Contributor: Jamie Richardson
44 Mills Kitchen & Tap, a modern Southern cuisine restaurant in Concord, pays homage to the 44 textile mills that operated in Cabarrus County from 1829 to 2001 while showcasing the best of Southern cooking, cocktails, and craft beer.
Partners Robb Stamey, Mike Davis, and Sydney Cook have crafted a unique menu of elevated cuisine. You’ll find burgers, sandwiches, large plates, and entrée-sized salads. The standout dish here is the Roasted Salmon with lemon chive cream sauce, featuring ribboned carrots, potato croquettes and creamed spinach. The 44 Mills Cheeseburger is also popular, with two patties, remoulade, pimento cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Photo Credits: 44 Mills Kitchen & Tap Facebook
Upon entering 44 Mills Kitchen & Tap, you’re welcomed by an inviting modern industrial interior design that captures the essence of upscale comfort and charm featuring a 30-foot-long, walnut-edge grain bar top. As you explore further, you’ll discover delightful nods to the past with shadow boxes adorning the walls, filled with vibrant spools of yarn and thread from the local mills. The combination of exposed brick walls, industrial-style pipes, and an open layout adds to the unique ambiance of the 44 Mills experience.
- Sydney Cook said, “We wanted to create a comfortable place to hang out that spoke to the history of Cabarrus County. It’s the perfect place for lunch with friends or to celebrate a special occasion.”
The restaurant also has an outdoor patio seating area, which offers a great place to enjoy a meal or drinks with friends during the warmer months. The patio is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of seating options so you can soak up the sunshine and fresh air while enjoying the restaurant’s fabulous menu.
We were lucky enough to try Chef’s summer take on their classic Quinoa Protein Salad, with roasted corn, garbanzo beans, fresh avocado, and a light dressing. It was perfect for a warm summer afternoon. I also tried the Steak Pappardelle, prepared with bistro filet, roasted mushrooms, sour cream, shaved parmesan, and fresh pappardelle. It literally melted in my mouth.
Photo Credit: Jamie Richardson
Small plates and “bar snackage” that are perfect for sharing can also be found on the menu. Our favorites are the Deviled Eggs and the Pimento Rangoons, which are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. No matter what you order, you’re sure to find something delicious!
In addition to its delicious food, 44 Mills Kitchen & Tap offers an impressive selection of craft beer, cocktails, and wine. Their bartenders are not only knowledgeable but creative and can craft a drink specifically tailored to your tastes.
- They have 12 rotating beers on tap with a focus on Carolina breweries, including beers from Southern Strain Brewing Company and High Branch Brewing Co.
- Cocktails are rotated quarterly. Favorite signature cocktails include the Lavender Lemonade, the Barrel Aged Old Fashioned, and their seasonal Sangrias.
- Wine lovers will appreciate the fact that select bottles of wine are 25% off every Wednesday, allowing you to enjoy more of your favorite variety at an affordable price – whether it be a crisp white or full-bodied red.
Be sure to check out their awesome brunch cocktail list, including the Cereal Milk cocktail (vodka, strawberry syrup, simple syrup, and oat milk)!
In 2019, they were honored with the prestigious Golden Helmet Award for Restaurant of the Year from the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau. This award recognizes the restaurant’s commitment to providing outstanding hospitality and exceptional experiences to its guests.
44 Mills Kitchen & Tap is an absolute must-visit restaurant. Not only does the restaurant celebrate the history and flavors of the South, but it also offers exceptional food, drinks, and proven hospitality. With a cozy atmosphere and modern Southern cuisine, combined with a rotating tap list and delicious cocktails, 44 Mills Kitchen & Tap is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Cabarrus County.
Visit them at 6189 Bayfield Parkway, Concord to try them for yourself! Browse their menu online and be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on specials and seasonal offerings.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
