Q: Are we really in our Wagyu era?
Kristen: Listen, I’m rarely turning down a Wagyu dish, and clearly I’m not alone. I believe Wagyu is trending right now because it is a delicious meat and people see ordering it as a taste of luxury. Food trends are real. Remember all the poke bowl spots that popped up around the city a few years ago, most of which have closed now? Wagyu is so in right now. And I don’t think that necessarily says anything bad about Charlotte — the best Wagyu I’ve tasted in the city was at Omakase by Prime Fish, and that’s not a steakhouse.

Q: Is live music over? Would love to enjoy some now on a restaurant patio now that the weather is nice!
Kristen: Definitely not over! Tonight, for example, is Music at the Met, between Dressler’s and 3rd & Fernwood. It takes place through Oct. 3. Check out our full list of live music nights for more ideas.