BLVD: Around town in August
July 28, 2024
Here’s a look at what’s new on the shopping and dining scenes in Charlotte.
eat + drink
NOW OPEN
Honeysuckle Gelato opened its second Charlotte location at The Bowl at Ballantyne; Bossy Beulah’s and Rooster’s are expected to open at the Bowl this summer.
The Matador opened in a historic fire house in South End. Based in Seattle, the restaurant from North Carolina native Zak Melang is known for its Mexican fare and large selection of tequila and agave spirits and cocktails.
Marina’s Tapas opens this fall at Optimist Hall. From Customshop duo Andres Kaifer and Alex Bridges, the food stall will offer Spanish-style small plates like croquetas, palatas bravas and tortilla espanola. υFollowing a two-year renovation,
Muddy River Distillery moved into a historic cotton mill in Mount Holly. The rum distillery serves seasonal cocktails and plans to host cocktail classes and other events.
The Matador; Rooster’s. Photographs courtesy The Matador and The Plaid Penguin.
COMING SOON
Uchi is coming to Plaza Midwood in late 2025. The sushi-focused restaurant debuted in Austin, Texas, in 2003 and is still considered one of the city’s top restaurants. Led by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole, Uchi is known for its nontraditional approach to Japanese cuisine.
shop
Lots of changes at SouthPark Mall. We finally got official word this summer that Spanish fashion retailer Zara will open in 2026, in the space formerly housing J.Crew and The Gap in the Belk wing. Also coming to the mall: Balenciaga. Meanwhile, a standalone Chanel Fragrance and Beauty boutique offering makeup and skincare products, perfumes, and eyewear opened in mid-July, along with athleisure and lifestyle apparel brand Vuori (located near Fountain Court).
Family-owned Fink’s Jewelers also announced the opening of a Tudor boutique at the mall. The luxury watch retailer is known for its signature black, white and red modern aesthetic. It’s the first Tudor boutique in North Carolina and is located beside the longtime SouthPark jeweler.
Thrift Pony, a local secondhand and vintage shop in Plaza Midwood, will relocate to Camp North End this fall.
relax
Mood House, the massage studio with a calming Palm Springs vibe, opened its second location at Oakhurst Commons on Monroe Road in late-July. Founder Cristina Wilson opened the flagship studio in Dilworth in 2021. The new space features 8 cabana-inspired massage suites, plus three infrared saunas and a private patio where guests can relax and unwind.
Updated August 2. 2024.
Featured Image: Courtesy The Matador
