Months ago, Meridian Place announced that they have broken ground on 10,000 square feet of retail space in the heart of MoRA, anchored by Hawthorne’s New York Pizza and Bar. A Charlotte staple since their founding in 2004, Hawthorne’s will provide residents with weekly food specials, local beer, outdoor dining, and an expansive Italian menu. The 5,000 square foot restaurant near the corner of Monroe Road and Conference Drive was finished a few weeks ago, and Hawthorne’s is putting together the interior parts.
We’ve watched as construction has moved along, but many locals are wondering when the pizza place is expected to open. We reached out, and they plan to open by Easter in mid-April.
“The addition of Hawthorne’s helps us in fulfilling one of the key aspects of what neighbors wanted to see at Meridian Place – a creative “sit-down restaurant” where they could gather and enjoy a great meal, and a beer or glass of wine,” said Roy Goode developer of Meridian Place. “Hawthorne’s is an ideal anchor for us to build upon as we add restaurants, shops and offices to Meridian Place and our evolving landscape,” added Goode. Meridian Place plans to add a convenience store, coffee shop, ice cream parlor, and a juice bar.
Hawthorne’s will fill the restaurant gap that currently exists in the middle of MoRA. Residents will be able to stay local while trying things like garlic knots, Philly steak wraps, Gorgonzola salads, basil mozzarella pizza, shrimp scampi pasta, gluten-free options, as well as specials like Cuban sandwiches and prawn & pork skewers. The restaurant should quickly become a popular option with both new and long-time MoRA residents.
Recent revitalization of the Monroe Road corridor has increased demand for improved local business and dining, and the groundbreaking on Hawthorne’s newest restaurant is another step towards that goal. The restaurant will be built near a planned outdoor art project spearheaded by our Monroe Road Advocates organization. We look forward to eating and drinking at Hawthorne’s and we hope to see you there!
MoRA needs YOUR help! VOLUNTEER with us on important community projects. Can’t volunteer? DONATE to help make our public art dream a reality. Even a $20 tax-deductible donation will help give the neighborhood a beautiful, defining sculpture that will make residents proud.
