September 28, 2023
Q&A: Underrated new spots, patio weather
Each week, we answer reader questions about food and drink in Charlotte
Q: What are some underrated new spots you’ve been enjoying lately?
Kristen: There’s so much new right now, it’s hard to say! In terms of underrated or less talked about, I’d say Que Onda is up there. Chef/owner Manuel Flores is an extremely talented, well trained chef — and that shows in the attention to detail in each dish. The new location in Plaza Midwood got a lot of buzz when opening, but I haven’t heard much about it since. Humbug is another — the cocktails there are amazing. I’ll also throw in Salted Melon — the menu has solid variety and a lot of healthy options.
Q: I saw that one of the local publications published a story titled 24 pizzas in 24 days. I would have liked to have read about all the places he visited and what he thought. He just published his top three and none of them are very accessible. I would love to hear more and maybe you can get him to list his top ten or something.
Kristen: Yes, Charlotte Five asked chef Sam Hart of Counter- and Biblio to summarize his adventures eating pizza. However, he also chronicled the whole experience on Facebook and Instagram. Keep an eye out there, as he’ll be releasing his doughnut adventures next.

Bird Pizza was one of Hart’s top pizza picks. Kristen Wile/UP
Q: It’s patio weather. What are your top three patios?
Kristen: This one is easy! 1) The Fig Tree. 2) 300 East. 3) Chapter 6.
























