Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Summer Fun: The low down on Charlotte farmers markets

I have a small addiction to farmers markets.  It’s a great way to get fresh produce and chat with the local producers.  When I’m visiting a new place, I generally go to the farmers markets to see what there is to eat.  This small obsession with farmers markets has taken me from the lovely Salamanca Place in Tasmania to the awesome Atwater Market in Quebec (both fabulous attractions).  Fortunately, Charlotte also has some awesome farmers markets, and in honor of May’s farm-to-fork month and the coming summer months, I think it’s time to make a list.

Elizabeth Creamery




If you are like me and remember going out for homemade ice cream as a kid, you may have wondered where to find those delicious small creameries popular some years ago. With the consumption of frozen yogurt on the rise it has become increasingly difficult to find that extra-special dairy treat. Elizabeth Creamery is definitely one of Charlotte’s well kept secrets.

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Portofino's

Although I have lived in Charlotte for almost a year now, I recently started thinking about all the Italian fare I used to eat back home. Being that I love all things Italian, I realized I have yet to have great Italian in Charlotte. This was an alarming revelation for me! So, please join me ladies and gentleman as I attempt to enjoy the flavors of Italy in Charlotte. My promise to you is to keep you posted on my journey and fill you in on my various highlights and disappointments. Today, I will start with my trip to Portofino’s.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Farm to Fork: a Celebration of Local Food in Charlotte

During the month of May, Richard Gruica, founder of Good Eats and Meets, has partnered with several local restaurants to bring Charlotte a three-course lunch and dinner option to celebrate local food.  From Erin’s Restaurant in Rock Hill to Kabuto in Huntersville, over 15 restaurants in the greater Charlotte area will be offering three course meals at lunch ($14.95 or $18.95, not all restaurants will participate) or dinner ($18.95, 28.95, or $38.95, each restaurant will have one or more of these prices) highlighting local food.  Part of the proceeds from dining will go to the newly formed North Carolina Farmers Fund.  Please check with Carolina’s Farm to Fork for more information on this city-wide event.