This article lists the top 20 most popular restaurants in Mooresville, North Carolina. This list is based on Google reviews as of January 2023. We hope this article serves as a great resource for you when looking for the best restaurants in Mooresville, North Carolina!
This ranking is based solely on the number of Google Reviews each restaurant has received as of January 2023.
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Here are the 20 most popular restaurants in Mooresville, NC.
1. Alino Pizzeria (2,616 Google Reviews)
Alino Pizzeria is one of the anchor restaurants at Merino Mill near downtown Mooresville. Created by visionary entrepreneur Michal Bay, Alino Pizzeria is in a class of its own.
Must-order dish: The Margherita pizza at Alino is the best in the business. Save room for a cannoli (house-made daily.)
Location: 500 S Main St #401, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Open daily from 11am-8:30pm.
“Alino has the best crust! The toppings are always fresh and perfect portions! The staff is very pleasant and helpful! Great place…great vibe! Thanks Mr. Michal Bay for the Gelato! It was amazing! Delicious!”
Chris R., Google Reviewer
2. Epic Chophouse (2,106 Google Reviews)
In the heart of downtown Mooresville lies the area’s premier steakhouse. Epic Chophouse is an upscale dining destination and the go-to spot for special occasions in Mooresville.
Must-order dish: USDA Prime Bone-In Ribeye Steak – “Cowboy Cut.”
Bonus: Epic is home to one of the area’s finest wine & whiskey selections.
Location: 104 S Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Monday, 5pm-9pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 5pm-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 4pm-10pm; Sunday, 4pm-9pm.
“I cannot say enough good things about Epic Chophouse. The staff is helpful, attentive, friendly. The atmosphere is upscale and perfect for a date night or special occasion. The food is absolutely out of this world. I have been here twice since moving to the area and I will definitely be back to try even more menu items.”
Kris E., Google Reviewer
3. Duckworth’s Grille and Taphouse (2,277 Google Reviews)
Mooresville is home to the first of several Duckworth’s Grille and Taphouse locations in the Charlotte metro area. You’ll find the best American pub food on the menu at Duckworth’s but have no doubt: this is the cheesesteak capital of North Carolina.
Must-order dish: Philly Cheesesteak Supreme (Steak, grilled onions, green peppers, mushrooms & choice of cheese) with a side of Fresh-Cut Fries.
Bonus: Beer lovers rejoice: you’ll find over 40 craft beer taps on the wall here.
Location: 560 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: 11am-11pm, Sunday-Wednesday; 11am-12am, Thursday-Saturday.
“The absolute best Philly cheesesteak I’ve ever had in my entire life. Amazing beer list. So good.”
Jonathan O., Google Reviewer
4. Eddie’s on Lake Norman (2,253 Google Reviews)
Eddie’s on Lake Norman is a waterfront restaurant featuring many Italian-inspired dishes. The bar features classic cocktails, craft beer, and frozen “boat drinks.” The Reserve Room at Eddie’s is a fine dining space perfect for upscale meetings and functions.
Must-order dish: Zuppa Di Pesce – A seafood & pasta delight!
Location: 643 Williamson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-11pm.
“The outdoor seating was lovely, breezy and scenic. We started with crab meat nachos and it was delicious and plenty for four to share. I had the beet & arugula salad, along with blackened fish tacos. Both were tasty, meaty and perfectly seasoned. The waitress was fun, attentive and friendly. It was an awesome meal and atmosphere.”
Sheila D., Google Reviewer
5. The Barcelona Burger and Beer Garden (2,060 Google Reviews)
The Barcelona is another anchor restaurant at Merino Mill near downtown Mooresville. It won our Best Burger at Lake Norman in 2022, in addition to numerous other accolades since opening just a few years ago. While the burgers are some of the best around, they aren’t things The Barcelona does extremely well.
Must-order dish: The All American Burger with Applewood Bacon
Bonus: Save room for dessert! House-made cannoli, layer cake, or cheesecake.
Location: 500 S Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Sunday-Thursday. 11am-8:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-9pm.
“Meet up with a group of friends to celebrate a friend’s birthday. So happy with their choice. Food was yummy. It tasted fresh and the price was just right. Lots of choices and plenty of table and chairs for large groups or small group gathering. Looking forward to coming back.”
Anna, Google Reviewer
6. Lancaster’s BBQ (1,727 Google Reviews)
Not surprising a BBQ restaurant made it into the top 10 on this list. Lancaster’s BBQ isn’t just a great barbeque restaurant, they also serve up a fun and unique experience for their guests. Race City’s most popular barbeque restaurant is full of racing nostalgia and life-sized souvenirs that pay homage to the town’s motorsports history.
Must-order dish: BBQ Pork Dinner – one of the meals that made Lancaster’s famous!
Location: 515 Rinehardt Rd, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm.
“Everything was great! Pork bbq some of the best I’ve ever had! Great portions don’t forget the curly chips… Highly Recommend!”
Paul M., Google Reviewer
7. Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar (1,723 Google Reviews)
Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar on Lake Norman is one of the region’s oldest restaurants. Founded in 1974 by the now locally famous Lancaster family, Big Daddy’s serves up seafood dishes in arguably the most iconic atmosphere of any restaurant in Mooresville.
Must-order dish: No. 2 Big Daddy Seafood Platter – fried fish, shrimp, oysters, clam strips, and deviled crab.
Location: 1162 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 4:30pm-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 4:30pm-10pm.
“Went to Big Daddy’s for our anniversary. Loved it! The place is huge, but we were early and it wasn’t busy. The food was good, the crab dip wasn’t quite what I thought, so I probably won’t order it again, but the rest of the food delish. The service was on par and we really enjoyed the evening!!”
Shannon B., Google Reviewer
8. Johnny’s Farmhouse Restaurant of Mooresville (1,193 Google Reviews)
Johnny’s Farmhouse Restaurant is an NC-founded farm-to-table spot that specializes in good old-fashioned southern comfort food. The vibe is reminiscent of a Cracker Barrel, and so is the menu (sans breakfast), but that’s where the similarities end. Johnny’s Farmhouse Restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients sourced locally from family-owned farms.
Must-order dish: Country Fried Chicken w/ mashed potatoes, gravy, and collard greens.
Location: 668 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Open daily from 11am-9pm.
“Best fried squash ever in a restaurant. Fresh squash, not frozen. Husband enjoyed his country fried steak, mashed potatoes and green beans. I enjoyed my pot roast & potatoes, sweet potato casserole and fried squash. We will definitely go back! Our waitress was also good.”
Kathy C., Google Reviewer
9. Big Tiny’s BBQ (1,110 Google Reviews)
Yet another barbeque joint makes the top 10. Big Tiny’s is a downtown Mooresville staple. Their specialty is Texas-style BBQ, which means you’ll find large cuts of meat, slow-cooked, and seasoned with salt and pepper. Located in the heart of historic downtown Mooresville within walking distance of many retail shops and bars.
Must-order dish: 3 Meat Plate: Brisket, Pulled Pork, and Smoked Chicken!
Location: 179 N Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, 12pm-8pm.
“OMG this place is my new GOTO BBQ joint!!! Hands down the best BBQ I’ve had in 20 years. Get the creamed corn as your side to any of the amazing features they have. They offer Eastern as well as Western Carolina style varieties. Portion sizes are huge. Finally a super clean locally owned business. Service was FAST!!!”
Ken, Google Reviewer
10. Famous Toastery Mooresville (1,108 Google Reviews)
Normally, I wouldn’t include a national brand in our articles, but Famous Toastery was founded locally. So, I’m making an exception. Famous Toastery is a breakfast and lunch spot where every server is your server. They serve up some amazing breakfast dishes using fresh ingredients and creative recipes.
Must-order dish: Famous Hash, add a side of bacon!
Bonus: Famous Toastery is home of the Ultimate Bloody Mary – just sayin’.
Location: 170 N Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Open daily from 7am-3pm.
“Always enjoy my “normal” breakfast of 3 scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes with coffee. They also have so delicious brunch beverages and can add a little something comforting to your coffee if it’s cold out!”
Kimberley H., Google Reviewer
11. Jeffrey’s Restaurant (1,011 Google Reviews)
Another restaurant by the Lancaster family, Jeffrey’s was opened in 2005 and it’s considered one of the area’s premier fine dining destinations. The atmosphere is elegant, and the menu consists of timeless recipes. Steaks, seafood, burgers, fresh salads – you’ll find it all here. The bar serves sophisticated cocktails, and the desserts are housemade daily.
Must-order dish: Fish & Chips
Bonus: Ask about their daily specials!
Location: 117 Trade Ct, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday, 11am-10pm; Saturday, 4:30pm-10pm; Closed Sunday.
“It was so delicious!! Wonderful decor, beautiful lighting. The drinks and food were spectacular.”
Jen F., Google Reviewer
12. Joe Fish Casual Seafood (835 Google Reviews)
Joe Fish Casual Seafood is one of the most cherished eateries in Mooresville. Founded in 2007 by legendary restaurant man, Ronald LeBreton, Joe Fish brings authentic New England style seafood to the Lake Norman region. Chowder, bisque, and seafood galore – fried, baked, broiled, blackened, or grilled. Joe Fish needs to be on your list of dining destinations for 2023.
Must-order dish: Joe’s Combo – just start here.
Location: 510 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11:30am-9pm.
“I love seafood, so when I saw Joe Fish, I knew it was a must try. I was not disappointed. Kudos to the waitress for recommending the grilled shrimp stuffed with crab. I told her it was our first time eating there. She was so friendly and helpful. I will definitely be returning to try other entrees.”
Pat E., Google Reviewer
13. I Bambini Italian Restaurant (737 Google Reviews)
I Bambini Italian Restaurant has been serving up authentic Italian fare in Mooresville for over 20 years. White tablecloths and a curated wine selection await you, along with perhaps the most extensive dinner menu in the entire area. Italian food lovers rejoice – you’re going to find your favorite dish here.
Must-try dish: Chicken Alla Parmigiana – Delizioso!
Location: 2785 Charlotte Hwy #9, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday, 11am-10pm; Saturday, 11:30am-10pm; Sunday, 11:30am-9pm.
“I think I dreamed about this pasta. So so yummy and I can’t wait to get there for the lunch buffet one day soon! Not much Italian out here so this is a staple for us ? plenty enough for leftovers too! And I almost forgot to mention the bottomless bread, they just kept it coming. Carb heaven.”
Kelsey T., Google Reviewer
14. Havana 33 (601 Google Reviews)
A Miami-style Cuban restaurant on Lake Norman? Si, senor! Visit Havana 33 and be transported to another time and culture where “lively” and “laid back” are the norm. Chef Rene Garcia creates the most mouth-watering Cuban fare in the region and offers the perfect cocktail program to whet your appetite.
Must-order dish: Pan Con Lechon – a traditional Cuban sandwich, of course!
Bonus: One of the BEST brunches in the area! Saturday and Sunday, 11am-3pm.
Location: 637 Williamson Rd Suite 100, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, 11am-8pm.
“We tried Havana 33 for the first time and can’t wait to go back! From start to finish, all high scores. Waitress was helpful and friendly. Atmosphere was very good. Food was outstanding and value was great. We had appetizer, 2 dinners, 2 adult beverages and dessert. We went all out because everything went so well. Highly recommend!”
Leslie H., Google Reviewer
15. Novanta 90 Pizzeria Napoletana (581 Google Reviews)
Novanta 90 Pizzeria Napoletana is one of the rising stars in the Lake Norman area. Founded by the folks that brought Brooklyn-style pizza to Cornelius and Mooresville, Novanta 90 offers a more upscale experience than the average pizza and grinder joint. Located in the heart of LangTree Lake Norman, Novanat 90 Pizzeria Napoletana serves exquisite Italian dishes at affordable prices.
Must-order dish: Meatball Mamma Mia (Pizza Classico)
Location: 120 Langtree Village Dr #102, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-10pm; Sunday, 12pm-9pm.
“Delightful early dinner surprise! We were driving back from along road trip and the desire for pizza hit. Quick, efficient and fast this was a superb pie. We shared a barbecue pizza and a lasagna pizza. Couldn’t get enough of both. Kids had their cheese pizza and they were thrilled by it as well. Would eat here again.”
Mario A., Google Reviewer
16. Blu Star Grill (537 Google Reviews)
Blu Star Grill specializes in American fare – burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood – served in a comfortable environment. As for entrees, Blu Star Grill may have the most unique around. How about Elk Chop Steak? We’ll stick with the sirloin steak tips, thank you very much. There’s also pasta on the menu for good measure.
Must-order dish: Steak Tips
Location: 120-A Marketplace Ave, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 11am-8:15pm.
“After living in the area for 5 years I finally visited Blu Star Grill and believe me I will be back. It’s clean, the staff is great, the owner explains the menu and is very kind. Food is locally sourced when possible. The menu has unique options. We had the special of the day…chicken pot pie…tasted 100% homemade. Each meal comes with a cookie wrapped up to take home if you’d like. Definitely recommend!”
Beth G., Google Reviewer
17. Kabab N Grill (506 Google Reviews)
Kabab N Grill is a Mooresville restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern cuisine. A casual restaurant that’s far from boring, Kabab N Grill will have your taste buds soaring. Owners Adam and Bashar Akardi welcome you and look forward to sharing their heritage with you.
Must-try dish: Beef Kabab Plate
Location: 123 Trade Court, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-8:30pm.
“This is our 2nd time eating here. We ate in the first time and got take out this time. Some of the best Baba ghanoush I’ve ever had. It is a bit slow so be prepared to wait. Everything is soooo fresh and delicious. It is a little hole in the wall place, but you won’t regret eating here. The spices…the aromas…the flavors! Yum!”
Renee J., Google Reviewer
18. Table 31 (376 Google Reviews)
Table 31 is located in the heart of LangTree Lake Norman and serves up exceptional American fare in a casual yet upscale environment. The dining area at Table 31 is sophisticated and cozy, with outdoor patio tables available as well. The bar is roomy with televisions for game-watching and features an extensive wine list.
Must-order dish: Ahi Tuna Steak
Location: 103 Landings Dr, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Monday-Tuesday, 11:30am-9pm; Wednesday-Saturday, 11:30am-9:30pm; Sunday, 11:30am-8pm.
“I was in Mooresville North Carolina for a wedding we had lunch at Table 31 and quite simply the location the decor staff and most importantly the food were all amazing.”
Bill M., Google Reviewer
19. On the Nines Bistro (337 Google Reviews)
On the Nines Bistro is a truly exceptional Mooresville restaurant that deserves a higher spot on this list. They are a relatively new concept, opened in 2018, and are still growing their Google reviews.
On the Nines is led by legendary Chef Steve Jordan. The menu is Chef-driven and features seasonal dishes with fresh locally sourced ingredients. Speaking of legendary: the cocktail program at On the Nines is second to none!
Must-order dish: Anything on the menu!
Location: 205 Golf Course Dr, Mooresville, NC 28115
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 4pm-10pm; Sunday (brunch), 10:30am-2pm.
“Great decor and atmosphere. Some of the greatest service as well. We did a small birthday dinner and was accommodated immensely by the staff. Ashley was amazing! I ordered the shrimp and lobster pasta and the shrimp was actually some of the freshest I’ve tasted! And large! I come from the seafood industry so I know my seafood. We also had the gnocchi which was also incredible. The bread pudding was to die for thank you!.”
JR., Google Reviewer
20. Flock Bistro (147 Google Reviews)
Flock Bistro is another Mooresville gem that deserves a much higher spot on this list. Flock is a relatively new restaurant and thus only has a couple of hundred Google reviews.
But, Flock Bistro is oh so good! Flock serves amazing American fare in a cozy dining room. The team at Flock Bistro leaves no detail to chance and delivers top-notch service for their guests. The menu, led by Chef Nick Catel, is anchored by some marvelous staple dishes, along with daily specials.
The Bar: Do you like bourbon? Flock has one of the best selections in the area!
Must-order dish: Filet (and share a Greek Salad and Lamb Lollipops!)
Location: 129A Marketplace Ave, Mooresville, NC 28117
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 4pm-12am; Sunday, 11am-3pm.
“Great atmosphere, good place to come for drinks! Food is absolutely delicious too!!! They even do Sunday brunch! Highly recommend!”
Joelle S., Google Reviewer
There you have it: the 20 most popular restaurants in Mooresville, North Carolina!
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About the Author:
Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN podcast, blog, YouTube channel, and email newsletter.
When he isn’t working, you can usually find him boating, running local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.
Jeff Hamm
Allen Tate Realtors®
Lake Norman
www.LKNreal.com