The Red Rock Cafe
The Red Rocks Café is a locally owned restaurant with three locations in the Charlotte Market. There is one located in Birkdale Village the second is SouthPark and third in Indian Land. The brand was founded in 1998 by restaurateurs John Love and Ron Herbert.
The Atmosphere & Customer Service
Step inside and you’ll be greeted with a warm, intimate ambiance—with cozy booths, subdued lighting, jazzy background music, and a popular bar. The covered patio overlooks the village center, offering relaxed indoor–outdoor charm. Private dining options range from small (up to 16 guests) to large rooms seating 75 for special events.
Service receives consistently high praise. Reviewers on OpenTable and Yelp describe the staff as “friendly,” “super nice,” and “attentive,” praising experiences like servers accommodating special menu requests and managers regularly checking on guests.
Menu Highlights
True to its steakhouse roots, the café’s menu features premium steaks, rich pasta dishes, and fresh seafood.
Popular offerings include:
- Starters: spinach queso dip, calamari, tuna nachos, buffalo shrimp, Thai‑chili mussels
- Signature entrées: 11 oz New York strip, wagyu filet, twin lobster tails, Cajun salmon, crab‑cake dishes, jambalaya, chicken Saltimbocca
- Brunch specialties on weekends: crab‑cake Benedict, chicken & waffles, French toast, mimosa offerings.
Each dish is thoughtfully crafted and often carries the name of notable customers—a personalized touch that resonates with locals.
Community Involvement
The owners are deeply invested in the local community. Ron Herbert and John Love maintain a physical presence, engaging with guests and supporting Birkdale Village’s refurbishment efforts. Renovation plans underscore their commitment to improving diners’ experience in line with broader village upgrades.
While specific charity partnerships aren’t widely publicized, the owners frequently connect with patrons in person, suggesting a community-oriented leadership approach.
Red Rocks Café offers more than a meal—it’s a neighborhood institution with nearly 30 years of roots in the area. Between its inviting atmosphere, elevated American menu, consistent service, and ongoing investment in local vibrancy, it remains a beloved destination.
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