Harriet’s Hamburgers – The Bowl at Ballantyne – Charlotte, NC
The Vision
Harriet’s Hamburgers at The Bowl in Ballantyne marked a significant step for the brand as it transitioned from its beloved food stall at Optimist Hall to its first standalone location. Designed in collaboration with Southwick Architecture and Interiors in Charlotte, this 1,600-square-foot space brought to life a nostalgic yet modern diner experience, inspired by the 1950s and 1960s.
The vision was to retain the charm of Harriet’s original concept while creating a larger, more dynamic space that allowed for menu expansion and a unique guest experience. With an indoor dining area and an outdoor patio surrounded by green space, Harriet’s Hamburgers aimed to become a community hub, offering high-quality burgers, fries, and new Minneapolis-inspired menu options.
Unlike most fast-casual restaurants, this location introduced a full-service dining model, with Harriet’s hospitality managers delivering orders to tables and clearing them afterward. This elevated service approach was a key part of the brand’s effort to stand out and create a welcoming, memorable experience.
For Doerre Construction, this was an exciting opportunity to partner with Harriet’s for the first time and help realize their vision for a distinctive dining destination at The Bowl, part of Ballantyne’s $1 billion Reimagined project.
The Project
Doerre Construction worked closely with Harriet’s Hamburgers and Southwick Architecture and Interiors to bring the design vision to life. The construction process centered on combining functionality with the playful, nostalgic aesthetic of a classic diner, while ensuring the space supported Harriet’s elevated dining model.
The interior features a thoughtful mix of retro-inspired details and modern touches, including clean lines, bright finishes, and carefully selected materials that reflect the brand’s identity. The kitchen was optimized for efficiency, accommodating the expanded menu while maintaining smooth operational flow. The outdoor patio and green space add a family-friendly, community-focused dimension to the restaurant, creating additional opportunities for guests to enjoy their meals in a relaxed setting.
Doerre Construction’s approach emphasized seamless collaboration with Southwick Architecture and Interiors to ensure every design element—from the layout to the finishes—was executed with precision. Regular communication with Harriet’s team ensured the project met their expectations, staying on schedule for an August 2024 opening.
This project also served as an opportunity to establish a strong relationship with Harriet’s Hamburgers, showcasing our ability to deliver high-quality results while meeting their specific needs.
Owner
Harriet’s Hamburgers BB, LLC
Architect
Southwick Architecture and Interiors
The Grand Opening
Harriet’s Hamburgers at The Bowl opened its doors on August 20, 2024, and has quickly become a favorite dining destination in Ballantyne. The collaboration with Southwick Architecture and Interiors resulted in a space that perfectly balances nostalgic charm with modern sophistication.
Guests are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a classic diner, with the added convenience of a full-service dining experience. The expanded menu—including Harriet’s signature burgers and fries alongside new Minneapolis-inspired dishes—has been well-received by customers, while the outdoor patio has become a popular spot for families and groups.
The elevated service model, with hospitality managers delivering and clearing orders, has set Harriet’s apart in the fast-casual market, creating a memorable and polished guest experience.
This project marked the beginning of a successful partnership between Doerre Construction and Harriet’s Hamburgers, and we are excited to continue that collaboration with their third location, currently under construction in Concord. The Ballantyne location stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, combining the design expertise of Southwick Architecture and Interiors, Harriet’s vision, and Doerre’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
