Flavorful and Fun Experience! From the moment we walked in, the hospitality was top-tier. We were greeted warmly, and our waitress was absolutely INCREDIBLE--attentive, friendly, and really made our experience shine. We sat outdoors, and the vibe was just right--warm, welcoming, and perfect for conversation. There were four of us, and we ordered family-style to try a bit of everything. Best decision ever! The 36-hour slow-smoked ribs? Fall-off-the-bone perfection. The shrimp appetizers were fresh and flavorful, and those chicken wings with the radishes--unexpectedly divine. Every dish brought something special to the table. Culinary Dropout nailed it on all fronts--ambiance, service, and food. 10/10 -- we'll definitely be back! read more

See all

In Charlotte for a conference and when I found that there was a Culinary Dropout nearby, it was on my definite dinner list. I went to the restaurant in Dallas and it was delicious; and this one also was great. From the front door, the hostess was welcoming and got us seated quickly. The waiter was very nice. And we enjoyed a great dinner & drinks. I had the Little Mez Daisy (its a mezcal cocktail, but not as smoky as some) and the marcona almonds (b/c these things are so yummy) to start. Had the roasted salmon and brussel sprouts as my meal. Both were more than enough (I was greedy and ate all my salmon b/c I couldn't take it with me, but if I was home, some definitely would've gone home with me.) The brussel sprouts is cooked with gochujang, so they have a spicy kick and now I have to cook my brussel sprouts this way. My friend had the vegan curry and said it was also very good. Its a modern cool restaurant, and really big. There was a mini-stage, I think they have live music, so that seems like it would be fun. And we walked there and I was so hungry, so no pics! LOL (I know - big Yelp review faux pas!) Yes - definitely on my must-stop restaurants if I get to any other cities where they are. read more

36-Hour Pork Ribs (5/5): These were so good! I really enjoyed the sweet, sticky glaze. The meat was also very tender and fell right off the bone. The jalapenos didn't really add any noticeable spiciness though which was a bummer.  Fried Chicken (4/5): Nice, crunchy outside with juicy meat inside. There was a hint of sugar in the batter which I enjoyed, but the chicken could've been a little more well seasoned. The mashed potatoes (2/5) were chunky and not great. I would try to sub for fries next time. The biscuit (2/5) was doughy and a bit dry, not sure if I could have asked for honey or butter to go with it. The coleslaw (3/5) was creamy and sweet. I thought it was decent.  *The service was VERY slow (Sunday late afternoon) RATING SYSTEM 5 - Great (Need to get this again) 4 - Good (Would get this again) 3 - Ok (Might give this another shot) 2 - Not Good (Won't get this again) 1 - Bad (Telling people to avoid this) read more

Culinary Dropout - Fried Chicken - New American Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Waiter was on his job, he helped us with our first visit Parking is validated at the vantage fyi read more

See all

Culinary Dropout offers unique and flavorsome cocktails and dishes, plus a fun and cozy atmosphere. My friend and I sat at the bar on a weeknight and it wasn't extremely busy but I can see that it likely gets packed. We each ordered a cocktail - Giddy Up Espresso Martini and Campfire Vibes. We both agreed that the Espresso Martini was one of the top 3 we have ever had. Outstanding! The Campfire Vibes was also tasty and very fall-like. I also had a Full Moon Party which was dangerously good and refreshing. We split the Spicy Shrimp Crispy Rice and loved it! Extremely flavorful and a nice portion (you get 4). I would love to come back and try more options. Definitely a must when in the area! read more

See all

Bright, Airy, Welcoming, Party vibes. Bar with TVs, Good music, energetic staff, outdoor patio seating, outdoor convo seating with corn hole. Located near North Italia and Stir. Stopped in for lunch and we were pleasantly greeted by Lauren our waitress. She broke the menu down easily and made great recommendations from start to finish. Got our thirst quenched with the Juicy Watermelon Spritz. Appetized with the Crispy Popcorn Shrimp dish. Entrees were the Crispy Chicken Katsu Sandwich and the Peking Duck & Shrimp Fried Rice. Everything was tasty. Definitely on my list to come back and try other menu selections. read more

See all

I've come here several times wanting to like it due to a great location and atmosphere, but every time, the same issues occur. First, the service is slow. Each time I've went it hasn't been exceptionally busy but it took 15+ minutes to get water and soft drinks to the table. I'm totally understanding in a rush to expect a wait, but this was not the case during any of my visits. Second, they have been out of pizza every time that I've been there. This last time I was told they were out of pizza and proceeded to watch 6 pizzas be walked past my table. I asked my server what I need to do for pizza to be available and she said to "come when it's not busy". read more

There was no service at all my family was ignored and we left. Was hoping for great service.

Some friends invited me here for a ladies brunch and although I wasn't looking forward to going back, I'm so glad I did. I've never been for brunch, and our server had great things to say about the drinks, including some new summer items, and the food. I started off with the endless summer margarita, which sounded refreshing with watermelon and lime. It was very good, and had just the right amount of alcohol. For my entrée I went with the sausage, bacon and egg pizza. I was torn between that and the hash, but I think I made the right choice. The pizza was amazing! The crust was crispy, but soft. I love that it had arugula, melted cheese, sausage, bacon, and a runny egg. It was really good, and although it didn't look like a big portion, I only ate half and was pretty full. The restaurant was not very full when we were there, but I honestly think that worked in our favor, because we had great service and we did not have to compete with a lot of other guests. I look forward to returning again and giving Culinary Dropout another try; this time around, my experience around was reminiscent of my first visit to the Denver location. read more

See all

Service is good, chicken tenders were great. Nachos were underwhelming, just bland. The steak frites were ok, Brussels good. Give it a try if you've never been. read more

Food, atmosphere, location and service always keep me coming back! I've never had a bad time at Culinary Dropout.

The location is great .. right in the middle of downtown. Parking right next door with two hours free with validation. The restaurant is large with seating at the bar, table tops, booths, and tables. They can fit large groups as well. The menu was varied, so everyone should be able to find something to their liking. We tried the pretzel with cheese fondue. Wow, it was large enough for a table of 3-4. Entrees were the prime rib sandwich and the pub burger. Loved both! The hamburger was done on a grill .. had the deep smoke flavor. I subbed a salad for fries. The old fashion was made perfectly. My only negative of the night was the spa water. It was like I was eating fresh cilantro. It had no tequila, pineapple, or jalapeño flavor. The service was nice and helpful. read more

See all

We were in Charlotte just for a night so we had to try a new restaurant!! Once you walk in you can feel the mood with the dim lights and candle top tables. Our gave some great recommendations and was very attentive! Food was good overall my fav were the wings and the Steak! Pretzel balls i expected to be more soft but they had bit of a crunch. Would definitely visit again! They have a nice patio that is lit up w lights would be perfect during warmer weather. read more

See all

Pretty good brunch spot. The service was prompt. I got the Fried Chicken and Buttermilk biscuit brunch option and it was very good. A touch on the pricier side but still good eats read more

My friend is in town visiting and is staying downtown. I figured what better time to try this place out than now! We arrived at about 1:45 in the afternoon, and we were seated immediately upon arriving to a really cute booth. The ambiance was nice, very aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Our waitress was super nice, I hate that I forgot her name. I ordered a cocktail called "The Evil jungle princess" 10/10 - This drink was delightful. Rum blend with spiced orgeat, pineapple, guava, lime, and a pineapple rum float. It was amazing. My friend ordered a cocktail called "Deviant Behavoir." She said it was just okay. We had onion rings, deviled eggs, and nachos for appetizers 10/10 - Everything was absolutely delicious! I really enjoyed the onion rings with their bacon jam, and the pulled pork nachos were so good! My friend ordered the salmon with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. She really enjoyed everything, which was a surprise, because she's a picky eater! I had the 36-hour pork ribs and decided on mashed potatoes with green beans as my sides instead of fries and coleslaw. 8/10 - Everything was delightful. My mashed potatoes were amazing, and the green beans had just the right crunch and lightly seasoned. However, the ribs were a bit salty. I was barely able to finish them. The hype about this place has def been cosigned by me. Everything was fresh, yummy, and beautifully presented. I can't wait to come back and try some other things on the menu! read more

See all

Restaurant week is not available during the hours posted on the website. Sunday is only after 3pm. The only reason we went is for restaurant week and found this disappointing. Food was ok and the monkey bread was the best part of the brunch. Probably wouldn't go back. read more

Placed an online order for a single dish that was estimated to take 20 min. I waited in the restaurant for 40 min before I asked for a manager. I got some excuse about how their system was "glitching." They ended up refunding me the meal. I get things happen, but the communication was awful. Waited over an hour. read more

I've been here twice for dinner and once for lunch with my friends, and each time, it's been good. I have had the salads, the appetizers, the sandwiches and several of the entrees. My favorites are the sliced charcuterie board, soft pretzels and fondue, chicken sandwich and Korean ribeye cap. The execution is spot on, and the portions are ample. The drinks are always delicious. I've tried several of the cocktails and have loved them all. The other thing that shines here is the service. The service and commitment to quality are consistent from the front to the back of the house. On our last visit, it was frigid outside. Their entrance that opens into the dining area , which is typically closed, was open. As a result, cold air kept wafting in. We asked to be moved but didn't want to leave our waitress section because she was so awesome. The manager accommodated us quickly, making for a much more comfortable experience. Overall, it was always a wonderful experience, and I'd highly recommend them. read more

I am so impressed with Culinary Dropout - the menu had so many options. The chopped chicken salad was seriously the best salad I've had in charlotte - sooooo good wow. The food did take some time, but the server notified us before ordering that it would be awhile which was helpful. We were able to sit outside and there was plenty of space and a TV playing the basketball games. I also got monkey bread for free for celebrating a birthday. Would recommend!!! read more

See all

My wife and I went to try this place out on a Thursday night during Restaurant Week. The place was pretty full but we had a reservation, arrived 30 minutes early and got seated in a few minutes. We had the pretzel bites, Asian crunch salad, fried chicken, pasta bolognese, mud pie and monkey bread. With the restaurant being so busy, initial delivery of food was slow, but that was understandable, and we weren't starving or in a rush. The pretzel bites with cheese sauce was delicious. The Asian crunch salad was nice and fresh but the dressing was VERY tart. Unfortunately, the fried chicken was dry and over fried with a brown - not golden - batter and it didn't seem to have any honey drizzle. The pasta was a tad over cooked and the sauce was watery/runny. The desserts were good. However, as we were still eating our entrees, the waiter came by and left two to go boxes in case we needed it...then before we were done with our entrees our desserts arrived! What the heck! So, this ending service was off putting! Also, some of the waitstaff were delivering drinks, apps and an entree to us that we didn't order...it was for another table nearby. Honestly, not sure I'd go back for a 2nd chance given our initial experience with food and service. read more

The quality of food here was immaculate and I was so surprised how good they made brussel sprouts with gochujiang! We went there for a wedding rehearsal dinner and the drinks and food were all so delicious. I would definitely eat here again for the quality and the atmosphere. read more

We were so impressed with Culinary Dropout! Parking is easy with the Lending Tree parking deck connected. I would describe the vibe as upscale sports bar/restaurant - we were all very comfortable there! The servers are nice and helpful with the menu as it has a large variety. Things we tried: - Salad with chicken was good - sweeter than i typically like but my husband loved it - Detroit style pizza is SO GOOD - meat and cheese board with substantial bread! - meatloaf (not pictured) was incredible!! I went twice in two weeks and already looking forward to going back! read more

See all

I had high hopes for dinner at Culinary Dropout in Charlotte as I have been to a couple other locations before. I would say 3.5 would be a good rating for this location but that's not an option and I just couldn't do a 4. Service was slow for starters and the food was good but not over the top. We started with the pretzels and cheese as well a charcuterie board. The house salad was very small and basic. May have not been a good representation of this location I will give it another try as I have had good experiences at other locations read more

Culinary Dropout - Pretzels and cheese - New American Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

See all

went for the first time Saturday service was excellent. Food was good. Drinks were good. Prices were reasonable the whole vibe ambience. Everything was great highly recommend. read more

Such a cool brunch spot! It's kind of industrial inside and always has great music - lively. The fried chicken was delicious! They're open pretty late too! read more

The food was DELICIOUS! The ambience is fabulous. The restaurant name ...intriguing I'm from ATL...and a foodie lover. I love locating new restaurants to try...now that I'm in Charlotte a lot these days ... I had Googled and landed on this location I saw on Yelp and ordered the BLACK TRUFFLE MUSHROOM PIZZA today ....Yum!! My boyfriend had the ASIAN CRUNCH SALAD. Tasted his dish and it too was Yum! Very nice waitstaff. Our waitress was real down to earth! She made the first time experience worth it We will be definitely coming back soon! read more

Culinary Dropout - Asian Crunch Salad with Salmon... delicious! - New American Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

See all

I ended up going to Culinary Dropout and going to restaurant week at the same time. This place has been on my list since they opened and the service and food didn't disappoint. I highly recommend the whipped feta & Tahini dip..it was the best thing I had this year yet. I also had the chick pasta and it needed a bit more seasoning but it was good. The dessert came to the table very late, I had the caramelized banana bar and was kinda disappointed. This place definitely has a vibe and it's a good one. This will be a great summer hang put space. read more

See all

Staff was great, cool looking big restaurant, food is mediocre. Drinks were extremely sweet. Heavy over fry on fish n chips. Steak had a good flavor but $40 and no side was disappointing. It's truly bar food. read more

Culinary Dropout - New American Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

See all

Well, this establishment (if you can even call it that)... certainly lives up to the "dropout" name. My friends and I traveled here after a traumatizing work week, looking to find quality nourishment to reinvigorate our souls. As we entered, we were seated... and that was it... no server came, no nothing! It seems they quite literally DROPPED OUT. I was happy to take my business elsewhere as failure to serve hungry guests is inexcusable. read more

Love the name. Instantly had to try their spot. Ordered their Chopped Chicken Salad, House Chips, & Hot Wings. First off. Chopped chicken Salad has everything you need. Your protein and veggies with tons of the good fats; Avacado, eggs, and a devils egg. Definitely worth your value and their bacon was surprisingly crispy! The chips was addicting. Oh man their dip sauce has that fatty goodness to it. Made it addicting. Practically dip anything with it! Chips was fried up perfectly. Not soggy nor drenched in oil. Chef knows what he's doing. As for the chicken wings. Flavor was on point! Was a bit overdone. Although the flavors had a good kick to it. It didn't help that it came out dry. BUT, I had their dip from the chips and it just fixes things you know? Overall, it was simple and easy and it got it's job done! Will definitely order from here again! read more

See all

Loved the setting of the restaurant, great staff! The food was pretty basic nothing insanely good to make me want to come back often.

The 36-hour pork ribs were incredibly tender and fell right off the bone. I really enjoyed the relaxed vibe and great service during my visit. read more

We were out last night and said let's try Cullnary Dropout one more time. We go and order drinks and it was very busy and that was ok our server was nice and efficient but as soon as we started ordering we experienced the same thing as last time and that's not having anything on the menu we wanted to order. No short rib no Korean steak!! Same experience I can't give anything great because each time we have went to this restaurant the same exact thing. Love the way the restaurant looks very easy on the eyes but I don't think we will go back unless we call ahead of time to make sure they have menu items. read more

I was in Charlotte office and just finish teaching one class and I had 1.5 to spare so I decided to take a leisurely stroll to the south end to try out Culinary Dropout. I decided to start with a house salad and for an entree, I ordered the fried chicken with mash potatoes and gravy. Looking forward to a good lunch before my 2pm class. Salad was not your ordinary house salad. It was a small bowl packed with lettuce, cucumber and fancy carrots with Parmesan and ranch dressing. I like that they toss the salad to spread out the dressing and cheese rather than serving the dressing on top or on the side. Good start! Waiting patiently for the fried chicken and mash potatoes..... I have to say, in this large crowded restaurant, I the bar tender has the most customers by far and has assisted the dining room and provided all the drinks my herself! She is a rockstar! The fried chicken was a huge portion; leg, thigh and a breast. It came with mash potatoes and gravy and cole slaw. The mash potatoes and gravy were very tasty but were less than a generous as compared to the overwhelming portion of fried chicken. I would have liked to have ample potatoes/gravy to eat with both the chicken and biscuit. Other than the portion size of the potatoes and gravy, great lunch. I ended up taking the chicken breast and biscuit to go. I really like the atmosphere, the curve booth seating and the layout of the bar area. I can see why this place is a hit! I will plan a dinner with my wife now that gave it a go solo. read more

See all

Oh my goodness. What took me so long to eat here?Mongolian short ribs were beyond amazing. Shout out to the server at the bar who recommended them over the salmon. Thank you so much. Vibe was really nice. I could see hanging/eating here often. read more

See all

The place is beautifully steam punk decor but the bathroom doors don't close and the toilet seat not completely attached???? Then the food the cheese was plain, plain, and plain the pretzels need salt and butter. The steak frites were well seasoned served with soaked soggy fries and a lemon vinaigrette arugula salad seasoned beautifully. The staff was obsessed with itself, childish read more

See all

Pretty good ! Great experience! I was with a group. Not everyone was satisfied. Some of the fried food was a little greasy. read more

See all

Updated Review (11/10/23) Ok, do I had to come back and update my review after coming back. Visit was PHENOMENAL!! After my first visit here wasn't so great, I was invited back for a second chance...hoping to live up to my original AWESOME experience at the Denver, CO location. Not only was it a phenomenal experience...it went above and beyond phenomenal! I was greeted by the hostesses with smiles! Then, after sitting down at my table, I was greeted by an amazing server (Kat was beyond great!) and given amazing treatment! Kat had excellent recommendations for all menu items, perfect suggestions and her personality was great! Even others at the restaurant checked on me, my food and drink. It was an amazing experience! For starters, I had the brussels (GET THEM!!!) and crusty bread. For my meal, I had the Korean Ribeye (amazing) with a side ceaser salad. For dessert, Monkey Bread. OMG! It was indescribable!! I want to thank the amazing Manager, Maura, for being super attentive and making sure the customers' experience is top notch! Can't wait to come back again....and again and again! #monkeybread LOL! 5-star review for a 5-star restaurant! IG: @JBEATZCLT read more

See all

Culinary Dropout is a fun spot in South End to grab a bite to eat. They offer brunch, lunch, & dinner. I've only been for brunch and have had great experiences! For starters, the restaurant is HUGE! This doesn't mean they aren't packed during weekend brunch though! The food is super good. The breakfast burrito is delicious and has a cheese sauce on top that is amazing! The wagyu pics in a blanket were yummy as well. The gravy on the chicken biscuit has an interesting southern twang to it, not like your normal sausage gravy. We did have issues with slow service and the waitress forgetting things, but it was a slam packed morning. I would definitely return to Culinary Dropout! read more

See all

Me and my wife's first time in Charlotte and we decided to try this place out. It was the best choice to make. Even though we didn't make a reservation, because we didn't know, they were able to squeeze us in. We were so grateful. They have the nicest staff. And the food was top quality food. My wife loved her steak and I loved my pizza. Both were cook at top quality. I recommend this restaurant to everyone read more

Culinary Dropout - Steak Frites* - New American Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina