Grinning Mule

4.6 ( 196 reviews )
$30–50
1109 Morningside Dr, Charlotte, NC 28205, United States
+1 704-393-3939

Grinning Mule, located at 1109 Morningside Dr, Charlotte, NC, is a hidden gem worth discovering. This charming restaurant offers a delightful atmosphere, combining a cozy indoor setting with an inviting outdoor space adorned with lights. Patrons have praised the vibrant menu, featuring dishes like wonderfully spiced catfish, crispy fried chicken sandwiches, and a selection of fresh seafood options that invigorate the palate.

The attention to detail extends to the drinks, with unique cocktails like smoked margaritas that complement the hearty offerings. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional service, with the owner often taking time to engage with guests personally, creating a warm and friendly ambiance. Despite its slightly higher price point, many believe that the quality of the food justifies the cost. Dishes are designed for sharing, making it an ideal spot for gatherings.

Whether indulging in flavorful burgers, tasty wings, or delectable desserts like peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream, visitors leave feeling satisfied. The Grinning Mule shines with a combination of vibrant flavors, attentive service, and a cozy atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. If you’re in Charlotte, this restaurant is a must-try for both locals and visitors alike.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers delivery
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has live music
    • Good for watching sport
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For Grinning Mule

Erika Williams
Jun 16,2025
Food was great all the food you see in the picture we payed about 61 We drank water it's a small place you need to make reservations you can eat outside with lighting like in like a grassy area, The parking lot is small,they do have a bar inside the food was excellent very tasty very nice waitresses great atmosphere
Dustin Hughes
May 22,2025
The owner is amazing! He was such a great person to talk to, he made us feel like we've been friends of his for years. The catfish is amazing, which I was not expecting and the fried chicken sandwich was delicious, however, the spice will definitely sneak up on you. I will definitely be coming back whenever my husband and I are in Charlotte, this place is definitely a must if you're in the area.
Kelsey Pabin
May 16,2025
The Grinning Mule is hidden away but a great place for drinks and a quick bite! Portions are smaller but are meant more for sharing then an entire meal to yourself. We were thrilled with all the food options we ordered. The burgers/wings were cooking well, and the tuna tasted very fresh. A little pricey but what you get is worth the cost. The staff was exceptionally helpful and some of the best service we’ve had. Highly recommend trying this new restaurant out!
Wes Siepiela
May 12,2025
So good! I love the variety of plates; it's hard to choose which ones to get. This is one of the only places I can get some wurst and my vegetarian gf can get something she can eat as well. And lastly, so many good cocktails. We will be coming back here often!
HJC
Apr 3,2025
Had a really great experience at The Grinning Mule in Charlotte NC. The service was fantastic. They had so many great things on the menu- was had to choose. Our drinks were amazing. I had the smoked margarita and the hunting wabbits. We had the New Orleans shrimp, the duck au poivre pasta which was fantastic, the burrata, we got the Papas bravas with bacon and cheese, the mac & cheese which was so cheesy and delicious and the peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream for dessert. Everything tasted really good and was super fresh. Will definitely go back!
Stefanie P
Mar 30,2025
We tried Grinning Mule for the first time and it won't be out last! This place was absolutely great! The environment was enjoyable and the service was absolutely excellent! Bob, our bartender, knew so much about Cognac and Bourbon. His drinks were absolutely on point! The food was delicious and the owners came up and talked to us. We really appreciated the time we spent, it felt like a little community. I would recommend anyone looking for a relatively low key but elegant place to try Grinning Mule.
Amy Paige
Mar 15,2025
We sat at the bar and had a lovely time! There bartender was very friendly and well-versed in the menu. Drinks were excellent, and the vibe is great! Speaking of the menu, it is a smidge limited in comparison to traditional American restaurants, but we didn't find it limiting. The tuna tacos, caprese salad, and crab cakes were excellent!!
Jordan Brown
Mar 7,2025
My wife and I love the food and vibe at Grinning Mule. All of the small plates we have tried have been amazing. My favorites are the tuna poke tacos and cheeseburger sliders. Also check out the creative and delicious cocktail menu. I like the tequila mule and the sage advice. The service is pretty solid too. We also got a chance to meet the owners who live in the neighborhood.

Add a Review

Quality
Location
Price
Space
Service

Location

Appreciated by Others

Tandoori Junction Indian Cuisine Nanaimo, Canada
(464 review)
Tandoori Junction Indian Cuisine Nanaimo, Canada
  • 489 Wallace St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5B7, Canada
Indian restaurant
+1 250-591-8980
Buttermilk and Bourbon
(512 review)
Buttermilk and Bourbon
  • 100 Arsenal Yards Blvd, Watertown, MA 02472, United States
Restaurant
+1 857-760-7128
Tziki
(299 review)
Tziki
  • 209 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States
greek restaurant
+1 646-360-2970
J B's Pizza & Subs
(260 review)
J B's Pizza & Subs
  • 371 N Main St, Sparta, NC 28675, United States
Pizza restaurant
+1 336-372-2508
Malo's Pizza & Pasta
(204 review)
Malo's Pizza & Pasta
  • 519 MacDade Blvd, Collingdale, PA 19023, United States
pizza restaurant
+1 610-522-9999
Agave Mexican Grill & Cantina
(436 review)
Agave Mexican Grill & Cantina
  • 197a Boston Post Rd W, Marlborough, MA 01752, United States
Mexican restaurant
+1 508-810-1919
Baja Sur Burrito
(105 review)
Baja Sur Burrito
  • Jesús Castro Agúndez, 23400 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Cafe
San Marcos
(517 review)
San Marcos
  • 719 Galena St, Toledo, OH 43611, United States
mexican restaurant
+1 419-720-0041
Burgerwale - Indian Street Food
(467 review)
Burgerwale - Indian Street Food
  • 85 John St S Unit C, Hamilton, ON L8N 2C2, Canada
indian restaurant
+1 905-525-9332
Osgood Grub Co
(680 review)
Osgood Grub Co
  • 406 N Buckeye St, Osgood, IN 47037, United States
american restaurant
+1 812-689-4362