The octopus from Bardo. Kristen Wile/UP

Chefs know good food, so we want 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. Chef Vince Giancarlo, the executive chef at South End restaurant Zeppelin, is a regular at restaurants spanning many cuisines. —Kristen Wile

Soul Gastrolounge, Plaza Midwood
Small plates and sushi may seem like an odd combination, but it’s been a winning one for this ever-popular no-reservations spot.
Vince’s order: Pork belly tacos (served with chunks of watermelon, a Charlotte must-try) and the Soul Roll

Bardo, South End
Since opening earlier this year, Bardo and its chef/owner Mike Noll are pushing Charlotte’s culinary boundaries.
Vince’s order: Octopus

Yafo Kitchen, SouthPark and Plaza Midwood (and soon Dilworth)
There’s a reason Yafo is growing so quickly; everyone seems to be a fan of the Mediterranean fast-casual food.
Vince’s order: The Marrakesh Lamb (“but the pork belly is freakin’ awesome, too,” he says). That’s two votes for Yafo’s lamb; chef Nicolas Daniels also recommended the dish.

Futo Buta, South End
Not far from Giancarlo’s Zeppelin, Futo Buta is packed when this time of year hits, thanks to diners seeking a warming bowl of ramen.
Vince’s order: Fire & Ice ramen (which has been on the menu since the restaurant opened) extra spicy, and everything on the “Fresh Sheet,” the list of specials.

Lang Van, Plaza-Shamrock
A Vietnamese spot just outside of Plaza Midwood, Lang Van has an owner and a menu regulars come to see.
Vince’s order: Spicy curry beef with flat egg noodles and veggies, a custom order, and the crispy quail.