When Sunday morning rolls around, Charlotte’s restaurants come alive with the sound of clinking coffee cups, the sizzle of bacon on the griddle, and the buzz of eager diners in search of the perfect brunch. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes drizzled with local honey or a savory omelet stuffed with fresh, farm-to-table produce, the Queen City’s brunch scene has something for every palate. From elegant, white-tablecloth affairs to eclectic, cozy cafés, here are some of the best places to settle in for a leisurely Sunday spread.
1. The Stanley
Neighborhood: Elizabeth
Vibe: Creative, Farm-Focused, Upscale-Casual
Housed in a converted bungalow, The Stanley has quickly earned its reputation for inventive dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Chef Paul Verica brings a refined touch to brunch classics, so expect menu items like heirloom tomato quiches, delicate pastries, and seasonal salads that highlight the region’s bounty. With a warm and attentive staff and a relaxed, stylish dining room, The Stanley makes a perfect setting for celebrating a special Sunday or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary.
2. La Belle Helene
Neighborhood: Uptown
Vibe: Elegant, French-Inspired, Spacious
Step into the airy dining room at La Belle Helene and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a grand Parisian brasserie. Marble tabletops and towering ceilings set the stage for an indulgent brunch experience. From decadent croque madames to brioche French toast soaked in custard, each dish is equal parts artistry and comfort. Their extensive wine list, bubbly mimosas, and perfect cappuccinos ensure your brunch is as lively or leisurely as you desire.
3. Haberdish
Neighborhood: NoDa
Vibe: Southern Comfort, Rustic-Chic, Lively
For those who can’t resist a hearty Southern spread, Haberdish is a must. Famous for their crispy, cast-iron fried chicken and an array of Southern sides, this NoDa staple pairs perfectly with a weekend brunch. Try the Liege waffles, which are delightfully chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside, topped with fried chicken, sweet butter, and authentic Carolina honey. Don’t miss their handcrafted cocktails, particularly the “Morning Glory” with gin, cucumber, and elderflower—an invigorating start to your Sunday.
4. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood and South End
Vibe: Bright, Playful, Friendly
With two Charlotte locations, Snooze has become a beloved destination for brunch enthusiasts craving variety. Mix and match their signature pancake flight—featuring flavors like pineapple upside-down or sweet potato—and pair them with savory dishes like the Chilaquiles Benedict. Their menu accommodates dietary restrictions and adventuresome eaters alike, and the whimsical décor and helpful servers ensure a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that makes lingering over a bottomless cup of coffee feel oh-so-right.
5. 5Church
Neighborhood: Uptown
Vibe: Trendy, Contemporary, Sophisticated
Inside a former church building, 5Church exudes modern cool with its dramatic lighting, sleek furnishings, and quotes from “The Art of War” adorning the ceiling. The brunch menu borrows global influences—huevos rancheros with a punchy salsa, crab cake Benedict, and steak & eggs drizzled with chimichurri—making it a prime spot for a cosmopolitan Sunday meal. Pair your dish with one of their creative cocktails and soak in the atmosphere that toes the line between art gallery and fine dining hall.
6. Zada Jane’s Corner Café
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
Vibe: Quirky, Cozy, Casual
If you’re more in the mood for a no-frills, neighborhood café experience, Zada Jane’s Corner Café is the place. Known for their scratch-made biscuits and fluffy griddle favorites, Zada Jane’s keeps brunch simple, fresh, and comforting. Their “Betty Jeanne’s” pancakes and “Bunny Rancheros” (a twist on huevos rancheros) have cultivated a loyal following. Expect colorful décor, a laid-back patio, and plenty of vegetarian-friendly fare—perfect for a relaxed morning spent people-watching in Plaza Midwood.
7. Easy Like Sunday
Neighborhood: SouthPark
Vibe: Bright, Cheery, Neighborhood Gem
Aptly named, Easy Like Sunday offers a warm welcome and a menu bursting with comfort. Their banana bread French toast is a sweet indulgence, while savory options like breakfast sandwiches on brioche buns provide the perfect balance. Specialty coffees and creative cocktails—like the Lavender Latte or the Espresso Martini—provide just the right pick-me-up. With its inviting interior and sunny patio, this spot captures the essence of a carefree Sunday morning.
Savor the Moment
Brunch in Charlotte is more than just a meal—it’s a weekly ritual celebrating community, creativity, and comfort. Whether you’re sipping mimosas in a chic Uptown brasserie, indulging in fried chicken and waffles in NoDa, or enjoying a vegan-friendly omelet in a cozy corner café, these brunch spots serve up far more than just eggs and pancakes. They offer a chance to slow down, savor the moment, and treat yourself to a well-deserved delight after a long week. So gather a group of friends or bring a good book, because Sunday brunch in Charlotte is all about settling in, enjoying good food, and making the weekend last just a little bit longer.
