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Hey Charlotte. Here's what's worth knowing this week: restaurant week, a toll-lane showdown, a major rewrite of the city's zoning and property laws and a packed weekend lineup.
Queen's Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week Is Here!Queen's Feast is back, and it's a big one. From July 24 through August 2, 2026, 120+ restaurants across the region are serving three-course prix-fixe dinners. It's the best excuse to finally try that spot you've been saving for a special night. This year's class brings some exciting first-timers, including Italo, Packard Tavern, and Reid's Fine Foods. The lineup spans the whole region, so there's something close to wherever you live. Money-saving tip
Here's a move worth checking before you book. Amex Platinum and Gold cardholders may have Resy statement credits waiting, up to $100 for Platinum and $50 for Gold. Top picks
My shortlist: Muraya (South End, Coastal Latin), Albertine (Uptown, Mediterranean-Southern), and the new Italo (Uptown, handmade pasta). Book early, weekends fill fast. 
I-77 South: The $64 Million Game of ChickenThe CRTPO board has a date with a tough decision. A vote is set for September 23 on whether to revive the I-77 South toll lane project. Here's the pressure. The state budget says bring the tolls back, or repay $64 million in design costs. If the board doesn't approve the project, participating jurisdictions could also see their road funds frozen. Every Charlotte commuter has a stake in this one. Worth paying attention to over the next couple months. 📋 Property & Development Charlotte's Zoning & Property Laws Just Got a Rewrite
Big changes to how Charlotte builds, parks and taxes are now law. They'll affect everything from your neighborhood's next apartment building to where you can park when you visit South End. Here's what's actually changing. 🚗 No more parking minimums SL 2026-39 Starts Jan 1, 2027
Developers won't be forced to build a set number of parking spots anymore. Good news for walkable streets, but it could mean tighter street parking in some neighborhoods. WBTV has the full breakdown. 📋 Permit choice is now law SB 257 · SL 2026-41 Effective July 1, 2026
Developers filing a rezoning petition can lock in the regulations in effect at the time of filing, even if the rules change later. Parker Poe breaks it down. 💰 Tax breaks for new development SB 695 · SL 2026-12 Tax years from July 1, 2027
Cities can now create development finance districts offering up to 90% property tax exclusion on new construction for up to 10 years. Full bill details on NCGA. 🏡 FY2027 property tax rate: 29.30 cents per $100
The city's new budget locked it in, a 1.89-cent increase from last year. Interactive News has the full breakdown. ⚖️ Direct judicial review now allowed SB 257 · SL 2026-41 Effective July 1, 2026
Challenge a city development decision and you no longer have to clear the Board of Adjustment first. You can head straight to superior court, and if you win, the city pays your attorneys' fees. Poyner Spruill has the full legal analysis. Bottom line
These changes shift power between developers, the city and residents. Some make it easier to build. Some make it easier to fight. Either way, Charlotte's development landscape just got a shakeup. 
Kura Sushi & Sweet July: Two New OpeningsTwo very different, very fun new spots just opened their doors. One brings robots to Ballantyne, the other brings a celebrity chef Uptown. Kura Sushi
The first Kura Sushi in North Carolina is now open at Stonecrest in Ballantyne. Think revolving sushi bar, robot drink servers, and over 100 menu items. It's fun, visual, and family-friendly. Open 11:30 a.m. daily. Sweet July Cafe
Ayesha Curry's Caribbean-inspired cafe is now open inside The Ritz-Carlton Uptown. Coffee, smoothies, pastries, plus breakfast and lunch. Open 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays. It's the first of three Curry concepts coming to the hotel this year. 
Katie Blessing Center Hits a Major MilestoneThere's a pediatric behavioral health hospital taking shape on Central Avenue in east Charlotte, and it just hit a big milestone. The exterior is enclosed and all drywall is complete. The 48-bed inpatient hospital and behavioral health urgent care is on track for an early 2027 opening. With $35 million in state funding already secured, this is a major step forward for youth mental health care in the region. Read more: WCCB Charlotte
Your Weekend Guide: July 24 to 26Here's your curated weekend lineup. Six picks, one for whatever mood you're in. 24 Hours of Booty
Fri 7pm to Sat 7pm · Myers Park Booty Loop
A 24-hour cycling fundraiser for cancer support. Camping, meals, and community all weekend.
RegisterCharlotte Peruvian Festival
Sat July 25, 12 to 8pm · Victoria Yards
Peruvian food, music, and dance. $20 at the gate.
Learn MoreLynyrd Skynyrd & Foreigner: Double Trouble Tour
Fri July 24 · PNC Music Pavilion
A classic rock double-header under the stars.
TicketsSummer Willow Festival
July 24 to 26 · Romare Bearden Park
A weekend festival right in the heart of Uptown.
DetailsYeat
Sun July 26 · Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
Rap and hip-hop to close out the weekend.
TicketsOpenings & Quick Hits
Sweet July CafeLocal tip. If you haven't swung by yet, Sweet July Cafe is now open inside The Ritz-Carlton Uptown. Ayesha Curry's Caribbean-inspired cafe is pouring coffee, smoothies, and pastries, plus breakfast and lunch. It's a great morning stop, and it's the first of three Curry concepts coming to the hotel this year. Open 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays. © 2026 The Queen City Scoop. Charlotte's local newsletter.
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