Five Finds on Friday: Michael Lewis
by Charlottesville29
Lewis, left, with Rufus.
On Fridays, we feature five foods finds selected by local chefs and personalities. Today’s picks come from Michael Lewis, chef-owner of Mono Loco. On Sunday, February 22, Mono Loco is doing yet another of its hugely popular pop-up brunches, from 12-4. There’s great stuff on those pop-up brunch menus, so mark your calendars. Lewis’ picks:
1) Double Espresso at Greenwood Gourmet Grocery. “This is how I start most mornings: a double espresso with David and Nina the owners, and joining in on the colorful conversations. It’s a gourmand’s Mom & Pop! In the afternoons, try an amazing chicken sope with fresh pineapple pico, hope Claude Thibaut is doing a wine tasting, and say hello to Rufus the dog.”
2) Smoked Jalapeno Meatloaf Sandwich from South Fork food truck. “Phil used to work with us at Mono, so its awesome to watch his continued success. I never imagined I could derive so much joy from a meatloaf sandwich, but his is savory and rich with a hint of spice, and he won’t judge you if you order two!”
3) Carne Asada at MAS Tapas. “My happy place. Tomas and crew are my go to spot for the Charlottesville uninitiated. It’s crowded, brash, loud and unapologetic, and I love that. Plus, the carne asada is always spot on.”
4) Crabcake at Three Notch’d Grill. “Out in Crozet, Haden and Cathy just run a solid, chill place. Sit at the bar, have a Titos’s martini and my favorite crabcake in town. They’re filled with crab, not filler, and the jicama slaw and lemon beurre-blanc just balance the dish beautifully.”
5) Spicy Tuna Tartar at Zocalo. “Some people complain that it’s the same menu, so what!! It’s consistently good food, year in and year out, which is incredibly difficult to do. And, the tuna tartar is the best app in town.”