Q: I’m excited for chefs Kindred and Collier, but also curious if you thought anyone in Charlotte got snubbed in the James Beard Awards?
UP: I think there is a lot of talent in Charlotte, and several James Beard Award-worthy names. I thought it was interesting that Paul Verica of The Stanley wasn’t on the list after his restaurant was nominated for Best New Restaurant last year. Mike Noll of Bardo should certainly be in contention, as his food is some of the most inventive in the city. And as far as pastry goes, I’ve been surprised year after year when Ashley Bivens Boyd hasn’t been nominated, and thought Laney Jahkel-Parrish, now the pastry chef at Boyd’s 300 East, had a chance now that Charlotte is getting more recognition. With such a cool concept and backstory, I thought N.C. Red might appear in the Best New category. It’s still hard to believe that none of the Moffett Restaurant Group spots have been in the spotlight since Bruce Moffett himself was nominated in the Best Chef: Southeast category in 2009.

Q: With CIAA happening, I’m guessing parking in Uptown will be crazy. Where can I take a foodie friend that’s not going to get me stuck in traffic? 
UP: You could head up to Davidson or Cornelius for Kindred Restaurant or Hello, Sailor, and tell your friend the chef/owner was just named a James Beard semifinalist for the fifth year in a row. You could head to one of my personal go-tos, Dogwood Southern Table, in SouthPark. Definitely order the duck and dumplings if you do. Another great SouthPark option is Bar Marcel. Or, if Plaza Midwood is far enough outside of Uptown, check out KiKi Bistronome.

Q: Can you get the recipe for the pinto beans at Dish?
UP: I’ll ask, and get back to you next week!

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