.
Lava Java
5724 e. wt harris blvd. classy and chic, this is a good place for lunch or dinner as well as coffee. reputed for its excellent desserts.
South 21 Drive-In
3101 e. independence blvd., +1 704-377-4509. a classic 1950s drive-in that has somehow survived the dramatic changes of the last half-century. cheap and delicious, though the menu is limited to burgers, fish, and similar fast-food fare. the experience of golden-age americana is worth the visit.
Chuuka
6003 albemarle rd.
Lang Van
3019 shamrock dr. by far charlotte's best-reputed vietnamese restaurant. located in an unassuming building on shamrock dr., this has become a quiet favorite among fans of asian cuisine. the neighborhood is perfectly safe by day, but be alert if going for dinner.
Kabob House
6432 e. independence blvd.
Landmark Diner
4429 central ave.
Namaste
4508 e. independence blvd.
Saigon Bistro
3145 n. sharon amity rd.
Ben Thanh
4900 central ave.
La Canasta Dominicana
4808 central ave.
Brazas Brazilian Grill
4508 e. independence blvd.
House of Pizza
3640 central ave., +1 704-568-9410. somewhat less trendy than its competitors, house of pizza has an old-charlotte appeal that has weathered the decades. very low-key and friendly, this is an establishment among the working-class families in the plaza-midwood area. the food also happens to be cheap and well-made.
Pollos Mario
6023 albemarle rd.
Portofino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
3124 eastway dr.
Showmars
3225 eastway dr., +1 704-568-0565. this greek fast-food restaurant has many locations citywide see other districts, and is one of the best values to be found for quality and service. this location is not far from the eastway blvd. wal-mart.
Kilimanjaro
3001 e. independence blvd.