Where We Refuel: A+R Tactics' Favorite Post-Training Eats in Charlotte

After a long day at the Shoot House, running drills, or grinding through scenario-based training, nothing hits quite like a great meal. At A+R Tactics, we believe recovery isn’t just about rest—it’s about refueling the right way. Whether we’re diving into bold flavors, fresh seafood, or classic BBQ, these are the local Charlotte spots we find ourselves coming back to time and time again. Here’s where we eat when the work is done.

The Blue Taj

📍 Blakeney
When we want Indian food that’s both comforting and elite, it’s The Blue Taj. The chicken tikka masala is an easy favorite, but the lamb dishes, garlic naan, and dal makhni? Unmatched. Whether you’re a meat-lover or vegan, this spot satisfies all. Bonus points for their killer cocktails—especially the Dak Bangla Mojito. Honestly, we call it the best Indian restaurant in the South, and we stand by it.
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Cajun Yard Dog

📍 Arboretum Shopping Center
Southern soul meets Louisiana spice here. From blackened salmon to fried okra, everything tastes homemade and cooked with heart. The fried oysters are a go-to for us, and the jambalaya has that slow-cooked depth that reminds you of your grandma's kitchen—if your grandma was from the bayou.
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The Waterman Fish Bar

📍 South End
Need seafood? This is the team’s top pick. We've crushed oyster platters on the rooftop, dug into gumbo, and gone all in on the blackened trout with spicy dirty rice. Great drinks, great views, and solid seafood every time.
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Rooster's Wood-Fired Kitchen

📍 SouthPark
When we want elevated Southern fare, we hit Rooster’s. Their rotisserie chicken, braised short ribs, and au gratin potatoes are legendary. This place is a comfort-food reward after a high-pressure training day, and the ingredients are always fresh and local.
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Midwood Smokehouse

📍 Plaza Midwood
Ribs. Brisket. Burnt ends. Mac & cheese. Need we say more? Midwood’s BBQ is always a hit with the crew. We’ve rolled in with big groups and still got top-tier service. Every bite tastes like it was made for pitmasters and patriots alike.
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The Crunkleton

📍 Elizabeth
For a full dining experience with steakhouse vibes, The Crunkleton is unbeatable. Their tomahawk steak is next-level—easily one of the best in the Carolinas. Add shrimp and grits or one of their inventive sides, and you’ve got yourself a celebration-worthy meal.
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Café Monte

📍 SouthPark
If brunch is the move, we’re at Café Monte. Duck confit, tomato bisque, crepes, mimosas… It’s got that laid-back French bistro energy that makes you forget you were running drills just hours ago. Bonus: their omelets and pastries are chef’s kiss.
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Beef ’n Bottle

📍 South Charlotte
A Charlotte classic. Steaks always cooked to perfection, seafood options that hold their own, and desserts you’ll regret notsaving room for. If it’s been a tough training day and someone says “Beef ’n Bottle?” it’s an instant yes from us.
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Yunta

📍 South End
This place is a fusion dream. Peruvian-Japanese food done right. Lucuma toast is a surprise favorite, but the ceviche and Pulpo Anticuchero (grilled octopus) are where Yunta really shines. Every visit feels like a cultural experience, and the service never misses.
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Optimist Hall

📍 Downtown Charlotte
For those days when no one can agree on what to eat, Optimist Hall saves the day. From dim sum to BBQ, Korean wings to desserts, this food hall has it all. Great for groups, casual hangs, or post-training decompression. Grab a coffee, a plate, and good company.
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Whether you’re training with us for a day or you're part of the crew, you’ve earned more than just tactical skills—you’ve earned a meal that hits the spot. These places aren’t just restaurants to us. They’re the local legends we hit up to celebrate victories, recover from the grind, and keep the community vibes strong.

Train hard. Eat well. We’ll see you out there.

Photos here were sourced from the restaurants’ official websites or public Google listings. We’re usually too excited to eat to remember to take our own—trust us, the food looks (and tastes) even better in person!