I have been here multiple times for dinner but this was my first time for lunch and I was thoroughly impressed. Why? Not the food because that speaks for itself and is always amazing. It was because so the lunch portions are half the size of the dinner portions I was still able to get a pork chop with two sides for $8.69! Unbelievable! I already told my wife that we need to go there for lunch next week. Nonetheless, the food is just simply amazing and the staff is so friendly; especially Mrs Freshwater herself. She always makes you feel right at home. Upon entry you're always greeted with a warm welcoming smile and one of the best cornbread muffins you'll ever have! Are always hot and fresh from the oven. I was there with a group celebrating a birthday for one of my coworkers and though the restaurant had quite a few other patrons (which was unexpected given that is off the beaten path) there was no shortage of good service. Though it's not right in the middle of Uptown I guess it is not that unexpected to see a lot of people there since the food is so great and authentic. We were a group of about eight so there were several different orders but everyone seemed to love their meals. I had the pork chop (which is prepared either fried or grilled with onions and peppers) and my sides were cabbage and sweet potatoes. Both were really good. As a matter of fact every single side that I have had there has been awesome. As a side note (pun intended), they offer a platter of sides as a vegetarian option. Other people in my group got crab cakes, ribs, and chicken breast with several different side options. The crab cakes are all Meats with no fillers so I'm excited to try them next time I go. read more

Freshwaters - Man these cornbread muffins come out so warm! Makes me all tingly inside! - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Being a New Orleans boy I just had to try it. There interesting thing is they don't cook with pork which for me is usually a deal killer. But I was in a generous mood so I decided to take them up on that and Was pleasantly surprised. I ordered the jambalaya and it was excellent. All the vegetables are fresh and they have pretty good corn muffins. I put a bug in the ear of the chef and maybe next time they will have French bread. This is a nice, cozy and comfy restaurant tucked away in the 4th Ward. read more

Freshwaters - Back dinning room - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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I dug in before I got to take a pic of the food while it was still pretty, but that lets you know I enjoyed it! I love NOLA cuisine and this was definitely on par. Portion was perfect for lunch size and the greens were so yummy! A friend of mine got blackened catfish and said it was delicious as well. Will definitely go back! read more

Freshwaters - Shrimp Etouffee Lunch - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Abysmally bad. Went on Father's Day. No appetizers. No lemonade. No desserts. After an hour wait after ordering our food, we left. This place is craptacular. Avoid and go elsewhere where they value your time. read more

Wonderful staff, owner and atmosphere. Food is excellent! I recommend going to this restaurant if your in charlotte

We have been in the city for over 7 years and never noticed this place. 4 of us went without any expectations. They take temperatures at door. They have cornbread muffins while you wait. We didn't like them at all. However, the food is wonderful. I had beef ribs with barbecue sauce, collards and Mac & cheese. The beef ribs were very meaty. My sister had beef ribs in gravy with cabbage. She was pleased as well. My husband had pork chops and my brother had the chicken wings. The staff was pleasant and attentive. I definitely recommend Freshwaters! read more

This place is not really good..i gave it a try because the reviews but it's not worth coming back, I felt bad for the waitress with locs because she was the only one running food. The best side in my opinion was the potato salad read more

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Very good food,very reasonably priced and good service! The food always taste fresh and a good selection!

Hidden Gem!! The food was SO good. We ordered the short ribs, rice and gravy, Mac and cheese and string beans. We ate it all!! Everything eats seasoned and flavored perfectly. The shorts ribs were so tender. The service and hospitality were great. read more

Yesterday was the first time I had eaten at this restaurant. The food was excellent. The owner and her husband were the only 2 working and I was very impressed with the quality of the food and the portion sizes. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for some excellent food. This is a 5 star establishment. read more

I forgot to review this place ! I went 2 years ago when my family came to visit . The owner is rude and had a bad attitude . I felt bad for our waitress. She was nice, friendly and personable... too bad she has a boss who treated her so unkind . The owner also made remarks about my aunt. I had mentioned to her how I came across her restaurant in an article about black owned restaurants in Charlotte and in such a snappy tone she said "I don't do advertising." Never once did I suggest that she did . I was excited to take my family to the restaurant. I didn't care if she doesn't have to advertise. The food wasn't worth me ever returning. read more

How did I just find this place? I drove past it for months and just ate lunch there for the first time. We were greeted by the owner Mrs Freshwater, she told us about the desserts first, and welcomed us. I ordered the New Orleans seafood, Mac and cheese and collards. I was not disappointed! The fish was extremely fresh, well seasoned and a nice portion for lunch. The Mac and cheese has the perfect combo of cheeses. The collards were very well seasoned and cooked with turkey. I will definitely visit again and tell all of my friends about it!! read more

Freshwaters - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I love this restaurant and every date I've ever had take me here also loves it. First the service is excellent. If the owner is on site during your visit, she personally greets you at your table and welcomes you. The servers are friendly, efficient, professional and knowledgeable. They are always accommodating with their hours. We've arrived 15 minutes before closing and they still seated us without making us feel rushed. Then there's the food. I am trying to try taste each meal and so far nothing has disappointed me. The place is inviting and romantic and a perfect date night venue. read more

This food is soooooo delicious! I don't think I've EVER eaten a bad dish there so far. The cornbread sucks. But who cares about that? The only reason they don't get 5 stars is cause they're super expensive. I spent $26 for a salmon platter and a slice of cake. I think most of their dishes are between $18-$20. I mean I've had similar food at soulfood spots for like $5 on avg less. It obviously hasn't kept me away but still...i go there when i dont mind chuckin up $22-25. read more

The food is really good to say there's only one man in. the kitchen. To say it's a small black business they (the owner) sure don't act like it. The booth literally fell off the wall as i tried to sit. The tables were sticky when we initially sat. Customer service is just awful the owner is just flat out nasty and rude. When my water pitcher was filled the employee grabbed it around the rim causing their bare hands to be in the water. The wait time is atrocious. There's no real seating so everyone is packed like sardines when you walk in. Took over an hour to even order the food after being seated. However the waitress with the locs was attentive and amazing. read more

I love Cajun/Creole style food, I was expecting the food to be great but it was better. No need to add any salt or hot sauce here. I had the Catfish etouffee and it was delicious!!!!!!! The service was awesome. I'm definitely coming back to Freshwaters. Great location, great atmosphere Looking forward to trying the jambalaya If I could give them 6 stars I would read more

Freshwaters - Catfish etouffe - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

A couple years ago Sharon and Cliff Freshwater moved from NJ to Charlotte to offer their spin on Cajun/Southern cuisine. They went into the location where Simmon's used to be (a divey soul food joint in 4th Ward that closed around 2010). They have done a great job remodeling and bringing it up to standards. I liked the ambience (great jazz spinning on the CD), which may be better suited for evening dining than my lunch grab on a busy day. Sharon waited on me at the bar and filled me in on their vision, Cliff's training with Paul Prudhomme, and being raised in East Carolina. 'Nuff said. Chef Cliff cooked up a great grilled catfish with his special brown sauce (think etfouffee with its deep tones and rich flavors). Mmmm. I should have ordered a double! The collards, however, let me down which I thought needed an extra day simmering with smoked pigs feet and hot sauce getting all happy with the greens. Mac-n-cheese was a good riff on a Southern classic. I think Freshwater's is a needed restaurant in this sector. They are trying to put a more upscale spin on what is typically diving joints near industrial centers. I say, "Give 'em a Whirl!" read more

Our party totally enjoyed the food selections and appreciated the seating arrangement provided by the proprietors on Sunday afternoon.

A group of us came the day they first opened (I wasn't yelp savvy back then) and we were amazed at the food. Everything was extremely good! I was so happy to see that they are still open and doing well. I ordered the fried shrimp as an appetizer and garlic chicken as the entree. The shrimp was crunchy, hot and delicious. The cornbread muffin that came with it, not so much. Then my entree arrived. It was shrimp (again)... I got my waitress' attention to let her know I ordered chicken. She was nice, said I could keep the shrimp (which she did end up coming back to get) as she ordered the chicken but not without subtly implying that I did order the shrimp (as in to suggest that the mistake was mine and not hers). I felt prompted to gently correct her by informing her that I know I didn't order shrimp because I only like battered shrimp which is only offered as an appetizer. As a result I ended up waiting an inordinate amount of time for 4 small bites of chicken. But overall, the sides were good and I will be back again. read more

Giving 2 stars for the ambiance. Waitress was an older woman warm inviting and friendly. Unlike the other woman playing the hostess. Possibly the owner. Wayyy to cocky to be serving food below standards. My dog wouldn't eat it. The fish and shrimp were ok. Vegetables (string beans and collards) were heavily salted. Couldn't even finish it. Straight to the trash. Save your money. Not worth a penny!!! read more

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A charming Cajun restaurant tucked away in Charlotte. I stopped by in the evening while waiting for a flight and was pleasantly surprised by the food, atmosphere, and staff. The entire staff were the definition of Southern kindness and hospitality (I'm a native Southerner) and the meal was fantastic. I had the Blackened Salmon, which I highly recommend. Will definitely stop by again the next time I'm in town. Thanks for dinner! read more

This place is a MUST GO And when you do get there, order the Phyllis seafood platter! When I walked in I noticed pictures with multiple celebrities like Denzel Washington and Bill Clinton. I know why they decided to come to Freshwaters-because the service and food is straight fire. Portions are big so come hungry. Maybe ask for a to-go box in advance read more

Freshwaters - Fried catfish/crab cake/shrimp Mac n cheese & rice + gravy - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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The food is amazing. Mrs. Freshwater is so pleasant. If you're looking for fresh/hot food, great ambiance and excellent customer service try Freshwater's . read more

Great intimate atomsphere. My food was hot and always seasoned good. Our waitress Phyllis was very pleasant and attentive.. The sounds of smooth soft jazz playing in the background. I love this place. The manager/owner Mrs. Sharon Freshwater stop by to speak to us, checked on us and ask for any feedback. (that was awesome). I appreciate that.. Will return.. Go check them out you wint be disappointed. read more

Freshwaters - Mrs.Freshwater Blackon Salmon w/candie yams and collard greens - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I've only visited Freshwaters one time which I am willing to give it another try because the food was so good. However, at this time I am going to have to rate it a 3 as we literally waited more than a hour for our food (about 1.5hrs). We were advised there was only one cook in the kitchen, which yes only one person can do so much, but for a Saturday night that is unacceptable. There wasn't an explanation regarding if someone called out or if that was the norm. I do want to give credit to the waitress and bartender who were so friendly and accommodating in the meantime. I plan to try again in the near future and will provide an update at that time. read more

FRESHWATER'Sis a must-make Charlotte culinary destination. The food is, simply put, soul satisfyingly delicious. The proud owners (Mr. Clifton & Mrs. Sharon Freshwater) are certain to make you feel more like you are coming home to enjoy your favorite meal rather than going somewhere to eat out. The classy atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and well-appointed. There is a touch of tastefulness in the ambiance which foretells that you are about to be in for one of the best meals of your entire life--no hyperbole here! The chef, Mr. Clifton Freshwater, is definitely worthy of receiving a distinguished James Beard Award! He is not just a good chef, he is a talented culinary artisan in the kitchen. Mr. & Mrs. Freshwater greeted us with such a warmhearted, downhome demeanor, and friendly familiarity, that we lingered long after we were done dining. It was good to meet this personally charming and professionally talented couple. Just getting to meet them is well worth the visit. However, we went to FRESHWATER'S for the food...and everyone at our table was well beyond being super-satisfied when we left. I recommend these items, because they are what I ordered: Appetizers - Shrimp Cocktail, Catfish Strips. Entrees - Beef Spare Ribs (barbecued). Sides - Mac&Cheese, Collard Greens. Bread - Cornbread Muffins Dessert - Peach Cobbler w/Vanilla Ice Cream. I would be remiss not to mention the total awesomeness of our server, "Mis Beverly", she was equally as wonderful as was the meal; and was a treasured addition to an already priceless dining experience. Much more can be said, but no less should be said, if the purpose of this review is to give an honest report to those who may be considering paying patron to this specific place of business. My simplest summation is this: EVERY MENU SELECTION, EVERYONE, and EVERYTHING, at FRESHWATER'S, is sure to exceed your highest dining expectation!!! Thank You very much Mr. & Mrs. Freshwater and Miss Beverly! This was my first visit, but you have made FRESHWATER'S one of my favorite Charlotte dining destinations. Appreciatively, Dr. James R. Samuel read more

phenomenal customer service!! Food cooked to perfection! awesome atmosphere!! I would highly recommend to anyone in the area.

In town for a family reunion and discovered this little gem. The sides were fantastic. We had the collard greens, string beans, candied yams, and Mac n cheese. Almost didn't get the last item as the picture here made it look like cheese sauce and not baked cheese. Ignore photo and order. Lest we forget the mains. Catfish etoufe was flavorful but mild for my taste. Nothing a little hot sauce didn't fix! The jambalaya was both sweet and spicy and made with turkey sausage. Sides were made with turkey meat as well. That is what made this place for our family. The dishes were accessible for the many non pork eaters. Didn't earn the fifth star because there was a problem splitting the bill at the end across two credit cards. Instead of splitting down the middle as requested, for some reason they had to split the dishes across two checks. One ended up $20 more than the other. Not until we inquired were we informed. Additionally, it appears my relative was charged twice. Reaching out today to rectify. Will update post. read more

The food was amazing! The service was amazing! The food portion was amazing! Absolutely loved it. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to eat inside due to this dang virus but I can't wait until that day comes. Walking from the outside in to the restaurant my jaw dropped. The plaza that the restaurant is in looks very run down but as soon as you walk inside it's a complete scenery change. The inside of the restaurant was extremely nice and professional. The owner of the restaurant was all dressed up like it was a regular non-coronavirus business day. I ordered the Cajun chicken with mac and canned yams, and a coconut cake for dessert. The mac was nice and cheesy. The canned yams were not overly sweet. Lastly, the Cajun chicken breast was flavorful and you get a whole breast!!! My boyfriend ate all of the coconut cake so I can't tell you how that tasted LOL..must've been good though read more

The food was the best soul food I've had since I moved to Charlotte. I ordered the salmon grilled, candied yams and cabbage yummy.

I have not had such great Cajun in longer than I can remember. The jambalaya and gumbo are absolutely incredible! Just as good for dessert is the chefs bread pudding he recommend to have mixed with peach cobbler. Wow! If I wasn't training for a marathon I'd eat that everyday. The location is not in a super busy area but it is a quaint and cozy place. The staff is very hospitable as well. I wish they would open up shop in Winston-Salem but if not I'll just have to keep making the trip down for that flavorful southern food. Thank you Freshwater for the experience and making my road trip home from ATL end with a full belly and smiles! read more

Freshwaters - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Really delicious, great atmosphere, attentive, friendly owner cares about her restaurant. Was super quiet inside. Staff is super friendly And helpful. I suggest the seafood platter or crawfish etouffee. I don't suggest the pecan crusted catfish, tastes like saw dust, sorry. The crab cake has shredded crab. Sides are really delicious. read more

Freshwaters - Seafood Platter - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Great food, great service, and class. It's a place where you and the family can come and enjoy eachothers impact in a family style atmosphere read more

This place is amazing. The food is to die for. The wait staff are friendly and very accommodating. Whenever you are in the area if you don't stop in you will be doing yourself a disservice. The live jazz on Friday nights are phenomenal. This is a nice intimate setting. I thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance. read more

Freshwaters - Riib St. Louis Ribs Dinner - Southern Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

The food was amazing, but definitely not worth the excessive wait times & horrible service. I arrived around 2:45 with my sister and we weren't seated until after 3:30. Our waitress took our order and we never saw her again. We had to ask the hostess for refills and an update on our food. A table of 5 that was seated after our table of two was served before us, and we still had to wait another 20 minutes after that. We were seated by the window and the curtains and windows had dust and film covering them. The owner/manager was walking around making it known she was in charge, but not in a good way. Checking out was also a drag. It took forever to get a bill and we didn't leave until 5:30. 0/10 Would NOT Recommended! read more

I finally made it to Freshwaters. The crabcake was great, a perfect lunch. I cant wait to go for jazz on a Friday night. read more

This restaurant had a live sax player. He was playing covers of music the food was New Orleans cuisine. The staff was friendly. We went during a busy Friday night so the wait for the food was a little long. But the food was great and flavorful. read more

Always great food. Was a little upset they didn't have the fried bbq chicken. Everyone enjoyed our meal and we miss them in NJ.

Smh... what a terrible experience! We arrived for a birthday dinner, however, we had no place setting, no silver ware, no inquiry into drink orders, and not a care from the staff or owner for over an HOUR! While listening to the excuses from the waitresses and the chatter amongst other diners, Freshwaters was short staffed. Communication of that circumstance from the owner would have made a world of difference. The FOOD: Mac n cheese- from a box. Gross. Crab cakes- Meh. Underwhelming. Fried shrimp - was tough for such a juicy looking, lightly battered appetizer. This leads me to believe that the shrimp is purchased pre-COOKED and they simply batter it and throw it in the fryer for a couple minutes. Very tough consistency. Fried catfish appetizer - had the same batter as the shrimp which is always disappointing. Switch it up. If I pieced the small pieces of fish together, I'd say they chopped up a half of filet of catfish and labeled it as an appetizer. The portion size was laughable. Shrimp creole - was swimming in water from the tomatoes used in the sauce. The sauce was obviously tomatoes, accompanied by some other vegetables, which was then thrown into the food processor, sautéed for a couple of minutes, then accompanied by those tough pre-cooked shrimp. That sauce deserved to be cooked low and slow for hours to reduce and develop the deeper flavors. Then, we wouldn't have to deal with that pesky raw veggie flavor enhanced only with salt and swimming in tomato water. Catfish etouffee - was brown sauce seasoned with salt. Disappointing. Everything tasted as though it was seasoned with salt alone. It was a no pepper, no garlic powder, no onion powder, no paprika, no creole seasoning zone. Who are the Owners trying to fool? Charlotte is full of well traveled foodies who also love to cook at home. Why should I spend my hard earned cheddar in your restaurant when I could cook your chefs under the table from my own kitchen at home? You have got to do better. read more

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Local, black owned soul food!! It's DELICIOUS. I get the fried cat fish every time and it's always good! Mrs. Freshwater is a gem, I love supporting her business and family. She is very fabulous! read more