Q:  Where can I buy something to bring to an Oktoberfest potluck?

Tom: Oddly, German restaurants and groceries are underrepresented in the Charlotte area (us oldtimers still remember Dilworth’s Rheinland Haus fondly, but alas, it closed in 2005). If you are looking for a full German catering solution, Waldhorn Restaurant in Pineville should be able to give you a few options. Otherwise, you may need to get a bit creative. Zygma Deli, also in Pineville, primarily focuses on Polish cuisine, but you should find a few alternatives to fit an Oktoberfest theme. Sweet Lew’s BBQ in Charlotte’s Belmont neighborhood can stock you up with smoked sausages and other goodies. Both Super G Mart locations (East Charlotte and Pineville) can be a goldmine of international foods — especially pretzels and other snack foods. If you are looking to do a little cooking yourself, check the meat vendors at your neighborhood farmers market. They typically have brats in stock. Due North Pierogi, also at select farmers markets, can satisfy those East European dumpling cravings.

If you are a “I’ll bring the beer” person, see both our August and September craft beer release stories, both offering a number of fall / Oktoberfest brews to choose.

Q: I just started exploring making craft cocktails at home. What are the essentials that I need?

Tom: Well, first off, booze. You’ll need the big four: whiskey (bourbon and then add a rye), gin, vodka, and tequila. I’d then add vermouths: dry (clear for martinis, Vespers, etc.) and sweet (dark for Negronis, Boulevardiers, etc). You can add more spirits, amaros, and liqueurs as your palate expands. As for equipment, you’ll also want to good hand-operated citrus juicer (don’t spend more than 10 bucks) because, you know, fresh is best; a cocktail shaker and mixing glass; a muddler; and finally a cocktail strainer and a basic kitchen sieve. The Chef’s Store on Eastway should have all that equipment and you won’t destroy your wallet in the process. That will get you off to a solid start. Fair warning (talk about destroying your wallet), making your cocktails at home is a lot of fun, but can also be a real rabbit hole, especially when it comes to cocktail glasses, but that’s a whole other Q&A. The other thing you’ll need is knowledge. Our calendar typically lists a number of cocktail classes in the area, including the free monthly class at The Goodyear House, given by Bob Peters. The next one just happens to be this Saturday.

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