Q: With Dogwood closed, I’m looking for a new burger & bourbon spot. Where should I go?
Tom: You and me both. I loved that burger. Two places immediately come to mind. The Crunkleton’s “A Really Good Burger” combines high-quality meats with a classic American presentation: American cheese, lettuce, red onions. If you’re feeling all fancy-like, they also offer a wagyu burger with truffle aioli. The Crunkleton also has an encyclopedic bourbon selection. It’s hard to ignore The Goodyear House’s “Goopy Burger” as well. Just as the name implies, it can be a bit messy, but it’s oh so good. The burger uses local Krenz Ranch beef, and yes there is a difference. Bob Peters, who now runs the bar program for all of Built on Hospitality’s concepts, tells me he’s made some impressive additions to TGH’s bourbon offerings. Oh .. and don’t forget the fries!

Q. Is it too early to start planning my company’s holiday party?
Tom: Actually, you might be coming in a little late. Prime holiday spaces get snapped up pretty quickly in this area. Be sure to check out our private dining room post, listing Charlotte spots that can accommodate private parties from 10-200.

Q: I’ve been craving linguine and clams, any suggestions?
Tom: This is one of my favorite dishes, so I have a few options for you. If you don’t feel like dressing up, I love the linguine and clams at Sal’s Pizza Factory on Monroe Road. If you’re good with dress-casual, Portofino’s (Eastway and Park Road locations) completely satisfies, as does Volo Ristorante in Myers Park, and Osteria Luca at Park Road Shopping Center. Here’s a bonus option if you are willing to accept hash browns as a pasta alternative. Chef Luca Annunziata’s clams, sausage, and hash brown dish at forchetta inside the Uptown Holiday Inn is as toothsome as a dish gets — and was based on the dish he made on his winning appearance on Food Network’s Chopped.

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