September 12, 2018

Where Chefs Eat: Nicolas Daniels

The Chilean-born chef shares his favorite restaurants and what he orders

The Marrakesh lamb bowl from Yafo Kitchen.

Chefs know good food, so we wanted to know where they eat when they’re not cooking. In this series, we ask a local chef, bartender, or server to share their favorite restaurants in town and what they order there. This week, it’s Nicolas Daniels, former executive chef of Loft & Cellar and current executive chef at a restaurant we can’t reveal yet. The Santiago, Chile native has lived all over the world, and you can see that in his selections. —Kristen Wile

Yafo Kitchen, SouthPark and Plaza Midwood
Fresh and fast, Yafo serves Mediterranean staples as customizable bowls, wraps, and sandwiches.
Nicolas’ order: Marrakesh lamb bowl

Eddie’s Place, Cotswold
A neighborhood spot, Eddie’s Place has been a low-key favorite for years.
Nicolas’ order: Shrimp Po-boy, served on grilled ciabatta bread

The Asbury, Uptown
This menu changes seasonally, so Daniels’ favorite won’t be back in rotation until next year. That seasonality is what makes The Asbury stand out.
Nicolas’ order: Chili fried catfish

California Pizza Kitchen, SouthPark
The Charlotte location of this pizza chain with a crowd-pleasing menu is adjacent to SouthPark mall.
Nicolas’ order: BBQ chicken chopped salad

Que Onda, Uptown
This underrated Mexican restaurant is often packed with regulars.
Nicolas’ order: Pepito torta