CHARLOTTE, NC – Our review of KITCHEN + COCKTAILS BY KEVIN KELLY: Three years ago, Charlotte’s Black food scene left me intrigued but not impressed. The city, with its growing Black food ecosystem, showed promise but fell short of delivering an elevated, authentically soulful dining experience. Many restaurants struggled to rise above mediocrity, with service and cuisine that felt either uninspired or overly pretentious. The scene lacked what I yearned for: a balance of cultural relevance, soulful flavor, and refined execution.
Today, the story has changed. Over the past year, Charlotte’s Black-owned eateries have flourished, bringing with them exciting menus, attentive service, and an undeniable sense of community. At the forefront of this resurgence is Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley, located at 210 E. Trade Street. This vibrant establishment has not only redefined soulful dining in Charlotte but has also raised the bar for what the city can offer.
From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I knew this experience would be different. The inviting staff at the host stand greeted me warmly, and my server was patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely hospitable. The space itself is a beautifully designed dining room where modern elegance meets cultural nostalgia. The atmosphere was further elevated by a DJ spinning soulful classics and contemporary hits, creating a dining experience that felt both celebratory and intimate.
Kitchen + Cocktails Table
Crab Cakes Worth the Hype: We began with the crab cakes, and it was a promising start. These golden-brown cakes, made primarily of jumbo lump crab meat, were lightly bound with minimal filler, allowing the sweet, smoky richness of the crab to take center stage. Paired with a tangy house-made aioli, each bite struck a harmonious balance that felt indulgent yet refined. While the portion size leaned on the smaller side, the flavor more than compensated. A 5 out of 5 without hesitation.
Crab Cakes
Fried Pork Chops: For my first entrée, I chose the fried pork chops, accompanied by collard greens and black-eyed peas. The pork chops were impeccably fried—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy within. Smothered in a savory gravy, they delivered bold flavors, though the seasoning bordered on salty. Bell peppers and onions atop the chops brought a bright, slightly fruity dimension that complemented the dish beautifully.
Fried Pork Chop, Black eyed peas, Collards
The sides, however, had their own story to tell. The collards were standard fare, their earthy, smoked notes solid but unremarkable. The black-eyed peas, on the other hand, were a revelation. Creamy, smoky, and seasoned to perfection with thyme, onions, garlic, and generous chunks of smoked turkey, they were so flavorful I found myself sipping the broth like soup. Despite my portion being more liquid than beans, it didn’t matter—the flavor was simply that good. This dish earned a rare 10 out of 5 in my book.
Mac and Cheese
Shrimp & Grits That Steal the Show: Next came the shrimp and grits, with an added piece of southern-fried catfish. To call this dish the best shrimp and grits in Charlotte would be an understatement—it’s arguably the best in the state. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender and plump, seasoned with a blackened spice blend that added depth without overpowering. The grits, rich and buttery, were masterfully seasoned without relying on excessive cheese to carry their flavor.
The catfish was a welcomed addition, fried to perfection with a crisp exterior and flaky, moist interior. But the true standout was the Cajun cream sauce, a velvety blend of heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Cajun spices. Smoky, spicy, and luxurious, it tied every component together in a way that felt indulgent yet balanced. This dish wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience I’d gladly relive. This dish earned yet, another a rare 10 out of 5 in my book.
Shrimp & Grits with fried catfish
Honey Hot Chicken & Cinnabon Waffles: For a break from the savory, I tried the honey hot fried chicken and Cinnabon waffles. This pairing was nothing short of heavenly combination of sweet meets savory. The chicken, with its perfectly crispy coating and tender interior, was glazed in a sauce that balanced sweet, savory, and spicy flavors—reminiscent of Korean fried chicken but with a distinctly Southern flair. The waffles, moist and fluffy, were infused with cinnamon and sugar, creating a dessert-like accompaniment to the chicken. This dish was a resounding 5 out of 5, a flawless marriage of flavors.
Chicken and Waffles
Room for Improvement: While most dishes exceeded expectations, a few fell flat. The mac and cheese, though promising, suffered from a processed, Velveeta-like flavor that lacked the richness and depth of a true Southern classic.
Desserts, too, were hit or miss. The peach cobbler was a standout, offering the warmth and sweetness one craves in a soulful dessert, but other offerings felt uninspired.
A Testament to Charlotte’s Growth: Despite these minor missteps, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is a shining example of Charlotte’s culinary renaissance. The restaurant embraces culture while elevating it, delivering a dining experience that is both approachable and exceptional. The generous portions, attention to detail, and commitment to soulful flavors make this space a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
If you’re in Charlotte, make a reservation—especially on weekends, as the space can get busy. It’s a testament to a city that is ready to stake its claim as a destination for elevated, soulful dining. Highly recommended. Give them a call at (704) 333-3747.
