A celebrity chef is taking over a popular Lake Norman waterfront restaurant

Celebrity chef David Burke is taking over Port City Club, which sits along Lake Norman, and is giving it a new name: Port City Club by David Burke.

Owner Nick Lyssikatos and David Burke Hospitality Management announced a multi-year agreement over the 13,500-square-foot, 350-seat restaurant on Lake Norman on Thursday.

It’s not his first forray into the Charlotte area. In 2020, Burke opened Red Salt by David Burke and Cloud Bar by David Burke inside Le Méridien in uptown Charlotte. Burke, who is known for appearances on Bravo’s “Top Chef” and Food Network’s “Iron Chef,” has also announced plans to open a location of his G.O.A.T. Pizza restaurant in Cornelius.

“We are committed to maintaining what so many people love about Port City Club while enhancing the experience and throwing in a few surprises,” Burke said.

“This Jersey Boy’s love for North Carolina continues to grow, and I couldn’t be more excited to be in the Lake Norman area. I have family here, and between that and my association with Johnson & Wales University’s Culinary Arts Program expansion in Charlotte is an organic next step.”

What’s new?

Changes to the menu: Burke has already made his mark on the offerings, adding Lobster Dumplings with tomato miso sauce and basil oil; and black pepper maple glazed Clothesline Bacon. The dessert menu will also feature cake pops.

Lobster Dumplings at Port City Club by David Burke.
Lobster Dumplings at Port City Club by David Burke.

Dockside grab ‘n go: An area for quck snacks will come along with a patio renovation outdoors. An interior design update is coming, as well.

Brunch and expanded hours: Brunch service is on the way. Beginning May 2, dinner service will expand to include Tuesdays from 4-10 p.m.

Port City Club

Location: 18665 Harborside Dr. Cornelius, NC 28031

Menu

Cuisine: American, seafood

Hours: Lunch is Friday-Sunday, starting at 11:30 am; dinner is Wednesday-Saturday from 4-10 pm and Sunday from 4-9 p.m.

Instagram: @portcityclub