The rapper, whose real name is Jonathan Kirk, launched the Southern comfort food spot at 700 Atando Avenue, marking his first major venture into Charlotte’s food scene.

The restaurant concept stems from DaBaby’s “Cooking with Kirk” social media series, where he refers to himself as “No Knife” while preparing meals. What started as online content has now become a physical space where fans can experience the food firsthand. The opening day drew massive crowds, with lines wrapping around the street as the community showed up to support the Charlotte native.

DaBaby previously organized community events and festivals in the Charlotte area, and this restaurant continues that pattern of reinvestment in his hometown. The opening also signals a broader shift for DaBaby, who’s balancing his rap career with business ventures that keep him connected to Charlotte.