Global flavors meet hometown heart in Kings Mountain! Iris Hubbard’s 133 West serves soulful meals and a true sense of belonging.
Kings Mountain, NC
March, 2026
The aroma of delicious cuisine wafting through the quaint streets of Kings Mountain is more than just a treat for the senses; it’s a testament to the journey of a local entrepreneur who has dedicated her life to blending global flavors with hometown hospitality.
Born in Shelby, North Carolina, Iris Hubbard shares her story of exploration and homecoming. After attending high school, Hubbard moved to Wilmington to study at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Reflecting on her college years, she describes them as a time filled with vibrant experiences, new friendships, and an awakening to the diverse flavors of life.
“Wilmington opened my eyes to new ideas, new flavors, new people,” Hubbard said. “It was vibrant and full of life, and it sparked something in me.”
After college, Hubbard ventured overseas, diving into different cultures and cuisines, realizing how food serves as a universal connector. However, wherever she traveled, a quiet longing for Cleveland County and the roots of their upbringing tugged at their hearts.
After years of global exploration, Hubbard returned to Kings Mountain with a vision to infuse local life with the flair she had encountered during her adventures. Thus, 133 West was born, a restaurant that serves not just food but a sense of belonging.
“What I love most about what I do is the people,” Hubbard shared. “I love chatting with folks, getting to know their stories. Every table has a story, and I feel lucky to be a small part of it.”
The passion doesn’t end there. Hubbard speaks fondly of her staff, referring to them as her “24 children.” This family-like bond creates a nurturing environment where both employees and patrons feel valued and welcomed. “Watching them grow, cheering them on, supporting them it means everything to me,” Hubbard stated.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Kings Mountain, 133 West embodies the spirit of community. “Being downtown is such a gift,” Hubbard emphasized. “There’s something beautiful about a community where everyone looks out for each other.”
The tight-knit atmosphere is palpable, as neighbors readily lend a hand or share a cup of sugar, epitomizing the generous spirit of Kings Mountain. “At 133 West, we try to be more than a restaurant. We try to be a place where people feel welcome, valued, and at home,” Hubbard concluded.
In the end, this local culinary artist’s journey underscores a profound message: true fulfillment is often found by returning to one’s roots and enriching the community that raised you. At 133 West, that mission is being realized, one heartfelt meal at a time.
