Charlotte Welcomes 13 New Dessert Spots in 2025 Sweet Boom

Sweet shops sprouted across Charlotte in 2025, with thirteen new spots marking the city's biggest surge in dessert businesses. From small local bakeries to major chains, these shops now dot the city's streets.

The wave started when Van Leeuwen Ice Cream chose Charlotte for its first North Carolina store in January. By spring, Seemingly Overzealous brought its mix of frozen treats and arcade fun to Dilworth.

Camp North End turned into a sugar-seeker's dream. Oh My Ganache started serving its cheesecakes there in June: the vanilla and sweet potato pie flavors quickly became local hits. A month later, a small family business moved in, making giant cookies and fresh cookie dough by the scoop.

At the Arboretum, Melt n Dip started serving warm Belgian chocolate treats. Over in NoDa, a fresh spot blends fruit drinks with scoops of ice cream at the Centro NoDa complex.

Big names from around the world took notice, too. A well-known dessert maker plans to bring its crepes and gelato here soon. The viral Dubai chocolate trend, which caused pistachio supplies to dip worldwide, found its way to local shops.

Just last week, a new shake shop opened its doors. They mix up 26 different flavors and make their chocolates right there in the store.

The sweet rush goes past frozen treats. A Food Network chef's Black-owned bakery opened a second spot in July. Their menu runs from rich cheesecakes to fresh-baked cookies and brownies.

Where Pepperbox once stood, a new bakery now fills the air with smells of fresh cakes and tarts. Not far away, another shop puts unexpected twists on classic cookie recipes.

Each neighborhood got its share of the sugar rush. From the busy streets of Dilworth to the buzz of Camp North End, from NoDa's art district to the quiet corners of The Arboretum: sweet spots now mark the map. Small family businesses and global brands alike found their place in Charlotte's growing dessert scene.