October 16, 2025
Q&A: Cocktail bar patios, Michelin invites
Each week, we answer reader questions
Q: Are there any great cocktail bars with patios?
Kristen: Sure are, and it’s a great time of year for it! A few spots I’d suggest if you’re looking for drinks and not dinner are Chief’s in NoDa, Humbug in Villa Heights, or Lorem Ipsum in Plaza Midwood. You could also always check out rooftop bar Merchant & Trade!
Q: I saw a few posts about restaurants getting invites to the Michelin ceremony. Does that mean we’ll get a star?!
Kristen: No, not necessarily. Restaurants could be invited for a Bib Gourmand, the award given to restaurants at a more moderate price point than typical Michelin-starred spots. It’s still a nice recognition, but doesn’t exactly have the clout of a Michelin Star. I’m not loving our chances at a star at this point, but we’ll see on Nov. 3!
Have a question for us? Email us at editor@unpretentiouspalate.com and we’ll answer it on our next Concierge Thursday!






