Gastonia’s downtown has been quietly revitalizing, and with it has come a handful of modern restaurants and bars that give the city a fresh energy. These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy spots are worth checking out.
1. Webb Custom Kitchen
Set in an old movie theater, Webb Custom Kitchen is one of Gastonia’s most striking dining rooms—high ceilings, cinematic decor, and a polished yet comfortable feel.
The menu leans New American/steakhouse: steaks, chops, seafood, big salads, and appetizers that feel a little fancy without being fussy. It’s an easy choice for date night or celebrations.
2. Sprouts Café
A bright, health‑leaning café that fits the “modern small city” vibe downtown.
You’ll find salads, grain bowls, wraps, smoothies, and fresh juices, often with vegetarian and vegan options. It’s a go‑to for lighter lunches and people who want something fresher than typical fast food.
3. Samurai Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar
A popular sushi and hibachi spot that manages to be both family‑friendly and good for a casual night out.
The menu features classic rolls, specialty rolls, nigiri, and hibachi dinners with steak, chicken, shrimp, or combos. Expect lively grill shows at hibachi tables and plenty of teriyaki‑style comfort dishes.
4. Freeman’s Pub
A cozy, downtown pub with better‑than‑expected food and a strong community feel.
Think burgers, sandwiches, wings, fish and chips, and rotating specials, plus a good tap list and regular live music. It’s more of a hangout than a “fancy meal” spot, but very easy to love.
5. Growlers Pourhouse Gastonia (craft‑beer focused with food trucks/partnered kitchens)
A craft‑beer‑driven spot that often collaborates with rotating food trucks or small food concepts.
You’ll usually find a wide range of local and regional beers, plus occasional pop‑ups offering tacos, barbecue, burgers, or other street‑food‑style bites. Great for a casual evening when you want to sample a few different things.
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