Hawthorne's New York Pizza & Bar   

Throw low-carb caution to the wind and indulge in New York-style pizza in Charlotte's historic Elizabeth neighborhood. This oregano-scented neighborhood joint, styled after the homey feel of a Big Apple pizzeria, still gives off a slightly funky Uptown feel. Warm colors and dark wood accent the exposed cinderblock interiors of this eatery, where you can grab a seat at a table, booth, the bar or patio. Hawthorne's menu features pizzeria favorites like strombolis, wings, calzones and salads. The main attraction is -- of course -- the pizza. The gourmet pizzas -- baked in a stone oven -- come complete with the toppings of your choice and the trademark thin, NY-style crust. Pie-making operations are overseen by 'Al the Pizza Guy,' a transplanted New Yorker imported to provide pizza expertise. Prices here are wallet-friendly, topping out at less than $20 for a large pie big enough to serve a table of hungry diners.