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2 North Carolina Restaurants Named As The South’s Best New Restaurants

There are new restaurants popping up all the time it seems. All claim to be unique and offer a “new concept”. But in all honesty many times it just the…

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There are new restaurants popping up all the time it seems. All claim to be unique and offer a "new concept". But in all honesty many times it just the same things over and over again. And with the cost of going out to eat skyrocketing (like everything else in the world), how do you know what's worth trying? The last thing you want to do is waste money on a below-average or terrible meal out. Well, I'm happy to share with you two North Carolina Restaurants that were recognized by Southern Living as some of the best new restaurants.

Our friends at Southern Living recently shared with us a list of the South’s Best New Restaurants of 2023! The publication's expert editors evaluated new restaurants throughout the south. Restaurants were evaluated based on their food ( of course). But also on service, hospitality, and "how the restaurant supports and treats its staff and the wider community."

The list contains 25 new restaurants across the south including Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas. They even go as far north as Delaware (though I wouldn't consider that the south). And excitingly two North Carolina restaurants received the honor of being named The South's Best New Restaurants. One is right here in Charlotte and the other in the Triangle. But don't feel left out if you call the other Carolina home. The Palmetto State also had two restaurants make the list. Both are in beloved trendy cities- Charleston (of course) and Greenville.

Next time you find yourself wondering what to try for dinner, perhaps try one of these delicious new restaurants! You can read the full list from Southern Living and what they love about each of the 25 spots here. Or keep reading to see which North and South Carolina restaurants are the best new restaurants in the South.

13. Bird Pizzeria, Charlotte, NC

There is very little information available on Bird Pizzeria's website. You can find this pizzeria at 510 E. 15TH ST in Charlotte between North Davidson St. and North Caldwell St. The menu is small, offering three base pizza options a "plain pie", "white pie", and "vegan pie" as well as toppings to add. Or if pizza isn't your thing you can try the Kale Ceasar. I have to say this extremely limited menu doesn't have me running to try Bird Pizzeria, but it must be good to be featured on this list.

14. Queeny's, Durham, NC

Queeny's describes itself as a "uniquely Durham gathering place." The menu features dishes such as sandwiches, fried pickles, small plates, and nachos.

16. Pink Bellies, Charleston, SC

This King Street eatery serves are variety of Vietnamese dishes and lots and lots of noodles. You can also enjoy burgers, wings, and dumplings.

17. Camp, Greenville, SC

CAMP is a "modern eatery in the heart of downtown Greenville". On the menu you'll find dishes like grilled swordfish, octopus, and Coulotte.

Melanie Day is a graduate of North Carolina State University. She has worked for Beasley since 2012 in a variety of behind-the-scenes roles in both digital and promotions. Melanie writes about a diverse range of topics some of her favorites include travel, restaurants, Taylor Swift, and college athletics. When not at work you'll find her at a country concert or NC State sporting event.