Q: I have a friend that is coming to Charlotte for the Christmas holiday. Her whole family is traveling here for ten days. They are looking for a very Latin-oriented business that can cater to 16 people on Christmas Eve. It is truly the entire family from grandparents down to great-grandkids. They are Cuban, so they are looking for some authentic options, so they do not have to bring their own food and cook themselves.
Kristen: I’d suggest checking out Azucar or El Puro. Other options include A Piece of Havana or Papi’s Puerto Rican Cuisine. You might also want to put in a call to Que Onda — the owner there is an incredible chef and could probably put something together for you.

Q: Very specific question here but maybe one of you were out shopping and saw this, but my mom has asked for a jar of mango chutney for Christmas, like a really good one, and I wanted to buy one local if possible. Any idea where I might find this?
Kristen: I’ve been asking around on this but no luck so far! Readers, any hints? I think your best bet might be one of the Indian grocers in University for this gift.

Q: What type of meat thermometer do you recommend? (Context, if helpful: my husband’s trusty meat thermometer drove us all crazy during the roasting of our turkey last week. The bird turned out deliciously well; however, even my husband admitted it is time to invest in a new one.) A few price points could be helpful during this holiday season.
Kristen: I asked two experts, and they shared the following. Lewis Donald, chef/owner of Sweet Lew’s, says this: “I actually don’t have a favorite, but I do consistently use a thermometer from Taylor. I do prefer digital. I use a very thin probe to not leave giant holes and let juices out!” There are a bunch of Taylor options, depending on what you’re looking for — price point, instant read, or the in-oven type.

I also asked Adam Dietrich, who runs a business ensuring restaurant employees are prepared for the ServSafe Certification exams. He suggests the Thermopop from Thermoworks, which you can find in a bunch of colors online. I actually have that one and love it!

Q: It’s date night time! Do you have any recommendations for a cool new place? 
Kristen: Sure do! Make a reservation at Fairweather.

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

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