A HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE

McNinch House Restaurant

McNinch House front veranda with floral centerpiece

The History

The property at 511 North Church Street was acquired by Vinton Liddell in 1891 for a sum of $3,000. It was on this very plot that Mr. Liddell erected the residence that now stands, becoming the home of the McNinch family for the majority of its existence.

Samuel Sylvanus McNinch (1867-1929), the first of four successive Sam McNinches, held the esteemed position of Mayor of Charlotte from 1905 to 1907. Notably, President William Howard Taft visited during his trip to Charlotte for a celebration of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence on May 20, 1909.

A legacy of political engagement was ingrained in the McNinch family, with Franklin Alonzo McNinch (1841-1893), a veteran of the Civil War and Sam McNinch’s father, setting the precedent.

Serving 3 terms as Charlotte’s chief of police and garnering respect as a trial justice for 15 years, he was a founding figure in the Pioneer Fire Company and later elected chief of the Volunteer Fire Department.

Following the passing of S.S. McNinch (Sam the First) in 1929, 1 of his 4 children, Miss Mattie McNinch, remained unmarried and resided in the home until 1978. McNinch House Restaurant founder Ellen Davis then purchased the home and worked tirelessly toward its restoration. She was a dynamic entrepreneur who operated several businesses. Ellen officially opened the McNinch House Restaurant in 1989.

McNinch House

Embodying the authentic Queen Anne/Shingle architectural style, the Liddell-McNinch House garnered acclaim during Mecklenburg Country Landmarks Commission’s Fourth Ward Preliminary Survey in March 1975. Deemed by participants as the quintessential representation of this style in North Carolina, it now proudly graces the National Historic Register. Adorned with shingles on the upper portion, clapboards below, and a meticulously patterned slate roof, its exterior features a harmonious fusion of towers, wings, gables, and inviting porches, topped with an elegant eyebrow window.

Inside, the craftsmanship is a testament to Victorian artistry, with intricate, richly molded woodwork adorning both levels of the residence. Under the guidance of the esteemed architect Mr. Karl Bitter, renowned for his work at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, many of these designs, including the exquisite, coffered ceiling in the Library, were replicated. The residence boasts 10 tiled fireplaces, with a distinctive 3-way fireplace serving as a focal point, connecting the foyer, library, and dining room, adding both warmth and architectural allure.

Meet the Team

Brozdan Elliott

Executive Chef

Born and raised in the West Gaston area, Chef Brozdan has been passionate about the culinary arts since he began cooking at just 17 years old. With nearly a decade of experience, he has built a strong foundation in farm-to-table cuisine, cultivating lasting relationships with local farmers and producers who share his commitment to quality and sustainability. Since joining McNinch House in January 2026, he has embraced the restaurant’s rich history and is dedicated to preserving Ellen Davis’s legacy through thoughtful, inspired cuisine. By honoring Ellen’s cherished recipes while adding his own creative flair, Chef Brozdan crafts dishes that celebrate tradition with a fresh perspective. His vision is to help grow McNinch House into an even greater cornerstone of Charlotte’s culinary and cultural community for generations to come.

Sydney Clark

General Manager, Events Coordinator

Sydney Clark earned her degree in Business Management with a concentration in Operations Management from UNC Charlotte in December 2022. As a key member of the McNinch House team, she oversees private events, manages administrative operations, and collaborates on marketing efforts that showcase the restaurant’s rich history and exceptional guest experience. With a passion for hospitality and a meticulous eye for detail, Sydney is dedicated to bringing each client’s vision to life with professionalism and care. She believes every celebration deserves to become a cherished memory and is committed to making each event as seamless and unforgettable as the occasion itself.

Michael Siler

Lead Server, Wine Expert

Michael Siler has watched the restaurant industry change dramatically in recent years, as the knowledge and innovation once carried by longtime veterans have grown harder to find. Even so, he holds firmly to what never goes out of style: stewardship, mentorship, and genuine hospitality. As Front of House Lead Server and wine expert, Michael curates thoughtful, anticipatory experiences built on compassion, care, and connection, believing that a shared meal is where cultures truly come together. He honors Ellen Davis’s legacy by championing farm-to-table sourcing, handmade preparations, and a touch of whimsy in every detail. Michael is driven by collaboration and community, and is proud to help shape guest experiences that leave a lasting, positive impression.

Mitch Clark

Proprietor

Mitch Clark has owned and operated successful self-storage businesses for more than 25 years, bringing decades of leadership and business experience to McNinch House. Entrusted with the restaurant by his aunt, Ellen Davis, the visionary founder of McNinch House, Mitch is dedicated to preserving her legacy while ensuring its future for generations to come. Whether he’s maintaining the historic property, completing repairs, lending a hand in the kitchen, washing dishes, or welcoming guests, no task is ever beneath him. His selfless work ethic, hands-on leadership, and unwavering commitment to family and hospitality are reflected in every corner of the McNinch House experience.

Dee Dee Clark

Proprietor

For nearly 40 years, Dee Dee Clark has dedicated her career to caring for others through her private anesthesia practice. A native Charlottean, she brings the same intelligence, precision, and exceptional work ethic to her role at McNinch House as she does to her anesthesia company. Inspired by her memories of Aunt Ellen, Dee Dee serves as the historian of the house and was a key leader in the transition to the next generation of stewardship. She also oversees and designs renovations throughout the property, ensuring every space honors the home’s historic character while supporting its continued growth. Whether she’s leading projects, supporting daily operations, or stepping in wherever she’s needed, no task is ever too big or too small. Her selfless spirit and unwavering commitment help preserve the history, traditions, and hospitality that makes McNinch House.

Ellen Davis

(1938-2023)

Founder

Ellen Davis was a trailblazer. The Charlotte, North Carolina native was a pioneering businesswoman and the driving force behind McNinch House Restaurant. After purchasing the historic Queen Anne-style home from the McNinch family in 1978, Davis spent a decade restoring the landmark. She opened the McNinch House Restaurant in January 1989, and – primarily as a self-taught cook – served as the restaurant’s first chef. She said at the time, “I’m living my dream.” The restaurant was her passion. Her legacy and impact within the Charlotte community will live on forever.

Anthony Wesley

(1949-2024)

Sommelier

Anthony “Wes” Wesley’s 22-year tenure at McNinch House leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication. His curated wine lists, recognized by esteemed publications like The Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator, elevated the dining experience. Beyond his contributions, Wesley’s warmth and hospitality made him a beloved figure in the community. He leaves behind a lasting impact on the countless guests whose lives he touched.

Awards

Triple A: Four Diamond Award 1998-2022
Wine Spectator: Best Restaurants for Wine 2011-2026
Wine Enthusiast: Award of Distinction 2008-2009

Charlotte Magazine

Charlotte’s Most Romantic Restaurant 2020, 2022
14 Best Restaurants in Uptown Charlotte 2019
10 Best Restaurants in Uptown Charlotte 2018
14 Best Restaurants in Uptown Charlotte 2017
50 Best Restaurants in Charlotte 2011, 2015-2019
Charlotte’s 25 Best Restaurants 2011, 2015-2019
100 Best Dishes in Charlotte 2010

Open Table

Charlotte’s Highest Rated Restaurants 2022
Notable Wine List 2019-2020
Special Occasion 2019-2020
Best Ambience 2019
Best Service 2019
Top 100 Restaurants in the U.S. 2017
100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S. 2014-2015

Zagat

Best Restaurant Service in Charlotte 2016
Best Restaurant Decor in Charlotte 2016
Most Romantic Restaurants in Charlotte 2016
Best Restaurants in Charlotte 2016
Top “Extraordinary” Restaurants in Charlotte 2016-2017
Charlotte’s Most Romantic Restaurant 2016-2017
America’s Best Restaurants: 15 Top Rated Spots 2013
Charlotte’s Top 10 Restaurants 2011