Q: Best ethnic restaurants (that are not fast food or casual)?
UP: For some reason, diners always expect ethnic to mean cheap, so I’m glad you’re seeking international fine dining! I enjoy dining at Copper on East Boulevard, and the dining room inside an old house has an elegant personality. Basil in Uptown is upscale Thai, and the sultry interior at Baku in SouthPark is paired with fresh sushi. All three of these restaurants have been around for a while and are often overlooked because of it. Another personal favorite is Rai Lay, a trendier Thai spot by the owners of Deejai. Comida, now in a combined space with littleSpoon in Myers Park, serves an interesting locally sourced, high end pan-Latin cuisine with fantastic cocktails. I hope this helps, and if there is a cuisine you were looking for in particular, let me know!

Q: Hi, Kristen – I’m looking for a good Hibachi experience for children on the North side of Charlotte or into Huntersville.
UP: Hello! You know, it might just be me, but I’ve never found one hibachi experience to stand out from another. I love the idea of food as entertainment for kids, though! I’d suggest trying Boiling Pot. The hot pot restaurant has an $8.50 price for ages 4 through 8. You pick a broth, pick what you want in it, and then cook the meats and veggies on skewers in the broth, kind of like fondue. It’s just across from Northlake Mall. Readers, if you have a favorite hibachi spot up north, let me know!

Q: This is a two part question about rice congee!! 1. Is there anywhere in town that serves authentic congee? 2. Can you provide/source a good recipe for it… I really enjoyed having congee for breakfast when I traveled through China and don’t know how to make it!
UP: This is a great question. And yes! There is. Close to town, there’s a less authentic version at Toucan Louie’s on the breakfast menu that’s worth a try. Otherwise, you’ll have to head down to Li’s Noodles in Matthews. Li’s is the only place still open that I know has it. They’ve actually got an entire menu section for congee. I haven’t tried it yet, but I also haven’t been to China (jealous!), so you’ll be a better judge than I about how good it is. Maybe I’ll see you at Li’s! As for the recipe, I’m working on it, and hope to have it for you in next week’s Q&A!

Q: Best takeout places?
UP: Depends on what you’re in the mood for! I’m going to say by best you mean slightly healthy, fast, and delicious, and I’ll give you a few options that are those things. The Mad Greek, off of South Boulevard, is one of my go-to spots when I’m hosting family and need an easy dinner. Gryos pitas, kebabs, salads, grapeleaves, roasted chicken—there’s something for any palate. Sabor Latin Street Grill can be healthy if you order right, and it’s easy to order from your phone on your way over. With more locations opening around town, there’s likely one near you. Yafo Kitchen is an obvious choice, too, but be sure to call and order ahead, because the line can be pretty long and slow. The new location in Dilworth is opening soon, too. If you need a quick sandwich, head to Common Market.

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