I've been in Charlotte, North Carolina for almost six years now and I can say that it's restaurant scene is one of my favorites! Even during the pandemic, restaurants are finding its way to stay a float.

Optimist Hall is placed in a historic mill building and opened sometime last year. It consist of various food stalls, bars, and retail stores. I recently visited Optimist Hall with my sister and like always, we can never choose one place to eat. Here are a list of the places that are at Optimist Hall and where I have and have not eaten or shopped:

HAVE:

Archer Paper Goods: If you're looking for unique and quirky stationary and don't mind spending more than usual you'll find it here. Archer Paper Goods is convenient for those located in the Optimist Park and NoDA area. I've purchased a few last minute birthday cards here.
Boa and Broth Ramen & Bun Shop: The only thing I've had from Boa and Broth is a ramen dish and I wasn't too pleased as it was kind of bland. I do like buns, so, I am excited to go back and try those!
BoxCar Betty's: This is the newest edition to Optimist Hall and it's sooooo good! I complain about not living near a Chick-fil-A, but this solves that problems. I had the signature "Boxcar" chicken sandwich with pimento cheese, peach slaw, house pickles and spicy mayo. BoxCar Betty is a must!
Dumpling Lady: The Dumpling Lady is the most authentic Chinese food I've had here in Charlotte. It is my all time fav and due to the fact that I live across the street, I come at least once a week. During the weekdays they have a combo available where you can get a noodle dish and dumplings for about $14. My go to is the Nei Jiang Beef Noodles (kind of spicy) and Pan-Fried Veggie Dumplings.
El Thrifty Social Club: El Thrifty is the perfect place for a night out with friends or a fun date night! While the tequila is the main reason I go, the patio and game room adds a nice touch to the place. It's not directly inside of Optimist Hall, so, it is open later than other places. If you are looking for authentic Mexican cuisine it saddens me to say that this is not the place to go.
Felix Handmade Empanadas: With an Argentinian influence, I can't say no to Fleix Handmade Empanadas; happy to have this place in my "front yard."
Fonta Flora Brewery: I've only been to Fonta Flora Brewery once and the atmosphere and service is what will bring me back. I've cut back on drinking beer, but they have other options such as wine, seltzers, and slushies.
Honeysuckle Gelato: I was so excited when they feature the coffee gelato! They also offer shakes, sandwiches and brownies.
Papi Queso: I'm content with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, but if I'm needing a little bit more flavor I go for the Burger Melt at Papi Queso, Creekstone Beef Patty, Swiss, American, Caraway Onions and 1K Island Sauce.
Suárez Baker & Barra: This specific Suarez also offers Cuban food, one of my favorite cuisines. Outside of ordering their delicious pastries with a cafe con leche, my go to lunch order is is the Ropa Vieja!
The Spindle Bar: This bar offers craft beers, wine, cocktails and other refreshing drinks. It's located inside of Optimist Hall, but a bit overpriced.
Undercurrent Coffee: I'm a fan of their matcha lattes with maple. The only downside to Undercurrent Coffee is that they only offer whole and oat milk. I don't care for the taste of oat milk, I would come more often if they offered an almond or coconut alternative.
Village Juice Company: This is the place to go for a healthy alternative. It has great salads and cold-pressed juices, along with other yummy snacks and smoothies.
Velvet Taco: I'm not into the traditional tacos, but I love the twist and cultural influence Velvet Taco offers. I had the Fried Paneer Taco and it was delicious! It consist of tomato chutney, tikka sauce, raita creme, Thai basil on a flour tortilla.

HAVE NOT

Ava: Italian cuisine such as pasta and pizza.
Pet Wants: Pet goods (for those who have pets, I don't lol).
Zukku Sushi: Offers sushi rolls, burritos, and bowls.