Five Finds on Friday: Ben Clore
by Charlottesville29
Today’s Five Finds on Friday come from Ben Clore, co-owner of Oakhart Social. On Sunday April 24, Oakhart Social’s chef and co-owner Tristan Wraight will join Matt Greene of JM Stock Provisions at Blenheim Vineyards for a special guest chef dinner as part of the vineyard’s The Library Series. Under the tented event space of Blenheim Farm, guests will enjoy a five course family-style meal paired with library wines from Blenheim’s cellar. Tickets and info here. Clore’s picks:
1) Pork Spring Rolls at Bang! “Crispy, fried, salty bites of porky deliciousness with a great vinegary dipping sauce that counterbalances the fat and salt perfectly. (Pro tip- Bang is a great place to take kids. Food comes out fast and if junior doesn’t like one thing just keep ordering!)”
2) Shrimp and Grits at Maya. “Local stone ground grits and an amazing smoked tomato gravy make me so happy every time I order them.”
3) Aspen Ridge Farm Hamburger at Orzo. (Lunch only.) “House pickles and the rosemary aioli are a great compliment to some really flavorful farm-raised beef.”
4) Finocchio Arrosto con Aranci (roasted fennel, oranges and basil) at Tavola. “I think this has been on their menu from the start and it’s clear why. Super simple flavors and great execution make it a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.”
5) Guay Tiew Ruea (Boat Noodle Soup) at Thai Cuisine and Noodle House. “I’m a sucker for anything broth and noodle based. This a ton of umami and is almost impossible to stop eating until it’s gone. I can be so full I’m in pain and I still can’t stop. I get the small to minimize inevitable later self-loathing.”