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| - For more than 20 years I've been going to Lupie's and it's always been the same awesome, uniquely Charlottean joint with rocking food. They've made a few changes over the years but have remained true to their roots.
This is a casual, southern-boho place with friendly servers and a stated policy prohibiting business meetings. I love the photos of Queen City landmarks, some of which are long gone (including Independence Boulevard institutions Thompson's Bootery & Bloomery and the old Krispy Kreme). The stereo is usually playing something fantastic, mostly reggae, '80s alternative music, classic rock, and current indie rock. Basically, it's a laid-back, inexpensive place to unwind with good food.
I've never been to a better place for chili. For years their classic chili lineup was Texas, Cincinnati, and vegetarian. A couple of years ago they added Southern style, which is a good option for carnivores who don't want the Texas heat or Cincinnati sweetness. You can ask for a mix of chili varieties. A bowl of chili is filling; if you get chili mac you'll probably have leftovers.
The burgers are huge and delicious. Go ahead and ask for extra napkins when you order one.
Vegetarians have some good options: great vegetarian chili, a vegetarian burger, a vegetable plate, a garden salad. Often the quiche of the day is meat-free. If you crave nachos, try the Throw-Down Nachos with vegetarian chili. I honestly don't know if the vegetable soup is vegetarian.
This is possibly the sweetest sweet tea in town. It's served in a mason jar-style glass, which is fun and reminds me of glasses we had at home when I was a kid. Speaking of sweet things, the kuchen and the banana pudding are two of my favorite desserts in town!
There are daily specials, but I honestly don't usually order that unless I'm there on a Monday (meat loaf with mashed potatoes) or a Thursday (chicken and dumplings). The barbecue plate is great and so are the various sandwiches, but it's really all about the chili for me.
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