Creative American dining in Charlotte

For 26 years, the people of Shelburne have enjoyed Italian-style comfort food at the mom-and-pop restaurant La Villa Bistro on Shelburne Road. Last summer, owners Jill and Adam Spell spread their family-owned business to their town of residence, and opened a second restaurant, Backyard Bistro, at Charlotte Crossings. Following a successful summer in Charlotte, the Spells made the tough decision to close La Villa and make Backyard Bistro their official restaurant.

Tuna poke on fried wonton tostada. Photo by Jill Spell
Tuna poke on fried wonton tostada. Photo by Jill Spell.

In Backyard Bistro, the Charlotte community found convenient, quality American fusion dining and a fun, family atmosphere. The bistro features outdoor seating on the patio, under a tent, and at the outdoor bar. The indoor restaurant features a bar and dining area. Jill Spell said a restaurant of this kind was a long time coming in Charlotte, and community support for Backyard Bistro has been strong.

Pan seared snapper with fennel. Photo by Jill Spell
Pan seared snapper with fennel. Photo by Jill Spell.

Jill described the restaurant’s dining experience as fun, casual, and creative. She said the bistro will also feature theme nights and a more diverse menu than was offered last summer. Some dishes will be plucked from the menu of the couple’s former Burlington restaurant, Auggies Island Grill.

Gelato will feature prominently on the Italian-style menu and will be sold by the pint in the restaurant as well scooped from a cart on busier nights. Jill said she hopes the community will keep Backyard Bistro in mind as a takeout option, and she invites neighbors to subscribe to their website backyardbistrovt.com. Reservations at Backyard Bistro can be made beginning June 22 through the restaurant app Resy or on their website.