Maneki

For those in North Carolina eager to explore innovative and traditional Japanese cuisine, Maneki is an exciting new addition to Charlotte’s dynamic culinary scene. Located in the charming Alley at Latta Arcade in Uptown, Maneki promises a unique dining experience centered around "traditional Hokkaido Japanese methods" of grilling. This isn't your typical sushi spot; Maneki specializes in *robatayaki*, or grilled skewers, featuring "local proteins and produce." This focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients prepared with authentic Japanese grilling techniques sets Maneki apart. While it's a newer establishment from the team behind acclaimed restaurants like Counter-, Maneki is poised to offer a fresh perspective on Japanese dining, emphasizing bold flavors and an immersive culinary journey. It’s a place for food enthusiasts looking for something different, where the art of grilling meets modern culinary creativity in a sophisticated yet inviting setting. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Japanese cuisine or curious to try a new kind of interactive dining, Maneki is quickly becoming a must-visit spot in Charlotte.

Maneki is ideally situated at 320 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA, placing it right in the heart of Uptown Charlotte within The Alley at Latta Arcade. This location is a vibrant and easily accessible hub in the city, known for its unique blend of shops, offices, and eateries. Its position in Uptown makes it incredibly convenient for a diverse range of patrons, from professionals working nearby to residents and tourists exploring Charlotte's urban core. When it comes to accessibility, The Alley at Latta Arcade offers several advantages. While specific dedicated parking for Maneki itself may not be explicitly advertised, Uptown Charlotte provides numerous public parking garages and street parking options within a short walking distance. For example, nearby parking garages like the one at 101 N Tryon (managed by LAZ Parking) offer convenient options, and other public garages are widely available throughout the Uptown area. Furthermore, public transportation is a robust option. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) provides extensive bus services throughout Uptown, and the LYNX Blue Line light rail has several stops within very close proximity to The Alley at Latta Arcade, such as the Third Street/Convention Center Station or the Tryon Street/Stonewall Station. This combination of a central, walkable location and multiple transit and parking solutions ensures that reaching Maneki for a memorable dining experience is straightforward and convenient for anyone in the Charlotte region.

Maneki focuses on an elevated Japanese grilling experience, with services designed to highlight their specialty while offering a refined dining atmosphere:

• Robatayaki (Grilled Skewers) Dining: The core offering, featuring a selection of "local proteins and produce" expertly grilled using "traditional Hokkaido Japanese methods." This provides an interactive and flavorful approach to Japanese cuisine.

• Small Plates and Bites: Complementing the grilled skewers, Maneki likely offers a curated menu of smaller dishes designed to be shared, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors. Past pop-up events by Chef Kenny (associated with Maneki) have featured a "wild array of bites."

• Beverage Program: While specific details on their full bar are emerging, their association with other sophisticated dining concepts suggests a well-curated selection of drinks to complement the food, potentially including Japanese spirits, sakes, and specialty cocktails. Previous collaborations have included "highballs" with Japanese spirits.

• Speed-Omakase Experience (Potential): Based on descriptions from prior pop-up events, Maneki might offer a "speed-omakase" experience, a coursed tasting menu delivered efficiently, allowing for a diverse culinary journey in a shorter timeframe.

• Dine-In Service: The primary service model, inviting guests to enjoy the restaurant's ambiance and a culinary journey at their table.

• Event Collaboration: Maneki is part of the Irreverently Refined Hospitality group, which often engages in collaborative culinary events, hinting at future special dining experiences.

Maneki distinguishes itself with several unique features and highlights that position it as a noteworthy Japanese dining destination in Charlotte:

• Specialization in Robatayaki: Unlike many Japanese restaurants focusing solely on sushi, Maneki's emphasis on "traditional Hokkaido Japanese methods" of grilling skewers (robatayaki) offers a distinct culinary experience, focusing on charred perfection and flavorful marinades.

• Focus on Local Ingredients: The commitment to grilling "local proteins and produce" not only supports local suppliers but also ensures freshness and a unique regional twist on traditional Japanese techniques.

• From the Minds Behind Acclaimed Restaurants: Maneki is part of the Irreverently Refined Hospitality group, known for its innovative concepts like Counter- and Biblio. This association suggests a high level of culinary creativity and execution.

• Prime Uptown Location in The Alley at Latta Arcade: This charming and centrally located urban alley provides a unique atmosphere for dining, offering both convenience and a pleasant setting.

• Potential for Unique Dining Formats: Past pop-ups have hinted at a "speed-omakase" concept, suggesting that Maneki may offer innovative coursed tasting menus that allow diners to experience a wide range of dishes efficiently.

• Curated Beverage Offerings: While not fully detailed, the emphasis on a refined dining experience implies a thoughtful selection of drinks, potentially including specialty Japanese beverages to complement the grilled fare.

• Modern and Engaging Interiors: As a new concept, Maneki is expected to feature a contemporary design that enhances the dining experience, aligning with the sophisticated image of its parent hospitality group.

As a relatively new establishment, specific, publicly advertised "promotions or special offers" for Maneki are still emerging. However, based on the practices of similar upscale and innovative dining concepts, particularly those from the Irreverently Refined Hospitality group, it's reasonable to anticipate certain types of promotions or value-added experiences:

• Special Tasting Menus or Culinary Events: Given its connection to Chef Sam Hart and concepts like Counter-, Maneki may feature limited-time tasting menus or special collaborative events that offer a unique culinary journey at a set price, providing an exclusive experience.

• Potential for Pop-Up Collaborations: The team has a history of pop-up events (e.g., "Maneki Pop-Up" with Counter-) which could lead to future special engagements offering unique dishes or themes for a limited time.

• Launch or Grand Opening Specials: As a new restaurant, there may be introductory offers or special promotions to attract initial diners and celebrate its opening within The Alley at Latta Arcade.

• Loyalty Programs: While not confirmed, successful restaurants often implement loyalty programs for returning guests, which could include points, discounts, or exclusive access to events.

• Social Media Announcements: Locals interested in promotions should closely follow Maneki's official social media channels and the Irreverently Refined Hospitality group, as these are often the first places where limited-time offers and events are announced.

While definitive ongoing specials may evolve as Maneki establishes itself, its very nature as a fresh, chef-driven concept in Charlotte suggests that unique and high-value dining experiences will be central to its offering. For the most current information, contacting the restaurant directly or checking their official online presence is recommended.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about Maneki's unique Japanese grilling experience, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 320 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

As Maneki is a newer establishment and part of a hospitality group, direct phone numbers for specific locations are sometimes managed centrally or through online reservation systems. While a direct phone number for Maneki was not explicitly listed in public data, their affiliation with Irreverently Refined Hospitality suggests that inquiries can be made through their central website or associated booking platforms. Locals are encouraged to visit the official Maneki website or the Irreverently Refined Hospitality site for the most up-to-date contact details and reservation options.

For locals in North Carolina, especially those in Charlotte seeking a distinctive and high-quality Japanese dining experience, Maneki is poised to become a highly suitable and exciting destination. Its unique focus on traditional Hokkaido-style *robatayaki*, utilizing "local proteins and produce," offers a fresh departure from typical sushi-centric Japanese restaurants, appealing to adventurous palates and food enthusiasts. Being a concept from the acclaimed Irreverently Refined Hospitality group, there's an inherent expectation of culinary excellence, innovative dishes, and a sophisticated atmosphere. The prime Uptown Charlotte location within The Alley at Latta Arcade not only provides a charming setting but also ensures excellent accessibility via public transport and convenient parking options. While it's a newer entrant, its commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients, and a unique grilling experience positions Maneki as a compelling choice for special occasions, a memorable date night, or simply for those eager to explore the evolving Japanese culinary landscape in Charlotte. Maneki represents a modern take on tradition, making it a compelling addition to the local dining scene for anyone in the region looking for an elevated and flavorful Japanese culinary adventure.

Maneki

320 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA