Rainy days are the best days to go to Camp North End, if for no other reason than there aren’t as many people there as when the weather’s nice. This isn’t being anti-social. This is survival.
Survival because, if — like me — you’ve come here to Surefire Market for what is Charlotte’s best fried chicken sandwich, then there aren’t many people there to see you make a mess of yourself.
There is no graceful way to eat this.
The Honey Butta sandwich at Surefire Market is a crispy, hormone-free, hand-breaded chicken breast dipped in luscious homemade honey butter sauce, served on a brioche bun. Evan Moore
The Honey Butta ($12.95), as it’s called, is a big ol’ fat piece of chicken breast that’s been brined and fried crisped and dipped in, well, honey butter. It comes topped with coleslaw, Surefire sauce and sweet heat pickles, all tucked in between a toasted potato roll.
If you’re feeling adventurous — like I rarely do, but on this day, I just went for it — you can ask for the spice level to be ratcheted up a few notches.
There is no graceful way to eat this sandwich, but you can try, of course. The wrapper can be rejiggered into a holder of sorts so that you can keep your hands clean, and there are plenty of napkins available should you need to daintily dab the honey butter away from your lips. But what’s the fun in that?
See, I argue that the lack of gracefulness is the reason the Honey Butta is so … sure fire.
Get your order ready and go for the Honey Butta. Timothy DePeugh CharlotteFive
Take that first bite, and feel it hit hard. Feel yourself seizing like in the mornings, when that first sip of coffee hits. This is what flavor does when flavor is done right: It nudges and tickles and punches you hard sideways across the mouth.
I can think of many more apt metaphors:
“The sweet and heat swirl together like an F5 tornado.”
“Falling into that first bite is like falling from high onto a bed of the sharpest rocks.”
“The sweet flavors and tickling heat carouse together like long lost lovers.”
All wild metaphors, to be sure, but that’s because eating the Honey Butta makes me feel feral.
I grunt after that first bite, close my eyes and hold my breath. In the pause, I feel a bit of coleslaw fall onto my shirt. My fingers are sticky; I lick them and brace myself for another bite. There’s a pickle! And I roar.
The service is great at Surefire Market, and the staff love talking about their sandwiches. Timothy DePeugh CharlotteFive
There’s no telling how many of these sandwiches Surefire sells in a week; even the staff I asked weren’t sure.
“A lot,” is what they said, and they were quick to tell me it’s their second-highest seller behind “The Ogden,” which is a smash burger topped with bacon, cheese and caramelized onions, seasoned with African-inspired spices and covered in “smacked sauce.”
Oof, feral is as feral does, and we’re all the better for it.
Surefire Market is located where Leah & Louise used to be, and that seems apropos. That little corner of Camp North End has, now with this incredible fried chicken sandwich, fashioned itself into a bastion of great food.
Timothy DePeugh is a Charlotte food writer. He has won two NC Press Association Awards for his restaurant reviews and food features. When he’s not writing, he’s living the corporate life as a number cruncher. Tim loves his cat Goma, loves wine, loves Broadway and movies, and is a color guard fanatic. Find him on Instagram @timtimtokyo.
Camp North End, the 76-acre former industrial site turned into a gathering place and gateway to uptown Charlotte, has a new management company and part-owner.
Jamestown, an Atlanta-based real estate investment and management company, entered a joint venture investment with Camp North End’s owners while taking over leadership duties, according to a Thursday news release from Camp North End.
Camp North End developer ATCO Properties & Management will continue being a partner on the development, along with Shorenstein Investment Advisors. ATCO will also continue to own and operate Kinship, a multifamily development that also has ground-floor retail.
The existing on-site team at Camp North End will stay in place, according to the release.
But Jamestown will be at the forefront of moving Camp North End forward. The group will take the lead on asset management, leasing, marketing and development.
Camp North End is one of the largest adaptive reuse projects underway in the U.S., according to developer ATCO Properties & Management. Chase Jordan cjordan@charlotteobserver.com
About the Jamestown management company
Jamestown is considered a national leader in adaptive reuse projects. And the firm is a familiar face in Charlotte and Raleigh. Jamestown is joint owner of Optimist Hall in Charlotte and the mixed-use development Raleigh Iron Works.
Outside of Charlotte, Jamestown is the leader behind other large adaptive reuse projects including Ponce City Market in Atlanta.
Jamestown, an Atlanta-based real estate investment firm, is the new property manager for Camp North End in Charlotte, shown during a holiday market event. Camp North End
About Camp North End
ATCO purchased Camp North End in 2016 for $5.9 million from Eckerd Corp., Mecklenburg County records show. ATCO began renovating the six main buildings and smaller buildings into retail and office space.
Camp North End was a factory site for Ford Motor Co. Model T Cars in 1924. It’s now a gathering spot with restaurants, offices and entertainment. Corine Olarte
Camp North End opened with its first tenants in April 2023 and is one of the largest adaptive reuse projects underway in the U.S., the Observer previously reported.
With more than 75 businesses, it has more than 750,000 square feet of space for offices and local small business owners, the majority minority-owned.
The Camp North End area is part of one of Charlotte’s Corridors of Opportunity initiatives, which support under-invested sections of the city.
Desiree Mathurin covers growth and development for The Charlotte Observer. The native New Yorker returned to the East Coast after covering neighborhood news in Denver at Denverite and Colorado Public Radio. She’s also reported on high school sports at Newsday and southern-regional news for AP. Desiree is exploring Charlotte and the Carolinas, and is looking forward to taking readers along for the ride. Send tips and coffee shop recommendations.
Charlotte businesses stood in support Friday for activists’ calls for a nationwide general strike, urging people not to go to work or school and not to purchase anything in protest against the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigrants with ICE and U.S. Border Patrol raids.
“The entire country is shocked and outraged at the brutal killings of Alex Pretti, Renee Good, Silverio Villegas González, and Keith Porter Jr. by federal agents. While Trump and other right wing politicians are slandering them as ‘terrorists,’ the video evidence makes it clear beyond all doubt: they were gunned down in broad daylight simply for exercising their First Amendment right to protest mass deportation.”
The statement continues: “Every day, ICE, Border Patrol and other enforcers of Trump’s racist agenda are going into our communities to kidnap our neighbors and sow fear. It is time for us to all stand up together in a nationwide shutdown and say enough is enough!”
Alyssa Pressler, owner of That’s Novel Books at Camp North End, is among those speaking out in Charlotte’s business community. She told CharlotteFive that she’s “absolutely horrified by what is going on in the world today. I have been horrified for months.”
She continued, “It’s deeply saddening and concerning, and things do not seem to be getting better. Which is why a day like today can be so important. It lets the people who we’ve elected and are in charge know we are not happy with the way things are going and they need to make some changes or we will make some changes at the polls in November. It also helps let corporations know that we mean business with our money and we will put our money where our beliefs are.”
Alysssa Pressler, owner of That’s Novel Books, is among the business owners in Charlotte taking a stand against anti-immigration actions. Alex Cason CharlotteFive
Many shops didn’t close, saying as small local businesses, they couldn’t withstand the loss or didn’t want to negatively impact employees. Instead, many participated by making donations or taking a stand in some way. Those businesses include:
The Artisan’s Palate remained open Friday but said via Instagram: “We stand with our immigrant neighbors and continue serving with intention and care. And we’re reminded how important it is to support truly local businesses — the ones rooted right here in our community.”
“LESS ICE, more icing,” The Batchmaker shared Friday via Instagram. “It’s personal. It hits close to home. We will not be closing today. It’s not a decision that comes lightly (if you’ve seen my stories the last two weeks you KNOW). BUT I will continue to speak up, and educate, and call my representatives and vote and post. We have these cookies available today and we will donate a portion of those sales to Carolina Migrant Network.”
“LESS ICE, more icing,” The Batchmaker shared Friday, Jan. 30 via Instagram, with a cake decorated with the sentiment. Instagram screengrab
Bird Pizzeria is remaining open Friday, saying: “Today we stand in solidarity with immigrant communities affected by ICE actions and the fear they create.” Its Instagram post continued: “As you many of you already know, BIRD is a women owned/minority owned business, built by people who know that fear firsthand. “For many of us, shutting down isn’t a symbolic choice, it’s a real economic risk to our families, our staff, and our community. “So today we keep building and advocating for dignity, safety, and humanity for immigrants while continuing to provide livelihoods.”
Carolina Scoops is open Friday, although the ice cream shop posted: “I stand in solidarity with those participating in today’s nationwide ice out protest.”
Girl Tribe posted Friday on Instagram that it’s staying open “with purpose,” planning to donate 10% of daily proceeds to a private food pantry drive for a local immigrant community.
“We encourage you to use your voice in whatever way you can,” the message said. “There is no pressure to purchase today, but if you do, know you are helping your community. We love you all and stand in solidarity with you.”
“Closed today for the National General Strike,” Grow CLT’s Friday Instagram post says, “If you have to spend money today, please try to keep it to local businesses + use cash if you can. Together we can force change.”
Grow CLT, a plant shop at Camp North End in Charlotte, was among the businesses that closed nationwide in protest of the Trump administration’s anti-immigration actions. Alex Cason CharlotteFive
Golden Cow is remaining open while standing in support of efforts, sharing via Instagram: “People today across the nation are finding ways to take a stand. In recognition of the nationwide movement, Golden Cow is donating 10% of company-wide revenue today to Refugee Support Services in support of our neighbors in need. But our donation is not enough. If you want to take action please take today to reach out to your Congressional representatives and demand change now.”
Davidson’s Main Street Books is holding a community day Friday with no expectation of purchases, saying via Instagram: “We will be open as a place to gather, create, read, and resist.”
The bookstore also plans a donation to Circle de Luz, whose work in Charlotte supports and empowers young Latinas.
Moxy Mercantile is open Friday, noting the move is “not for profit — but to offer a warm, welcoming space for anyone who needs it.” A portion of any proceeds will be donated to Carolina Migrant Network, its Instagram post says.
“We stand firmly against ICE actions that terrorize immigrant families and destabilize our communities. No one should have to choose between safety and survival. “If you’re able to take action today, use your voice where it counts. Vote. Call your reps. Demand better. 5calls.org makes it easy to contact your North Carolina state representatives in minutes.”
Oh My Ganache is remaining open Friday, saying via Instagram: “Please understand this is not because we don’t stand with the movement it’s because we have a team to support and make sure they are ok as well. “With that being said we still stand to defund ICE but we are choosing to share, donate and contribute in different ways to support! Thank you so much to all that are participating in any way and thank you everyone for your support!”
While remaining open, Park Road Books invited guests in to get warm, or write letters or call congressmen, adding: “Remember, reading is one of the best forms of resistance we have.”
Pet Wants remained open but shared: “We stand in solidarity with all immigrant families and communities who are being impacted. “Solidarity does not look one single way. For us, it means staying open, continuing to support our staff and neighbors, and putting our values into action. “A portion of our proceeds from today and this weekend will go to our Give.Match.Feed program, which donates directly to the Carolina Migrant Network in support of migrant families and community care.”
Pilot Brewing is sharing 15% of sales Friday with Carolina Migrant Network, saying via Instagram that “our values don’t change because our doors are open.”
Premium Sound closed Friday in support of the strike.
“We reject the United States government’s continued funding of ICE, and their racist militarist fascist terrorism of people who live and work in this country and abroad,” a statement on Premium Sound’s Instagram said. “There is no ethical consumption under capitalism, so please consider joining us in starving these bloodthirsty bankers for a day. Don’t spend a dime and if you do, keep it local — keep it cash.”
Seemingly Overzealous is staying open Friday but donating a portion of sales to Refugee Support Services, sharing: “We believe this matters every day, not just today as nationwide protests are happening, but always. “Everyone deserves basic human rights. We stand in frustration and solidarity with those who are having those rights stripped away.”
Seoul Good CLT is staying open Friday and offering free soup for protestors, sharing via Instagram: “We know that participation doesn’t look the same for everyone. Access, safety, and resources vary and all forms of care matter. “While fully closing isn’t financially possible for us, we stand in solidarity with immigrant communities and all those calling for dignity, accountability, and care. “If you’re out protesting and need a moment of rest, warmth, or a small comfort, we’ll be offering free miso soup (In Korea, miso soup is a small comfort and a symbol of survival that brings a sense of ‘home’ and stability, even when you are far away) on Friday.”
While Sip City remains open Friday, it shared its support for efforts via Instagram, saying: “Sending love to all of those that can and are able to strike today and help raise awareness! If we could afford to close I promise we would.”
Soul Miner’s Garden is staying open Friday but standing in support and offering a meal to those in need, sharing via Instagram: “It is no secret that we have morals and values, otherwise this business wouldn’t even exist because let’s face it-vegan means compassion. “We will be open today because we cannot afford to be closed as business is already slow for us this time of year. However, we support everyone peacefully protesting & do not agree with families being torn apart and innocent humans being assassinated and kidnapped,” the message continued.
Summit Coffee is remaining open, saying via Instagram: “10% of our sales are going to Our Bridge for Kids today in recognition of the injustices happening in our communities and across the country. Take care of yourselves, of each other, and of our communities, today and everyday.”
Tacos El Nevado remained open but said it, “takes a stand not only as a business, but as part of the targeted community being harassed by ICE. Not by our legal status, but the color of our skin.” Its message via Instagram continued: “We are a family business and with that, we stand with our immigrant families dealing with the injustices happening all across the country.”
That’s Novel is remaining open as a community gathering space while encouraging participation in the strike.
“We have no expectation of sales or monetary interactions,” its message on Instagram says. “Instead, everyone is welcome to come, get information about how to call your representatives, read (feel free to pull up a chair SBC-style and post up inside the shop), connect and rage.“
“We encourage you to participate in any way that you can — paying in cash, donating, registering to vote, cancelling subscriptions to any corporations supporting ICE, etc.,” it said via Instagram.
Twenty Two West is remaining open Friday, sharing via Instagram: “We will be open as a safe space if you need some connection or artful refuge in these heavy times.”
Its message says: “We stand in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors. In honor of the nationwide shutdown we will be donating 20% of sales to Carolina Migrant Network . They are doing such amazing and important work here in Charlotte to provide free legal service for immigrants. “Today and every day we encourage you to act on your values, make sure you’re registered to vote, and donate if you’re able.”
This story was originally published January 30, 2026 at 10:08 AM.
Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits. Support my work with a digital subscription
Eating well is at the heart of a new restaurant concept coming soon to Charlotte.
Sage & Citrus, a health-forward fast-casual eatery, is getting a food stall at Camp North End’s Keswick District with plans to open in March 2026, according to a news release sent to CharlotteFive.
Founder and chef Darius Johnson is behind the menu of bowls, soups, sandwiches, smoothies and kid-friendly options.
Sage & Citrus, a fast-casual eatery with a health-forward menu, is headed to Camp North End. Sage & Citrus Sage & Citrus
“Sage & Citrus is all about food as medicine, and flavor without compromise,” Johnson, a military veteran, said in the release.
“We wanted to create a space where every meal is designed to energize and nourish, while still tasting amazing,” he continued. “Camp North End is the perfect fit for our vision, creativity, and community-centered approach.”
It’s the latest business to find a home at the sprawling mixed-use development, nestled just northeast of uptown Charlotte. La Bodeguita, a creative wellness space and craft café, recently opened its first brick-and-mortar studio after outgrowing its trailer at Camp North End’s Boileryard District, CharlotteFive previously reported.
At Sage & Citrus, customers can find fresh smoothies alongside meal replacement options. Sage & Citrus Sage & Citrus
Johnson said he plans to collaborate with others in Camp North End’s wellness community. He’s used health-conscious, farm-to-table practices in his work as a personal chef to professional athletes and as the founder of his own catering company, Noelle’s Catering.
Customers can expect more of the same at Sage & Citrus. The menu will feature plant-based options like cauliflower mac and cheese alongside heartier entrees such as short ribs and salmon, according to the release.
Johnson hopes to keep options fresh with rotating monthly specials and seasonal soup offerings, including lobster bisque and cauliflower leek soup. Fresh smoothies are also the menu, along with meal-replacement options and other treats.
Sage & Citrus will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Self-order kiosks will also be available for quick ordering.
“Sage & Citrus is all about food as medicine, and flavor without compromise,” chef and founder Darius Johnson said. Sage & Citrus Sage & Citrus
Tanasia is a service journalism reporter at the Charlotte Observer | CharlotteFive, working remotely from Atlanta, Georgia. She covers restaurant openings/closings in Charlotte and statewide explainers for the NC Service Journalism team. She’s been with McClatchy since 2020.
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