The best restaurants in Hickory

“Counter-serve spot known for its NYC-style pies & slices offers other Italian staples such as pasta.”

“Casual restaurant serving hibachi-grilled dishes, sushi and popular Filipino fare.”

“Local chain serving a menu of classic Mexican dishes, plus burgers & steaks, in a relaxed space.”

“Mr Tokyo Japanese Restaurant keeps north side sushi cravings in check with rolls, nigiri, and chef special creations at their Prosperity Village spot. Rally the crew, mix classics with fun inventions, then act like you totally planned dinner this well all along.”

From the Huntersville newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Family-friendly chain offering creative takes on Asian fare in a striking space.”

“Casual eatery featuring tacos (and burritos) along with tortas and other traditional Mexican fare.”

“El Rinconcito de Puebla is the Mexican food truck locals whisper about when taco cravings hit, turning out juicy birria tacos, stuffed gorditas, hefty tortas, and sopes that disappear too fast. Keep an eye out for their rotating agua frescas and make this the week you treat yourself to something genuinely tasty.”

“Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.”

“Casual Japanese eatery in a strip mall preparing an array of raw & cooked sushi, plus grilled meals.”

“When the craving for true New York thin-crust hits this week, Hawthorne's NY Pizza and Bar nails the ratio of crisp, sauce, and cheese, with signature pies plus crowd-pleasers like garlic knots, wings, and hearty pastas. Pair it with a cold beer and call dinner handled.”

From the High Point newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Comfy, family-owned place with TVs & outdoor seating doling out sizable portions of Mexican staples.”

“Craving real churrasco, Charlotte? X Brazilian Steakhouse is serving authentic Brazilian barbecue with premium cuts fire-grilled the Brazilian way. Go rodizio and let the meats keep coming or build a plate from the buffet by the pound, then roll home happy and call it meal prep.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Craving classic Japanese flavors plus a roll or two to mix it up? Musashi Japanese Restaurant has lunch and dinner menus and a sushi lineup, so you can keep it simple or try something new... perfect excuse to make this week’s meal plans a little happier.”

From the Gastonia newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Supperland turns a restored mid-century church into a Southern steakhouse with cheeky church potluck vibes, spread across two buildings with a lively garden, the Bar at Supperland, and a speakeasy below the Bar building.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Craving a legit sushi binge that doesn't feel like a dare? Sushi Taku in South End does all-you-can-eat with nigiri, solid rolls, and seafood dishes made with fresh ingredients. Rally a friend, pace yourself, and make this your midweek power move.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Counter-serve smokehouse chain offering classic barbecue fare in down-home settings.”

“Modern lunch spot specializing in sushi, burgers, buns and other casual classics.”

“Landmark Restaurant Diner nails the classics, then veers into Greek specialties, triple-decker sandwiches, and legit seafood, so you can bounce from crispy liver mush and chicken and waffles to a Greek Omelette or fried flounder fix, all in one reliable Charlotte staple this week.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Pizzeria & buffet chain offering several crust options, plus pastas & more.”

“Small plates, cocktails, and chef's table experiences feature at this farm-to-table restaurant.”

“Casual bar offering small plates and entrees alongside a wide selection of beers and cocktails.”

“Comfortable eatery featuring chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, and cocktails, plus steak.”

“Quick-serve lunch counter serving burritos & nacho salads, plus tamales on Fridays, in basic digs.”

“Hosting bands nightly, this laid-back watering hole serves burgers, sandwiches, salads & wings.”

“Gauchos deliver all-you-can-eat meats at this modern-looking Brazilian eatery with a salad bar.”

“Formal spot serving Italian fare ranging from pizzas to pastas & meat entrees, with a separate bar.”

“Family-friendly buffet chain featuring all-you-can-eat American fare, plus salad & dessert bars.”

“Exclusive, 6-seater sushi bar featuring omakase menus plus sake and wine pairings.”

“Hangout with burgers & lots of chicken wings in a casual space with live music & sports on TV.”

“Build-your-own tacos are the specialty at this casual restaurant offering a variety of proteins and sauces.”

“Prime steaks, homemade pasta, and other classic fare in a rustic setting with a robust wine list and cocktails.”

“Low-key restaurant with outdoor tables fixing up chicken wings, pizzas, sandwiches & pasta dishes.”

“Pizzas, pastas, and seafood at this Italian eatery with a casual atmosphere.”

“Counter-serve chain eatery known for its chicken wings and offering sandwiches and sides.”

“Locally sourced premium steaks & a menu of American plates that changes with the seasons.”

“Comfortable restaurant offering pizza, pastas, salads & subs.”

“Casual restaurant turning out hot subs, wraps, and chicken wings, including halal options.”

“Upscale eatery serving paella and other traditional tapas dishes, plus cocktails and wine.”

“Rustic, casual, family-run spot offering BBQ & other comfort food plus weekly drink specials.”

“Vietnamese specialties from noodles to soup headline at this simple eatery that also delivers.”

“This week, when dinner needs a win, Zepeddie's Pizzeria nails that New York-style thin crust and even thick focaccia slices, all built with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Order online for an easy night in, or let them handle your next team dinner with pizza, sandwiches, wings and sides.”

“Counter-service outpost serving Southwestern-style Mexican basics in funky, colorful quarters.”

“Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.”

“Local sports bar with a large selection of beer and cocktails, and bar bites, plus trivia nights and an outdoor patio.”

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“Steakhouse chain serving beef, seafood & cocktails in swanky surrounds with live music.”

“Casual, kid-friendly eatery serving Buffalo-style wings and fried chicken, along with burgers, Philly cheesesteaks and subs.”

“Counter-serve chain for custom burgers, including poultry & veggie versions, plus fries & shakes.”

“Pet-friendly casual eatery offering brunch staples, bagels, sandwiches and salads, plus coffee and other beverages.”

“High-end steakhouse serving prime cuts, seafood & shellfish in an elegant, modern venue.”

“Classic Italian comfort food such as meatballs and homemade mozzarella, served in a casual setting with a full bar.”

“Relaxed restaurant serving 14" slices or 28" whole pies of New York-style pizza, plus beer.”

“Hip, buzzy chain serving creative burgers with gourmet toppings, plus hand-cut fries & other sides.”

“This traditional steakhouse serves high-end steaks & seafood in a candlelit, wood-paneled setting.”

“Counter-serve pizzeria turning out New York–style pies alongside Italian eats such as garlic knots.”

“Stylish Southern kitchen serving craft cocktails, plus comfort food like fried chicken & biscuits.”

“Bar & grill in an old depot offering creative American dishes, beer, wine & a dog-friendly patio.”

“Luce does Italian the right way, from house-made tagliatelle bolognese and pillowy gnocchi to grilled octopus and an osso buco that lingers in your head all week. Put it on your midweek rotation when you want a proper grown-up dinner that still feels easy.”

“Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.”

“Casual restaurant specializing in Vietnamese comfort food, including pho, rice dishes, and banh mi.”

“A long list of burgers & craft beer served in a chill space with a patio & sports on TV.”

“Casual, modern eatery serving wood-fired pizza, burgers, pasta and breakfast dishes.”

“Spice Charlotte serves sophisticated global fusion with bold flavors, shared plates, premium proteins, sushi, and elevated entrees in a sleek, upscale setting. Pair it with their artfully crafted cocktails and vibrant cocktail program, then call it a win for this week’s date night or a spontaneous night out.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Family-owned venue offering familiar Vietnamese dishes, particularly pho, in a casual setting.”

“Casual eatery with oversized NY-style pies & slices, plus Italian subs & red-sauce entrees.”

“Casual pizza parlor serving New York-style slices and pies, plus sandwiches and local beer.”

“Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting”

“White-tablecloth establishment serving American steak, seafood & pasta in a cozy circa-1915 home.”

“Casual place offering tapas and comfort food, plus a range of wines, and live music.”

“Relaxed restaurant serving burgers, wings and steaks as well as beer and wine, plus BBQ ribs and brisket.”

“Casual eatery frying up Vietnamese classics, including noodle dishes, sandwiches and beef stew.”

“Brick-oven pizza & other rustic Italian fare is served in a dark-wood space with a patio.”

“Counter-serve spot offering a variety of chicken wings plus grilled items, sides, and other comfort food.”

“Relaxed, roomy venue offering carefully sourced plates, an extensive cocktail menu & take-out.”

“Ru San's has been keeping Charlotte happily fed for over 20 years with creative sushi rolls, yakitori, and Japanese comfort staples that actually taste like someone cares. When you want fresh fish, playful maki, and a menu big enough for your pickiest friend, this is the move.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.”

“Family-friendly biscuits-focused eatery serving breakfast and brunch dishes such as fried green tomatoes, gravy and pork sausage sandwiches, plus pancakes and pastries.”

“When you want that foldable, straight-from-NY vibe, Tony's Pizza rolls out oversized pies and slices that hit just right. Back it up with a serious Italian sub, saucy red-sauce classics, or wings that mean business, then call it an easy midweek victory.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Bang Bang Burgers has your weeknight solved, with scratch-made, cooked-to-temperature patties, hand cut fries, and housemade sauces served on the side to honor the burger. Charlotte born since 2013, locally owned, and still obsessed with doing things right… consider this your reminder to treat yourself.”

“Friendly family-owned diner serving classic breakfast fare in a cozy space.”

“Warm and welcoming Spanish tavern serving seasonal small plates, plus Spanish wines.”

“Cozy parlor in a shopping center with thin-crust pizza & Italian dishes, plus hot & cold sandwiches.”

“Japanese restaurant offering small plates and other fare, along with beer, wine, cocktails, and sake.”

“Regional BBQ specialties served up on plates & in sandwiches in a roadhouselike setting.”

“Local restaurant & bar chain serving BBQ, burgers, wings, Southern fare & more, plus numerous beers.”

“Craving a midweek pick-me-up? Cowbell Burger & Whiskey Bar brings the volume with stacked burgers, whiskey flights that make decision-making fun, and a rock n' roll vibe that turns dinner into a little victory lap.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Easy Like Sunday keeps Charlotte brunch comfy and a little fancy, with locally sourced classics and globally inspired twists like short rib hash, cornbread pancakes, and shrimp and grits, plus gourmet coffees, mimosas, and crafty cocktails. Treat yourself this week, then pretend it was self-care.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Classic & unconventional sushi, plus Japanese teppanyaki fare & cocktails in colorful, mod environs.”

“Family-owned eatery offering spring rolls & banh mi sandwiches with vegan options in a casual space.”

“New Zealand Cafe keeps Charlotte sushi cravings under control with a menu that jumps from fresh sushi to specialty rolls, bento boxes, and grill plates, plus a little dessert and wine if you’re feeling extra. Slide in this week, treat yourself to a roll you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Vibrant establishment serving elevated New American & global cuisine in a stylish, whimsical space.”

“Delivery, carryout & dine-in chain offering a wide range of pizzas, plus a variety of other dishes & sides.”

“Bar chain serving creative burgers & a lengthy list of beers in a casual, funky space.”

“Regional BBQ specialties served up on plates & in sandwiches in a roadhouselike setting.”

“Locally sourced eclectic cuisine & an extensive, global wine list in an upscale-casual setting.”

“Casual Vietnamese eatery known for its pho broth and big portions.”

“Restaurant serving Southern eats made with local ingredients in a stylish, rustic space with a bar.”

“Cozy Italian eatery featuring grilled octopus, branzino, pastas and a wine list, plus cocktails.”

“Meet Fumée Kitchen & Cocktails, Charlotte’s vibe-dining hangout where craft cocktails and small-course tapas play nice with premium glass shisha. Swing through this week for a late-night catch-up, R&B karaoke energy, or a brunch that turns into an afternoon... the vibe carries and the pours stay thoughtful.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Cozy restaurant, lounge and bar serving small plates from around the world plus cocktails.”

“Stylish chain serving a lengthy egg-focused breakfast menu, plus American lunch & dinner fare.”

“Casual taco truck dishing up burritos and tacos along with tortas, tacos and sopes.”

“Vibrant, retro chain serving a seasonal menu of creative breakfast & lunch fare, plus cocktails.”

“Diner serving scratch comfort food 24/7 in a classic railroad car-style space.”

“Longtime steakhouse serving hand-cut steaks cooked over an open flame, plus a salad bar.”

“Classy speakeasy with a vintage vibe offering creative cocktails & eclectic American fare.”

“Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.”

“Casual, easygoing pizzeria serving crispy, thin-crusted pies, plus garlic knots and beers.”

“Craft pizzas, sandwiches, pasta & starters with beer & coffee in stylish digs with photography.”

“Que Onda Tacos + Tequila Uptown brings a fast-paced, high-energy vibe that feels like a weekend celebration any day, with legendary Birria Tacos and a huge lineup of fresh margaritas. Rally a couple friends this week and split the Sorbet Margarita Flight, then let bold Mexican comfort food keep the conversation going.”

From the Charlotte newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Casual-chic eatery serving Louisiana-inspired dishes such as shrimp and grits along with Southern brunch standards.”

“Bright, modern setting for Vietnamese soups & entrees, with beer & wine available at the bar.”

“Trendy eatery serving Latin-inspired fare such as paella alongside mezcal cocktails in a casual, versatile environment.”

“When you need a break from the same old, Wing King Cafe Charlotte NC is all about fresh, made-to-order wings with a ridiculous range of sauces, plus burgers, sandwiches and shareable snacks like cheese curds and onion rings. Grab a cold drink, settle in, and let the cravings win.”

From the Gastonia newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Stylish venue with a lively atmosphere serving American bites with a twist & specialty cocktails.”

“Popular counter-serve outpost featuring classic Mexican plates & margaritas in a contemporary space.”

“Spacious, industrial-style BBQ restaurant serving hickory-smoked meats & comfort sides.”

“Traditional Italian cooking & New Haven-style pizza in a warm, roomy setting with a covered patio.”

“Casual joint serving Nashville hot chicken dishes such as sliders, fries, and milkshakes.”

“Upscale menu of Southern food & dishes with international influences made from local ingredients.”