In our Where Chefs Eat series, we ask local chefs, mixologists, and other industry professionals where they eat on their days off. Since kicking it off, we’ve noticed that there are some restaurants that pop up time after time. Here are the nine restaurants that get the most props from other chefs. —Kristen Wile

1) Futo Buta
South End
South End ramen shop Futo Buta is by far the most-mentioned restaurant. Chefs love Michael Shortino’s restaurant for its laid-back vibe, incredibly complex broths, and thoughtful small plates.

2) Stagioni: Four Seasons of Food
Myers Park
Bruce Moffett’s Italian concept draws a crowd for its consistency and use of North Carolina ingredients to create a Piedmont, North Carolina version of Italian dishes.

3) Soul Gastrolounge
Plaza Midwood
It isn’t luck that’s made Soul one of Charlotte’s most popular restaurants for a decade. Chef Jay Pound’s eclectic menu of small plates is unlike any other in town.

4) Lang Van
Plaza-Shamrock
Hot bowls of pho and a staff that makes you feel at home create the kind of restaurant where folks want to become regulars.

5) Hello, Sailor
Cornelius
The lake-front sister concept to Kindred, Hello, Sailor gives a modern upgrade to classic Carolina fish camps.

6) Yafo Kitchen
Multiple locations
Quick, easy, and delicious, Frank Scibelli’s fast-casual Middle Eastern spot draws many industry professionals and their families.

7) Haberdish
NoDa
Fried chicken, mill-town sides, and a well-respected craft cocktail program are the heart of this NoDa restaurant.

8) Pho Hòa
Plaza Midwood
Those who aren’t Lang Van loyalists often get their pho fix nearby at Pho Hoa on Central Avenue.

9) Musashi
Pineville
This Japanese spot in Pineville gets mentions for its authentic dishes that go far beyond sushi.

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