Counter- is a story-driven tasting menu concept from Executive Chef and founder Sam Hart, built around quarterly narratives that have drawn on music, modern art, and mental health. The space is designed as a blank canvas — muted concrete floors and countertops reconfigured each season to match new tableware and art alongside the food, with sound and visual elements folded into the meal itself. The restaurant operates as a collective among its employees, with Hart describing it as a place meant to give rising cooks a path toward running their own concepts in Charlotte.
Faith Morley runs the pastry program as Executive Pastry Chef, and Michael Myers directs the beverage side as Executive Beverage Director, which includes wine pairings alongside a spirit-free option.
Counter- holds a Michelin star and Sam Hart has been a James Beard Foundation finalist for Best Chef Southeast, most recently in 2023. The restaurant has also been named to the Eater 38 and was picked as one of Axios Charlotte's best new restaurants in 2025.
Faith Morley runs the pastry program as Executive Pastry Chef, and Michael Myers directs the beverage side as Executive Beverage Director, which includes wine pairings alongside a spirit-free option.
Counter- holds a Michelin star and Sam Hart has been a James Beard Foundation finalist for Best Chef Southeast, most recently in 2023. The restaurant has also been named to the Eater 38 and was picked as one of Axios Charlotte's best new restaurants in 2025.