The Charlottesville 29

On Fridays, we feature five finds selected by local chefs and personalities.  Today’s picks come from Brooks Tanner, who recently rejoined chef Craig Hartman at Barbecue Exchange, after previous stints with him at Fossett’s restaurant and The Statler Hotel.  Tanner’s picks:

1)  Sunday Brunch at Hamiltons’.  “Chef Curtis Shaver and his kitchen ninjas reinstated an old tradition lost to Hamiltons’: Sunday Brunch.  And boy, I am excited he did.  The Grilled Ashley Farms Chicken Breast Sandwich on Housemade Ciabatta with Pimento Cheese, House Pickles, Arugula and Brown Sugar Cured Bacon is super solid.  I also indulge in the Wagyu Corned Beef hash as it is a killer side.  Abby’s scones are a hidden gem that I have not been able to find in any bakery around town.  They are in fact the best I’ve ever had.  Sorry Mom.”

2)  Chicken Liver Pate with Cabernet Sauvignon jelly, house-cured pickles and toast at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards.  “Chef Amalia’s pate is better than the view from the patio.  Her old-school ‘ass-kicking’ approach to food inspires me every time we chat.”

3)  Sally’s Sazeracs at the Glass Haus Kitchen.  “These are a treat.  They consist of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Absente Absinthe, Peychaud’s bitters, simple syrup and orange rind.  They will ease your mind after a long day in the hospitality biz.  I hate to write about the Glass Haus and not mention the food.  It is amazing and the menu reflects only the very best of what’s to offer. It changes frequently and is very foodie!  I never know what will be served that evening but it always exceeds even the highest of expectations.”

4)  Jalapeno Lime Cream Cheese at Bodo’s.  “It is ridiculous.  You can really put in on anything, it’s that good.  For myself, I go with the Everything Wheat Bagel BLT.  Sometimes I go back later and get a Everything Wheat Bagel with Chicken Salad, tomato and sprouts.  There is something magical about that particular cream cheese that keeps me yearning for more.”

5)  Family Meal at Palladio Restaurant.  “This is an invite only, exclusive, VIP secret to people in the know.  Luckily, I am one of those people (and now you are too).  Chef Melissa’s family meal at Palladio is insanely good.  Although it is for staff only at a certain hour daily (that I can not reveal), served in the kitchen – standing room only, I find myself planning my visits to her exactly at this moment.  I can’t help myself, I would eat there everyday if I could.  There are no limits as to what she prepares for her staff but it is a fringe benefit that should not be overlooked.  Oh, and her pecan-sticky buns are spot on.  And the best part, somehow I get the friends and family discount!! Thanks Mel!!”