Every 2 weeks, we give our reporter $25 to spend at a Charlotte restaurant. What he eats.

Every 2 weeks, reporter Evan Moore spends $25 at a local restaurant, then writes about his experience for CharlotteFive.

His articles highlight dining experiences around Charlotte, exploring diverse eateries without exceeding a $25 budget. Each visit reveals a focus on unique menus and local flair, offering insight into the city’s culinary landscape. The articles aim to provide readers with affordable yet flavorful dining tips.

One article describes a visit to Harvest Artisan Cafe, noting its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Evan thoroughly enjoyed a Thai crunch salad and a Golden Hour smoothie under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Ralph Patrick Fernandez.

The meal left a lasting impression without exceeding $25. Another story recounts his meal at La Lima Sangucheria, introducing readers to bold, Peruvian-inspired sandwiches. The steak sandwich dazzles with its smoky flavor, complimented by a tangy sauce.

He points out the energetic atmosphere, noting how the menu offers good food worth its price. A trip to Harper’s Cafe highlights the writer’s experience with pricier chicken tenders. Despite Evan’s initial skepticism, the Harper’s Signature Chicken Supremes impressed with expertly balanced sauces and macaroni and cheese. Each item was priced to provide value, making the cost bearable given the taste and quality.

Overall, the articles showcase affordable and diverse dining options in Charlotte, encouraging exploration of the city’s emerging culinary spots.

NO. 1: I WENT TO ONE OF HUNTERSVILLE’S NEWEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

The restaurant offers smoothies, acai bowls, salads and more. | Published July 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 2: I TRIED A TRENDY DISH AT A NEW CHARLOTTE RESTAURANT. HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

Fresh decor, flavorful soup and Frank Ocean? Can’t ask for much more than that. | Published July 22, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 3: I TRIED THE FOOD AT CHARLOTTE’S NEWEST ‘LAW FIRM.’ HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

If you’ve driven by the restaurant Bedder Bedder Moore in LoSo, you’ve probably mistaken it for a law firm (or perhaps a mattress store). | Published August 5, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 4: I TRIED FOOD FOR PICKY EATERS AT A NEW CHARLOTTE EATERY. HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

Sixteen dollars for chicken tenders? | Published August 19, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 5: I TRIED THE ‘BEST DOUGHNUTS IN CHARLOTTE.’ HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

I had passed Yummm Donut so many times that the storefront no longer registered, just another blur of cement and plate glass between a T-Mobile and a UPS store.I never stopped. | Published September 2, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 6: CHARLOTTE’S NEWEST BODEGA PASSES THE VIBE CHECK. IS THE FOOD GOOD TOO?

On my way out of Surefire Market, I ran into its owner, Edric Lutuangu, and decided to ask the question that had lingered since I walked in: | Published September 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

NO. 7: I TRIED ONE OF CHARLOTTE’S NEWEST SANDWICH RESTAURANTS. WAS IT WORTH IT?

I arrived at La Lima Sangucheria a few minutes before the doors opened, and already a small line had gathered. | Published September 30, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.