The Flipside Cafe — Restaurant in Pineville

My wife and I dined here this past Tuesday evening, and let me just say — what a sleeper hit of a restaurant.

We were greeted at the door by a kind lady in a pink dress who immediately gave us a good first impression. I asked for a booth (because let’s be honest, booths tables), and she kindly let us know one would be ready shortly. We waited about ten minutes while it dried — no biggie. I’d rather wait for a clean booth than slide into someone else’s leftover ranch dressing.

Once seated, we were welcomed by Eric, our waiter for the evening. Eric was on point — respectful, attentive, and handled his job with care and pride. I’ve worked in customer service before, so I try to judge fairly — not every waiter has the same style, but Eric clearly knew what he was doing. Drinks stayed full, service was smooth, and we never felt like we had to flag him down or guess where he went.

Now, the food… that’s where this place really flexed.

I ordered the shrimp and grits, and let me tell you — I’ve had shrimp and grits in high-end restaurants across the South, and this dish could sit at the same table. Perfectly cooked, seasoned well, and the addition of spinach? That was a bold move — and it worked. Like, genius-level worked.

My wife ordered the blackened salmon pasta, and of course, we shared bites (the marriage law requires it). The pasta was cooked just right, but what really shocked us? The chicken in it was not overcooked. That’s becoming a rare achievement these days. Most places serve chicken so dry it could be used as packing foam. Not here. This was flavorful, tender, and clearly prepped by a chef who knows the rules — and respects the ingredients. Whoever was in that kitchen wasn’t just cooking — they were composing.

Then came dessert. We asked Eric what he recommended, and he gave us the rundown. But when he said red velvet cheesecake, I raised an eyebrow. I’d never seen a cheesecake look like that when he brought it out — it was different. Honestly, at first glance, I was ready to be disappointed. But then I took a bite…

Cue the dramatic music.

My wife and I just looked at each other. No words. Just that silent, wide-eyed “holy crap” face. It was ridiculously good. Moist, rich, and somehow light and dense at the same time. We polished off that plate like two people who told themselves they’d “just try one bite.”

All in, I had two drinks, shrimp and grits, her pasta, the cheesecake, and left Eric a $20 cash tip. The bill came to around $100 — and I’d gladly pay it again. For the quality, experience, and pure flavor, it felt like money well spent.

We’ll absolutely be back — not just because of the great food and service, but because this place made an impression. I’d recommend it to anyone who appreciates well-made food served with care and class — with just enough surprise to make the...

I had the pleasure of discovering this excellent little cafe while visiting friends in Charlotte NC last weekend. After doing a quick breakfast search this was the first stop listed and was a short hop over the border into SC from their place in Steele Creek.

Once we arrived the place was smaller than expected and quite full, however they had a tablet for the four of us immediately. We're lucky we got there when we did because by the time we left there was a line outside waiting to get in. I wouldn't have wanted to wait in that heat.

As I said the place was small, but you aren't packed in like sardines. The server took our drink orders as soon as we were seated and delivered menus and utensils with the drinks a couple of moments later.

After looking over the excellent menu my friend Dave ordered the Maine Lobster Omelet. His wife and I decided to have the same entree, the Steak-N-Egg breakfast. Dave's brother Charles who was also visiting from out west went with the daily special, Cinnamon Crunch Waffles.

After an appropriate wait our dishes arrived. Jessie and I both agreed that our Steak-N-Egg meals were delicious. On mine the steak was cooked exactly as asked (Medium) and there was a decent portion of home fries topped with eggs. As I finished the meal I noticed there was no toast. Make sure you order that if you want it was it doesn't come with the dish. Dave's Lobster Omelet also looked awesome, he enjoyed it but said it wasn't as "out of this world" as he had hoped. Charles also said he really enjoyed his Cinnamon Crunch Waffles.

All in all, an excellent breakfast. Next time I'm in the area maybe I'll get a chance to check them...

OMG – The “Food Scene” in Charlotte has “Cardiac Arrested” – Turns out, I think I may have found it – “The Food Scene” – Alive & Well – Across the Border in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Wake Up – Fellow Yelpers and Foodies – Oh L-rd! – I think I may have found the best Breakfast/Brunch Spot in the Carolinas. Sunday – 5 October 2025; - Searching & Desperate for a “Proper Meal” – which simply does not exist in Charlotte – I stumbled upon the The Flipside Café. The Flipside Café is located in an undiscerning shopping center in Fort Mill, North Carolina. Minutes from the North Carolina border. Good L-rd! – Service is a stand out; - Everyone is welcome with “Warm Southern Hospitality” – My waitress “Ashley F.” was amazing and treated me like a family member; - I loved the “Southern Affection, Charm & Warmth” – I had to have the Chicken & Waffles; Thank you for respecting my religious beliefs and not making it a big deal that I don’t eat Pork. Greatly appreciate. A picture speaks a thousand words; - Chicken and Waffles was amazing. Thank you for serving copious amounts of Fresh Butter in Small Metal Cups – Bonus! Scrambled Eggs arrived “Soft & Fluffy” & the English Muffin was Homemade and “Sourced” from some local Fort Mill Establishment. Coffee was kept flowing! Seating was extremely comfortable with a very chill and calm vibe. I could hear myself think! Definitely an A+ and I plan to return with some friends. I understand they have an amazing Lunch & Dinner Menu – which I plan to eventually check out. The Hamburger looks and sounds terrific. Parking was a Breeze – What a delight! – Thank you for a wonderful brunch and...