South Carolina strawberries from Simpson’s Produce on Kings Drive. Kristen Wile/UP

Q: Do you have any tips/a guide to shopping at Kings Drive Farmers Market? I live in Plaza Midwood and have mostly avoided going to Kings Drive (in favor of the CLT Regional Market) because at one time I had heard quality wasn’t great and not much was local. Is this your experience as well? Would be great to have a market closer when I can’t make it to the regional market. Maybe same question for the NoDa market, too – any experience with it?
UP: This is a great question. I really like the Kings Drive market. Simpson’s Produce started off as all local, but people stopping in wanted to be able to get all the produce they needed in one place, i.e. local asparagus and bananas (obviously not local). And it makes sense; it’s much easier than stopping at the market AND Teeter. They’re great about labeling where things come from, and never try to hide the fact that anything not in season is coming from elsewhere. I got some great South Carolina strawberries there last week, as well as North Carolina asparagus and delicious yellow tomatoes. My tips would be pay attention to the signs, and be sure to ask questions — the staff isn’t there to trick you. It’s not that different from the Charlotte Regional Market, where you’ll find a lot of non-local vendors outside of the first bay. The NoDa market is good but small; I prefer to make the drive to South End Market in Atherton Mill. You won’t find any imposters there. Freshlist, a local farm and restaurant connector, is piloting residential delivery soon, so we’ll keep you posted on that, too.

Q: What’s the best time to try and get a table at N.C. Red without a wait?
UP: According to owner Bruce Moffett, early — like when the restaurant opens at 5:30 — or 9 p.m. You’re likely going to have a pretty significant wait the next few weeks no matter when you go, but trying on a Tuesday or Wednesday night will give you the best luck. Moffett says they’re also considering a reservation system, though reservations would likely go really quickly at this point, too.

Q: Where do you recommend going for Cinco de Mayo?
UP: Yeah, but it depends what you’re looking for! The best specials will be at the Americanized restaurants, like Paco’s Tacos, RuRu’s, or Superica. Paco’s is doing an entire week of Cinco de Mayo specials. Three Amigos is a great middle ground between authentic and cheap margaritas. If you want to celebrate great Mexican cuisine, I’d recommend the same places that our on our street taco list from last week!

Q: If we’re hosting an event, what’s the best way to get it on the calendar?
UP: Send it to me, and I’ll forward it on to Anita! My email is kristen@unpretentiouspalate.com.

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