a la carte

News, notes, and gossip about the restaurant scene

 

South Charlotte Surplus

South Charlotte's dining growth spurt took off in late July with the arrival of Rullo Di Pasta (12206 Copper Way, 704-543-6226), an Italian café and bakery featuring authentic dishes such as lasagna and handmade biscotti. Just a few days later, P. J. O'Reilly's (16640 Hawfield Way Dr., 704-341-2247) started frying fish and pouring drafts. Next up? The arrival of SAS Cupcakes at Blakeney Crossing (9941 Rea Rd.). The specialty bakery creates unique cupcakes for all occasions from baby showers to beach parties.

Uptown Gets a Rookie

South End's Tavern on the Tracks has reigned as Charlotte's choice Bills bar, but it might find itself on the defensive this football season. The new competition in town is Town Tavern (200 N. Tryon St., 704-334-3324), which plans to bring a little Buffalo spirit to the uptown bar scene.

Fond Farewell

After ten years of Latin-inspired cuisine from restaurateur Stefan Latorre, Latorre's Restaurant closed its doors. But Latorre, who also owns South Tryon's Aquavina, has continued the fiesta next door, where you can salsa and merengue on the weekends at Latorre's Nightclub (116 W. Fifth St., 704-377-4448) in the former location of Hom. Or if salsa isn't your thing, Fiji Sushi Bar & Lounge and Kashmere will be opening soon in the same building as the new nightclub.