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    Exotica Indian Kitchen & Bar

    4.5 (144 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 2:30 pm, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    Updated 2 months ago

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    Heaven R.

    We walked 15 minutes here from our hotel. Totally worth it. It's hidden in a cute plaza - not sure what it's called. Food was rich in flavor! We got there around 5:40ish and soon after the dinner rush hit. Not bad at all. Staff was friendly! I would definitely eat here again

    Aloo Jeera, Mirchi-Ka-Salan, Panchamel Dhal, Kale Subji, Chilly Cauliflower Florets, Punjabi Samosa, and extra basmati and lemon rice =)
    Spencer M.

    After getting stuck in Charlotte during a layover, I decided to veg out and stay in my hotel for the day and order food in from Exotica. I was not feeling well so my appetite was through the roof - leading me to order a ton of food for myself. Everything was more than satisfactory in filling me up for a few days and they had plenty of vegan options on their menu.

    Anjeer Kofta
    Amanda L.

    Service was relatively fast! I was super pleasantly surprised at everything EXCEPT for the butter chicken which was super different from other butter chicken I've had in the past. The butter chicken tasted a little like tomato soup and was quite thin for curry. However the chicken was cooked really nicely. We tried: - mango lassi (s'okay very standard 3.7/5) - Anjeer Kofta (recommended and i was super pleased. It has a sweet almost coconut milk/thai curry taste but not too sweet. I just wish it had a bit more spice but that's a personal preference 4.4/5) - butter chicken (2.88/5 okay but not what I was expecting or really wanting) - butter naan (4/5) - garlic naan (3.5/5) more like a dosa texture This amount was perfect for sharing with 5 people and each entree comes with a serving of rice.

    Masala dosa, kale paneer, garlic/cilantro naan, raita
    Jennifer T.

    What a gem! The service was attentive without being annoying. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere was energetic and fun - not overly loud.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But the star of the whole show was the food. From the "Chilly" cauliflower to start, we also tackled the kale paneer (hands down best green paneer we have ever had), did our best with a masala dosa, and sopped it all up with garlic cilantro naan. In spite of hungry stomachs and valiant efforts, we still took home half of each entree and half the naan. Our server clued us in that they have just reopened after a renovation. Please. Go. Now... before everyone else discovers what we did, and you can't get in.

    Butter Chicken
    Vian N.

    this place encapsulated authentic flavors well butter chicken was the biggest let down, tasted like tomato basil soup. chicken had great texture garlic naan was more like a dosa- too crispy but butter naan was pretty authentic and thick mango lassi cannot be done improperly imo lamb was the best dish, perfectly spicy and flavorful kofta was very peanut forward and sweet which is different but nice to balance out the heat of the meal

    Lunch menu
    Michael B.

    Food Ordered the goat lunch combo and paneer lunch combo. Both were exceptional!! They came with lentil, rice, desert, Naan, and papad with raitha. We cleared our plates because everything paired so well together. Service Quick, fast, friendly! Everything you could ask for even with it being a packed house for lunch. Ambiance Nice setting, not too bright. I like how they have the 2-person tables in the middle for a nice intimate setting.

    Janelle B.

    My daughter and I enjoyed our dinner here last night. You will have to pay for parking. When you walk in the host will seat you. Our server was pretty good with serving us. The food was tasty. I had lamb chops (chefs kiss so good) samosas and chicken salad. Can't remember what my daughter had but we left satisfied. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambience was laid back with music playing in the background.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It was pricey for a mother and daughter dinner night but I would go again.

    Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Vindalholamb
    Shelby P.

    Flavors at this place were there. The tikka sauce was incredible. I loved dipping the naan into this sauce! I think for the most part prices were fair but the chicken was dry and a little hard to chew. Other than that everyone was accommodating.

    Hot Masala chai
    John B.

    I underestimated this place; the downtown location and bar-oriented vibe suggested to me a lower quality of food. And even having sat down to order from their dosa menu, the amount of time it took for a dish that is hard to cook properly but also pretty quick did not engender optimism. However, their special masala dosa arrived and quelled doubts. In parlance, a masala dosa is filled with spiced potatoes, a spring dosa has cabbage and carrots, and a podi dosa has some spiced powder coating the inside. This one was all of the above, and had as much actual filling as I've ever seen in one of these things, as well as some typical and delicious accompaniments. And it was served on a banana leaf. I was glad I didn't order an appetizer because it was so filling, but plenty of appealing cuisine was evident on nearby tables. My chai was robustly flavored, though it took a while to cool down. Given that this place is walkable to the downtown spots, I can see ample reason to stop in.

    Davis P.

    This place was a great surprise around the corner from work. They offer a full spread for lunch. I ho estly don't know exactly what everything is, but it was all delicious. There was a main protein, a side protein, carb (rice), veggies, bread (naan), and desert. Plus, look at this presentation. There is no other lunch spot around Charlotte that serves you takeout that looks this good. It was a little pricier than my normal lunch meal, but worth it. Highly recommend.

    Chicken Methi Curry and garlic cilantro naan
    Shawn W.

    So far this is the best Indian food I have had in the states. If you have never been here I will say this place can be tricky to find if you are driving there. The front of the building is located facing this open square space among other shops. A bit hard to spot when driving but it gets easier if you park and then walk to the general area where your map directions are taking you. Even though it was about 45 minutes before closing we did not here "Oh we don't have that it's near closing" as the hostess told us the kitchen was not closed and the full menu was available. Of course I started with the samosas and I guess they wanted to prove how quickly they can get it to you because they came out piping hot. No complaints and the mint chutney was awesome. I might have a little bias as I prefer mint chutney over the tamarind chutney which they offered. Both were very good but the mint just seems to go better with samosas. For my entrée I went with the chicken methi curry along with the garlic cilantro naan. You have a choice of spice levels as always with many Indian eateries but I went with mild since it was my first time trying the food here. No issue with the heat and the mild was not even noticeable. Plenty of chicken in the curry and I believe that the extra rice was not charged to us but not fully remembering now. The garlic naan was light and fluffy and I am one of those who likes plenty of cilantro. It was perfect for dipping or as I say where I am from sopping up the curry. The food scene in Charlotte is growing and has a great deal of variety and Exotica is just one of the fine examples. If in downtown Charlotte I highly recommend a stop here if you want some Indian food that will knock your top spot down a notch. By the way the validate parking also and now you have no excuse.

    Vegetarian lunch special
    Stephanie A.

    Don't let the name fool you, this is an Indian restaurant Located next to the Charlotte visitor center and adjacent to a pocket park, we found this restaurant by following the aroma that had wafted to the front door of the Westin hotel, where we were staying. We ate inside; carry out and patio dining are also available. The lunch menu is streamlined and includes a fantastic deal - $15 or $16 total for a combination meal with rice, naan, roti, three dishes, dessert and a sauce - all served in their own bowls on a large platter. Choices include vegetarian, paneer and chicken. The two of us ordered one chicken and one vegetarian and were very pleased with the meal. The food was delicious, with different spices in each of the dishes.

    Mushroom Medley Uttappam
    Meena P.

    Hidden away on the green in uptown Charlotte, Exotica is surprisingly a great little find. Catering to both south and North Indian palates. Not busy at lunch on a Sunday but I heard in the evenings is their busy time. Service was fine , drinks were a little slow coming and the sever wasn't at all really familiar with the drinks. They turned out ok though. Food comes out pretty steadily, and we were able to get through our order well! We started with the chicken malai kebab which was nice and sizzling and steaming hot . With a nice little salad and great sauce. Nice average spice level. Chicken was nice and well cooked. Then we tried the batata tiki chat , really pretty presentation. Fried masala okra on top ! So many flavors and spices. Layered with sweet potato, yellow peas gravy, mint and tamarind chutney and sev. Really tasty dish ! The masala dosa was also great, nice spicy potato filling with peas, onions and tomatoes. And crispy dosa, the dal and chutneys were all on point ! Another tasty one. The veg medley korma was my least favorite as it was creamy, not as spice driven. Had lots of veggies though . The lamb vindaloo was the bomb ! Awesome spice and lots of tasty sauce. Loved this with the rice and the garlic cilantro naan. The naan was nice and fluffy and had lots of garlic! The mushroom medley uttapum was a little disappointing not much truffle flavor as listed on the menu. They were thicker than I thought they would be, the tomato chutney was really good though ....wouldn't order that again. All in all the food was good, good flavor and plentiful. They even gave a terrific birthday cake decorated beautifully to my Aunt, whose birthday we were celebrating. The cake was really nice and moist and a big ole piece! Nice touch. Really nice space inside, clean, nice decor, small bar up front when you enter. Good varied menu, staff could use some people skills, but were still very nice. Love to come back and try more.

    My dish. I was initially concerned by the small rice dish but it was packed in there pretty well and a full meal/good ratio!

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    5 months ago

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    24 days ago

    If you want a quick bite to eat when in uptown this is great for lunch. Try one of the "samplers" for lunch, you will not be disappointed!

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    3 months ago

    Very good food. Super tasty. Friendly service. We got the Lamb Vindaloo and the Lamb Rogan Josh. Highly recommend both!

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    9 months ago

    Great food! Attentive service. Adding extra spaces.l to meet Yelp 85 character minimum.

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    Sneak Clt

    Sneak Clt

    4.7
    (42 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    Came here for drinks after dinner. It's a small, intimate space so I would suggest making a…read morereservation to claim your spot. We were a walk in but were able to score a table outside which was perfect. The drinks are good and the staff members work as a team so there's not one primary waitress. I ordered a custom drink where I told the server what I liked and the bartender created something based on my likes. It was a "fruity" tequila based drink and I enjoyed it. We were given a bowl of complementary kettle corn to enjoy with our drinks. The music was a mix of r&b and hip hop and was loud enough to vibe but didn't overpower the conversations. Random Notes: Parking is validated and the hidden bathroom was so cute. The inside is perfect for selfies lol.

    Wow what an experience! I'm in Charlotte for the weekend, and my good friend's colleague…read morerecommended we come here after dinner for drinks. There's outdoor seating, and initially we wanted to sit outside but we didn't have reservations. Luckily, they seated us at a small corner section near the back of the bar. It's very cozy and intimate inside. Just my type of vibe. The service was top tier. They were unable to validate our parking because of some sort of discrepancy with the signage outside and lack of having the proper equipment for validation. To make up for it, they offered us complimentary champagne to start. We were not expecting that, and pleasantly surprised! Their menu has an eclectic selection of cocktails, both full and mini. We opted to order from the mini cocktail menu, and we each ordered two drinks. I had the Creepy cucumber cocktail and it was refreshingly sweet and probably my favorite drink of the night. I also ordered the Don't Shy Away which was a sour and spicy rum concoction with carrot in it. It was definitely spicy and had a puréed texture. I really enjoyed it. And, then don't get me started on the music!!! The dj was masterful. He played all the types of music I love and he mixed them in such a refreshing way. I ended up asking him for his contact information before leaving, and whether he does weddings because my fiancé and I are currently looking for a DJ. He was just that good. This would definitely be my spot if I lived here in Charlotte. It was the perfect way for us to end the night.

    Photos
    Secret Bathroom with a gold toilet
    Secret Bathroom with a gold toilet
    Bar
    Bar
    Sneak Clt

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    Idlewild

    Idlewild

    4.3
    (222 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    AMAZING spot! One of the best lounges in Charlotte. Very intimate and romantic…read more You need to make reservations for the bar walk-in are welcome and they will sit you in the tables. Enjoy cocktails made specifically to your liking. If there is a drink you like they can make it for you based off what you like. Drinks we had was an Old Fashioned and a twist on a french 75 (made with tequila and passion fruit) need to try it. GREAT service mixologist here are amazing. Its a show! Thank you guys!

    Honestly some of the most rude, negligent service I've experienced in a while…read more Context: Bar was at 25% capacity I pride myself on being a genial, accommodating person Attempted multiple times to thoughtfully engage staff From the moment we entered, our service staff was either dismissive, condescending, or negligent. Could not leave fast enough. The overall decor and vibe was great, just our assigned person was lackluster in every regard. EDIT (5/27/28): When we entered and sat down, to the bartenders credit, he swiftly asked us what we wanted. As we were describing the general vibe of the drinks we wanted, the attitude of the bartender manifested as very condescending and lacking in general back-and-forth discourse. Despite the dismissive attitude, but after the drinks were made, we attempted to thank the bartender, but his only response was a derisive chortle before walking off. For the remainder of our stay, he was flirting with some female patrons at the other end of the bar. Sharing pictures, conversation, and general good service while we were ignored until we asked for the check to pay and leave as quickly as possible.

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    Her's
    Her's
    Idlewild
    Idlewild

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    The Crunkleton

    The Crunkleton

    4.5
    (531 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$$

    I normally don't leave reviews, but after what I witnessed tonight, I felt like I had to say…read moresomething. My husband and I were seated near a table that spent almost the entire evening talking down to one of the servers -- the taller guy with the tattoos down his left arm. From where we were sitting, he stayed calm, polite, and professional the whole time, even while being interrupted, snapped at, and spoken to disrespectfully over things that honestly weren't even his fault. At one point I genuinely felt embarrassed for the people at that table because of how rude and entitled they were acting in public. Meanwhile, this server kept handling everything with patience and a good attitude when most people probably would've walked away. I just wanted management to know that the server handled himself incredibly well last night, and as another customer in the room, I thought he deserved recognition instead of the treatment he got.

    Walked into The Crunkleton after a musical event -- second visit -- and it once again delivered…read morethat elevated, grown‑luxury comfort vibe. Their burger isn't just a burger; it's a whole moment. Thoughtfully crafted, beautifully presented, and seasoned like someone in the kitchen has standards.It's unforgettable in that "I could absolutely make this a signature stop" kind of way. Warm atmosphere, polished service, and a plate that proves they know how to turn simple into exceptional.

    Photos
    Largest bar selection in Charlotte
    Largest bar selection in Charlotte
    Caesar Salad
    Caesar Salad
    Here's an example of their vintage offerings.  This old dusty was distilled in 1960.  Great pour!

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    Here's an example of their vintage offerings. This old dusty was distilled in 1960. Great pour!
    The Cellar at Duckworth's

    The Cellar at Duckworth's

    4.5
    (1.2k reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$$

    Cool find while in town for a conference! A speakeasy feel down the stairs as you enter Duckworths…read morewith hundreds of vottles of spirits. Super talented bartenders mixed great cocktails and they have some nice selections of beer on tap and wine. The space is tight and, if I'm being honest, the seating wasn't extremely comfortable, but the vibe in this place more than makes up for it Service, from Madison, was excellent. She knew tge menu and had great insights. She was crazy busy but took excellent care of us. The food was quite nice. Candied Bacon is a must. I had a perfectly cooked filet, we had a delicious short rib, and the Cone Trio. The trio was really tasty but the kitchen somehow forgot to put the tuna in one cone and it was only guacamole. Odd, but Madison took care of it right away and it was great. Would recommend 100% and definitely return.

    I visited for my birthday to see Flame Monroe, and overall, the experience was just okay…read more The club has a two-item minimum, so we ordered the fried pickles and fries. We also wanted to celebrate with a strawberry mojito. First, our waiter told us they were out of the non-alcoholic version, so we said we'd just get the alcoholic one instead. He came back again and apologized, saying he had misspoken--they don't offer strawberry mojitos at all, either non-alcoholic or alcoholic. He first suggested a cranberry spritzer, then recommended a lemon drop and a strawberry chipotle mojito. Unfortunately, both drinks were disappointing. The lemon drop was bland, and the strawberry chipotle mojito barely tasted like it had any alcohol and was also lacking flavor. We were told the upstairs comedy club had recently been renovated. While it looked updated, I was surprised by how small the stage was. The seating also felt cramped, with four people expected to share a very small table. Compared to other comedy clubs we've visited in Charlotte, the layout just didn't feel well thought out. The highlight of the night was getting to see Flame Monroe, but overall the venue itself didn't leave a lasting impression. If you're curious, it's worth visiting once to experience it for yourself, but it's probably not a place we'll return to.

    Photos
    The Cellar at Duckworth's
    The Cellar at Duckworth's
    The Cellar at Duckworth's

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    Exotica Indian Kitchen & Bar - indpak - Updated August 2026

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