Nestled in the vibrant Uptown area of Charlotte, North Carolina, Mimosa Grill stands as a beacon of Southern fine dining. Located at 327 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, this restaurant has been serving patrons since 1995, establishing itself as a culinary landmark in the Queen City. Mimosa Grill prides itself on its “farm-to-plate” philosophy, emphasizing regionally grown, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that are both refined and rooted in Southern tradition. For anyone seeking an upscale dining experience with authentic Southern flair in Charlotte, Mimosa Grill on South Tryon Street is a destination worth exploring.
Located within the Wachovia Atrium, Mimosa Grill offers a surprisingly spacious interior, capable of accommodating a large number of diners. The ambiance is characterized by a warm, slightly rustic elegance. Dark wood dominates the decor, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere, reminiscent of classic American steakhouses. The restaurant’s layout provides various seating options, including tables near the bar, which, as noted by a past visitor on a Sunday evening, offered a view of local sports events. This blend of upscale dining with a relaxed, Southern approach makes Mimosa Grill a versatile choice for different occasions, from business lunches to special dinners.
The menu at Mimosa Grill is thoughtfully curated, reflecting its commitment to seasonal and local produce. While the standard menu offers a diverse selection, visitors on Sundays might encounter a slightly more concise offering, perhaps a special Sunday menu. Notably, Mimosa Grill has been known to feature a “Sunday Comfort” prix fixe menu, presenting a three-course meal at an attractive price point. This option provides a great introduction to the restaurant’s culinary style without compromising on quality or experience. In addition to the dine-in menu, Mimosa Grill also provides a take-out menu with an even broader range of choices, making it a convenient option for lunch or a sophisticated meal to enjoy elsewhere.
Mimosa Grill dining area with dark wood decor and view of bar area
To begin the culinary journey at Mimosa Grill, the drink selections are noteworthy. The cocktail menu includes classics and signature creations, with a past patron specifically highlighting the Mojito. Priced at $7.00 at the time of a previous visit, the Mojito was described as expertly balanced, with a harmonious blend of rum, sugar, and mint – a refreshing start to any meal.
Mimosa Grill wine list showcasing a variety of global wines
For wine enthusiasts, Mimosa Grill presents an impressive wine list, featuring a spectrum of wines from various regions around the globe. Wine by the glass options are plentiful, catering to diverse palates. Furthermore, for those wanting to explore different profiles, Mimosa Grill offers wine flights. A past offering, the “Crisp and Clean” flight, included a Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand (2005), known for its lemony and peppery notes; a S.A. Prum Riesling from Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany (2005), a classic dry Riesling with citrus and stone fruit flavors; and a Conundrum White Blend from California, USA (2006), a sweeter, floral blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli, Chardonnay, and Viognier. Other flight options, like “Big Reds” and “Chardonnay in 3 Styles,” further demonstrate the restaurant’s dedication to offering a comprehensive wine experience.
Mimosa Grill's Stuffed Georgia Hushpuppies appetizer
Moving to the appetizers, the Stuffed Georgia Hushpuppies, priced at $12.00 in the past, are a Southern-inspired starter. These are not traditional hushpuppies; instead, they are hollowed out and filled with rock shrimp, crawfish, and leek fondue, finished with a Creole sauce. This creative take on a Southern staple provides a flavorful introduction to the meal, though some might find the Creole sauce to be a dominant flavor.
Mimosa Grill's Smoked Trout & Crab Cakes appetizer
Another appetizer option, the Smoked Trout & Crab Cakes, also priced at $12.00 previously, offers a seafood-centric choice. These crab cakes are noted for having a good balance of crab and filler, a welcome contrast to some crab cakes that are overly breaded. Served with a cast iron skillet corn relish and a creamy mustard sauce, the dish presents a mix of flavors and textures. The corn relish adds a touch of sweetness, while the mustard sauce provides a tangy counterpoint, although it might be perceived as too tart by some.
Mimosa Grill's Nova Scotia Salmon with Asparagus Ribs entree
For the main course, the Nova Scotia Salmon with Asparagus Ribs, priced at $26.00 in the past, presents a substantial option. Served with a honey bourbon glaze, roasted mushrooms, and baby arugula, the dish aims for a balance of sweet and savory. However, the honey bourbon glaze was described as quite strong, potentially overshadowing the delicate flavor of the salmon. The asparagus ribs and mushrooms were considered tasty but slightly salty. Diners ordering salmon might consider requesting it cooked to their preference to best enjoy the dish.
Mimosa Grill's Berry Trio dessert selection
To conclude the meal, the dessert menu at Mimosa Grill offers tempting choices. The Berry Trio, priced at $8.00 previously, provides a sampler of sweet treats. It includes a Key Lime and Raspberry Trifle with White Chocolate Shavings, a Blackberry Rum Cake with Candied Coconut, and Sorbet in a Honey Tuile Basket with Blueberry Sauce and Sugar. The sorbet is refreshing, the rum cake offers a denser, richer texture, and the trifle stands out with its creamy custard and berry combination.
In conclusion, Mimosa Grill on South Tryon Street in Charlotte, NC, offers a compelling dining experience for those seeking Southern cuisine in an elegant setting. With its farm-to-plate approach, diverse menu, and central Uptown location, it remains a relevant and appealing restaurant in Charlotte’s dynamic culinary scene. While past reviews suggest a need for refinement in flavor profiles, the overall experience, from ambiance to service, positions Mimosa Grill as a solid choice for both locals and visitors looking for a taste of Southern hospitality and upscale dining in Charlotte.
