Meskerem
601 s. kings dr., +1 704 335-1197. lentils or meat served on a large round sheet of bread called injera. try the avocado salad. lunch buffet and dinner. within walking distance of cpcc, or take the kings drive bus.
Fig Tree
1601 e 7th st, +1 704 332-3322 (http://www.charlottefigtr...). continental cuisine with french and italian influences. located in a restored 1913 bungalow in the heart of the neighborhood, this is a slightly pricey but well-reputed option for fine dining.
Carpe Diem Restaurant
1535 elizabeth ave, +1 704 377-7976, (http://www.carpediemresta...). this local favorite has survived 20 years in three different locations. menu has a good variety, including vegetarian options. consistent quality, service, and interior have kept this restaurant on zagat and local paper's top restaurants in charlotte.
Volare Ristorante Italiano
1523 elizabeth ave, +1 704 957-3685, (http://www.volareristoran...).
Lupie's
2718 monroe rd follow 7th st away from uptown until it changes to monroe rd, +1 704 374-1232, (http://www.lupiescafe.com...). one of the best-loved restaurants in charlotte, for a variety of reasons. a highly diverse crowd from families to punk rockers and casual atmosphere allow anyone to feel at home; the low prices and oversized servings make sure you won't go home hungry. the menu is somewhat limited, but most items are commendable; experiment with the three varieties of chili or the daily specials if you're not sure what to order.
Philosopher's Stone
1958 e 7th st, +1 704 350-1331, (http://www.philosophersst...). very popular restaurant with both the lunch and dinner crowd, and reasonably priced. a well-rounded beer list and philosophy-themed decor distinguish "the stone", and it has a solid after-hours scene.
Cajun Queen
1800 e 7th st, +1 704 377-9017, (http://www.cajunqueen.net/). set in a refurbished century-old home, this is one of the jewels of the elizabeth neighborhood. very good cajun cuisine is only one of the attractions; the artsy decor and live jazz bands upstairs add to an attractive atmosphere. the service is on-and-off because the restaurant is usually busy. dinner only.
La-Tea-Da's
1942 e 7th st, +1 704 372-9599, (http://www.lateadas.com/). a quaint coffee-and-tea cafe in the elizabeth neighborhood. very close to where 7th st. turns into monroe rd., la-tea-da's is surrounded by other excellent restaurants and unique shops.
Showmars
2004 e. 7th st., +1 704 376-0565, (http://www.showmars.com/a...). one of many of the local chain's citywide locations, this greek restaurant is probably the most unique fast-food fare in town. this location is easily walkable from nearby shopping.
Hawthorne's NY Pizza
1701 e 7th st, +1 704 358-9339. one of the cornerstones of the neighborhood, this pizza place rarely has a quiet night. though parking can be a little frustrating during peak hours, hawthorne's is one of the few good ny-style pizza joints in charlotte.