blvd. | food +drink
Gourmet go-tos by Michelle Boudin
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ot all of us are gourmet cooks — and that’s OK, thanks to some great specialty-food shops around town. Need a fancy meal that looks like it came straight from your oven? Sweet and savory bites for a cocktail party that will earn rave reviews? A well-rounded meal to feed your family that just requires re-heating? Or how about a hostess gift for the friend who has everything? Charlotte’s markets have what you need. Some are old staples, and others are new on the scene, but all are worth a visit.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY THE PLAID PENGUIN
Copain
Copain
This European-style market and bakery located behind Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen in SouthPark is one of the latest offerings from restaurateur Jim Noble. Copain opened in July 2020 and quickly became known for its fresh-baked bread. “We use ancient grains to make our signature Copain sourdough and rye breads, and we have gluten free brioche that is to die for,” says Creative Director Sarah Wrenn. The market offers weekly meal kits, with dishes like rosemary-brined pork loin with creamy grits, Swiss chard and cider jus; sliced flank steak; and falafel with preserved lemon yogurt and grain salad. 6601 Morrison Blvd.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 704-440-5050, copaingatherings.com
Mere’s
Meredith Mullins (friends call her Mere) decided at 40 she wanted to ditch medical-device sales and finally open the shop she’d dreamed about for years. So in 2018, Mere’s opened in Dilworth, offering a highly curated selection of wine and cheese — you won’t find any of the cheeses here in grocery stores, and you might not recognize most of the wine labels. The goal is to help customers expand their palates, so grab a seat at the counter where you can sample any of Mere’s cheeses. Mere’s also offers gift baskets, “Mongers” cheese and charcuterie boards, and wine and cheese club memberships. 2400 Park Rd., Suite H; open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. 704-472-5513, meresclt.com
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