Background:
Harper’s has been a Charlotte institution for years. Jason came here often growing up, and it was his grandmother’s favorite place (she ordered the burger, which also just so happens to be my go-to order). Harper’s has grown from the South Park location to several other locations in Charlotte and beyond.
ALL HAIL FRIED FOODZ
For us, the OG South Park locale is where it’s at, and we were beyond excited to be asked out for a formal tasting last month. Truthfully, we are at Harper’s at least every two weeks, so to be formally invited was such an honor. We think Harper’s is a sleeper hit and that it often doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Read on to see what makes Harper’s such a great part of Charlotte’s dining scene.
Eat This:
“Secret Menu” Blue Cheese Chips
We’re going to let you in on our little secret: Harper’s “secret menu” blue cheese chips. Apparently these used to be on the menu, but you can still get them if you ask nicely. Personally, I like to douse these in a HEAVY pour of hot sauce, but Jason doesn’t like that one bit. You do you. But whatever you decide hot sauce wise: GET THE CHIPS.
Asian Chicken Salad
Asian chicken, mixed greens, mushrooms, almonds, scallions, and crispy wontons
The chef told us that this salad is one of their most popular menu items, and it’s a solid option. I’m not usually a chicken breast fan, but theirs is juicy and flavorful, and the crispy blackened bits take it over the top. This was my first time trying this, and I’d order it again!
Harper’s Original Chicken Supremes
These are Jason’s FAVORITES. Seriously. He says Harper’s chicken supremes are the best chicken tenders in town, and just look at that crispy fried batter. You can get an appetizer portion or an entree portion, and they come with their house-cut fries.
Do you think Harper’s Chicken Supremes could be the next SUPREME WITCH in the coven? image credit to SYFY Wire.
House-Cut Fries
These fries take two days to make. They are cut in house, brined, and then fried up to absolute perfection. That golden-brown color isn’t fry face tune, it’s just the mark of a potato treated right. Don’t expect to be able to share these with anyone.
StreetSide Grilled Fish Tacos
Grilled white fish, fresh corn tortillas, grilled pineapple pickled onion, salsa verde served with Spanish rice & black beans
Did someone say Taco Tuesday? Who wants to crowd into the same old tired taco joint as the rest of Charlotte when you can get these beauties? That’s what I thought.
DANISH RIBS
Do you want to eat the screen? Uh, yeah you do. These ribs were fabulous and right outta Denmark, which you know we love. Danish ribs really do come from Denmark, are known for being more tender than traditional American ribs, and have 13 ribs instead of the usual 12. These babies are GOOOOD.
Dessert:
IRON SKILLET COOKIE
Do you like cookies? How about warm cookies? Well, you’re in luck. This iron skillet cookie checks all the boxes, ya’ll.
Drink:
Harper’s has a full bar, and a great bar area with booth seating and lots of TVs that are always turned to whatever sporting event you want to see. Jason and I always choose to dine in the bar, so he can watch TV while ignoring me. On second thought, maybe this is why he likes Harper’s so much?
Atmosphere:
Harper’s at South Park is huge, which means they rarely run a wait, even when they’re busy. The decor is simple and laid back, and it’s the kind of place you feel you can come as you are. It’s a great place for family get togethers, since there’s something on the menu for everyone. We actually came here after I officially become a Jew, and I still had wet hair from my Mikvah dip. Good times.
A Charlotte classic.
All-American Hospitality:
The service at Harper’s is so fast and efficient. One of the things we love about dining here is that we can get in and get out in under an hour, even when they’re busy. Although the visit we’re depicting here is a media visit, we have never had anything but great service, and we seriously come here all the time.
Frankie’s Notes:
The bread at Harper’s is also a secret menu item – they don’t bring it out automatically, but you can get it if you ask! ; Jason loves a restaurant with a TV so he doesn’t even have to pretend to feign interest in whatever I’m talking about;
Disclaimer: This meal was provided free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are our own, and we were not compensated for this review.