Q: Best place for NYE under $100 per person?
Kristen: The Stanley celebrates New Year’s Eve, also chef/owner Paul Verica’s birthday, with a special tasting menu each year. They haven’t released details yet, but the 2019 menu was fantastic and $85 per person. Keep an eye on their Instagram for a menu and pricing on that. Uptown restaurant Haymaker will also serve a prix fixe menu for $85 per person, which includes three courses and a Champagne toast. If you’re looking for a special event, a lot of them are priced at over $100. Two $100 and under bar options are The Crunkleton, which is taking 2-hour reservation blocks with $100 minimum per person, and Idlewild, which has an open bar and Champagne toast for $85.

Q: Why are there no half decent Chinese restaurants in Charlotte? Or am I missing it?
Kristen: You’re right, there are only a few authentic Chinese restaurants in town. If you haven’t been, I’d suggest checking out Lam’s Kitchen in Matthews, Dragon Court in East Charlotte for dim sum, or Li’s Noodles, also in Matthews. As for why that list is so short, I think part of it is just due to where a majority of Charlotte residents immigrated from. If you’re interested in learning more on that, read this well-researched piece by Charlotte historian Tom Hanchett.

Q: Any thoughts on the future of F&B at Epicenter?
Kristen: I don’t anticipate it becoming a culinary haven in Charlotte. Most cities have an area of town that’s a tourist trap, with big money concepts bringing in lots of volume because it seems to be a happening spot. That’s my best guess for what will happen at Epicenter: chains will come in and make it an easy spot for those unfamiliar with the city to check out.

---

Have a question for us? Email us at editor@unpretentiouspalate.com and we’ll answer it on our next Concierge Thursday!

Unpretentious People Say...

Other Articles You Might Enjoy