"1"^^ . . . "2011-01-12T00:00:00"^^ . . "2"^^ . "4"^^ . "I had to look back at my profile because I could've sworn that I had reviewed this venerable Charlotte Institution. This is THE gold standard for comfort food in all of Charlotte and it's been just that for many years now. That's the beauty of Lupie's- it does not try to be anything else to anyone at any time. You've gotta love a sure thing, and Lupie's comes as close as you can get to that in Charlotte.\n\nNow this place does not get points for decor. Inside literally looks like two old shacks put together, in various states of a patched-up repair. It's dimly lit in the upper portion, a few windows light the lower portion. The saving grace here might be the large portraits that line the walls- all former workers at Lupies, all showing some personality and depicting real life, not some glamor shot. Art meets life and the outcome is refreshing.\n\nBut if you came looking for a beauty contest, you should drive on by. The real draw is the food. Two different kinds of chili star here daily (3 if you count the veggie)- but the winner every time for me is the Texas chili- finely ground beef in a crazy good mix of spices. Hot but not searing. You can add beans, cheese and onions which just get lopped on top. I strongly encourage adding all 3. Served with a slab of cake-style cornbread- that one bowl will fill me up and then some.\n\nThey also do burgers and chili mac if you want to try something different. The burger easily takes two full hands to manage. But you should also check the daily special- I had a former co-worker who swore by the meatloaf. My wife will only go on days when they serve chicken and dumplings. All come with a choice of veggie sides which change with the seasons. You can also craft a veggie only plate. I encourage you to do so, as these too are awesome. Homemade mac n cheese with a crispy cheese top- sunny heaven in a little bowl. Spring veggies (when available) are also a reminder that summer goodness is just around the corner. \n\nBeverages are served in mason jars- a nice Southern touch- and the sweet tea is sweet enough to give you a cavity just by looking at it. But for an even bigger sugar rush- check out the desserts wrapped up by the register- homemade cookies, brownies and more in a variety of flavors. One is enough to share and you'll be glad you indulged. Just be sure you don't attempt to be seated without the rest of your party in tow- strict policy here that there is no saving of a table. At least the handcrafted sign at the front makes that plainly clear. A welcome policy during the (busy) lunch rush."^^ . "0"^^ .