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IT’S SHOWTIME IN THE QUEEN CITY It’s great to be us. That is, great to be . Even in the winter months, there’s always something to do and always something you probably haven’t done before. Have you taken the kids to Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus? How about the Harlem Globe Trotters? Have you taken your trash-talking neighbor to see Ron White? Frank Caliendo? When was the last time you had a romantic evening—think about Ms. Lauryn Hill or other shows coming up—maybe Motown at The Knight Theater uptown. If NASCAR can’t come soon enough for you and you just haven’t made it to the NASCAR Hall of Fame yet—the coming weeks offer incredible events at the Hall. Do you want to get out and try something new to eat? Charlotte’s Slow Food Tours are all the buzz and a crazy-cool idea. How about something off the wall: The Miss Firecracker Contest at Theatre Charlotte. Well, we could go on—and we will. Turn the page and sample another handful of what’s in store for you this Winter when you come along with Prowler Magazine on the prowl...

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ON THE PROWL

| WHERE HEROES BECOME LEGENDS: THE HALL

T I M

JAC K

F LO C K

I N G R A M

FIVE FOR EVERLASTING FAME

e practically live among the legends of one of the world’s most famous sports—NASCAR royalty and the stars of the future reside from Wilkesboro to Mooresville, Ballantyne to Atlanta. You may be sharing the road unknowingly with an iconic driver from the world’s fastest sport. This month, you can rub elbows with many of the best and brightest—don’t miss out!

WATCH HISTORY AT THE HALL A GREAT DAY FOR ANY NASCAR FAN

Make plans to be in Charlotte for the fifth Annual NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony! Tim Flock, Jack Ingram, Dale Jarrett, Maurice Petty and Fireball Roberts will be honored during this year’s ceremony set for Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014. Ticket prices range from $45 for general Induction Ceremony seats to $350 for an Exclusive Driver Dinner Package. Drivers, celebrities and legends of the sport will take the stage during the induction of the fifth NASCAR Hall of Fame class. Prior to the ceremony, a special Commemorative Dinner at the Charlotte Convention Center, which adjoins the NASCAR Hall of Fame, will feature the annual inductee jacket presentation and Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence winner. New this year, fans can purchase a seat for the dinner that places a NASCAR Sprint Cup driver at their table STAY CONNECTED

DA L E

JA R R ET T

(limited quantities are available). After dinner, the Induction Ceremony will take place in the Crown Ballroom at the Charlotte Convention Center and be broadcast live on FOX Sports 1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. ABOUT THE NASCAR HALL OF FAME

Conveniently located in Uptown Charlotte, N.C., the 150,000-square-foot NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive, entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. The hightech venue, designed to educate and entertain race fans and non-fans alike, opened May 11, 2010, and includes artifacts, hands-on exhibits, 278-person state-ofthe-art theater, Hall of Honor, Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant, NASCAR Hall of Fame Gear Shop and NASCAR Media Group-operated broadcast studio. Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. seven days a week. Attached parking garage on Brevard St.

MAURICE

PETTY

FIREBALL ROBERTS

LIKE PROWLER MAGAZINE ON FACEBOOK FOR UP-TO-THE MINUTE UPDATES ON ENTERTAINMENT IN THE QC

CHARLOTTE BOBCATS Jan. 20 Jan. 22 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 29 Jan. 31 Feb. 1 Feb. 4 Feb. 8 Feb. 11 Feb. 12 Feb. 18 Feb. 19 Feb. 21 Feb. 22 Feb. 28 Mar. 2 Mar. 3 Mar. 5 Mar. 7

Toronto 2:00 LA 7:00 at NY 7:30 Chicago 7:00 at Denver 9:00 at LA 10:30 at Phoenix 9:00 at G. State 10:30 S. Antonio 7:00 Dallas 7:00 at Brooklyn 7:30 at Detroit 7:30 Detroit 7:00 N. Orleans 7:00 Memphis 7:00 at S. Antonio 8:30 at Ok. City 7:00 at Miami 7:30 Indiana 7:00 Cleveland 7:00

Mar. 8 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 14 Mar. 16 Mar. 17 Mar. 19 Mar. 22 Mar. 24 Mar. 26 Mar. 28 Mar. 31 Apr. 2 Apr. 4 Apr. 5 Apr. 9 Apr. 11 Apr. 12 Apr. 14 Apr. 16

at Memphis 8:00 Denver 7:00 at Washington 7:00 Minnesota 7:00 at Milwaukee1:00 Atlanta 7:00 at Brooklyn 7:30 Portland 7:00 Houston 7:00 Brooklyn 7:00 at Orlando 7:00 Washington 7:00 at Philadelphia7:00 Orlando 7:00 at Cleveland 7:30 at Washington 7:00 at Boston 7:30 Philadelphia 7:00 at Atlanta 7:30 Chicago 8:00

Bobcats Rallying BRINGING BACK THE BUZZ

PHOTOS BYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;SCOTT WILLIAMS

2014 REMAINING SCHEDULE

NEW LIFE

MICHAEL JORDAN GIVES FANS THEIR WISH

ABOVE: New generations of Hornets fans attend. ABOVE RIGHT: See the pride on the face of team owner and NBA Legend Michael Jordan as he announces the new Charlotte Hornets.

THE GALLERY LIFE | BECHTLER MINT ALIVE

GIVE HOPE

NEW HORIZON JAZZ AT THE BECHTLER FEBRUARY 7 Petite powerhouse vocalist Toni Tupponce joins the Ziad Jazz Quartet for the annual Jazz for Lovers concerts February 7. Bring your sweetie (or find a sweetie here) and celebrate Valentine's Day with jazzy love songs. Things are bound to get heated as Tupponce, voted “sexiest voice in Charlotte” by Charlotte magazine in 2006, croons romantic tunes. Song selections include A Sunday Kind of Love, Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be?), Send in the Clowns and For All We Know.

PERFORMANCE Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served.

www.B EC HTLE R.O RG

Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

FOOD AND DRINK Appetizers from e2 emeril’s eatery are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor. Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $30" three course pre fixe menu. Ask server for details.

TICKETS Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members.(Tickets may also be purchased by phone at 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.) MORE INFORMATION http://www.bechtler.org

S . Tr y o n S t r e e t

Exclusive Section Right Along MMA Fighter Walk-In Stage & Aisle VIP Couches & Lounge Seating Right Along Figher Walk-In Stage and Entrance Aisle Heavy Hors Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ouevres Fireball Whisky & Fight Lab Swag Limited Availability $80 Per Guest get.CrownTickets.com

AND

ACTIVE

PLAYER

ROS-

NC MUSIC FACTORY EVENTS

2014

GAME SCHEDULE

UPCOMING

TRUE GRIT AT THE FILLMORE George Thorogood and the Destroyers 3-31 and Marshall Tucker Band 1-31 OSSO Queen's Feast Restaurant Week, January17-24 Late Night with DJ Arthur Bros, January 30 Late Night with Sarber, February 8 COMEDY ZONE Jeff Dye, January 23-25 Dave Coulier, January 29-31 Frank Caliendo, February 7-8 Dale Jones, February 12-15 Jake Hurwitz, A. Blumenfeld, & Streeter Seidell, February 18 Southern Fried Vegas, February 19 Steve Rannazzisi, February 21-22 Craig Robinson, March 5 Moshe Kasher, March 6-8 Deray Davis, March 13-15 Southern Fried Vegas, March 19 Sarah Colonna, March 20-22 Russell Peters, March 27-30 LABEL Carnage, January 24 Dyro, January 31 THE FILLMORE Amon Amarth, January 29 moe., January 30 The Marshall Tucker Band, January 31 Big Head Todd and the Monsters, February 1 Arctic Monkeys, February 3 Trial By Fire - A Tribute to Journey, February 7 Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr, February 8 Dom Kennedy, February 9 Ms. Lauryn Hill, February 11 Trey Anastasio Band, February 13 Dark Star Orchestra, February 14 Blackberry Smoke, February 20 Young The Giant, February 21 Flogging Molly, February 22 The Naked & Famous, February 25 Emblem3, March 2 Vertical Horizon & Tonic, March 3 Dropkick Murphys, March 7 Excision, March 8 George Thorogood & the Destroyers, March 18 Children of Bodom, March 19 2 Good to be T.R.U., March 20 Pentatonix, March 27 On the Border - Ultimate Eagles Tribute, March 29 THE SALOON Jon Linker CD Release Party, January 24 Another Lost Year, January 25 Dirtiest Players, January 26 The Valley Roots, January 29 U-Phonic, February 1 Tantrum, February 6 Caleb de Casper & the Foxy Jailvixens, February 9 Chasing Pedestrians with The Gallery, February 13 Porcelain Mary, February 15 Shawn James & the Shapeshifters with County Graves, February 16 Jumpcuts, Pippi Armstrong, and Miami Dice, February 17 Elonzo, February 19 Randy Allen & Southern Xpress, February 20 Heroes At Last, February 22 Falling Through April & Severance, February 23 Trae Pierce & T-Stone, February 25 All The Locals with Radio Birds, March 7

DATE

TIME

OPPONENT

Jan Jan Jan Jan

23 24 28 31

7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:15 PM 7:30 PM

Oklahoma City Barons Oklahoma City Barons @ Norfolk Admirals @ Lake Erie Monsters

Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb

01 04 05 07 09 14 16 18 21 22 26

7:00 PM 10:00 PM 10:00 PM 7:30 PM 1:30 PM 7:30 PM 1:30 PM 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 8:00 PM 7:15 PM

@ Lake Erie Monsters @ Abbotsford Heat @ Abbotsford Heat Oklahoma City Barons Oklahoma City Barons Abbotsford Heat Abbotsford Heat Norfolk Admirals @ Texas Stars @ Texas Stars @ Norfolk Admirals

Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar

01 02 07 08 09 12 15 16 19 21 23 25 26 29 30

7:00 PM 4:00 PM 8:30 PM 8:00 PM 5:00 PM 8:30 PM 7:00 PM 1:30 PM 7:15 PM 7:00 PM 1:30 PM 6:35 PM 8:05 PM 7:00 PM 1:30 PM

@ Hershey Bears @ Hershey Bears @ San Antonio Rampage @ Texas Stars @ San Antonio Rampage @ Texas Stars Lake Erie Monsters Lake Erie Monsters @ Norfolk Admirals San Antonio Rampage San Antonio Rampage @ Iowa Wild @ Iowa Wild Oklahoma City Barons Oklahoma City Barons

Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr

04 05 06 10 13 18 19

8:30 8:00 5:00 7:00 1:30 8:00 8:00

@ San Antonio Rampage @ Oklahoma City Barons @ Oklahoma City Barons Grand Rapids Griffins Grand Rapids Griffins @ Milwaukee Admirals @ Rockford IceHogs

PM PM PM PM PM PM PM

All home games played at Time Warner Cable Arena in Uptown Charlotte. For tics: www.charlottecheckers.com. Above: Checkmates

PLAYOFFS + PRO BOWL COMBINING WINS for one of the longest winning streaks in the NFL in 2013, the Panthers recovered from a 1-3 start. Key factors were a moving locker room speech by TE Todd Owen, a change of outlook by Coach Ron Rivera—now known as Riverboat Ron for his brazen 4th down strategy—and according to the players—it was and is, the fans. Panther fans have gotten louder and even taken the noise on the road—you could hear the blue and black legions the loudest in the final season game at Atlanta.

Carolina’s #1 draft pick in 2012, Luke Kuechly has amazed opponents with his ability to cover the field and read the offense. His efforts earned him Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2012 and he set a team record with 26 tackles in one game this year.

CAROLINA ALL-STARS CALLED UP FOR ACTION Offensive Tackle Jordan Gross #69 has been added to the list of Pro Bowlers for your Carolina Panthers as well as #44 long-snapper J. J. Jansen. It’s an all-out Carolina takeover as coach Ron Rivera and his staff will coach the Jerry Rice team in Hawaii, while the Indy Colt’s staff is working with the Deion Sanders team. Watch the Pro Bowl January 26th, live from Hawaii.

NFC SOUTH CHAMPIONS PROUD OF OUR PANTHERS!

GIVE PANTHERS:2013

Jonathan Stewart will be back in the lineup vs San Fran. The Panther running game is fierce: Williams, Stewart, Tolbert and opponents best not forget, Newton.

HOPE

REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE Sep. 8 vs. Seattle Seahawks L Sep. 15 at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m. L Sep. 22 vs. New York Giants, 1 p.m. W Sep. 29 BYE Oct. 6 at Arizona Cardinals, 4:05 p.m. L Oct. 13 at Minnesota Vikings, 1 p.m. W Oct. 20 vs. St. Louis Rams, 1 p.m. W Oct. 24 at Tampa Bay Bucs, 8:25 p.m. W Nov. 3 vs. Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m. W Nov. 10 at San Fran. 49ers, 4:05 p.m. W Nov. 18 vs. NE Patriots, 8:40 p.m. W Nov. 24 at Miami Dolphins, 1 p.m. W Dec. 1 vs. Tampa Bay Bucs, 1 p.m. W Dec. 8 at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m. L Dec. 15 vs. New York Jets, 4:05 p.m. W Dec. 22 vs. NO Saints, 1 p.m. W Dec. 29 at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m. W

POST-SEASON SCHEDULE Jan. 10 vs. San Fran., 1 p.m. L

Kuechly (above) and his counterpart Davis continue to amaze as one of the strongest linebacking units in the NFL today.

PRO BOWL 2013 QB Cam Newton #1 Cam Newton has had a remarkable football career. He is one of a select few who have won the Heisman Trophy and a National Championship for his team. He was the #1 draft pick for Carolina in 2011 and broke NFL records left and right in his rookie season. In 2012 Cam figured out a way to win games as the season winded down. In 2013, his focus has been on leadership and playing smart. His focus and direction under offensive coordinator Mike Shula has delivered the best present Panther fans could ask for—an NFC South Championship/Trip to the Playoffs—and sent Newton once again to the Pro Bowl. Congrats Cam!

DE GREG HARDY #76 Bookending the defensive line with monster Charles Johnson and running stunts on helpless offenses has put Greg Hardy right in the spotlight and right in the Pro Bowl. Hardy had many amazing games and was a huge factor in the win vs. the Saints in December. His speed as a big man gives him an edge on awkward offensive linemen. This season Hardy has adopted a mantle of The Kraken—in rerefence to his octopus-like approach to opposing quarterbacks. The black face paint completes the image. On SNF Hardy decided to introduce himself as a graduate of Hogwarts and called himself Kraken. He adds a dimension to the Panthers that fans love and other teams love to hate. Go Greg!

LB LUKE KUECHLY #59 Commentators struggle for new words to sing Luke’s praises. He and veteran fellow LB Thomas Davis are aguably the best duo in the NFL—smart, speedy and dangerous. When you look at images of Keuchly tackling he wraps his opponents and waits for his fellow defensive Panthers to swarm to the ball. With many accolades like Defensive Player of the Year in 2012 and Defensive Player of the Week in 2013, Luke has become another amazing #1 draft pick for the Panthers who are loaded with young talent. Congrats Luke—keep pounding!

C Ryan kalil #67 Kalil became a national news story when he took out a full page ad in the Charlotte Observer in 2012, stating that the Panthers were headed to the SuperBowl. That didn’t happen, but the act did what it was intended to do—it fired up the team and fired up the fans. He since has said that his timing was just a little off, and that this is the year. We now know he may be off by just another year. Kalil provides a solid, unshakable base for the offense and an ally for Newton—letting very few past him to reach his stellar QB. Keep holding down the fort Ryan—congrats on a Pro Bowl season!

FB MIKE TOLBERT #35 Another naming story—Tolbert is most commonly referred to as the Bowling Ball, or Wrecking Ball. His stature and determination are truly special to watch, as he bundles up hangers-on and drives 8-10 yards with piles of defenders attached. While the fullback may be a waning position in the NFL, the Panthers are very fortunate to have this former Charger in the backfield. Many games have hung on red zone plays ultimately made by Mike. If there is a Panther that takes the slogan Keep Pounding (credit this to former Panther Sam Mills) to heart, it is Tolbert. We look forward to seeing Tolbert run over opponents in 2014. Congats Mike!

2014 Way back in 1992 your now well-aged Prowler Magazine staffers began sorting and anointing standouts in the Queen City. Our humble opinions— opinions they are—are given to share with city newcomers and natives alike the things we find and love on the road more frequently travelled. While most Charlotteans will dine, dance, shop and socialize within a limited radius, our own profession and passion drives us from South End to South Park, from University City to Ballantyne and from Davidson to Lake Wylie. It’s our hope that our collection will inspire readers to take a trip—across town or a little further down the street—to enjoy one of the best experiences our great city has to offer. Please, enjoy. BY

RENEE WRIGHT

Best New Uptown Dance Club Roxbury Nightclub roxburynightclub.com Occupying a terrific multilevel venue on W. Fifth Street, this new club, playing hits from the 80s and 90s, is poised to become Charlotte’s next hot dance spot. The founders are the former owners (and DJ talent) behind the late, lamented Breakfast Club. Be sure to check out the Tiki bar on the patio. Best New Movie Venue Studio Movie Grill studiomoviegrill.com This cool EpiCentre spot has way more to offer than just first run movies in a theater with its own cocktail bar and full grill menu with in-yourseat service. A variety of alternative and family film series, including cartoons, chick flicks, documentaries, golden oldies and indie award-winners from film festivals around the country, are on the schedule as well, along with screenings for special needs kids, most priced at $2 per ticket. And did we mention the four-hour validated parking in the EpiCentre garage?

KIRK @ MAD MONSTER Best Film Festival and Convention The Mad Monster Party themadmonsterparty.com Horror movie fans hit the jackpot when the Mad Monster Party came to town. The

weekend of festivities, coming up in 2014 March 21-23, includes new and classic horror film screenings, a dealers room full of horror memorabilia, after parties, and a slew of horror movie stars signing autographs. Among this year’s attending celebs – William Shatner.

Coolest Cocktails Bubble Charlotte bubblecharlotte.com This stylish new spot in the EpiCentre features a wide variety of champagne kept perfectly chilled in a special cooler, plus a fun list cocktails and a great menu of gowiths. For the ultimate frigid experience order your cocktail “in the rocks” with your favorite liquor encased in an ice egg.

Best VIP Rooms Suite suitecharlotte.com Next door to Bubble, and from the same set of smart guys, Suite is the go-to spot for those who prefer a private night on the town. Several intimate areas, for parties from two to a dozen, are available through reservation, including tables in the middle of the dance floor and on a wonderful outdoor terrace with a view of the skyline. Best Tequila Flights Vida Cantina charlotte.vidacantina.com With more than 50 different tequilas behind the bar, Vida is definitely the spot to expand your knowledge of the world’s favorite get-yourparty-on liquor. Choose your flight of three different tequilas by type (blanco, anejo, or reposado) or by brand.

Best Authentic Italian Pizza La Tagliatella latagliatella.us Among the tasty and authentic Italian dishes served at this

new European import in the EpiCentre, the pizza is a stand-out, emerging thin and crispy from the genuine Italian oven, and topped with everything from eggplant to Tuscan bacon, plus generous shreds of rare ParmigianoReggiano cheese, aged in a cave for two years. Best New Sports Bar Cedar Street Tavern cedarstreettavern.com New spot near the Gateway Center just off W. Trade Street has a full menu served until late, great happy hour and daily drink specials , plus plenty of TVs.

ROOFTOP V.I.P. @ SUITE Best All-You-Can-Eat Chima Brazilian Steakhouse chima.cc With more than a dozen different rotisserie-cooked meats, including steak, lamb, pork, sausage, chicken and fish, carved at your table, plus an enormous salad bar, this is the place to bring your biggest appetite.

Best Uptown Parking Deal Fitzgerald’s Irish Pub fitzgeraldscharlotte.com Pay a visit to this fun pub with an Irish theme after 5 pm and get your parking validated in the adjacent Wake Forest Parking Garage through 3 am. Best Fresh Seafood Lunch Deep Sea Seafood Market deepseamarket.com A Charlotte Secret: Stop by

this seafood market on Monroe Road from 11 to 2 Monday through Saturday for sandwiches, tacos, po-boys, salads and soups made with seafood fresh off the boat.

Best Rooftop Patio Whiskey Warehouse whiskeywarehouse.com Enjoy drinks and apps high over Plaza-Midwood with the Charlotte skyline as a backdrop. Best Charcuterie Plate Block & Grinder blockandgrinder.com Enhance your cocktail hour with a plate of meats and cheeses, ranging from wild boar sausage and house smoked salmon to a rich blue brie cheese, in this friendly spot near the corner of Sharon Amity and Providence.

Best Wine Tasting Cu [Copper] Bar at 131 Main 131-main.com This little cocktail lounge with a huge copper bar next to the East Boulevard 131 Main location hosts the city’s best new wine tastings. The once-

BRAZWELL’S BLOODY BAR

a-month events feature liberal pours of small batch wines dispensed by knowledgeable wine reps, plus a huge spread of food from the adjacent 131 Main kitchen, including its famous, fall-offthe-bone tender baby back ribs.

Best Bloody Mary Deal Brazwell’s Premium Pub brazwellspub.com Construct your favorite wakeme-up beverage for $4 all day Saturdays and Sundays at the Bloody Mary Bar hosted by this Montford Drive standout. Best Fashion Hangout Osso Restaurant & Lounge ossocharlotte.com Charlotte’s fashionistas and beautiful people feel right at home in this NC Music Factory spot decorated by designer François Fossard, creator of some of the hippest nightclubs in the U.S.

Most Creative Tapas Soul Gastrolounge soulgastrolounge.com This second-floor spot in Plaza-Midwood serves some of the city’s finest cuisine, including a list of creative small plates that range the world in culinary style from Asianglazed pork belly tacos with watermelon salsa to foie gras crème puffs in a red wine sauce. Follow its Twitter feed to get daily updates on specials.

2014

Best Value Menu Cantina 1511 cantina15eleven.com You can try some of the street food-inspired Mexican dishes created by Executive Chef Vincent Giancarlo at a great price by ordering off the “secret” value menu, available at both Cantina locations. Enjoy a 3-course dinner for two with your choice of many of the restaurants’ specials for just $22. Kids can eat for an additional dollar. Or stop by for a value-priced lunch. Best Chicken Dishes Leroy Fox leroyfox.com This Cotswold spot in the former Hotel Charlotte location is known for its Southern style fried chicken, but the menu goes way beyond legs, breasts and thighs, offering a lengthy list of fried, grilled, barbecued and broiled chicken dishes, including eight different sandwiches and five salads.

TAPAS @ SOUL Best Upscale Upfit Nan and Byron’s www.nanandbyrons.com A tasteful makeover transformed the former Vinnie’s Oyster Bar in South End into one of the city’s nicest neighborhood restaurants.

Cocktail Trend Beer Cocktails Mixing beer with booze came into its own in 2013, with craft bartenders creating new and flavorful drinks that sub-

stituted beer for traditional mixers. Look for some of the best at Tilt on Trade and Heist Brewery.

Food Fad Crepes Suddenly French pancakes wrapped around savory or sweet fillings were everywhere in 2013, with several spots around town joining the trend pioneered by the popular Crepe Cellar in NoDa. Hot Sauce of the Year Sriracha huyfong.com Popularly known as “the cock sauce” for the rooster picture on its bottle, this Thai-inspired combo of fresh chili peppers, garlic, and distilled vinegar took the culinary world by storm in 2013, adding flavor to everything from wings to cocktails.

Whisky Flavor of the Year Fireball Cinnamon Whisky fireballwhisky.com Packing a cinnamon punch, Fireball lit up our tastebuds! Bartenders competed to construct the best cocktail featuring the popular liquor, but our favorite way to imbibe is still a straight shot. Best New Date Night Idea Culinary Crawls With Charlotte neighborhoods developing active culinary scenes and local breweries on the rise, several companies now offer tours that take you to local restaurants and beer pubs in NoDa, South End, and the Center City, with a taste at each spot and some neighborly networking. You can walk, bike, take a Segway, board a bus, or even hop aboard a pedaled trolley for your crawl. Companies offering culinary experiences include Feast Food Tours, Dishcrawl, Urban Adventures, Tour de Food, Charlotte Brew Tours, and Party Pedaler.

CANTINA 1511 TREATS Emerging Neighborhood of the Year Charlotte East www.charlotteeast.com The Central Avenue corridor from Plaza-Midwood to Eastland Mall has long been home to Charlotte’s most diverse ethnic community, with Asian restaurants and grocery stores rubbing shoulders with eateries from South America, the Middle East, and beyond. Now business owners and residents are organizing under the Charlotte East name, creating a more accessible experience spearheaded by the annual sell-out event “Taste of the World,” a bus tour introducing the cuisines and restaurants of the neighborhood. And, with the trolley coming, and possibly a movie production studio at the former Eastland Mall site, the future looks bright for Charlotte East.

Best Return From the Bayou Charlotte Hornets backbuzzcity.com The purple and teal return to Charlotte along with the Hornets name, a uniquely local nickname with references dating all the way back to the British occupation of the city during the Revolutionary War. During their original run, the Hornets led the NBA in attendance for many years and its teal and purple logo’d attire, designed originally by men’s wear champ Alexander Julian, was a best-seller around the

HORNETS REBOUND

world. Fans (and management) believe the return to the Hornets brand will breathe fresh life into Charlotte’s NBA franchise. Now, if

BEER COCKTAILS Chairman Michael Jordan could just get his Hornets buddies from “Space Jam” together for some on-court action… Muggsy Bogues is still around. Wonder what Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson are up to these days?

Best New Public Space Romare Bearden Park parkandrec.com Charlotte’s newest public park occupies a full city block in the center of Uptown. Named for our most famous native-born artist, the park promises to be the venue of choice for Center City celebrations, as well as free concerts, art shows, free painting and photography classes, and fitness programs. Best New Pro Sports Team Charlotte Hounds Lacrosse charlottehounds.com Lacrosse is a rough and tumble sport, and Charlotte fans swiftly embraced this new professional team playing from April to August in Memorial Stadium, with an average of 5,000 fans attending each game. The Hounds had a winning season at home last year, with an overall 7-7

BEARDEN PARK

record. The team plays its first game of the 2014 season at home on April 26 against the Ohio Machine. Most Anticipated Day in Sports 2014 First Pitch at the New Knights Stadium

charlotteknightsatuptown.com

The first pitch in the new BB&T Stadium in the Center City is scheduled for April 11, at 7:05 pm in a game against the Norfolk Tides. But much

more than 72 games of Triple-A baseball is scheduled for the new 10,000 seat facility. Expect concerts, festivals, and, come football season, tailgating for Panthers home games. Prowler Fans, we’re just getting started here. You can let us know what you think is “Best of Charlotte” worthy by emailing us at info@prowlermagazine.com. Find us at over 60 events in the year ahead. Please stop by and give us your vote. Get Prowler free in your email every month: www.ProwlerMagazine.com

Renee WRight presents

BEST CHARLOTTE STEAK HOUSES On our cover:

C o n s i d e r T h i s : the Ultimate Meat LoveR’s Menu

Del Frisco’s Valentine Special When the weather turns chilly, our appetites return to the Ice Age. Nothing will satisfy but

Above: Ruth’s Chris Filet meat—big cuts of beef and wild game, charred over a ﬁre. So who’s got the beef this winter in

Page Right: Fleming’s Filet Charlotte? We’ve canvassed the local steakhouses and found some stick-to-the-ribs meals, in-

Bottom: Fleming’s Prime Rib cluding several seasonal specials available for a limited time. January was oﬃcially National

Special Meal Meat Month, so we broke out the (steak) knives and now present a Valentine’s primer for all.

Block & grinder blockandgrinder.com

Roasted Bone Marrow Served with Mediterranean Flake Salt and Parsley Salad

Wild game Meatloaf Served with a Bourbon BBQ Sauce, Mashed Potatoes Croquette, and Braised Greens

BLt steak in the Ritz-Carlton

www.e2hospitality.com

10 oz. hanger steak & Frites Available at lunch, brunch and dinner

Prime steak & Fontina Cheese Panini The Charlotte Observer called this “the carnivore’s idea of a grilled cheese.” Served with fries.

Capital grille

www.thecapitalgrille.com Delmonico with Porcini Mushroom Crust Capital’s signature steak, served with a 15-year Aged Balsamic Sauce

Bone-in Kona Crusted Dry aged sirloin Coﬀee-rubbed sirloin, served with Shallot Butter

Chima Brazilian steakhouse chima.cc

Rodizio Brazilian all-you-can-eat rotisserie meats served by roaming gauchos. Selections include at least 15 varieties of meats, including top sirloin, ﬁlet, ribs, lamb, pork, chicken, sausage and ﬁsh. Comes with all-you-can eat Salad Bar of cold cuts, cheeses, salads, soup and traditional Brazilian hot dishes.

Del Frisco’s Double eagle steakhouse delfriscos.com

Prime Pair sundays Two-course prix ﬁxe ($49), Sundays only 8 oz hand-cut Filet paired with Crab Cake, Lemon-Garlic Scallops, or BBQ-spiced Shrimp, plus your choice of salad and side. Wagyu Longbone 32-oz. cut of prime Japanese beef

Fleming’s Prime steakhouse & Wine Bar www.ﬂemingssteakhouse.com

sunday Prime Rib Dinner Three-course prix ﬁxe ($29.95) Sun. and Mon. through Feb.3

Fleming’s Prime Rib served au jus with creamy horseradish and Dijon sauces, with your choice of salad, side, and dessert

Winter Taste the Season Special Two-course pix ﬁxe (40.95) through Jan. 31 Forest Mushroom and Housemade Ricotta Crostini with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes, plus Cedar-Smoke and Charred Prime New York Strip with rosemary and garlic cipollini onions and horseradish cream

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

www.ﬁrebirdsrestaurants.com

Wicked Burger Old-fashioned cheeseburger, seared on a ﬂattop with cheddar cheese

Filet Mignon Hand-cut 7 or 9 ounce center cut of Filet, wrapped in Applewood-Smoked Bacon, seared on the wood ﬁred grill, served with your choice of loaded baked potato, seasoned steak fries or sweet potato waﬄe fries

Morton’s The Steakhouse www.mortons.com

Bone-In Ribeye Voted the Number One steak in Charlotte Winter Meat Lover’s Special ($22) Morton’s Prime Burger or 9 oz. Prime Rib Sandwich paired with a glass of Chappellet “Double C Ranch” Cabernet blend

The Palm

www.thepalm.com

Bone-In Tomahawk Rib-Eye Chop 40-oz. cut of Prime corn-fed beef, aged a minimum of 35 days. Recommended for two. Modern Power Lunch Three-course prix ﬁxe ($25.90), Meat Lover’s Edition: Classic Caesar Salad 2 4-oz Filet Mignon Medallions served a la Stone with Bordelaise sauce with Half & Half side of Cottage Fries and Fried Onions New York Style Cheesecake

Ruth’s Chris

www.ruthschris.com

Sullivan’s Steakhouse sullivanssteakhouse.com

The Sure Thing Winter Special Three-course prix ﬁxe ($39) Meat Lovers’ Edition: Braised Beef Ravioli, Iceberg Lettuce Wedge, Porcini-Shallot Crusted Strip Steak with garlic horseradish mashed potatoes and Bordelaise Strip Steak Au Poivre Steak crusted with peppercorns in a Bourbon Peppercorn Sauce, served with fries and Crab Parmesan Cream

Ruth’s Classic Dinner Three-course prix ﬁxe ($43$53), Meat Lover’s Edition: Steak House Salad 12 oz. Ribeye with side of Sautéed Mushrooms Chocolate Sin Cake

Cowboy Ribeye Huge bone-in cut of USDA Prime beef, served sizzling on a 500-degree plate

Tell us your steak stories at: Info@ProwlerMagazine.com

PROWLER TRAINER Coach Clark Knows What You Need After The Holidays

20 MINS THAT COUNT 9 Stay active, park further away from the restaurant or club or event to force yourself to walk more. 10 Dress to impress. Ditch the comfy clothes and try to wear clothes that compliment yourself. Be daring and bold. Doing so gives you a confidence boost and will help you be less likely to over eat. Plus it’s just fun to dress nice and go out-especially when you feel great about the way you look. Step it up in 2014 and make it a great year.

20 IT WAS THE MOST WONDERFUL time of the year but unfortunately it’s also the time of the year we put on those extra pounds we worked so hard too keep off all year. A study by the National Institute of Health shows that most Americans only gain 2 pounds at the most during the six-week period between Thanksgiving and New Years Day. The problem is that most of us do not lose that extra pound or two in the year that follows. The added stress of holiday travel, shopping, end of school year projects, and other factors also cause weight gain. These medical researchers also concluded that the two main factors that influence weight gain are hunger and activity level. We all need a plan for dealing with social indulgences.

ere are 10 simple solutions that will allow you to enjoy your time with friends and family at parties and events in the future while maintaing the physique you desire. 1 Eat a small meal prior to going to events and parties to keep you from over eating while attending the party. 2 Eat foods that take more calories to digest than they contain such as Celery, Oranges,Tangerines, Strawberries, Cucumber and Carrots. 3 Eat fruits that are lower in sugar. Some options include: Berries, Melons, Papayas and Peaches. 4 Stay away from the sweet, mixed

drinks – which tend to be laden with calories – and stick to a glass of white wine or a simple gin and tonic. 5 Workout at least 30 minutes a day to boost your metabolism. 6 Drink lots of water to keep you feeling full, therefore you won’t eat as much when you go out. 7 Find a friend with similar goals and help keep each other on track. Having to answer to someone will keep you from eating that handful of fatty snacks or ordering food late night. 8 Use smaller plates and eat in moderation. Have your favorite dessert, but only have one serving .

MINUTES COUNT ‘EM

4 minutes 4 exercises, 30 second intervals 30 seconds: Run in place 30 seconds: Jumping jacks 30 seconds: High-knees sprints 30 seconds: Butt kicks Repeat 2x WARM-UP

16 minutes 7 exercises, 30 second intervals 30 seconds: Full plank with alternation leg kick backs 30 seconds: Alternating legs lunges 30 seconds: Floor mountain climbers 30 seconds: Elbow planks 30 seconds: Push-ups (on knees or regular ) 30 seconds: Arms raised squats 30 seconds: Laying ﬂutter kicks 30 seconds: rest Repeat 4x WORKOUT

Belive it—you will feel this, get results quickly and get back to your day quickly. Stick to it!

www.ImpactTrainingSystem.com

R– New E S Home I DENTIAL SERVICES Electrical Wiring

COMMERCIAL SERVICES – Commercial Electrical Repair

– Electrical Repair Service – Installation of Electrical Appliances (Ceiling Fans, Kitchen Appliances, etc.) – Lighting Installation – Motion Sensors & Outdoor Lighting – Dimming Controls – Structure Data/Computer Cabling – Whole Home Automation Controls – Whole Home Surge Protectors ($75,000 COVERAGE)

– Installation of Electrical Appliances – Lighting Installation – Surge Protection – Dimming Controls – Structure Data/Computer Cabling – Kohler, Generac, and Winpower Generators with automatic and manual transfer switches We are very proud of our technological innovations and are among the leaders in custom residential and commercial design.

LET US QUOTE YOUR PROJECT, LARGE OR SMALL

Serving the Charlotte Region since 1976

704.821.7005

Service@ARCElectricCompany.com www.ARCElectricCompany.com CHOOSE THE ELECTRIC COMPANY CHOSEN BY ABC’S THE BACHELORETTE, HOMEARAMA AND ESPN/PROWLER MAGAZINE

THREE SKINNY OPTIONS

TAKE OFF THE WEIGHT WITHOUT TAKING THE COCKTAILS OFF THE MENU

BY LORI SCOTT

Calories Saved Weekly

1200+

Taste need not be a casualty with new trends in “skinny” cocktails...take a minute to choose skinny at the ABC store.

Vodka Cranberry Fizz

Peppered Bloody Mary

Calories Saved Per Drink

This is an easy one! Just replace half of the cranberry juice with Diet Sprite or sparkling water for a refreshing vodka cranberry with less calories! There are several brands of “skinny” vodkas (and other liquors) that are now available and are very palatable. Some skinny brands contain a slightly lower alcohol content, such as 60 proof vodka vs 80 proof.

G R E AT

DRINK IDEAS?

2 parts skinny pepper vodka 4 parts low sodium tomato juice ¼ part fresh squeezed lemon juice ¼ part Worcestershire Sauce 3 dashes hot sauce Pinch black pepper Celery stick Lemon wedge Build in highball glass over cubed ice. Garnish with lime wedge.

SUBMIT THEM AT INFO@PROWLERMAGAZINE.COM

Low-Cal Fruit and Fusion Flavored Vodkas

Voli Light Vodkas are 25 to 40 percent lower in calories than leading brands and contain no more than 81 calories per serving, the company said. They also save consumers the need for sugary mixers, as Voli is recommended to be served over ice or with club soda. Available flavors include Lyte, Voli Lemon, Voli Espresso Vanilla, Voli Raspberry Cocoa and Voli Orange Vanilla. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

220

SKINNY FAVORITES Light and Right

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken Parmigiana Burgers

Ingredients

Directions

Ingredients

Directions

1/4 cup flour (to make gluten-free use 2 tbsp cornstarch instead) 2 cups water 4 cups fat free milk 1 large celery stalk, chopped 1/2 medium chopped onion 8 oz sliced baby portabella mushrooms 2 chicken bouillons fresh ground pepper pinch of thyme 10 oz frozen classic mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, corn) 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed small 16 oz cooked chicken breast, diced small salt

Create a slurry by combining 1/2 cup of cold water with flour in a medium bowl and whisk until blended. Set aside. Pour remaining water and milk into a large pot and slowly bring to a boil. Add celery, onion, mushrooms, chicken bullion, thyme, fresh pepper, frozen vegetables and return to a boil. Partially cover and simmer on low until vegetables are soft: 20 minutes. Remove lid, add potatoes and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add chicken, and slowly whisk in slurry, stirring well as you add. Cook another 2-3 minutes, until soup thickens, adjust salt and pepper to taste and serve.

16 oz lean chicken burgers 4 oz part skim mozzarella cheese 1 cup pomodoro 4 rolls such as ciabatta rolls

Heat the sauce; cook burgers 2-3 minutes on each side. Top with cheese; when melted put on a roll and top with sauce.

Pot Pie Soup Nutritional Breakdown

Parmigiana Burgers Nutritional Breakdown

XTRA MOIST LOW-FAT CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES Ingredients 18.25 oz Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge cake mix 1.4 oz sugar free, fat free, instant chocolate pudding 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) 1 1/3 cups water For the Chocolate Glaze 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2-1 tbsp 1% milk 1/4 tsp vanilla extract pinch of salt

Directions Preheat oven 350째. Line cupcake tin with liners. Combine pumpkin puree/water in large bowl; mix . Add chocolate pudding mix, mix well. Add chocolate cake mix, beat 2 mins. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake about 25 - 28 mins. Cool in pan on wire rack 15 mins. Glaze: combine dry ingredients, add vanilla and 1/2 tbsp milk, adding more 1/4 tsp at a time until smooth. Add to piping bag drizzle onto cooled cupcakes.

WAND-WAVING, TREASURE-CHASING ADVENTURE THROUGHOUT THE LODGE

IT’S SHADOW QUEST! friends from the evil of Malaki—a fearsome, light-eating Yeti (snow monster). You will need to concentrate and bring all of your skills as a Magi to become a wizard and save the day! You’ll collect (or lose) colored gems, based on how you use your wand. Playing is fun and challenging and you never know what’s around each corner. It’s awesome to control the game with your magic wand and go through each challenge with your friends. I loved the characters of Shadow Quest and had a great time. I would recommend Shadow Quest to boys and girls of all ages—it’s even fun for the whole family. I rode their awesome new ride, Howly Wood. I also played a cool new light game called Atomic Rush. Then we got to play a new, wild shooting THE GREAT WOLF LODGE is one of the Charlotte Region’s premier family attracgame called 4D World. tions and largest hotels. A day, two or a week inside the sprawling, themed lodge can easily My family played Shadow Quest for the first time and then went to feel like a full-fledged family vacation in another locale—when you step into the lodge, lunch and had an awesome pizza party! you’re on vacation. The Great Wolf Lodge is known for it’s massive indoor heated water I had the Hungry As A Wolf Pizza park and loveable, woodsy animated characters and live mascots. Yet many young visitor’s Meal. They also have a restaurant that come for a game played with electronic wands know as Magi-Quest—the same interactive has a giant forest with lots of animated things in the tree tops that you can acvideo adventure played at the popular Myrtle Beach destination, Broadway at the Beach. tivate with a wave of your magic wand. Now comes Shadow Quest, the next generation of epic adventures. They even had someone at the lodge that came to our table and made a baly name is Ethan Powell, I am Your wand, when wielded skillfully, loon sword for me and a bal7 years old, and this is my will grant you new loon puppy for my friend! first article as a Jr. Corretools and weapons. We plan on going spondent for Charlotte You’ll need these back soon and spending a day Prowler Magazine. I would like to weapons as you in the water park. I want to thank Prowler for inviting me and my travel through the ride the Howlin’ Tornado— friends to go and experience Shadow Lodge in search of it’s a giant raft ride that seats Quest at The Great Wolf Lodge. It each video adventure 4 people and you go swirling was a blast! I learned a lot about in the Shadow Quest down a gigantic drain—it’s magic—and about writing for a maga- game. super cool, and a little scary. zine. Here is my experience: In Shadow Quest, you work alongside If you’re going: The Quest to Become A Wizard Ivan—a frost giant Great Wolf Lodge is located near When you first arrive at the Great who looks like a meanie but is really Concord Mills. Call 704-549-8206 or Wolf Lodge, you’ll need to select your good-natured. And Lumina, leader of wand! You can choose from blue, pink, the light pixies. Your goal is to save the visit www.GreatWolf.com. orange, grey or many other colors. light for your village and spare your