The calamari from Napa on Providence, which has easily accessible private dining. Kristen Wile/UP

Q: Which restaurants would have a good private room for my mom’s 85th birthday dinner? 16-18 people, she’s not particularly adventurous/definitely not a foodie, and has challenges getting around so no going up/down stairs.
UP: Happy birthday to your mom! Napa on Providence has a private room that fits 12 to 20. This sounds like it might be best for what you’re looking for; it’s got great wine and a classic menu. Another great option is Carpe Diem in Elizabeth. They always have fantastic service, and the menu is suitable for most tastes.  Stoke’s back room fits 16, so depending on what the final count ends up being, that could be a great option. They’ve also got valet parking.

Q: What’s your favorite ice cold beer?
UP: Local, or not? Not local, I’m a fan of Labatt Blue Light, probably because I grew up in Upstate New York. Every time I go to Smokey Joe’s, I ask if they carry it. I know they only have regular Labatt Blue, but I figure if I ask enough, maybe they’ll start carrying light. As for local craft beer, I have to say this will be probably be a lame answer because I’m not a huge beer drinker. I enjoy NoDa’s Ramble on Red. I have no idea what a red beer is, what makes it red, or why exactly I like it, but I do! Justin’s probably the better person to ask this question, so here’s his answer: Sycamore Brewing’s Southern Girl blonde ale.

Q: What chefs in Charlotte would you most want to have dinner with and why?
UP: Fun question! I’d love to double date with Greg and Subrina Collier, owners of The Yolk, because they’re really smart people who also keep you laughing non-stop. That’s a really entertaining combination; you have fun, but also have meaningful conversations. Joe and Katy Kindred are another pair I’d love to hang out with; the way they balance a family and two successful restaurants is really inspiring, and they keep their priorities straight. I’d like to get inside the mind of Bardo’s Mike Noll. Of course, you’re kind of having dinner with a chef every time you eat at their restaurant, right? Because if they’re doing it right, you really get a sense of their personality on the plate.

Have a question for us? Send it to kristen@unpretentiouspalate.com or on social media. We publish our answers each Thursday.