BOCADO, the famed restaurant that first opened in Atlanta’s Westside neighborhood in 2009, is bringing its American cuisine across state borders to Charlotte this summer. The new restaurant will open at Atherton in the former Big Ben Pub space near the intersection of East Tremont and South Blvd.
Described as a “new Southern American bar + diner,” BOCADO Bar + Diner will honor the same seasonally driven and locally sourced food menu as the Atlanta staple, with an added diner culinary approach and aesthetic. Open for brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner and late night, guests can expect to find BOCADO’s iconic Double Stack Burger (praised by Forbes, Thrillist Atlanta and Eater Atlanta) and favorites like House-Made Pasta Carbonara with smoke pork belly lardon; Roasted Chicken with stone ground grits; and Deviled Eggs with pickled okra and shallot. Brunch dishes will include Fried Kibbeh (adapted from owner Brian Lewis’ grandmother’s recipe) served with yolky eggs and field green salad; Avocado Toast with poached egg and pickled red onion; and French Toast Muffins with caviar cream and maple syrup. Raw Oysters, a Seafood Tower, Chilaquiles and more will be offered each day during happy hour and late night.
At the bar, elevated classic cocktails will complement the house menu. Guests will be able to enjoy a refreshing drink on the breezy patio during brunch or lunch or a boozy stirred classic to close the evening out. A broad selection of smartly organized wine and local beers on draft will round out the beverage list.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Atherton our take on a neighborhood commonplace where visitors can make memories over good food and drink, and we’re looking forward to visiting our friends at Big Ben Pub in their new location,” says owner Brian Lewis.
BOCADO Bar + Diner’s 2,700-square-foot interior, designed by EMC Design, will maintain the history of the structure with modern updates. Elements like heavy drapes, leather furniture and large mirrors lining the walls will convey a distinctive style in the dining room. A light-hued bartop and lounge seating along with an open kitchen will create an approachable vibe throughout the day for an enlivened dining experience. In the evening, lighting will be dimmed as the space transforms into a moody late-night lounge. Off the dining room, a large outdoor patio will feature views of the Rail Trail and include a fireplace for year-round use.