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Charlotte, North Carolina, has solidified its reputation as a burgeoning culinary hotspot, a fact underscored by the recent decision to host the 23rd season of the acclaimed reality cooking competition, \"Top Chef.\" The show's esteemed panel of judges, including host Kristen Kish and food experts Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons, embarked on a seven-week gastronomic exploration of the city and its surroundings. Their extensive journey led to a curated list of exceptional dining establishments that have earned their enthusiastic endorsement. From authentic Vietnamese cuisine to a refined Southern steakhouse, traditional barbecue, and innovative Indian street food, these recommendations offer a comprehensive guide to Charlotte's diverse and thriving food landscape, inviting food enthusiasts to savor the city's unique flavors.

Top Culinary Discoveries from the \"Top Chef\" Judges' Charlotte Expedition

In the vibrant city of Charlotte, North Carolina, the recent filming of \"Top Chef's\" 23rd season has brought a spotlight to its flourishing food scene. The show's discerning judges, Kristen Kish, Tom Colicchio, and Gail Simmons, after an immersive seven-week experience, have unveiled their favorite culinary destinations, offering a definitive guide for food aficionados.

Among their top picks, Lang Van, an authentic Vietnamese eatery, earned high praise. Host Kristen Kish was so impressed that she visited twice, a testament to its exceptional quality. Judges Simmons and Colicchio lauded its fresh and vibrant flavors, with dishes like bun bi, beef skewer vermicelli, and pho standing out. Patrons often rely on owner Dan Nguyen and his staff for personalized recommendations, highlighting the restaurant's warm, home-style ambiance.

For steak enthusiasts, Tom Colicchio, the head judge and owner of Craftsteak, enthusiastically endorsed Supperland. This establishment, self-described as a \"Southern Steakhouse meets Church Potluck,\" occupies a grand space that was formerly a church, an auditorium, and a gallery. Offering a variety of dining areas, including a main room, bar, and a hidden speakeasy, Supperland specializes in hickory and oak wood-fired steaks, complemented by delectable sides such as mushroom risotto and miso mac & cheese. Weekend brunches feature a lavish buffet, and the speakeasy provides an intimate setting for cocktails and small plates.

Gail Simmons, accompanied by her son, discovered the charm of Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge. Located in Shelby, a short drive from Charlotte, this family-run institution has been perfecting slow-cooked pork over hickory since 1946. Despite a fire in 2024, the lodge, which joined North Carolina's Barbecue Hall of Fame in May 2025, maintains its traditional recipes. Its chopped pork shoulder, red slaw, and hush puppies continue to draw a dedicated following, embodying the philosophy, \"if it ain't broke, don't fix it.\"

The collective approval of all three judges went to Kindred, situated in Davidson, just north of Charlotte. Described as \"outstanding\" by Kish, this restaurant, led by Joe and Katy Kindred, has consistently received accolades since its 2015 opening. Its menu, featuring squid ink pasta, crispy oysters, and pickle-brined fried chicken, alongside seasonal rotating dishes and excellent cocktails, has garnered high praise from numerous publications and Google reviewers alike. The cozy backyard seating area, particularly admired by Simmons, enhances the overall dining experience.

Finally, Simmons also gave a special mention to Botiwalla, located within Charlotte's Optimist Hall. Chef Meherwan Irani's homage to Indian street food, this casual eatery presents a delightful menu of reimagined classics, from chargrilled chicken tikka rolls to Maharaja lamb burgers and masala smashed potatoes. Reviewers consistently praise Botiwalla's authentic and flavorful offerings, as well as its pleasant ambiance, courteous staff, and thoughtful touches like stocked women's restrooms, making for a truly memorable culinary journey.

The discerning recommendations from the \"Top Chef\" judges serve as a powerful endorsement of Charlotte's burgeoning gastronomic landscape. This curated list not only highlights the city's culinary diversity but also encourages both residents and visitors to venture beyond their usual haunts and explore the exceptional quality and unique flavors that these establishments offer. It's a reminder that truly great food experiences can be found in unexpected places, often crafted with passion and a deep respect for tradition and innovation.