The Charlottesville 29

On Fridays, we feature five food finds from local chefs of personalities.  Today’s picks come from Tyler Davis, lead cheesemaker at Caromont Farm.  On Saturday, October 3, Caromont Farm is hosting its first ever farm dinner, featuring chefs Donnie Glass (Public), Curtis Shaver (Hamiltons’), and Brooks Tanner (The BBQ Exchange), with live music, a goat meet-and-greet, wine pairings, and more.  Davis’ picks:

1)  Margherita D.O.C. at Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria.  “When it comes to pizza, I’m a purist. I don’t want anything but the classic combination of San Marzano tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella di bufala. Add a little smokey char from an 800 degree wood-fired oven, and you’ve got perfection.”

2)  Cheese Steak at Timbercreek Market.  “Whenever I find myself in town at lunch time, I try to swing by Timbercreek Market. Zach, Sara, and crew do an awesome job. The food is great, and this sandwich hits the spot. I crave it . . . even when I’m full. Simply delicious.”

3)  Black Cadillac from Albemarle Baking Company.  “I love the bread from ABC, but I’m a sucker for a good cookie. Oh, and chocolate. One (or two) of these is a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth. Way too easy to grab one of these on the go!”

4)  Cabernet Franc Reserve from Barboursville Vineyards.  “An excellent Virginia wine that finds a spot on the menu when I’m cooking for my wife at home. A little lighter than a cab sauv, herbaceous, and with notes of red fruit, this wine pairs great with a grilled filet or roasted chicken.”

5)  Red Row from Caromont Farm.  “I’ll admit, I’m a little biased, but I love this stinky cheese. Made from 100% grass fed, Jersey milk from Silky Cow Farm, this semisoft cheese has a pungent aroma with a lactic tanginess that is as unique as it is delicious. Melted over eggs for breakfast, on a sandwich at lunch, or by itself as a snack, it’s pretty much a staple in my diet.”