Utah’s Swig filed plans to build a Steele Creek drive‑thru at 4942 Trojan Dr, potentially its first location inside Charlotte city limits. Timeline is unclear.

Panda Express opened in Mint Hill on March 6 with a ribbon-cutting, giveaways for the first 88 customers and a $1,000 donation to Helping Hands.

Chop Chop Red Pot will open a stall at The Market on 7th on April 1, pairing its barbecue truck roots with Marlee Jean’s seafood for Uptown diners.

City Council will consider a five-year lease that would bring American Express’s compact Sidecar lounge to Concourse A at Charlotte Douglas.

A Wesley Heights ghost‑kitchen favorite will open a South End dining room in April, taking over the former Mazi space at 1300 South Blvd.

The family behind Tacos El Nevado is opening Sabores de Oaxaca at 3654 Central Ave, bringing Oaxacan guisados, sopes and regional specialties to Central Avenue this spring.

Winston‑Salem chef Freddy Lee will open Fablewood, a steakhouse at Mount Airy’s Spencer’s Mill redevelopment, betting on small‑town dining as local restaurants close.

Shake Shack opens at Concord Mills on March 11; opening day sales will donate $1 per sandwich to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.

Antagonist, a Dilworth coffee-by-day, cocktail-by-night spot, opens Wednesday and asks guests to lock phones in Yondr pouches. Expect villain-themed cocktails, snacks and board games.

Baku, a 13-year SouthPark staple, will close in April as the Sharon Road property returns to the landlord amid redevelopment plans. The owner says some Yama concepts will remain.

CRÚ Wine Bar & Bistro has leased 2,389 square feet at Linea in South End, joining a curated lineup of restaurants and cafes.

Hello, Uncle has settled into a permanent stall at Burial Beer in Plaza Midwood, serving khao man gai and Thai comfort dishes Wednesday–Saturday evenings.

Crispy Banh Mi's Ayrsley outpost will close on March 25 after five years when its lease wasn't renewed. Other Charlotte locations will remain open.