June 10, 2021
Q&A: Allocated bottles for restaurants, ice service
Each week, we answer your questions about food and drink in Charlotte
Q: I’d like to know which restaurants and bars get allocated bottles from Meck ABC.
Kristen: You know, I would too! I’ve asked about this repeatedly, and Mecklenburg ABC says they are not allowed to release this information. You would think this would be public information, but the way the ABC system works, each board is something like an independent contractor for the state. That means information that typically would be public — like where rare bottles are going, for example — doesn’t have to be. Each year around the holiday lottery, we do a list of who we know of that got the top allocations. If there’s a specific bottle you’re looking for, though, let us know and we’ll try to track it down.
Q: Where can I get ice service for my restaurant?
Kristen: There are two popular providers in Charlotte: Artisan Ice and The Ice Trade. Artisan Ice has been around the longest, and also does ice sculptures. The Ice Trade is a new venture, but has already picked up a large number of restaurant clients, and they’re maxed out right now until they get another machine in the shop, which is taking longer than expected.
Q: I ordered a cocktail kit before the Friday pickups were added. Can I get mine on Friday?
Kristen: Yes, you can! We added extra pick up dates to make things more convenient for y’all. Show up to whichever one suits your schedule best! Haven’t yet? Order your kit now!
Have a question for us? Send it to editor@unpretentiouspalate.com and we’ll answer on Thursday!
