January 30, 2020

Q&A: The best grilled cheese, where to buy wings

Each week, we answer your questions about food and drink in Charlotte

Q: If I were going to bulk purchase wings for the Super Bowl, where should I go?
UP: We’d likely go to Sweet Lew’s BBQ, where they’re selling smoked jumbo wings for $15 a dozen. Why not grab a brisket while you’re at it? Moosehead Tavern sells their wings, which are among the most beloved in town, for $109.95 for 100 wings. We believe Roasting Company’s wings are underrated, and are $98.99 for 100. If you’re doing pizza and wings, however, we suggest Sal’s Pizza Factory on Monroe Road.

Q: I’m looking to make the best grilled cheese at home. What is the perfect cheese combo?
UP: For this one, we reached out to Chris Sottile of The Loyalist Market for advice. His answer: “We use a mild cheddar and a younger-aged gouda from Ashe County Cheese on our grilled cheese here at the shop. I think it’s an awesome combination that has a little sharpness, a little caramel sweetness, and a little nuttiness that also melts really well.” If you’re looking to spend any amount for this perfect grilled cheese, he suggests an Alpine melter like Gruyere or Comte. If you prefer a little more funk, try a mild washed-rind cheese, like Tallegio.

Q: It’s my wife’s birthday. Where’s a great place we should go that takes reservations?
UP: Bardo. It feels very cosmopolitan, making it a great place to get dressed up, and the food is some of the best in town. Order the eggs and grains, it’s one of the best dishes you can find in Charlotte even though it sounds simple.

Have a question for us? Send it to editor@unpretentiouspalate.com and we’ll answer it next week!