As a West Coast transplant now living in Charlotte, I have very specific standards when it comes to…read moreburgers. For me, the gold standard isn't fancy -- it's balance. Think that perfect meat-cheese-bread ratio you get at an In-N-Out: not too big, not too messy, not dripping everywhere, but still juicy and satisfying. A burger you can actually pick up and enjoy without resorting to a knife and fork like George Costanza.
That's why I appreciate Ace No. 3. Their menu is refreshingly simple -- burgers, fries, shakes -- and that simplicity tells me they know exactly what they do well. Everything is made to order, and the consistency shows.
The Ace burger is my go-to, and it delivers every time. The shoestring fries are excellent, and the sweet potato tots are another favorite. I've also treated myself to a milkshake here and there, and they're worth it. Fun bonus: they offer "boozy shakes" for adults, which adds a playful twist -- just note they have to be enjoyed on site.
They also keep a short, rotating list of beers, which I appreciate. It's curated, not overwhelming.
One thing I noticed recently -- and as a fellow marketer, I have to applaud this -- is their milkshake happy hour from 2-4 PM. That's a smart strategy to drive traffic during slower hours between lunch and dinner. Simple, effective, and well executed.
A few practical notes:
Parking can be a little tight because the lot behind the restaurant is small, but if you go during off-peak hours or order ahead for pickup, it's manageable. The Belmont neighborhood location is easy to get in and out of, and while it's not a high-traffic pedestrian area, that can actually work in your favor.
Bottom line:
As someone who grew up with West Coast burger culture, this is the closest I've found in Charlotte to that classic, satisfying bite -- even if it costs a bit more than In-N-Out. The quality and execution make it worth it.
Get out there, eat well, be curious -- and follow me as I continue eating my way through Charlotte.
