Q: Were you surprised by any of the Michelin announcements?
Tom: Did anything strike me like a bolt of lightning? No, not really. I am a bit disappointed that Omakase Experience by Prime Fish did not move up from Recommended to One Star. I thought they had a strong case. I was happy to see that Kindred wasn’t penalized for being closed for five months due to a fire and maintained its Recommended status. Actually, I found it interesting that all of last year’s Charlotte Michelin Recommended restaurants maintained their status this year; no sophomore slumps. The Story of Mi Cariño getting a Bib Gourmand was a very pleasant surprise as was its chef Héctor González-Mora receiving Best New Chef. Great spot. Great chef. I’m happy both got their props. My biggest surprises were some of my favorite Carolina restaurants outside of Charlotte were not recognized, such as Spring House in Winston-Salem, M Sushi in Cary, and Camp in Greenville, S.C.. But as ballplayers say, there’s always next year.

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Q: I’m heading to Hickory to spend the weekend with my folks who just moved there. Any decent places to eat?
Tom: First place on my list would The Downbeat, a fun restaurant/jazz club owned by Mark and Holly Woodward with a solid menu by chef Jason Trivette, one of this year’s NCRLA Chef Showdown finalists. Fourk is a good vibe steak and seafood spot with a very nice cocktail program. Also check out BOCA which focuses on Spanish, Mediterranean, and Moroccan influences as well as Vintage House, an American Contemporary spot, both under the Imagine One restaurant group, which also owns SouthPark’s Peppervine. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention if you are driving around and get an ice cream craving, stop by Udderly Delicious.

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