When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
New South Kitchen
Why New South Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
New South Kitchen & Bar in Charlotte, NC, offers a welcoming and thoughtfully crafted culinary experience rooted in Southern comfort food with a contemporary edge. Known for its commitment to local and sustainable ingredients, the restaurant beautifully balances traditional southern flavors with elevated presentations that appeal to modern diners. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it an excellent spot for friends and family gatherings to share hearty, memorable meals. Highlights include their best-in-town shrimp and grits, an exceptional wedge salad, meat loaf, and frequently rotating seasonal menus showcasing the freshest local produce and responsibly sourced meats and seafood. The staff’s hospitality adds a welcoming touch as they eagerly share backstories of the dishes and ingredients. With options like brunch on weekends and dinner service Tuesday through Saturday, New South Kitchen & Bar caters well to a variety of occasions—from casual meetups to special celebrations. The restaurant also offers a selection of local craft beers and maintains a cozy yet refined atmosphere that blends rustic charm with an upscale vibe, making it a standout destination in Charlotte.
Here's what people think of New South Kitchen
As of recent, New South Kitchen holds a 4.4-star rating based on 126 reviews.
Customer reviews of New South Kitchen & Bar have been overwhelmingly positive, praising the delicious, savory dishes and attentive service. Many diners note the restaurant’s ability to please varied groups, including vegetarians, underscoring the diverse menu and accommodating staff. Positive reviews frequently highlight signature dishes like the shrimp and grits, wedge salad, and classic meat loaf, emphasizing the quality and freshness of local ingredients as well as the creative seasonal adjustments to the menu. Guests also appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere and the knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience with insights into the sourcing and preparation of their meals. On the other hand, a few less positive comments occasionally surface regarding limited operating hours, as the restaurant is closed on Mondays, and some diners wish for expanded hours or weekend dinner availability. Despite this, the consensus remains strongly favorable, with most reviews reflecting a high degree of customer satisfaction. Overall, New South Kitchen & Bar is celebrated for its outstanding food, exemplary service, and inviting ambiance, making it a cherished dining destination in Charlotte that successfully combines classic Southern comfort with thoughtful, modern culinary excellence.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Xoom Too
The restaurant seems to be connected to a hotel and coming from certain entrances it's a bit hard to find as it's tucked in all the way to the right side of the building. We ordered Fried Green Tomatoes, Grits & Shrimp, Lobster Mac N Cheese, and a Samlmon dish. I was disappointed by the mac n cheese as the lobster was awesome yet the mac n cheese was quite dry as if before the waiter brought the food to the table it had stayed out for a couple minutes. We came to have dinner before the Beyonce concert on July 11, 2025 and had a great time. We ended up meeting someone else going to the concert sitting at another table so we had a nice chat with a nice environment. Staff was super friendly and made the night better.
Ayisha Renee
Great atmosphere and my waiter was friendly. I ordered the fried chicken thigh, it was mostly batter and was not fully cooked. The macaroni and cheese was moreso macaroni in milk. However the greens were tasty, savory and sweet. A picture is with a thousand words so dropping one here for your reference.
A S
Was almost empty except for a couple of other tables so not a great atmosphere or doesn’t seem like many people around for Sunday brunch. We’d expected live jazz as per Opentable but there wasn’t one. Food was standard, what you’d expect in any 4 star hotel buffet - may have been a better idea to go a la carte. Service was nice and attentive but probably because of the lack of people. Coffee was surprisingly good.
Scott Cornett
One of the first tables to be seated in the restaurant prior to Pearl Jam concert. Initially received good service, but once others were seated, we were ignored as if we were invisible. No water refills until we had to walk to the hostess stand to let her know we wanted to order dessert and needed water along with the check. Food was okay. Not great, but not horrible either. I've had worse, but most likely wouldn't return.
Madeline Brazzel
For 37.00 per person for the buffet I'd expect the food to be good. The potatoes weren't cooked fully through(I did ask the waitress to let the chefs know). The sausage gravy isn't good at all, and the pancakes are not fresh. They taste like the frozen kind that you get from Walmart. It was like they half fast the breakfast. Our waitress was phenomenal and did a her job well. Thank you! Hopefully they can use this review as something to learn from.
How to reach New South Kitchen
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Why New South Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at New South Kitchen with your friends? Because this vibrant Southern-inspired restaurant offers more than just a meal—it provides an experience tailor-made for groups looking to celebrate, relax, and reconnect. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual comfort and refined charm, making it an inviting space where everyone can feel at ease. Whether you’re catching up over brunch, sharing a hearty dinner, or enjoying craft cocktails in the bar area, New South Kitchen offers a warm and welcoming vibe that naturally fosters conversation and camaraderie. The highly praised Southern comfort food with contemporary twists ensures your group will savor a variety of flavors that please any palate. Its solid 4.4-star rating from 126 reviews speaks to consistent quality and satisfaction. Plus, the friendly, attentive service means your party’s needs are well taken care of, allowing you to focus on making memories without any hassle. Simply put, New South Kitchen is an ideal venue for friends to come together to enjoy great food, drink, and company in a lively yet comfortable setting that feels like a true home away from home.
What makes New South Kitchen perfect for a group meetup?
New South Kitchen is wonderfully suited to hosting groups because it offers a spacious yet intimate environment that encourages socializing without feeling crowded. The layout includes a comfortable dining room and a well-appointed bar area, giving groups flexibility to choose their preferred vibe—whether a more formal table setting for dining or a casual spot for drinks and appetizers among friends. The restaurant’s lively buzz, especially on weekends and evenings, energizes gatherings, helping bring people closer in conversation. Additionally, the staff’s superb hospitality is repeatedly noted in reviews for their attentiveness and warmth, ensuring that group needs like dietary preferences or special requests are seamlessly accommodated. Their menu celebrates Southern classics with inventive, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible, offering impressive variety. This means groups can indulge in everything from crispy corn fritters with honey chipotle sauce to slow-braised short ribs and fresh shrimp and grits, ensuring everyone finds something special to enjoy. This combination of ambiance, service, and a rich menu makes New South Kitchen a standout choice for celebrating with friends and family.
What activities and experiences does New South Kitchen offer for groups?
At New South Kitchen, the core activity is enjoying thoughtfully prepared meals that showcase Southern charm with a modern flair. Meeting up for brunch offers a perfect opportunity to try delicacies like smoked salmon benedict or farmer’s market breakfast bowls, alongside refreshing seasonal mimosas or crafted Bloody Marys. For lunch or dinner, groups can savor dishes such as melt-in-your-mouth pot roast, heirloom tomato salads with local feta, or crispy chicken elegantly presented with sweet pickle garnishes. The kitchen’s emphasis on freshness delivers layers of flavor that stimulate lively discussion and shared enjoyment. Beyond dining, the bar provides an inviting setting for socializing with cocktails and a wide selection of beverages, perfect for informal gatherings or after-work meetups. The restaurant’s central location in a plaza filled with shops and other attractions can complement group outings, allowing a full day of activities capped by a satisfying meal. Furthermore, during busy times, the spirited noise level contributes to a festive feel that’s ideal for celebrations or casual get-togethers, making every visit memorable.
How does the atmosphere at New South Kitchen enhance group outings?
New South Kitchen’s atmosphere is a delightful blend of Southern hospitality and stylish comfort that enhances any group occasion. The decor strikes a balance—elegant yet approachable—with cozy booths, generous tables, and an inviting bar area creating numerous options for seating comfort and privacy. Natural light during daytime hours makes brunches feel fresh and invigorating, while dimmer, warmer lighting in the evening sets a relaxed and convivial mood perfect for unwinding. Reviewers frequently comment on the friendly and attentive staff, who contribute significantly to the welcoming vibe by making guests feel truly valued, which sets the tone for positive group interactions. The moderate noise level, particularly in the bar area, provides a lively but not overwhelming background hum that naturally encourages group chatter and laughter without overpowering conversation. Moreover, the restaurant’s commitment to a clean, well-maintained environment adds to the overall comfort and appeal, ensuring groups can feel relaxed and focused on each other rather than distractions.
Why is the menu at New South Kitchen ideal for groups with diverse tastes?
The menu at New South Kitchen is thoughtfully designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes, making it exceptionally suited for groups with varied preferences. Its foundation in Southern cuisine provides hearty, comforting options like pot roast and fried chicken, satisfying those who cherish classic flavors. At the same time, the menu incorporates contemporary and global twists, introducing lighter, fresher choices such as acorn squash salads and heirloom tomato dishes that appeal to health-conscious diners or those seeking inventive meals. Vegetarian options and shareable starters like spring rolls and wontons with Southern flair broaden the menu’s accessibility. Quality ingredients are locally sourced when possible, which enhances flavor and resonates with patrons who value farm-to-table freshness. The variety extends from breakfast offerings like avocado toast and steel-cut oatmeal to indulgent dinners of braised short ribs and corn fritters, providing something for every appetite and mood. This inclusiveness allows groups to easily find dishes that delight every member, minimizing ordering conflicts and maximizing dining satisfaction.
How does New South Kitchen’s service contribute to memorable group experiences?
Service at New South Kitchen is a critical component of its appeal for group meetups, consistently earning praise for being both attentive and friendly. Servers take the time to introduce dishes wisely, offer recommendations based on personal tastes, and accommodate dietary or allergy needs with professionalism. This level of care reduces stress for groups trying to navigate menu choices and ensures everyone feels included and attended to. The staff’s promptness and awareness also help meals progress at a comfortable pace, important when coordinating larger parties who may want multiple courses. Reviewers frequently highlight specific servers by name, indicating the personalized nature of the hospitality. Additionally, the hosting staff’s warmth from the moment guests arrive makes groups feel welcomed immediately, setting a positive tone for the entire visit. Collectively, this service excellence transforms meals into events, ensuring that group gatherings at New South Kitchen move smoothly and become memorable occasions everyone looks forward to repeating.
What additional perks make New South Kitchen suitable for family and friend gatherings?
Beyond excellent food and service, New South Kitchen offers several perks that enhance its suitability for hosting family and friend gatherings. The location in a bustling plaza allows for easy access and parking, including valet, which simplifies logistics for group members arriving from different places. The atmosphere is family-friendly, welcoming kids and accommodating group sizes that range from intimate dinners to larger celebrations. Although it doesn’t offer delivery, the restaurant’s comprehensive on-site experience encourages guests to relax and immerse themselves fully in the moment without distractions. Seasonal menus and special offerings keep the experience fresh and exciting for repeat visitors, providing reasons to choose the venue time and again. Finally, the combination of indoor and some outdoor seating options caters to varied preferences regarding ambiance, climate, and comfort, making it adaptable to diverse group needs and occasions.
How does New South Kitchen compare to other meetup venues in Charlotte and Atlanta?
New South Kitchen stands out among meetup venues in Charlotte and Atlanta due to its consistent focus on Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern touch, supported by highly rated service and ambiance. In Charlotte, it is noted for its homely yet contemporary environment that makes groups feel comfortable whether they seek a relaxed lunch or an evening spot with lively energy. In Atlanta, the location inside the Omni Hotel adds a layer of sophistication and convenience, particularly for visitors attending nearby events, concerts, or business meetings. The extensive menu and distinct Southern culinary experience differentiate it from generic dining options, providing a unique flavor profile that enhances the appeal for group dining. The restaurant’s solid ratings, including nearly 5-star reviews on OpenTable, and repeat patron testimonials underscore its reliability and popularity as a meetup destination. Compared to other venues that may focus mainly on atmospherics or quick bites, New South Kitchen balances great food, service, and setting—key factors that define memorable group outings.
Choosing New South Kitchen means choosing an experience where friends and family can gather around good food, enjoy attentive and friendly service, and soak in an atmosphere crafted for connection and comfort. Whether for casual catch-ups or celebratory dinners, it delivers everything groups need to make their meetup more than an event—truly a shared memory.