This is the best place to eat at CLT. I really don't understand the negativity here, No restaurant will be perfect when located inside an airport, and 1897 is no exception. That being said, there are 3 reasons why 1897 is awesome!
1) Good beer selection - Noda Hop Drop N roll, Zero Dark Thirty IPA, and a few others!
2) Great food - Wife and I split Turkey Sandwich and the chicken Pesto pizza. Both were cooked perfectly and the pizza was extra delicious. The best part? Those delicious parm fries.
3) price - would you rather spend $10 dollars and go to BK or come here and spend $10 dollars to get a hand roasted turkey sandwich? or a pizza? or a number of other things? I know what one I will pick.
1897 is a nice place to spend a layover! Don't let the 3.5 star throw you off.