10 Bodegas & Corner Markets in Charlotte
Grab and go or stay and play at any of these bodegas in the Queen City. From high-end charcuterie and wine to brews and kitschy finds, belly up to one of these markets on your next night out.
by Charlie Leonard Mar 23, 2022
Common Market
Neighborhoods: Plaza Midwood, South End, Oakhurst
Price: $
Ironically branding itself as an “uncommon convenience store, deli and bar,” Common Market has grown into one of Charlotte’s most beloved bodegas. What started as an eclectic hangout spot in Plaza Midwood has expanded to the Oakhurst and South End neighborhoods. Each store reflects the unique vibe of the neighborhood it calls home, but the mission of inclusion has remained the same. No matter which location you stop by, you’ll find a safe space that fosters friendships, diversity and a sense of community.
Claim to fame: Award-winning Pimento Deluxe sandwich with bacon and tomato on sourdough bread
The Culture Shop
Neighborhood: Belmont
Price: $$
If you’re looking for a grocery store with artisan charcuterie boards, fine wine and a large selection of delicious provisions, The Culture Shop is the place for you. Nestled in between the Belmont and Plaza Midwood neighborhoods, the small shop has made itself known as the place for high-quality meats, cheeses, sandwiches and hors d’oeuvres. Keep your eyes peeled for holiday specials and seasonal craft creations.
Claim to fame: Charcuterie boards
East Frank Superette and Kitchen
Area: Monroe
Price: $
From the team behind Common Market, East Frank Superette and Kitchen is downtown Monroe’s unofficial “gathering place.” There’s some for everyone here and for any time of the day. You can find everything from wine and espresso drinks to old-style sodas, candy and gifts. The food menu is also a must.The menu includes staples like Southern-style grits, Philly cheesesteaks, Jersey-style bagels and dishes inspired by Peruvian, Greek, Vietnamese and South Korean cuisines.
Claim to fame: The Banh You, a Vietnamese-style banh mi steak sandwich with shaved sirloin — or a plant-based substitute — cucumbers, pickled carrots and daikon, jalapeños and a five-spice aioli
The Everyday Market
Area: Belmont
Price: $$
Downtown Belmont has seen a surge in innovative restaurant concepts in recent years, with The Everyday Market among them. What started out as a coffee shop has evolved into an all-day bakery, café, restaurant and beer shop. Its location across from beautiful Stowe Park makes for beautiful patio views. No matter why you’re stopping by, rest assured that your meal will be made-from-scratch and effortlessly delicious.
Claim to fame: Croissant Breakfast Sandwich, featuring fluffy eggs topped with cheese on a buttery croissant
The Exchange at 36th
Neighborhood: NoDa
Price: $$
The Exchange at 36th is a specialty grocery store in the heart of NoDa, a neighborhood that’s more than proud to be itself. A quick step inside and you’ll see why this concept fits right in. Modern and antique decor pieces are juxtaposed alongside grocery necessities, fresh food and a sleek bar area. You can run some errands or you hang out and enjoy a beer, a glass of wine or a coffee - now that’s a special grocery store.
Claim to fame: Something delicious from the deli case. Pair it with one of their homemade pastries and a cup of coffee—or an ice-cold craft beer on tap.
Lincoln's Haberdashery
Neighborhood: South End
Price: $$
Traditionally, a haberdashery is a place for clothing, hats, sewing goods and other accessories. Lincoln’s Haberdashery took that eccentric concept — guided, of course, by Abraham Lincoln’s unforgettable persona and fashion sense — and applied it to every aspect of their restaurant-and-retail concept. Menu items like the Civil Union Sandwich, the Garbage Can Salad, the Haymarket Hector breakfast sandwich and the Sticky Biscuit are as unique and memorable as they are flavorful.
Claim to fame: Lincoln's Bedroom Sandwich with soppressata dry salami, aged provolone, pickled peppers, onions and basil
NoDa Bodega
Neighborhood: NoDa
Price: $
NoDa Bodega is molded in the spirit of the NoDa’s neighborhood’s unique personality. Open since 2012, NoDa Bodega has everything you want in a bodega: unique sandwiches, daily specials, great breakfast, hot coffee, wine and beer. There’s even a patio — sectioned by wooden fencing adorned with craft beer logos and lights — to enjoy. In close to a decade in business, Bryan and Lisa Moore’s bodega has grown into a go-to spot for locals and newcomers alike.
Claim to fame: Italian Stallion — prosciutto and capicola hams, finocchiona salami, fresh mozzarella, basil and Peppadew relish on baguette
Paper Plane Deli & Market
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
Price: $$
Paper Plane Deli & Market takes its name from the fleet of paper planes that hang from the ceiling. The decor alone is worth the visit, but you’re seriously missing out if you don’t try their unique menu options. Stop by for Sunday brunch, Tostada Tuesday or anytime of the week for a diverse deli menu and cocktail.
Claim to fame: BLT with locally smoked bacon, bibb lettuce, tomato and Dukes Mayo
Rhino Market & Deli
Neighborhoods: Wesley Heights, NoDa, Uptown
Price: $$
The basics: Rhino Market & Deli has quickly grown from a single store in Wesley Heights to a staple of the Charlotte bodega family. Built for the “urban forager,” you’ll find a variety of wines, coffees, groceries and craft beer inside their walls. If you’re looking for fresh food, they’ve got plenty of grab-and-go meals, baked goods and hot meals from their in-house deli.
Claim to fame: Chicken Torta complete with pulled chicken, avocado, Boar’s Head provolone cheese, jalapeños, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise on ciabatta bread
Tip Top Daily Market
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
Price: $
The Tip Top Daily Market is the traditional bodega on steroids. Beyond the craft beers, wines and food menu, I’ve Read It In Books bookstore and Premium Sound record store reside inside. There aren't many bodegas that can boast that selection of amenities. Come find your new favorite book or vinyl record while you pick up your next great meal from local restaurants.
Claim to fame: Darë Vegan Cheese with crackers
