The best things the Axios Charlotte team ate in July 2024

Charlotte is having a sweltering summer, so our team is keeping it cool with creative cocktails and smoothies.

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Koi Pond cocktail from Saku in Uptown

"If you like boba, you must try this cocktail ($16) from Saku, a vibey Uptown sushi spot. It's peach vodka, orange blossom-infused green tea, tart kiwi, lime juice and peach boba pearls, of course. But the best part is the garnish: koi fish gummies. An adult beverage with a childlike spirit." — Alex Sands, reporter

Photo: Alex Sands/Axios

"The Bro" smoothie bowl from Mamaka Bowls in South End

"During one of our impressively hot July days, I cooled off with a smoothie bowl from the recently opened South End cafe, Mamaka Bowls . For a higher protein option, I was recommended 'The Bro' bowl, a blend of peanut butter, protein powder, banana and almond milk ($9.50)." — McKenzie Rankin, reporter

I also got a taste of their limited-time Coconut Lime bowl (pictured in the background) — a must-try if you're looking for a bowl on the sweeter side. Mamaka can turn every bowl made into a smoothie for an on-the-go option. Photo: McKenzie Rankin/Axios

Tartufo pizza from Pizza Baby East

"Sometimes you just need to pick up pizza for dinner and call it a day. This was the comfort food I craved to combat a summer cold on a rainy Monday. It hit the spot." — Ashley Mahoney, reporter

Tartufo pizza ($18): Truffle cream, roasted mushrooms, pine nuts, shaved truffle. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios

Patatas bravas from Marina's Tapas

"Marina's Tapas, a Spanish food stall opening soon inside Optimist Hall, recently had a pop-up tasting event inside Customshop. The whole spread was delicious (see the featured photo in this story), but my favorite dish was the patatas bravas ($7)." — Laura Barrero, editor

Patatas bravas — fried potato with brave sauce and aioli. Photo: Laura Barrero/Axios

Check out our favorite dishes from January , February , March , April , May and June .