Just a few weeks into 2021, and you probably already need a vacation! Even though most international travel is on hold, you can still treat yourself to a culinary world tour, courtesy of the area’s many top-rated international restaurants. And best of all, while you explore, you’ll also be supporting these great local businesses. Here’s our guide to some favorites, organized by driving north on Monroe Road.
NEAR PINEVILLE-MATTHEWS ROAD
Li’s Noodles. Primarily take-out, pan-Asian cuisine. Freshly prepared dishes including ramen, pho and rice bowls
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Pad Thai, Pork Belly Ramen, and Steamed Dumplings
Price: Many entrees available under $13
Address: 10915 Monroe Road
Web: lisnoodles.com
PePeRo. Korean grocery store with a hidden gem: a small restaurant offering authentic dishes in the back. You may not even know it’s there! A ‘dive’ restaurant feel with delicious food and great prices.
Signature dish: Don’t miss the Bul Go Gi (Korean bbq) and Bi Bim Bap (rice, veggies and beef). The menu has helpful photos if you are unfamiliar with dishes.
Price: Many entrees available under $13
Address: 10920 Monroe Road
Web: peperorestaurant.com
Tropical Bakery Café. Brazilian bakery and cafe.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Coxinha (fried chicken croquettes), fresh breads and authentic Brazilian desserts.
Price: Many items available under $5
Address: 11100 Monroe Road
Web: facebook.com/tropicalbakerycafe
NEAR SARDIS ROAD NORTH
Be-Em Asian Kitchen. Asian fusion restaurant that uses fresh, local ingredients to make dishes drawing inspiration from Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. Also offers an extensive Vegan menu.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Kamikaze Filet Kim Chi Fries, Sesame Ahi Tuna Nachos, as well as its Pho and customizable “Plates.”
Price: Many entrees available under $14
Address: 1848 Galleria Boulevard
Web: be-em.com
Best Wok. Tasty, quick and affordable Chinese food.
Signature dish: Customers love their homemade chicken eggrolls, Crab Rangoons, and Sesame Chicken
Price: Many entrees available under $11
Address: 1717 Sardis Road North
Web: best-wok.com
Fizz (formerly BR Cafe). Casual, authentic Brazilian fare, from sandwiches and savory pastries to desserts and coffee.
Signature dish: Be sure to try the X Tudo, and their Pasteis De Feira (pastries)
Price: Many sandwiches and dishes under $10
Address: 1431 Sardis Road North
Web: facebook.com/brcafebrasilliancoffee
Crepe Bistro. Family-owned, European style cafe offering sweet and savory crepes as well as paninis, waffles, salads and more. Gluten free options available.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Nutella Crepe,The Fiery Bird, Monte Cristo and the espresso bar.
Price: Many entrees available under $10
Address: 1605 Galleria Blvd Galleria Blvd
Web: crepebistroclt.com
Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill. Expansive menu options offered at this family-owned North Carolina-based chain. Large outdoor patio with heaters.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include the ACP Supreme and the Across the Border fajita.
Price: Many fajitas, burritos and enchiladas available under $15
Address: 1820 Sardis Road North
Web: mipueblomexgrill.com
New Zealand Cafe. Seafood and pan-Asian cuisine. Great prices on sushi, hibachi and noodle dishes. Open for carry-out only.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include sushi rolls, bento boxes.
Price: Many sushi rolls and hibachi options under $10
Address: 1717 Sardis Road North
Web: nzcafe.com
Roppongi Ramen Bar. Small restaurant offering takeout and delivery for signature Japanese ramen dishes, Korean Fried chicken and wings.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Miso and Spicy Miso Ramen, and Korean chicken wings
Price: Many entrees available under $13
Address: 9626 Monroe Road
Web: roppongiramenbar.com
Royal Biryani. Authentic Indian cuisine including biryanis, kebabs and curries.
Signature dish: Try the Chicken Tikka Masala, the Shahi Korma with coconut creamy sauce, or just their classic traditional curry.
Price: Many entrees available under $15
Address: 9624 Monroe Road
Web: royalbiryanius.com
NEAR MCALPINE CREEK PARK
Taqueria Los Altos. Authentic Mexican cuisine and freshly pressed corn tortillas.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include chorizo tacos, tamales and fresh guacamole
Price: Many entrees available under $10
Address: 8625 Monroe Road
Web: taquerialosaltoscharlotte.com
Everest Bistro (formerly Zaika Express). This “hidden gem” is family-owned and features Nepali and Thai cuisine. But that’s not all. It also has Nepali-Mexican fusion dishes. Vegetarian friendly.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include the amazing Chicken Momos (filled dumplings) and Lamb Sekuwa (fried meat snacks).
Price: Many entrees available under $16
Address: 9010 Monroe Road (TEMPORARILY CLOSED “DUE TO COVID IMPACT” UNTIL 1/31)
Web: everestbistro.com
OAKHURST
Red Sea Restaurant & Bar. Started in 2001, this restaurant relocated from its original space near CPCC. It specializes in authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine.
Signature dish: Customer favorites include Sambusa (similar to samosa), Vegetarian Platter, various combo dishes and injera (Ethiopian flatbread).
Price: Many entrees available under $12
Address: 4301 Monroe Road
Phone: (704) 375-4999
For more dining & restaurant ideas, check out our directory.
By Liz Rothaus Bertrand
