How These Charlotte Restaurant Owners Add a Twist to Southern Classics

Charlotte, NC – Many people flock to Charlotte for the tasteful southern culture and southern food. Luckily, since Charlotte exists in the south there are a lot of southern comfort options on every corner. There is one in particular that brings all of the southern favorites and classics of Memphis and New Orleans right to the heart of Charlotte. Leah and Louise is a Black-owned and modern “juke joint.” This southern-inspired restaurant has recreated a variety of southern classics for its menu.

Leah and Louise was created by Chef Greg Collier and his wife, Subrina Collier. According to the owner, Greg Collier, the restaurant is named after his sister and grandmother. Greg and Subrina have said that they do not want their food to be referred to as “soul food.” Their menu is full of southern food – but with a twist. This is shown in a lot of their menu items. Their catfish and grits are an example of one of their special – but different – menu items. We’ve heard of shrimp and grits, but Leah and Louise have given it a ( delicious ) twist.

Their cocktails also give a retro feel.  Some of them even contain whiskey which pays homage to Tennessee and other southern cuisines.

Both Greg and Subrina Collier are proud to be able to showcase Black people in a fine dining atmosphere.

Leah and Louise is a casual establishment with dancing, drinking, and dining, of course. Even though the restaurant has a casual vibe, it is intimate so you would probably need a reservation. The reason the Colliers like to refer to their establishment as a “juke joint” is due to the furniture and interior inspired by the old southern juke joints. The setting has burgundy furniture with wooden accents. Many of their food items are also inspired by the places in the African Diaspora.

Leah and Louise was even named #2 on Esquire Magazine’s list for best new restaurants in 2020.

You can find Leah and Louise at 301 Camp Road, Charlotte, NC.