Q:  Where can I celebrate Mardi Gras in Charlotte?
Tom: Laissez les bons temps rouler! Good times abound in an around Charlotte this weekend, especially in you are into the local brewery scene. Many of them will be hosting some type of Mardi Gras event over the next few days. Petty Thieves Brewing in the North End area will have a Mardi Gras party this Sunday, which includes a dog costume parade, live music, and dance performances. Cabarrus Brewing in Concord is serving up Cajun food along with a brass band and other celebrations. Lenny Boy is hosting the LSU alumni’s gumbo cookoff. Away from the brew scene, Common Market / Oakwold will be slinging gator gumbo this Sunday and of course, Cajun Queen in Elizabeth is a Mardi Gras party year-round. In addition, you can pick up King cakes at Manolo’s Bakery, Renaissance Pâtisserie, and Suarez Bakery. If you’d rather make your own, Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen is having a special Mardi Gras baking class on February 17 (waiting list only).

Q: Is it soft shell crab season yet?
Tom: Not yet. Typically, the Carolinas won’t see the delectible critters until mid-April at the very earliest, and depending on the whims of Mother Nature and Father Neptune, the season length typcially lasts only 2-8 weeks. Last year, it was only eight days. I promise I’ll ring the bell in the newsletter when I first spot them at the markets and restaurants.