Contact + Opportunities

What is The Story of Mi Cariño?

The Story of Mi Cariño is a chef-driven gastro-cantina and mezcalería located in Charlotte's South End. Inspired by Mexican and Left Coast Latino culture, Mi Cariño blends bold, scratch-made cuisine, an expansive agave spirits program and cinematic design into a dining experience built for lingering, discovery and connection.

What does “Mi Cariño” mean?

“Mi Cariño” means “my darling” in Spanish. The name reflects the care, intention and hospitality that guide every aspect of the guest experience.

What kind of food does Mi Cariño serve?

Mi Cariño serves chef-driven Mexican and Latin American cuisine inspired by the vibrant flavors of Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán and Oaxaca, Mexico, alongside the creative energy of Left Coast Latino culture, particularly Los Angeles. The menu spans handmade tortillas, oysters, ceviches and tacos to composed entrees and inventive desserts, blending regional traditions with modern technique and personal expression.

What is Left Coast Latino?

Left Coast Latino is the perspective through which Mi Cariño explores the intersection of Mexican and Latin American traditions with the multicultural creativity and energy of the West Coast, particularly Los Angeles. It comes to life through food, beverage, music, art and atmosphere, honoring tradition while leaving room for interpretation and discovery.

Learn more about our story →

What makes Mi Cariño different from other Mexican restaurants?

Mi Cariño is not a traditional taqueria, Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurant. Our menu stems from the Mexican tradition and the origins of influence across all of Latin America. We incorporate classic and modern approaches to sourcing our ingredients and cook our food through the culinary perspective of the West Coast.

Do you offer vegetarian or gluten-friendly options?

Yes. We offer several vegetarian and gluten-friendly options throughout the menu. Please inform your server of any dietary restrictions or allergies and our team will be happy to guide you.

Do you make anything in-house?

Yes. Many elements of the menu are produced in-house, including Oaxaca cheese, sourdough flour tortillas, nixtamal tortillas, salsas, sauces, pickles and various cocktail ingredients.

Do you work with local farms and suppliers?

Yes. We work with local and regional farms and suppliers whenever possible, while sourcing specialty ingredients from Mexico and the West Coast when a dish calls for them. We proudly partner with local farms and suppliers including Harmony Ridge, Barbee Farms, Boy & Girl Farms, Fairshare Farm, Vital Greens, Mai's Farm, Freshlist and other regional partners whenever possible.

Do you offer takeout or delivery?

No, not at this time. Follow us on social media for updates.

What is a mezcalería?

A mezcalería is a bar specializing in mezcal and distilled maguey or agave spirits. At Mi Cariño, the program goes beyond the bottles on the back bar to explore how plant, place, producer and process shape what's in the glass. Mi Cariño features one of the Carolinas' most thoughtfully curated agave programs with approximately 225 unique agave-based spirits.

Discover the Mezcalería →

Do you offer mezcal flights?

While we don’t offer traditional flights, guests can explore the collection through Mezcal Service. Choose a 1 oz., 2 oz. or 3 oz. pour of an agave spirit, served with orange slices, raw chocolate and your choice of four regionally flavored salts. With guidance from our beverage team, it’s an opportunity to explore different agaves, regions and flavor profiles one pour at a time.

Learn more about the Mezcalería →

Can I come just for cocktails?

Absolutely. While Mi Cariño is known for its chef-driven menu, the bar experience is equally important to the story. Guests are welcome to join us for cocktails, mezcal, wine or non-alcoholic beverages without dining.

Do you offer non-alcoholic options?

Absolutely. In addition to Mexican sodas and aguas frescas, Mi Cariño offers non-alcoholic cocktails, low-ABV beverages and other thoughtfully crafted alternatives.

What is the atmosphere like?

Mi Cariño is designed to feel cinematic, transportive and intimate. As the evening unfolds, the lighting dims, the music builds and the room takes on a livelier energy while remaining a place designed for conversation, dining and lingering.

Is Mi Cariño a good date-night restaurant?

Absolutely. Whether you're joining us for dinner, cocktails or a late-night mezcal, Mi Cariño was designed to encourage connection and create a setting where you can settle in and stay awhile.

Is Mi Cariño a late-night restaurant?

Yes. While we're known for dinner, many guests join us later in the evening for cocktails, mezcal, dessert and conversation. The experience evolves throughout the night and is designed for lingering. We close at 11 p.m. or 12 a.m. depending on the night of the week.

Do you have live music or DJs?

Live DJs set the tone on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, while curated cultural playlists shape the atmosphere throughout the rest of the week. Music levels and energy may increase later in the evening. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for updates.

Is there a dress code?

There is no formal dress code, but smart casual is encouraged for all guests to enjoy an elevated evening out. We ask that attire be appropriate for the setting and reserve the right to decline service when necessary.

Are there age restrictions?

There are no formal age restrictions and guests of all ages are welcome. Please note that Mi Cariño does not offer high chairs, booster seats or a kids’ menu, and the atmosphere becomes livelier with higher music levels later in the evening.

Where can I park?

Street parking is available; check signage for limits. Parking is also available in the lot between the Elder Gallery and Ferguson. Paid parking is available in the surface lots and parking decks in the surrounding area. See recommended parking locations here. See a full list of parking options in South End here.

Is Mi Cariño ADA accesible?

Yes. The restaurant is ADA accessible and designed to accommodate all guests.

Do you accept reservations?

Yes. Reservations are encouraged and available through Resy or directly through the Reservations page on our website. Please note we provide 90-minute seating time to parties of 1-2 people, and 120 minutes to parties of 3-5, 150 minutes to parties of 6 or more. We hold the table for a grace period of 15 minutes before offering the reservation to our waitlist. If you are running late, kindly let us know by calling the restaurant at (704) 703-6679. Note: We may not be able to extend your dining time if you are late.

Resy Find Your Table →

Do you accept walk-ins?

Absolutely. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability, including at the bar.

Do you offer private dining or group events?

Mi Cariño does not have a dedicated private dining room, but full restaurant buyouts may be available for select events and celebrations. Please contact our team through the Contact page at least one month in advance to discuss availability and details.

How large of a party can you accommodate?

Mi Cariño is an intimate space but can accommodate a variety of party sizes. For parties of six and under, reservations can be made directly online. For groups larger than six, please contact the restaurant directly at (704) 703-6679 or through our Contact Us page.

How do I inquire about a restaurant buyout?

Please contact our team through the Contact page to inquire about full restaurant buyouts and availability.

Can I bring a cake for a special occasion?

Outside desserts may be permitted with advance notice. A $3 cake-cutting fee applies per person. Please contact the restaurant before your reservation for details on current fees and policies.

Do you allow outside food or beverages? Is there a corkage fee for wine?

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted, with the exception of wine. Guests may bring their own bottle of wine for a $25 corkage fee per bottle.

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes. Gift cards are available in the restaurant. Please Contact Us for additional information.

I left something behind. Who should I contact?

Please contact the restaurant directly by phone at (704) 703-6679 or submit an inquiry through our Contact Us page, and our team will gladly assist.

I'd like to share feedback about my visit. How can I get in touch?

We welcome guest feedback and appreciate the opportunity to hear about your experience. Please contact us directly at info@micarinoclt.com.

How can I inquire about partnerships, collaborations or media opportunities?

For media inquiries, partnerships, influencer collaborations or interview requests, please contact pr@nicedayahead.com.

How can I apply for a job at The Story of Mi Cariño?

We're always interested in meeting people who care deeply about hospitality. Please send your resume and information to apply@micarinoclt.com.

Frequently Asked Questions