Copper $$$

311 East Blvd., Charlotte
704/333-0063
www.copperrestaurant.com [1]

HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.,
Fri. 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m., Sat. 5–10:30 p.m., Sun. 5–9:30 p.m.

COST: Most entrées more than $20

Charlotte [2] isn’t known for its Indian restaurants; the few that do exist tend to be unremarkable eateries where traditional curries, tikka masala, and tandoori chicken are served on a buffet. But Copper takes a more upscale approach to Far East cuisine.

Owner Pannu Singh mixes traditional and modern in dishes that have caught the attention of local foodies. And the presentation is as modern as the cuisine: For example, each of the selections in the dessert sampler—rice pudding, ice cream, honey donuts, and halwa—is plated on its own plate and the four are served on top of one large plate.

The restaurant is in the Mayer House [3], a turn-of-the-century bungalow that is on the National Register of Historic Places and filled with traditional Indian art.