check out this year’s local holiday gift giving guide relish good times in the capital city
explore the pasta-bilities at pasta & provisions
november • december 2015
contents
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give a gift that’s local this holiday season
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18 Total Wine & More® The selection is incredible. Total Wine & More is like no other wine store you have ever visited. Each of our stores carries over 8,000 different wines and 2,500 beers. With over 115 superstores, we have the buying power to bring you the best wines at the lowest prices. Our wine team is the best trained in the industry. They are committed and dedicated to bringing you the Total Wine Experience.™
North Carolina’s Largest Selection of Wine, Beer and More Under One Roof – at the Lowest Prices!
HUNTERSVILLE | CHARLOTTE-PARK TOWNE VILLAGE CHARLOTTE-UNIVERSITY | CHARLOTTE-PROMENADE
Get Social With Us TotalWine.com
relish good times in the capital city
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oh, the pasta-bilities! exploring pasta & provisions
in each issue 06 ripe for the picking
33 places to go, people to see
08 juicy morsels
34 scene around town
beer, wine and product picks for the cool weather
charlotte’s serving up a holiday mix of jazz and cuisine
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seats & eats
12
profiles of passion
volume 7 • issue 6
lumiere delivers seasonal dishes with attention to detail satisfy your french fix with south end’s very own patisserie
a calendar of local events
check out who’s been out and about
36 local flavor
treat your tummy this holiday season
38 the juice
must-have products, hot topics and more
39 words to live by w w w.epi cu rea n ch a r l otte.com
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RUNNING OUT OF ROOM FOR YOUR VINO?
Let Kate find your perfect villa, complete with wine cellar!
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Epicurean Charlotte is published locally by Charlotte food and wine lovers for fellow food and wine lovers. We hope you enjoy our publication and find it helpful when choosing wine, a place to dine or events around town. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited.
extraordinary experience at Evoke.
dry-aged steaks • house-made pastas • fresh crudo
publisher/editor Linda Seligman
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER
associate editor Ashley Blake Summerlin
555 South McDowell Street | 980 237 5354 | EvokeRestaurant.com
contributing editor Kate Bruce kate@epicureancharlotte.com
KATE BRUCE TERRIGNO
REALTOR | BROKER kterrigno@dmahomes.com c: 631.903.3021
media editor Courtney Matinata
design & production Ashley Blake Summerlin ashley@epicureancharlotte.com advertising sales Linda Seligman linda@epicureancharlotte.com 704.904.8249
Historic Dilworth |1716 Kenilworth Avenue zenasianfusion.com | 704.358.9688
staff photographers Linda Seligman, Ashley Blake Summerlin contributing writers Tricia Bangit, Zenda Douglas, Charles Jenkin, Tom M. Jones, Courtney Matinata, R. Andre Perry, Emily Williams
printing Indexx Printing
Your Escape from the Everyday
Affordable, high quality French fare, exquisitely prepared to order. Classic French country favorites served all day include pastries, full breakfast menu, salads, sandwiches, quiches and crepes. Full service dinner in a casual and comfortable European setting. We offer daily Chef Specials as well as regional specialties. We strive to make quality French food accessible to all!
Open Brunch, Lunch and Dinner
Monday - Thursday 9am - 9pm Friday 9:00 am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 10pm Sunday 9am - 3pm
Allen Tate Building at Phillips Place in SouthPark • 6700 Fairview Road, Suite 180 • Charlotte, NC
Tapas • Steakhouse • Wine Bar
Toringdon Market at Ballantyne 12239 North Community House Road
704.540.7374 www.mirospanishgrille.com
704-552-1116 | www.cafemonte.net
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volume 7 • issue 6
epicurean charlotte food & wine
novem b er • d ecemb er 2 015
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ripe for the picking
ripe for the picking
Andres Johnson of Portofino's Ristorante Italiano e Pizzeria praises the Cantine di Ora Veneto Amicone Rosso 2012 for your pasta.
David Bergeron of Total Wine & More says the Tuli Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2013 is the perfect wine for Thanksgiving.
Medium-bodied with ruby-red fruits and a balanced bouquet, this wine features notes of spice and chocolate with a smooth lingering finish. Light enough for appetizers, it pairs nicely with hearty red sauces and meat dishes.
With a darker, opaque quality, pungent aromas of Thanksgiving Day erupt from the glass with cranberry, cherry, spiced apple and vanilla notes that meld into a rather dominant palate. Made exclusively for Total Wine & More.
Glass $7.00, Bottle $28.99
Bottle $25.99
Brian Perkins of Healthy Home Market suggests the 2013 Healdsburg Ranches Cabernet Sauvignon. Bottle $14.99
This full-bodied California Cabernet Sauvignon without a doubt has a soft and delicate side with a complex range of aromatics and flavors. The palate includes notes of blackberry, dried cherry, velvety chocolate, tobacco spice and cassis, all framed in the toast and vanilla flavors of French oak.
Bottle $30.00
This full-bodied Carménère has aromas and flavors of blackberries, figs and notes of black pepper and black tea. This is an excellent everyday value for Chilean wine fans.
Monte Smith of Café Monte French Bakery and Bistro highly recommends the Château Recougne 2011 Bordeaux Supérieur for the holidays.
Thierry Garconnet of Terra Restaurant suggests the 2013 Château l'Hospitalet La Reserve Red, Coteaux du Languedoc La Clape.
Glass $9.00, Bottle $36.00
Bottle $45.00
Fleshy and robust, this wine is full of ripe black fruit accented with hints of mocha, smoke and toast. Plenty of fine-grained tannins provide a prodigious grip and savory texture.
Boasting a bright, ruby-red color, this wine’s intense nose carries predominant aromas of spices and red fruit (strawberry). On the palate, the fine, silky tannins enhance the fruity freshness of the wine.
Dylan George recommends the 2010 San Felice Perolla Poggibano Maremma Toscano to warm up during the cooler weather. Bottle $26.99
Boasting deep red color with violet highlights, this wine’s bouquet is rich in blackberry, blueberry and ripe cherry. Slightly spiced with fresh balsamic notes, the flavor is full, warm and harmonious.
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Matthew Matinata of Old Stone Steakhouse recommends the Bisquertt Family Vineyards 2013 La Joya Reserve Carménère, Colchagua Valley, Chile.
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drinks with kate
Just in time for cool temperatures and cozy weather, I’ve found the perfect by kate bruce cocktail thanks to one of my favorite spots tucked inside the Mint Museum in Uptown. True to their seasonal motto, Halcyon masters the ultimate fall cocktail; look no further than their very own “Cranberry Souse.” This concoction starts with a mason jar full of homemade cranberry jam. Inside, you’ll find vibrant, juicy, fresh cranberries, Zinfandel, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, a touch of cloves and orange zest. Need I say more? Combine this decadent delight with a few ounces of Cardinal Gin and half an ounce of Grand Marnier, shake it over ice and top it off with a lemon zest peel and fresh ginger shavings. Not only does this drink boast a taste of the holidays with each and every sip, but it also resembles it in color. Deep ruby red accents from the jam brighten the ice-cold martini glass. Each drop is accompanied with a hint of citrus flavor. Halcyon means calm and tranquil, and that’s exactly how you’ll feel after this cocktail. Embrace the cold weather, bundle up and treat yourself to the perfect seasonal treat! Don’t miss out, as this cocktail is only available as long as cranberries are in season. Until next time … cheers and enjoy!
Helen White of Sir Edmond Halley’s is enjoying the 2014 August Kesseler 'R' Riesling Kabinett. Glass $8.00, Bottle $42.00
This everyday sipping wine is fruity, mineraly and well balanced with flavors of exotic fruits, aromatic apples and peaches. Well structured and delightful to drink, it’s very delicate and refreshing on the palate. Easy to drink if thirsty for wine, it’s ideal with light fish, salads and poultry dishes.
epicurean charlotte food & wine
volume 7 • issue 6
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juicy morsels
charlotte’s favorite jazz & foodie venues
charlotte’s serving up a holiday mix of jazz and cuisine
by tom m. jones and r. andre perry
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the cajun queen restaurant
TRIKONA/bigstock.com
Today, annual jazz concerts headline with food: Columbus, Ohio’s “Jazz & Rib Fest,” Norfolk, Virginia’s “Ribtober Fest,” the “Harlem Soul Food & Jazz,” and the Ontario’s “Taste of Jazz-Beaches International Jazz Festival.” The popularity of jazz and food transcends our borders to include the UK, Canada, Europe, South America, the Middle East and beyond. The culinary delights of exotic dishes have always been the conversations of artists who’ve traversed countries and continents. Jazz fans definitely experience favorite meals with memorable performances. What better time to enjoy a jazz performance and great cuisine than while celebrating the holidays. Even better news for residents and visitors to Charlotte is that they don’t have to leave the country, or even the city, to find that amazing pairing of jazz and cuisine. This holiday season, make your way to one of these restaurants, where they’ve perfected the combination. Give yourself permission to kick back and take a break from the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations. Tap your toes or meditate to a slow jazz composition as rich and delightful as the meal set in front of you.E
he headline taken from a 1950s song, “Jazz is: “Nothing But Potatoes & Grits!” only scratches the surface to describe a natural pairing between jazz music and food. Make no mistake, the “foodie” relationship does exist, and jazz’s global fandom relish in the sensual experience. Jazz can effectuate what we eat. Growing up in the northeast, this writer experienced the connection between jazz and cuisine. Jazz and food harkens back to my days in Hackensack, NJ, hanging out at Leon’s Cocktail Lounge and listening to the jazz music of Alvin Valentine’s organ trio and other established singers. What made it special was Liz’s Soul Food that was literally next door to the lounge. In the early 60s, I frequently went to Harlem to visit the original home of Chicken and Waffles, Wells’ Restaurant. In the same block were Count Basie’s club and Smalls Paradise, both known for serving excellent ribs and chicken. In a recent blog, “Making Food Tastier with Music,” Larry O’Hanlon wrote, “a 2014 University of Arkansas research study shows that the enjoyment of some foods can be affected by emotions. Among their findings was the discovery that jazz made chocolate taste measurably better.”
Proudly serving Charlotte since 1985, The Cajun Queen is nestled in historic Elizabeth. The century-old landmark house where “every day is Mardi Gras” is a warm, friendly place for business and fun, with live music in the upstairs dining room and quieter dining downstairs. Owner and Chef Robert Gottfried has developed a New Orleans feel for the delicacies that do not disappoint. Served nightly, the multi-faceted menu features fresh fish specials and distinctive and delectable dinners, appetizers from New Orleans BBQ Shrimp to Crawfish Scampi and main entrées whose tasteful, creative descriptions definitely require a visit to their website. For the sweet tooth, he says you can’t deny the Bourbon Pecan Pie, Key Lime Pie or Bourbon Bread Pudding. “This is my third visit to the Cajun Queen and it never disappoints,” says customer Jill Albano. “There are so many menu options, wine and the music remind me of clubs I frequented when I lived on the west coast.” Managing Partner Tim Feer loves the community and the crowd they attract. “Musicians love playing at the Cajun Queen, and our guests have developed a long standing love for their musicianship and their interaction with the audience.”
sydney’s martini and wine bar
Sydney’s, named after the owner’s dog, is a relative newcomer to the jazz/food scene. General Manager Courtney Wilson points out, “We’re located in Bank of America Plaza, so we draw from a diverse group of after-work business professionals. We offer a Tapas menu (small plate) so that food doesn’t get in the way of conversations and socialization.” Opened just over a year, Sydney’s is making a name for itself attracting business millennials who are in search of a cool after-work venue. Live local jazz and neo-soul artists perform Tuesday through Friday and Saturday evening.
sullivan’s steakhouse
Sullivan’s is part of the Del Frisco chain of 30 restaurants nationwide. Known for the best dry-age ribeye and one-pound lobsters in Charlotte, it has become part of a major rebirth of South End, attracting a mix of business professionals, politicians and athletes. At any given hour you might bump into Michael Jordan and some of the Hornets or Cam Newton and teammates from the Carolina Panthers. General manager Travis Wadsworth points out, “our restaurant is attracting more millennials to the steak and lobster experience. We have an open kitchen and the best of the best wine offerings. We also have one of the last cigar-friendly patios in Charlotte, where you can top it off with a shot of Scotch and Bourbon.” Thursday through Saturday is jazz night featuring local musicians with music to dine by. During the holidays, the music turns to jazz holiday themes.
blue restaurant and bar
Owner Alex Myrick tells us, “We’ve been in business for 13 years and are proud to say that jazz and Mediterranean cuisine serve as the hallmark of who we are, under the leadership of Executive Chef Gene Briggs.” The menu includes specialty seafood appetizers, six-course Chef tasting menus, specialty meals from Italy and Greece and vegan offerings. If you’re craving something sweet, Blue offers a variety of delicious desserts including Passion Fruit Semifreddo and Colombian Dark Chocolate Mousse as well as a selection of sparkling cocktails, specialty after dinner drinks and imported wines and beers. Blue was designed with the musician in mind. “We also took special care in soundproofing for the musical experience,” Myrick says. “There are special holiday Jazz music nights and throughout the year Istanbul, Egyptian, summer-in-Sicily celebrations and Octoberfest.”
cajun queen 8
www.e p icu re an c h ar l o t te .co m
volume 7 • issue 6
epicurean charlotte food & wine
cafe monte
café monte french bakery and bistro
Café Monte is known for making your French eating experience both memorable and affordable. Owner Monte Smith says, “Our food is exquisitely prepared to order. Classic French country favorites are served every day, and daily Chef features include trout amandine, braised salmon and beef bourguignon. We are committed to using only the highest quality ingredients when serving our customers.” Café Monte is designed with a European/New Orleans décor in mind. There is no cover charge for music, and jazz is presented Friday and Saturday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. Local musicians applaud the opportunities provided at Café Monte. Monte says “Jazz and food are a natural fit. We make quality French food accessible for all. Bon Appetit!” novem b er • d ecemb er 2 015
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seats & eats
a spotlight on french cuisine:
chef tom condron
lumiere delivers seasonal dishes with attention to detail by emily williams
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sk a native Charlotte epicurean what their favorite French dining destination is, and they’re bound to come up with several choices. Whether the desire is for exquisite gourmet food, casual Bistro fare or a quirky patisserie (Amélie’s, anyone?), a Francophile is sure to find what their senses are yearning for without ever having to book a flight to the City of Light. Yet nothing quite matches the bold creativity of modern French food, and that’s exactly what’s on the menu at Lumiere, Matt Pera’s new restaurant in Myers Park. In collaboration with Chef Tom Condron, Pera (who also runs The Liberty on South Boulevard, which has been billed as Charlotte’s “first gastropub”) focuses here on traditional favorites through a contemporary lens. Condron’s résumé is peppered with destinations that fine dining aficionados may recognize. Beginning his career at the famed Dorchester hotel in England, he eventually found his way to spots like Le Cirque in Manhattan, Aqua Restaurant in San Francisco and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts Restaurant. Along the way, Condron worked with famed French chef Jean Louis Palladin, a name synonymous with taking an unstuffy, fresh approach to the cuisine. Condron adapts that philosophy to the menu at Lumiere, with seasonal ingredients, adventurous dishes and elegant presentation. Washed in moody shades of blue with silver accents and walls adorned with mirrors and smart artwork, the space is intimate in its size and calming in its color schemes, with attentive servers who are well-versed in background knowledge to answer any questions you may have. As evening falls, the room is darkened, but tea lights on each table cast light on the bright accents around the room for a romantic glow. The meal begins with an amuse-bouche (literally “amuse the mouth”), a bite-sized appetizer that whets your palate for the pleasures to come. The contents may change by the season, but expect a variety of vegetables and fruits dotted with sauces beautifully displayed on small plates. Small, delicate brioche rolls accompany these dishes, and their tender, buttery taste is the perfect accompaniment. For the appetizers, try a traditional French favorite like the escargot, served on a puff pastry with herb butter and a texture that resembles warm, soft mushrooms. Spanish octopus is
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images courtesy hogan imaging
crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned with chorizo and spices that are pungent without burning your tongue. Coupled with potato confit, pea tendrils and salsa verde, it’s a satisfying dish to share or keep for yourself before the next course arrives. If you decide to order a salad, don’t expect a typical shallow bowl filled with lettuce. These salads are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they’re small enough that they won’t hinder your enjoyment of the main course to follow. Depending on the time of year, the ingredients will inevitably vary. In late summer, expect locally-grown figs paired with serrano ham, spiced pecans and a few strands of wild arugula and a small bite of goat cheese. The saltiness of the ham, the sweetness of the figs and the mildly bitter taste of the greens never clash, but harmonize. Entrées like wild sea bass and duck breast a l’Orange are a delight: the sea bass is a melt-in-your-mouth experience dappled with chunks of sweet apples, baby artichokes and Burgundy truffles, while the duck is bathed in a tingling blood orangeGrand Marnier reduction, adding even more to the duck’s flavor. As the French are known for their sumptuous desserts, one should not skip on this sweet finale to the meal. A luscious chocolate torte with a tantalizing scoop of hazelnut ice cream will satisfy any serious cocoa craving, while the seasonal berry soup—a tart concoction of port wine and tangy fruits— arrives in a martini glass with a dollop of lemon sorbet and a light cookie. The sweet endings to your meal are not heavy here, but light and satiating, so there’s no need to feel guilty. Indulge and relax. Linger and take your time over each course, as this is not the time to rush through a meal. Order a glass of wine from the restaurant’s impressive list or a cup of coffee supplied by the locally-owned Magnolia Coffee Company. Take a deep breath and relish in the aromas of the meal. The French are recognized for perfecting the art of savoring life at a leisurely pace, with appreciation for every aspect that each of the senses brings to the table. Be sure to follow that nation’s example and spend an hour (or two!) enjoying your food. Lumiere lives up to its name, as it shines a light on the kind of French food that a city like Charlotte deserves: a mixture of old and new with bright flavors that pay homage to the seasons. Bon appétit!E
epicurean charlotte food & wine
hudson valley duck breast a l'orange
poulet rouge with foie gras
lumiere french kitchen 1039 providence road charlotte 704.372.3335 lumieremyerspark.com
molten lava cake with hazelnut ice cream
volume 7 • issue 6
maine diver scallops, confit pork belly, beluga lentils, fresh shell bean
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profiles of passion
satisfy your french fix with south end’s very own patisserie by courtney matinata images courtesy courtney matinata and charlottefive
chef sylvain
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ith the help of Parisian pastry chef Sylvain Rivet, you can now get a hold of all your French favorites without the travel hassle, and the answer is waiting for you right down the road in historic South End. With a notable past consisting of owning an awardwinning restaurant in Los Angeles and cooking for big Hollywood names such as Oprah Winfrey, Sharon Stone and the Michael Jackson family, Chef Sylvain has settled his roots in the Queen City. With the launch of his new establishment, Renaissance Patisserie, we are beyond spoiled to now have his tasty talents at our fingertips. A passionate and down-to-earth chef, Rivet remains modest when asked about his impressive résumé. “My job is to bring some happiness to the customer,” shares Rivet. “To me, it’s fun. I give my passion for food and it doesn’t matter for whom. You’re there to give a customer service.” Despite his wide-range of culinary skills, Chef Sylvain’s true passion is for pastries, and after one visit to the patisserie, you’ll undoubtedly find them just as hard to resist. Rivet spent the last three years participating in area farmers’ markets strengthening his customer base here in the Carolinas, and it became apparent (following inquiry after inquiry from interested customers!) that a permanent location for his pastry products was the necessary next step. Local events were the start of his loyal following, and since Renaissance Patisserie’s opening in May 2015, Chef Sylvain’s success continues to grow as word spreads of his authentic creations. It is his personal connection with his customers that sets him apart from other chefs, as does the intimate and traditional feel of his shop. “My idea is that you come into my shop, it’s like France. The smell. The look.” And it’s no exaggeration. With sweet wafting aromas accompanying the quaint Parisian-inspired décor of the bakery’s interior, the European essence is palpable. People from all over the area come in seeking classic French desserts, and Chef Sylvain is the real deal.
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With this homage to his homeland, Rivet aims to not only share his own passion with those who cross his path, but to educate and familiarize his patrons with the French way of baking—the techniques, the tastes. Though he does adapt to American flavor preferences when fitting, Rivet always remains within the realm of his French expertise, so you can be sure you’re getting only the best in terms of taste and presentation. It’s a difficult balance, but a challenge from which he doesn’t shy away. After starting as an apprentice at age 13 and later graduating from culinary school, Rivet praises the bosses who helped lead his way. “I traveled a lot around the world and that opened my mind to working with different chefs, different flavors,” Rivet points out. As he takes on the South and all it has to offer, he does so while keeping the community at the forefront of his mind. Still active in the farmers’ market scene, Renaissance Patisserie utilizes local ingredients whenever able, which according to Rivet, makes all the difference. “You’re successful because of the freshness, the texture. Everything needs to be perfect.” And perfect it is—most particularly in the croissant category. In fact, Renaissance’s plain butter croissant was the undisputed champion when up against several local bakeries in a recent blind taste test put on by Charlotte Agenda. Among other mouthwatering treats such as tarts, cakes and macaroons, you’ll also spot the latest holiday treats that are just waiting to be devoured. Each day brings new delicacies; in store they may not last long, but your cravings most certainly will. Chef Sylvain’s favorite? “When you love your job, everything’s your favorite.” So this holiday season, make sure you pick up all of your favorites at Renaissance Patisserie.E
renaissance patisserie 2809 south boulevard • charlotte www.renaissancepatisserie.com • 980.819.8771 volume 7 • issue 6
epicurean charlotte food & wine
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s the weather gets a little bit chillier, you’ve probably begun the countdown to the holidays. It’s the time of year again when we’re all wondering what gifts to get our loved ones. Sure, you could fall back on classic holiday gifts like scarves, sweaters and slippers, but why not mix things up a little bit this year? Instead of adding to your loved ones’ huge scarf collections, consider picking out some thoughtful, local food gifts that will be both devoured and appreciated. From artisanal chocolates to mouthwatering cuts of steak, your loved ones (and their taste buds) will thank you for being so thoughtful this holiday season. Plus, you’ll find that the gifts listed in our guide can all be found right here in Charlotte!
for the meat lover
How do you know if someone’s a meat lover? Maybe it’s the fact that they can’t go a few days without cutting into a nice, juicy steak for dinner. Or, maybe this person loves to snack on jerky. Either way, they can’t live without meat. Keep reading for suggestions on what to get the meat lover in your life for the holidays this year.
©Omaha Steaks International, Inc.
reid’s fine foods
give a gift that’s local this holiday season
by tricia bangit
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epicurean charlotte food & wine
Reid’s is Charlotte’s original hometown specialty food store providing superior meats, wines, regional provisions, locallygrown produce and seasonally-fresh meals and gift baskets. Reid’s boasts friendly service wrapped in Southern style in a convenient neighborhood location. www.reids.com
omaha steaks
This gift is perfect for anyone who loves meat and enjoys cooking as well. Omaha Steaks proudly sells grain-fed beef that can make your next family dinner or barbeque a hit. Flash-frozen and vacuumwrapped, their meat is easy to store and easy to prepare. Find a variety of steaks, burgers, hot dogs and much more. www.omahasteaks.com or Blakeney Crossing
for the wine connoisseur
From your dad to your best friend to your boss, you can never really go wrong with a nice bottle of wine. Charlotte luckily has quite a number of great wine stores that can provide you with the perfect bottles of wine to give as gifts to your loved ones.
the wine shop dilworth
Founded in 1985, The Wine Shop in Dilworth boasts over 3,000 different domestic and imported wines. In addition to bottles of wine, you can also find decanters, wine journals and decorative bottle stoppers. If you want to let your gift recipient shop for there own wine and wine accessories, then give them a gift certificate from The Wine Shop! www.thewineshops.net
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total wine & more
While Total Wine has the standard reds and whites, they also sell many other wines including dessert and plum wine. Choose from a wide variety of domestic and international brands. Fun novelty gifts like wine bottle holders and insulated wine purses can be found here as well. Total Wine has three convenient Charlotte-area locations. www.totalwine.com
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for the beer enthusiast
For the past few years, microbreweries have been on the rise. And what better way to support local businesses than through the purchase of beer?
the olde mecklenburg brewery
The only thing better than drinking Charlotte’s freshest beer is drinking Charlotte’s freshest beer in the city’s most unique beer-drinking location: the OMB Biergarten. OMB’s ‘garten is a natural oasis just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of “real life.” It’s an ideal place for families to eat, friends to meet and even for pets to enjoy a little down time. Share the experience with the ones you love this holiday season—OMB gift cards make a great gift! www.oldemeckbrew.com
for the chef at heart
for the ones with a sweet tooth
We all know that person who loves to unleash his or her inner chef when given the chance. Give that special person in your life the best gift by buying him or her a cooking class. They’ll not only cherish the memories, but also the delicious food they’ll make.
Children and adults of all ages can enjoy delicious sweets. We all know that person who can’t get enough sugar. From perfect pastries to chocolates that are imported from Europe, Charlotte has plenty of options from which to choose. Let your loved ones indulge in decadent sweets with the many treats the area has to offer!
Amelie’s is the perfect place to go gift shopping for a Francophile foodie. Macarons and salted caramel brownies are just a few of the items you can give as a tasty gift. Amélie’s also makes adorable gift baskets for the holidays. In the past, they’ve featured bon bon boxes, fondue kits and gift baskets filled with samples of tea, delectable pastries, mugs and more! www.ameliesfrenchbakery.com
the secret chocolatier
Look no further for your adventurous chocolate lovers. The Secret Chocolatier boasts a wide variety of chocolate treats. Their many products include Earl Grey truffles, cinnamon roll bon bons and cake in a jar. Try the white chocolate cardamom crunch bark or some strawberry balsamic bon bons for the truly adventurous chocolate eater on your list. You’ll be hard pressed to find those unique flavors anywhere else. www.thesecretchocolatier.com
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mostly chocolate
While they sell mostly German chocolates, Mostly Chocolate also sells chocolates imported from Italy, Ireland and Colombia, and a number of the shop’s gifts are meant especially for the holidays. You’ll find a variety of treats during the holiday season, including Irish whiskey fudge, toffee, truffles and Lebkuchen, which is German gingerbread. While Mostly Chocolate no longer has a retail store, you can order their sweets online or call in advance to visit their warehouse. www.mostlychocolate.com
volume 7 • issue 6
the tiny chef syrotkin/shutterstock.com; g-stockstudio/shutterstock.com; Syda Productions/shutterstock.com
amélie’s french bakery
Make this gift really personal by getting the cook in your life a cooking lesson with Susanne Dillingham. Chef Susanne’s services include cooking lessons in the comfort of her student’s own home. With time spent studying cooking in Italy and past experience working on farms in Ireland, Spain and Italy, this chef certainly has a lot to teach. Contact her directly for pricing and availability. susanne@thetinychef.biz
harper’s restaurant
Harper’s Restaurant Group offers cooking classes at all three of their Charlotte-area restaurants: Harper’s, Mimosa Grill and Upstream. These fun, interactive and educational cooking classes include tasting, beverages and recipes that you can take home. Cooking class gift cards are available for purchase from their website. www.harpersgroup.com
epicurean charlotte food & wine
chef alyssa’s kitchen
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced home cook, you will absolutely love the different cooking classes that Chef Alyssa has to offer her students. From learning how to cook dim sum to serving up healthy weeknight meals, you’ll learn a lot, eat a lot and have lots of fun. www.chefalyssaskitchen.com
for the restaurant lover
For the person who loves a nice dinner at a restaurant, you can’t go wrong with a gift card for one of Charlotte’s many wonderful restaurants. A few of our favorites include Café Monte’s French Restaurant and Bistro, Beef & Bottle, Barrington’s, Zebra and Terra, to name a few. If you really want to give your gift recipient limitless choices, you can also give them a gift card from OpenTable.com, which enables them to eat at a wide variety of eating establishments throughout the city. These are just a few of the many possible holiday gifts that Charlotte has to offer. From a great selection of locally-made wine and beer to creative chocolates and hands-on cooking classes, this city truly is a wonderful place for any foodie to live.E
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relish good times in the capital city
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by zenda douglas
f you grew up in North Carolina, you may well have climbed onto a long, yellow bus with your schoolmates and headed to Raleigh to see all the trappings of state government—the state capitol building, the legislative building and the executive mansion. If you haven’t been back to Raleigh in recent times, you may not realize that the sights and sounds around government buildings, though still completely worthy of a trip, represent the tip of the iceberg that is made up of hundreds of reasons to visit this smart and savvy city.
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n.c. state capitol
natural science museum
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The long list of what makes Raleigh cool includes unique and award-winning restaurants, four-star hotels, concert amphitheaters, theater and opera companies, professional sports, a nationally-recognized symphony, world-class museums, vibrant festivals, beautiful golf courses and greenways, and all the history you can take in. Raleigh has an astonishing list of free activities and attractions, so your travel time in the Capital City doesn’t have to break the bank. There are more than 40 free things to see and do. Here are just a few of the places you can visit for no money down: the North Carolina State Capitol; the North Carolina Executive Mansion; the African American Cultural Center & Art Gallery; Artspace; Legends of Harley Drag Racing Museum; the Bass Lake Park & Environmental Education Center; JC Raulston Arboretum; City Market and their free First Friday Concerts; Nutzilla, the City of Oaks’ enormous acorn; the North Carolina State Farmer’s Market; and the North Carolina State University Solar House, just to name a few. Then there are the museums—a depository of the state’s history, an innovative exhibitor of our natural world and a world-class collection of art—all for free. The North Carolina Museum of History, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, explores more than 14,000 years of North Carolina history, from the earliest inhabitants through the 20th century. Participate in interactive displays that are part of The Story of N.C. exhibit, and explore more than 3,000 square feet of space dedicated volume 7 • issue 6
pullen park
executive mansion
GRCVB/visitRaleigh.com; Bill Russ - VisitNC.com; Keenan Hairston; Greater Raleigh CVB
This year has been another award-winning year for the city of Raleigh, which has claimed the number two spot among the Best Large Cities to Live In according to WalletHub, fifth on the list of Best Local Food Scene according to USA TODAY and 10 Best’s Readers’ Choice, and second among the Top 10 Music Cities Other Than Nashville according to Music From The Row. In fact, it might be fair to call the City of Raleigh the City of Accolades. High rankings have poured in for virtually every aspect of life in the City: “America’s Best City” according to Businessweek.com; “#2 Among the 10 Fastest-Growing U.S. Cities” according to CNNMoney; one of “America’s Coolest Towns” according to GQ Magazine; and “Top 10 Tastiest Towns in the South” according to Southern Living. It’s been called the “City of Oaks” because of its tree-lined streets and commitment to green space, and the “Smithsonian of the South” for its high caliber of free museums. Raleigh is the state capitol of North Carolina, and its Capitol Building is among the “10 Amazing State Capitol Buildings,” according to Conde Nast Traveler. Raleigh sits in the middle of the state and is about a three-hour drive from Charlotte. It’s easily accessible by plane, train or automobile. The city is surrounded by 11 smaller towns, each with its own history, unique downtown, concerts in the park, golf course communities and one-of-a-kind retail. Greater Raleigh includes Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell and Zebulon.
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n.c. museum of art
contemporary art museum
carolina hurricanes
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homes—many of them with beautiful gardens—through which visitors can walk or drive. Raleigh also ranks high as a top cultural destination due in part to its high caliber art, symphony, ballet and theatre. Here, you can enjoy the Carolina Ballet, become enthralled with opera at the North Carolina Opera or tap your toes to the North Carolina Symphony. All of these are housed within The Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, a place that produces big-budget, professional shows. Make plans to see a play at the Raleigh Little Theatre or Theatre In The Park, well-known for its modern rendition of the Charles Dicken’s classic “A Christmas Carol.” Raleigh’s music scene has exploded in recent years, bringing in a host of nationally-touring rock stars and local indie groups. No matter what your musical tastes, you’ll find something that suits you. Stay abreast at who’s playing at the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre or the PNC Arena. For an outdoor experience, bring your blanket to the Koka Booth Amphitheatre or the N.C. Museum of Art’s Joseph M. Bryan, Jr. Theater in the Museum Park. Don’t forget to experience the area’s newest outdoor live music venue, Red Hat Amphitheater. All in all, Raleigh claims more than 80 live music venues. The Raleigh area has also earned an unprecedented reputation as a professional and collegiate sports destination. Not only is there an exciting array of collegiate sports, but there’s also professional hockey (Carolina Hurricanes), baseball (Carolina Mudcats) and soccer (Carolina RailHawks). You may also be surprised to learn that Raleigh is one of the best places for mountain biking in the Southeast. Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a well-known place to traverse a trail. Or hike down some of the American Tobacco Trail’s 22 miles, which run throughout the Raleigh area. As you can see, Raleigh is a city that the whole family can enjoy. epicurean charlotte food & wine
carolina ballet
joel lane house
GRCVB/visitRaleigh.com; VisitNC.com; Greater Raleigh CVB
to the N.C. Sports Hall of Fame exhibit, where you can learn about over 300 sports legends and the impact of sports in the state. Become enthralled with the natural world at the Southeast’s largest natural science museum, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The museum offers seven floors of immersive exhibits, plus live animals, 3D movies, a three-story multimedia theater, working research labs and hands-on investigation labs. The North Carolina Museum of Art is poised to inspire. One of the premier visual arts museums in the South, it features a dramatic gallery building, which houses more than 30 Rodin sculptures and is a center for special exhibitions. There is also a 164-acre museum park onsite. Numerous other museums help to make up Raleigh’s rich cultural landscape. Spark your own imagination as you explore cutting edge art and design at the everpopular Contemporary Art Museum, or CAM. Guided tours are available every Sunday at 2 p.m. Be sure to be on hand the first Friday of each month for food trucks and entertainment. CAM is located in Raleigh’s Warehouse District, a trendy six-block area adorned with repurposed red-brick warehouse spaces. Pack up the kids and head for Marbles Kids Museum, a vibrant, hands-on, minds-on children’s museum in downtown. Children of all ages can imagine, discover and learn in dozens of interactive exhibits. You’ll also find North Carolina’s only giant-screen IMAX theatre here. History runs deep in Raleigh, and there are numerous sites where you can visit and feel like you’re part of it. History buffs will love wandering through the Joel Lane Museum House. Colonel Lane was a founding father of North Carolina’s capital city and an officer in the Wake County militia during the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can get a glimpse of old Raleigh by visiting Historic Oakwood, a 30-block historic neighborhood of lovingly-restored Victorian and early 20th-century
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relish good eats and drinks in raleigh
fox liquor bar
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downtown farmer's market
visitnc.com; Greater Raleigh CVB
poole’s diner
Raleigh’s culinary scene is growing strong, and chef and entrepreneur Ashley Christensen is at the center of it. Christensen owns a string of unique and innovative restaurants, all in the downtown area. She brought home the gold in 2014 by winning the Best Chef in the Southeast award from the James Beard Foundation. Don’t let the chalkboard menus at Poole’s fool you. This restaurant serves up simple fare that is also sophisticated and artful. Poole’s works with local growers and artisans whenever possible to showcase their crafts as well as their own. Under Christensen’s talented leadership, Poole’s is the latest reincarnation of the 1950s Poole Luncheonette, possibly Raleigh’s first downtown diner. Today, the environment is retro-chic with a double horseshoe bar and red leather banquettes paired with modern elements such as lucite chairs. The Beasley’s Chicken + Honey name says it all. Just throw in the waffles at this restaurant, which takes comfort food to a whole new level. Offering great Southern food with a twist, be sure to check out the chicken pot pie with milk gravy and a cornmeal crust, the creamed collard greens and the Berkshire pork shoulder meatloaf. How about some crispy cheese grit fries with chow chow and malt aioli? Yes, please! At Chuck’s, it’s all about the burger. House-ground, flat-top-seared, 100 percent Chuck burgers are finished with amazing toppings like Wisconsin buttermilk bleu cheese, roasted poblano chilis, Tennessee sorghum dijon and roasted tomato malt vinegar slaw. Joule Coffee + Table offers up not only a variety of uplifting coffee concoctions, but also a highly-rated brunch that includes tasty sweet potato hotcakes. Bring on the night at Fox Liquor Bar, where the variety of handcrafted cocktails will make your head spin. Pair up a cocktail with the highest quality cheeses and meats. Christensen’s newest venture, Death + Taxes, is dedicated to the technique of cooking with wood fire. Whether you choose from this elegant restaurant’s menu from the sea, on the land or of the land, your meal will be expertly prepared. The up and coming North Person Street District is attracting a lot of attention with restaurants such as The Station, where you can find great sandwiches and burgers, outdoor seating and a host of local beers. The hot, trendy, upscale restaurant The Stanbury is there, with its farm-to-table Southern focus. Person Street also has a Wine Authorities store. Next door to that, chef Scott Crawford, formerly of The Umstead Hotel and Spa, has recently opened Standard Foods, a combination restaurant and grocery story with an intensely local focus. Standard Food’s own backyard feeder farm (Raleigh City Farm) and whole animal butchery program will play leading roles in both the N.C.-centric restaurant and neighborhood grocery. There are a host of other wonderful restaurants scattered about Raleigh. Patrons at ORO Restaurant & Lounge choose from a delicious
variety of menu options that are designed to be shared. Bring your friends and enjoy the stream of dishes that are brought to the table throughout the meal. ORO also caters to vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree needs, so you can be sure there’s something for everyone. Mandolin is the culinary brainchild of Raleigh-native Sean Fowler, formerly the chef at the AAA, 5-Diamond, Fearrington House in Pittsboro, NC. His philosophy is to keep his cooking and the restaurant’s ambiance close to home. Meats, poultry, seafood, produce and specialty products are sourced from a large group of North Carolina farmers, ranchers and artisans. Try the grilled Heritage Farms pork chop, country fried steak, pan-fried catfish or the cauliflower, mushroom, potato croquettes. If you find yourself craving Laotion cuisine, or even if you’ve never heard of it, make your way over to Bida Manda—it’s worth the trip. Bida Manda is the Sanskrit ceremonial term for mother and father; the owners named the restaurant in honor of their parents in Laos. Try the chicken or pumpkin curry or the stir-fry cashew ginger chicken. The atmosphere is as unique as the food, with salvaged wood from old barns and churches and three tons of hand-tied sticks from Western North Carolina. For an all around lovely experience—the restaurant is as artfully decorated as the cuisine is creative—visit Garland. You’ll want to travel through the menu from top to bottom. Be sure to try the Pakora, bird nest fritters made of farmer’s market vegetables and spicy chickpea and rice batter served with tamarind and cilantromint chutneys. The lamb curry comes with local summer squash, turnips and kohlrabi, Old Milburnie baby carrots, new potatoes, green garbanzo beans, coconut milk broth, cardamom basmati rice, pickled onion and whipped coconut cream. Korean sticky rice completes the dish of Bo Ssam, Korean pear glazed Heritage Farms pork belly served with local butterhead lettuce, garlic chips, white kimchi, chili sauce and pickled shitakes. epicurean charlotte food & wine
raleigh city farm The Angus Barn has been an indelible part of Raleigh’s history since 1960, a long and amazing run for any restaurant. Its dedication to fine dining is captured in every detail. Over 13,000,000 diners can’t be wrong—that’s how many people the famous red barn has served over the years. The Chateaubriand is legendary, and diners will walk away with fond memories, whether there for a special evening out or a major-scale event. Raleigh loves its beer, and with over 15 breweries scattered around the city, there’s plenty to go around. Whether you are a beer connoisseur or just thirsty for a local beer, Raleigh’s got a beer hot spot for you. Consult the Raleigh Beer Trail for a list complete with addresses and phone numbers. Many of these breweries allow for tours. Be sure to save an afternoon or evening to visit The Raleigh Beer Garden. This new establishment has set a world record with 366 beers on tap. Pick your comfort zone with two large indoor and outdoor floor spaces, plus a rooftop area, and don’t leave without pairing up your beer selection with gourmet comfort food. Check out one of Raleigh’s coolest new bars, The Anchor Bar, which serves up classic cocktails “without the attitude” and a decent selection of craft beers. Bon Appetit and bottoms up!E
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oh, the pasta-bilities! exploring pasta & provisions by charles jenkin
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images by mitchell kearney
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o matter what time you stop by Pasta & Provisions, the place is bustling with activity. Crossing the threshold, the sights, sounds and amazing aromas of Pasta & Provisions Fresh Pasta Company embrace you, and a wonderful feeling envelops you. It’s that sense of knowing you’re in the midst of great classic Italian food, fresh bread, fresh pasta and ravioli, all being prepared from scratch.
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All that you see and experience inside this beautiful boutique of culinary accomplishment— including the ‘local’ artwork like the painting of a green rubber chicken—is the culmination of a goal that began in 1992. That’s when Tommy and Debbie George opened this Myers Park fresh pasta factory. Okay, it doesn’t look like a factory, but that’s exactly what it is. In fact, it’s the only fresh pasta company in Charlotte, offering home cooks the ability to utilize freshly-made pasta. This is also where many of Charlotte’s finest dining establishments acquire the fresh pasta you see on their menus. Smart restaurateurs … why mess with perfection! The fresh pasta is made daily, and you can select from over a dozen flavors, like spinach, whole wheat, tomato basil or garlic and rosemary. You say the word, and the fresh pasta is cut to your desired width, from angel hair to fettuccine and beyond. Or, you can opt to buy sheets of fresh pasta to create as you wish, as in homemade fresh ravioli or wonderfully simpleto-make lasagna. The pasta-bilities are endless. Need inspiration before you attempt your own filled pasta pillows? Simply choose one of a dozen or more freshly prepared raviolis and just boil water. Consider the scrumptious lobster and crab ravioli or the deep, rich flavors of a 28
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wild mushroom ravioli. And, of course, there are the traditional pillows of classic Italian sausage and cheese. If you’re thinking that those premium fresh pastas and raviolis deserve a great sauce, Pasta & Provisions has you covered, or smothered that is, in sauce selections. They make more than 20 different sauces, each with fresh ingredients such as aged Parmesan and justpicked basil. There’s marinara, puttanesca, alfredo, basil pesto, vodka cream and seafood Newberg, to name a few. Now imagine combining your favorite fresh or prepared pasta with your choice of one of those delectable sauces … getting hungry? Read on. Start your meal with one of Pasta & Provisions’ signature antipasto and a loaf of their renowned focaccia or Tuscan flat bread with traditional rosemary and herbs or with oven-roasted tomato, calamata olives and Asiago cheese. If you’re seeking more than just pasta, simply reach in the prepared foods case and pull out a tray of lasagna in one of their delicious variations. There’s also chicken masala, eggplant or chicken Parmesan and meatballs in marinara sauce along with several other options. Now just add one of the salads ready to serve, one of their homemade dressings and, don’t forget, freshly-grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. epicurean charlotte food & wine
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A great Italian meal, including the made-inhouse fresh pizzas, deserve a good Italian wine. You’ll find an entire wall filled with unique and small vineyard selections that will pair perfectly with your meal and your personal preference. There’s also a selection of imported beers. If it’s just wine and cheese for the moment, there’s a wide array of imported artisanal cheeses in addition to fresh-made local mozzarella. In any event, you’ll need dessert—cannolis, tiramisu and almond or chocolate biscotti will do rather nicely. If, just if, you want to make your Italian masterpiece from scratch, you’re also in the right place (thus the Provisions in the name). Home cooks will find the finest products imported from Italy like San Marzano tomatoes, double “0” flour and over a dozen different olive oils. Pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus spears, Marcona almonds, premium dried pasta, breadsticks and anchovy paste, plus dozens more gourmet selections, are all on the shelves to help you create that perfect meal. You’ll even find an entire selection of gluten-free pasta! Over the last 23 years, Pasta & Provisions has also built a steady and loyal catering business. From an antipasto platter for a dinner party to 30
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a magnificent spread for you and your closest friends, Tommy and the rest of the staff can bring you rave reviews. Rehearsal dinners, corporate luncheons, birthdays and holiday parties are a few of the many venues for which the company can cater, delivering a beautiful and delicious Italian feast. You just sit back, relax and take in the compliments. Still looking for more? Now you’ll have even more Pasta & Provisions to enjoy! In addition to continuing to operate the current location on Providence Road, the team has added a second location, and this one will serve hot food in addition to providing some seating. Patrons to the new location will be able to enjoy draft beer and wine by the glass too! Their newest location will allow customers to purchase all of the fresh pastas and prepared foods for which they’re known, in addition to dine-in or take-out ready-to-eat sandwiches and meals. A menu featuring a half dozen sandwich options and the most popular raviolis for dining is available along with your favorite sauces, pizzas and more. Located at 4700 Park Road in the former Mike’s Discount Beverage location, the second location features lots of natural light via retrofitted volume 7 • issue 6
versions of the structure’s original garage doors as well as plenty of parking. Dylan George, Tommy and Debbie’s middle son, has been managing the original location on Providence Road, and while continuing to assist with the mother ship, he will operate the new location. Dylan was, in part, raised in the original location on Providence Road as he puts it. “I grew up here, eating bread from the racks as a kid,” he says. “Now we’ll have two tasty new options, by either stopping by the new place and enjoying a meal there, or taking a hot lunch or dinner to go. There will be local beers and selected bottles of wines available to pair with the pastas and foods to eat at home.” Pasta & Provisions provides the highest quality gourmet Italian food at an affordable price, and at a convenience—that’s their goal. Transplants come in from all over and say the store takes them back to where they grew up, reminding them of their local Italian market. Add the hospitality and flavors of the South, and you have Pasta & Provisions Fresh Pasta Company. Friendly, knowledgeable service and fantastic Italian food—that’s Pasta & Provisions Fresh Pasta Company. Graciously serving Charlotte since 1992.E epicurean charlotte food & wine
pasta & provisions fresh pasta co. 1528 providence road • 4700 park road • charlotte www.pastaprovisions.com • 704.364.2622 novem b er • d ecemb er 2 015
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places to go, people to see
through the grapevine
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A Mediterranean-inspired eatery and gift shop called efKarpo has opened in Specialty Shops SouthPark. The café will offer fresh fare including Greek yogurt, paninis, salads, cheeses, coffee, tea and wine. The shop will sell ingredients such as spices, seeds and nuts, and savory-natural sweets. www.efkarpo.com
Drew Dodd will take over the kitchen as Executive Chef at Bruce Moffett’s Stagioni, replacing former Executive Chef Ashley Quick. Moffett and Dodd plan to revamp the Stagioni menu with a combination of modern dishes and traditional Italian delights such as cannelloni, gnocchi and pesce fresco. stagioniclt.com
Construction on a new restaurant on East Boulevard in the former Tijuana Flats location is well underway. Rumored to be a Mediterranean smokehouse, Martin Sprock (of Moe’s Southwest Grill and Planet Smoothie fame) will be teaming up with Giorgio Bakatsias of George’s Brasserie. Stay tuned for more details!
Legal Remedy Brewing Co., Rock Hill’s first brewery, has opened at 129 Oakland Avenue. Legal Remedy’s 11,000-sq.-ft. home was formerly an auto dealership. Boasting a taproom and full kitchen, the old service bays have been transformed into a brew house and the outdoor space houses a solar power system and covered patio seating. legalremedybrewing.com
Ted’s Montana Grill will be coming to the new Waverly development as an anchor restaurant in 2016. Ted’s, inspired by the American West, is known for its entrées made with natural ingredients, including regionally-sourced natural chicken and a wide variety of the finest cuts of bison and beef. www.tedsmontanagrill.com
Damian Dining group (the folks behind Growlers Pourhouse and Crêpe Cellar) will be opening Sea Level in the former LaVecchia’s location the Hearst Tower Uptown. Named for a small N.C. coastal town, Sea Level will be a Carolina seafood and raw bar, with added menu items for the non-seafood lovers. www.damiandining.com
The Jonas family—yes of the Jonas Brothers—have plans to open a restaurant in Belmont just in time for the holidays. The restaurant, named Nellie’s Southern Kitchen after their grandmother, will be located at 36 N. Main Street. Featuring Southern-style cuisine inspired by family recipes, the menu will feature fare such as fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits and homemade breads and pastries. Lighter dishes will be available for those seeking healthier options as well. Chef Ben Sholiton will serve as Executive Chef, while Joy Auten, Jonas’ sister, will serve as Managing Director, and cousin Danielle Davison Jonas will serve as Operations Manager. twitter.com/NelliesSk
Check out our new website! Get up-to-date information on events and news around town, view past issues and more. While you’re there, become our friend on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter. www.epicureancharlotte.com
La Paz Restaurante & Cantina, located in the Metropolitan development, has closed after 36 years in Charlotte. The Mexican restaurant opened in 1979 in a house off of Providence Road in Myers Park. A future tennant for the space has not yet been named.
Rush Espresso is on the move! The area’s premier international espresso café has moved to a new location next to Abraham Joseph Fine Jewelers in the Ballantyne Village, where it will continue to serve its signature coffee drinks and delicious menu items. rushespressocafe.com
Look for Growler USA to open in the former Crü Wine Shop location in Ballantyne by the end of the year. Pouring 80+ beers, including the best local and regional craft beers, Growler USA invites you to stop by for lunch, dinner, drinks and everything in between. growlerusa.com
Bonz Smoke & Tap House has replaced Icehouse in South End. The restaurant will still have a sports-bar feel with 30-plus televisions and a patio, but an updated menu will blend favorites from Icehouse with smokey new offerings and a wide selection of whiskeys, 38 craft beers and a variety of mixed drinks. www.bonzcharlotte.com
Pizzeria Omaggio, Charlotte’s newest pizzeria, has opened at 1055 Metropolitan Avenue next to Which Wich. The 1,500-square-foot eatery will offer authentic classic and specialty pizzas in addition to salads, soups, paninis and desserts. Each individual pie is made by hand and the dough is made fresh daily. www.pizzeriaomaggio.com
The boys at the Bottle Cap Group are at it again! The owners of All American Pub have opened Hot Taco in the former Greek Isles location in South End. The new cantina will feature “eclectic Mexican,” with a focus on authentic dishes and chef-inspired creations in addition to 60 types of tequila. hottaco.com
Duck Donuts has opened in the Kenilworth Commons Shopping Center in Dilworth. The concept got its start in North Carolina’s Outer Banks and boasts donuts that are made right in front of you with a variety of made-to-order toppings including cinnamon sugar, chocolate icing, shredded coconut, sprinkles and bacon. duckdonuts.com
Chef Brian Seeley announced via Facebook that he has closed the doors to his popular food truck, The Herban Legend, to “pursue other endeavors” after three years of serving up international and American-inspired street-food favorites. Best of luck Brian!
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november
december
07 Pirates' Christmas at the 01 McAdenville Tree Lighting ceremony takes place at Legacy Park in downtown Carolina Renaissance Festival The McAdenville, and the “big switch” is pulled at 6:00 p.m.
ARRRRGH! Enjoy special pirate entertainment all weekend long and start your holiday shopping early at the Fairhaven Village Marketplace! www.carolina.renfestinfo.com
to start another Christmas Town USA season. The lights glow nightly through December 26th. www.mcadenville-christmastown.com
04 Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour 07 Miles for Medicine 38th annual installation of this walkable tour -06 The Come for the 5k Run/Walk, stay for the pancakes and includes admission to several private residences that are beer. Join NC MedAssist and Sycamore Brewing as they raise funds to benefit low-income, uninsured individuals across North Carolina. milesformedicine.com
11 Southern Christmas Show -22
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Foxcroft Wine Co. has opened in the Kenilworth Commons shopping center in Dilworth. The upscale wine shop, bar and kitchen is the second location for owner Conrad Hunter, who which opened the flagship store on Fairview Road in SouthPark in 2004. www.foxcroftwine.com
Check out the holiday trees, mantles, doors and more at the Southern Christmas Show at The Park Expo & Conference Center. Munch on tasty treats, sway with yuletide entertainment and come ready to have a blast. southernshows.com/scs
26 Novant Health Thanksgiving
Day Parade
A tradition since 1947, the Uptown parade is complete with dance and choral performances, marching bands from around the region, larger-than-life floats, balloons and some of your favorite characters. www.novanthealththanksgivingparade.com volume 7 • issue 6
beautifully decorated for the season, choir and hand bell ensemble performances, horse and carriage rides throughout the neighborhood, wine and beer samplings and tasty treats (while they last). www.fofw.org
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Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk
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CLT New Year’s Eve
One of the most spirited fun runs in the nation, this fun and festive 5K benefits arthritis research! Get in the spirit on race day by wearing holiday-themed costumes and tying jingle bells to your running shoes. www.arthritis.org/get-involved/jingle-bell-run-walk Ring in the new year with live music, ice skating, carriage rides, face-painting and fireworks in the heart of Uptown. This year’s activities will take place in NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. www.charlottecentercity.org w w w.epi cu rea n ch a r l otte.com
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girls' dinner at aria tuscan grill l to r: Linda Seligman, Sharon Church Boisson, Sabrina Coulston, Linda Matinata, Suellen Skach, L. Polite-Coleman
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marco rubio meet-andgreet at rooster's southpark l to r: Harrison Estep, Senator Andrew C. Brock, Jason Saine, Mark Estep
panthers bbq party
l to r: Steve Petersen, Sir Purr, Deanna Petersen, Thomas Clark
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paradise travel event at del frisco's steakhouse l to r: Ed Sander, Janet Sander, Brenda Wells, James Wells
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grand opening of the new chop’t creative salad co. l to r: Tom Kelleher, Michao LaPlaca, Catherine Lederer
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scene around town
enjoying greek wines at the greek festival l to r: Rob Hintze, Alex Smith, Lukas Livas (standing), Theresa Jintze, Non Hintze
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local flavor
treat your tummy this holiday season chef joe’s hearty vegetable soup chef joe welsh • the produce box
BENVENUTI!
ingredients: • 2 qt chicken or vegetable 4 tbsp olive oil broth 2 c onions, chopped 2 tbsp garlic, finely minced • 1 c tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped kosher salt • 1 lb green beans, cut 1½ c carrots, peeled into 1” lengths and sliced into rounds • 1 qt okra, sliced • 1½ c sweet potatoes, • ½ tsp ground black pepper peeled and diced • ¼ c fresh parsley, chopped • 1½ c corn, cut off the cob • 1 to 2 tsp lemon juice • 1½ c zucchini, diced • • • • •
Portofino’s Ristorante Italiano e Pizzeria, where a passion for great food and a love for quality pay homage to the glories of the Italian kitchen. “Best Italian Restaurant in Charlotte”!
http://portofinos-us.com • Like us on Facebook!
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over mediumlow heat. Once hot, add the onions, garlic and a pinch of salt. Sweat until they begin to soften, approximately 7-8 minutes. Add the carrots, potatoes, corn and zucchini. Continue to cook 4-5 more minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the stock and increase the heat to high; bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the tomatoes, green beans, okra and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork tender. Remove from heat and add the parsley and lemon juice.
5126 Park Road 704.527.0702 3124 Eastway Drive #500 704.568.7933
8128 Providence Road #100 704.542.9911 2127 Ayrsley Town Boulevard 980.297.7090
Cellars South Wine Cellars Design & Construction Residential & Commercial
864-304-3670 • CellarsSouth.com
Serving South Carolina ~ North Carolina ~ Georgia 145432_CellarSouth_Qtr_ULLwin.indd 1
Not one of, but
the
10/30/14 10:02 AM
not-to-be-missed
Yadkin Valley Winery
duke’s chocolate cake the c.f. sauer company
chocolate icing: • 1 c butter, softened • 1 c cocoa • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 5-6 c confectioners’ sugar • 6 or more tbsp milk mubus7/shutterstock.com; www.BillionPhotos.com/shutterstock.com
cake: • 6 tbsp unsweetened cocoa • 3 c all purpose flour • 1 tbsp baking soda • ¼ tsp salt • 1½ c sugar • 1½ c duke’s mayonnaise • 1½ tsp vanilla extract • 1½ c cold water
For the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans. Sift the cocoa, flour, baking soda, salt and sugar into a medium bowl and mix well. Combine the mayonnaise, vanilla and water in an electric mixer at low speed. Once smooth, slowly add in the dry mixture until just incorporated (do not over beat!). Pour the batter into the greased cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until done. Cool on wire racks and frost. For the icing: Beat the butter and cocoa until smooth with the whisk attachment on an electric mixer. Add vanilla. Add confectioners’ sugar alternately with the milk until the icing reaches a spreadable consistency. *Note: you may not need all 6 cups of sugar and you may need more than 6 tablespoons of milk.
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epicurean charlotte food & wine
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words to live by
the juice
Revolutionize Your Next Steak
Make Everything Sparkle
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Meat tenderizers enhance the effects of marinades and reduce cooking time up to 40 percent. Simple to do, this age old technique makes faster, more flavorful, more tender meat! Made by Jaccard, makers of professional cooking tools since 1962, the Meat Maximizer™ 45-Blade Meat Tenderizer does an excellent job on beef, chicken, pork, veal, turkey and game, penetrating flavor deeper into the meat easily, plus, the knife cartridges are removable for easy cleaning.
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Cutting the top off a soft-boiled egg with a butter knife is an admirable skill that requires practice. If you’re not quite that deft, here’s an easier way: The Rösle Egg Topper neatly opens both soft- and hard-boiled eggs without leaving any fragments behind, giving you easy access to the silken white and creamy golden yolk inside. Simply position, release and lift off the top of the egg shell.
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"Of all things known to mortals wine is the most powerful and effectual for exciting and inflaming the passions of mankind, being common fuel to them all.” francis bacon • philosopher, father of empiricism
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TERRA
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