The Loyalist Market — Restaurant in Matthews

This is one of those reviews where I almost did not want to post it because I'd prefer to keep The Loyalist as a tightly held secret for all of us in the Matthews area, but that ship sailed not long after Loyalist opened its doors. To say that The Loyalist is the crown jewel of the Matthews food scene would be an understatement -- it fills literally every niche, and does so with unwavering quality. First, and how I initially stumbled upon Loyalist, is that it is a gourmet fromagerie with cheese hand-picked the owner. The man has an unrivaled passion for cheese, and it shows in selection and quality, ranging from all price points. Secondly, they are a market of gourmet eats featuring local/regional items as well (it's where I get my Marsh Hen Mill grits). Finally, they are a restaurant with some of the best sandwiches on God's green earth (just follow them on Instagram). Oh, and don't forget about the Devil's on Horseback. However, none of this would mean much if it weren't for the owner, Chris. Chris lives where he works, and is a truly a man who serves his community. During the early days of COVID, Chris was one of the first (if not the first?) in the area to step up provide free sandwiches to school kids who relied on lunch at school for their daily meals. He cares for his staff, just as he cares for his food, and it shows in everything the Loyalist does. Thank you to the Loyalist for making our community so awesome, and delicious.

Pro-Tip: If you're looking for holiday gifts for the neighborhood, a wedge of Loyalist cheese is...

What a gem of a place!! I didn’t hear about The Loyalist until today when a friend invited me to meet her for lunch. The moment I walked in it felt like a community hub of people who gathered around quality food—artisan breads, cheeses, and meats etc. The Loyalist Market seemed more homey & cozy than commercialized. I appreciated how they had a selection of products from local vendors like beeswax candles that I bought.

The Reuben sandwich I ordered was INCREDIBLE - probably the BEST I’ve had! I’m originally from the north and I think the Loyalist’s Reuben beats all the Reuben’s I’ve had up north. My sandwich today had the perfectly seasoned pastrami with the right tender texture, the sauerkraut and house-made dressing was fantastic, and the artisan bread completed a delicious combination that made my lunch so enjoyable. Their salad dressing was also unique and savory. Would recommend this place to everyone looking for a quality place to stop...

I really dig their sandwiches. I got a Reuben with a side of salad and my boyfriend had an Original Gangster. We both ordered as warmed ones and it was definitely the right choice.

Ugh, Reuben’s pastrami just melted - super soft and just has the right amount of sauce. I personally felt that OG was too salty for me because of the mix of different salamis in there - but it’s just a personal tastebud. Their creamy wild rice soup was very good as well and tasted like a really good homemade soup that makes you cozy in a gloomy/chilly weather.

Heather served us and she was very nice and friendly, so was others who greeted us there. It’s a good spot for lunch or wine+cheese at night. I wish the music choice was a bit better though.

If you wanted to get a coffee at Good Cup while having Loyalist’s food, you won’t be able to. When Loyalist is open, Good Cup is closed and vice versa. Loyalist does offer coffee though. Make sure to check both...