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McNinch House Reviews List
McNinch House
For the last 22 years, the ca. 1892 Queen Anne style home of Victorian-era Charlotte Mayor Sam McNinch has served as the McNinch House Restaurant. In this historic Fourth Ward home of chef/owner Ellen Davis, guests can expect to be treated like royalty during their multi-course culinary journey. Featuring Charlotte's most carefully constructed wine list, guests will select their entrees from the chef's choice menu, and professional service staff will take care of the rest. Recognized as Charlotte's Most Romantic Restaurant, The McNinch House Restaurant is the perfect place for your anniversary, birthday, special event, private corporate or executive dining. Contact us at mcninchhouserestaurant.com or 704-332-6159. **ALL RESERVATIONS MUST INCLUDE A VALID EMAIL ADDRESS TO CONFIRM**
Dinner Only, Prix Fixe:
7 Courses-$89pp
5 Courses-$79pp
4 Courses-$59pp
Chef's Tasting-$109pp
Chef's Table-$129pp (24 hrs)
+ alcohol, tax, & gratuity (20% standard)
See more McNinch House details
Dinner Only, Prix Fixe:
7 Courses-$89pp
5 Courses-$79pp
4 Courses-$59pp
Chef's Tasting-$109pp
Chef's Table-$129pp (24 hrs)
+ alcohol, tax, & gratuity (20% standard)
44 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 44 reviews
5 stars
(31)
4 stars
(6)
3 stars
(2)
2 stars
(3)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.7
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- special occasion(38)
- romantic(35)
- notable wine list(25)
- fit for foodies(21)
- neighborhood gem(11)
- good for groups(3)
McNinch House Reviews List
Review 1 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My wife and I loved this restaurant. It was the perfect gift to her for mother's day. The staff was excellent and I would recommend anyone to give the McNinch House a chance."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 2 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Classic but not great
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had heard this was a "classic" destination with a price fixed menu and McNinch house is just that. We were warmly welcomed upon arriving, the service was very inviting though-out the meal. We choose the 7 course price fix with wine parings. Now here is my review. The food while good is not great (think banquet). Emphasis on classic preparation and presentation. There was nothing special about each course only that combined they were all part of the "classic"ness of the place. I only share this because your looking at 200/per person with wine paring and for that $$ I can think of a few CLT where I can pay much less to get much more. I would not recommend this place to anyone under 55."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 3 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We had a fantastic dining
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had a fantastic dining experience in a lovely location. The food was creatively prepared - a visual treat as well as a tasty one. The wine pairings were perfect. We really enjoyed the whole meal."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2000
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 4 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our first dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our first dining experience at McNinch House. Enjoyed it tremendously. The setting was intimate and the food was excellent. The staff and service was befitting the restaurant itself. We highly recommend McNinch House."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 5 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Beware of corkage fee.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This place is always good. I was shocked this trip. We went for my wife's birthday. Took a special bottle of wine. We were charged a $45.00 corkage fee. I was shocked. As good as it is, I will not go back."
Dined on 04/23/2013
2003
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 6 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was very good but I dnt
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food was very good but I dnt think worth the money overall. Atmosphere very quiet. Service was great."
Dined on 04/18/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 7 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wish I lived here
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food alone would have been reason enough to rate this so highly. But add to that the pleasant, courteous and knowledgeable staff who GENUINELY seem to care about your experience... it was perfect.
We do not live in Charlotte, but if we did this would be a place we would come for those special moments.
All in all a spledid experience"
We do not live in Charlotte, but if we did this would be a place we would come for those special moments.
All in all a spledid experience"
Dined on 04/16/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 8 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Only drink water
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Historic, quaint and interesting property. Service was excellent. Food was well prepared and presented but portions were extremely meager. It appears that the chef is focused on tasting memu and many small portion courses. What would however, have made for a wonderful evening was mitigated by the excessive wine list prices. ALL wines by the glass were $15 and the bottle prices worse. This is yet another example of restaurants padding checks by inflating wine prices excessively."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2009
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Review 9 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Meh!
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Meh! This was a good restaurant , but when you pay $225 per person for a meal and wine, you expect something memorable. This was good - but no one (2 steak, 1 salmon, 1 pork) had a " this is the best thing I've ever eaten" moment. We did the wine pairings and they seemed to be more " this is what's open" than matched with the food. They were wet, barely a tasting, and, again, not notable. You know, a zin with the steak was fine, perhaps passable with the pork, but it overwhelmed the salmon where a good Chardonnay would have been fantastic.
Would I go back? Probably not, but, if I did, I'd spend the $400 on better wine."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 10 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Quality/Pacing is Impeccable
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our party of four enjoyed a wonderful meal and a fabulous time at McNinch House. The food was beautifully prepared and delicious. My husband and I both remarked on the pace and quality of the service - it was absolutely excellent. With a six course meal, timing/pacing of service makes a critical difference and the chef and staff are true professionals in this regard."
Dined on 04/03/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 11 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We've been dining at the McNinch
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We've been dining at the McNinch House for about 23 years. Although many things have changed over the years, the ambiance, service, food and attention to detail are all impeccable. I highly recommend this restaurant for any special occasions in your life.
You won't be disappointed."
You won't be disappointed."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2009
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 12 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I thought it was good, thought
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I thought it was good, thought it didn't blow me away. Service was excellent. Food was average for what's supposed to be the best in Charlotte. Wine list was good. A couple dishes were very good, but one was a complete disaster, not something I have experienced in a restautant of such caliber. Ambiance was definitely a plus."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
The food was definitely overpriced
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food was definitely overpriced for what you get. It is elegantly plated, but no outstanding flavors/combinations that would warrant the price.
The table service was OK, but there were times when our table was neglected. Considering the need for reservations and the few number of tables being serviced that night (3-4 maximum), that should not have been the case.
The ambiance was probably the most redeeming factor- very quiet and intimate with extremely elaborate, fanciful decor. In this sense, it is great for an extremely expensive/romantic night out. Expect to spend $250 for 2 glasses of wine, and a three-course meal."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2012
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 14 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Avoid
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"One word can sum up the entire experience...terrible. I truly do not understand how this place continues to get great reviews. The atmosphere is uncomfortable and the food is really bad. I'm not a food expert by any means; however, I can tell the difference between "fresh" strawberries and frozen...especially when they are still frozen! There were only two other couples having dinner that night. A third came in and quickly left after the first course...we should have ran out of the door with them. Two people...one mid level bottle of Chardonnay...and a $300 bill. A least they were kind enough to automatically add a 20 percent tip. Save yourself $250 and go to the Hickory Tavern."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
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Review 15 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Romantic occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"One of my favourites for a special occasion. Have been here several times and it always delights. It is very romantic."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2012
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 16 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place to dine. A must
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Great place to dine. A must when in Charlotte. A hidden Gem."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2007
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was my third time in
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This was my third time in a year dining at the McNinch House and it has proved to be the best dining in Charlotte, I look forward to my fourth visit."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 18 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was our first visit to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This was our first visit to the McNinch House and we truly enjoyed the experience. The ambiance is early 20th century, like the homes of our grandparents - soft lighting enhanced by candle-light. The staff works all the tables, including the wine steward, who selected several nice additions to both of our meals. The servings were nicely presented and displayed.
It is pricey but certainly a way to spend a very romantic and enjoyable dining experience, and especially on a special occasion."
It is pricey but certainly a way to spend a very romantic and enjoyable dining experience, and especially on a special occasion."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 19 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The McNinch House defines
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The McNinch House defines the pinnacle of what fine dining is Charlotte. The presentation of each food course was picture-perfect! The flavors were rich and very well balanced. My taste buds were delighted with each more flavored course. Our wine steward and server, Wesley, was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and preparation methods and wine pairings. Wesley provided the best service in Charlotte! Overall, the McNinch House made our birthday dinner perfect."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 20 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The BEST restaurant EVER!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I am speechless. I surprised my wife and took her here. She was in tears! This was the most romantic setting a restaurant could possibly provide!"
Dined on 03/01/2013
2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 21 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Easily THE most romantic dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Easily THE most romantic dinner of my entire life, my girlfriend and I were blown away by the experience"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This is an incredible "special
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This is an incredible "special occasion" dining experience, in an historic relaxed old house, which will be particularly enjoyed by people who know a little bit (or more) about wine."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 23 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Excellent restaurant.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Excellent overall as always, very romantic."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 24 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A unique exquisite food experience.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"McNich House was on our wish list for some time and we made a commitment for Valentine's. The experience was one of the best we have ever had. The special preparation evident in each course was remarkable. Every dish matched multible flavors with perfection. The wine pairings were the best I've ever tasted. Our flute of Champaign on arrival was exquisite. The Zinfandel was slightly chilled at just the right temperature. I liked the Anglim Pinot Noir so much I later ordered it from the winery. The Conn Valley Black Label Cabernet was big and complex. There was not an off note in any of the five wines tasted. We have dined in San Francisco,New York and Naples, Florida.The McNich House is on par with the best restaurants in those foodie towns."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing! The food challenged my taste buds and I loved every bit of it"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 26 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious and creatively presented
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Delicious and creatively presented food. Professional, attentive service in a charming 1890's house. Lovely evening!"
Dined on 02/12/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 27 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
The service and ambiance were
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"The service and ambiance were excellent and the food was good..... but...... our main issue was we hardly received any food... We ordered the Bistro menu with wine pairings which was a 4 course menu... Sadly the courses were soup, sorbet, main, and dessert. My wife could not believe that sorbet was considered a course! Well, the soup was small, the sorbet was smaller, the main course was on the very small side, maybe an ounce or 2 of meat with 1 or 2 carrot pieces, and finally the small desert. We went home and fixed dinner to finally get our fill.... so sad we paid $244 for this..."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2010
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Review 28 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Loved it!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We have been to many great restaurants around the world and the McNinch House is amoung the top."
Dined on 01/22/2013
2012
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for McNinch House
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very happy with the choice
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very happy with the choice to visit this historic house in Charlotte. Very enjoyable menu with many pleasant surprises. Pricey but you will get the excellent food, service and ambiance for which you paid Would definitely go back!."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Ratings-Only Reviews for McNinch House
Based on the average of (15) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.8
/
5
3 out of 3 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.8
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.8
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.8
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate