The Charlottesville 29

Today’s Five Finds on Friday come from ACAC trainer Chris Collins. As the New Year brings new fitness goals, few are better to help meet them than Collins. If you’ve ever been at ACAC and noticed a buzz of energy near the exercise class room, chances are Collins is the source. His training is so inspiring that he has earned a following of Collin-istas. If you could use a fitness boost, and would like to learn why so many swear by Collins and ACAC, you can reach him at Chrisco@acac.com.

Collins also has a passion for food. Collins’ picks:

“Might not be the healthiest picks, but I usually order steak when I go out, especially during colder months when I cannot grill it outside at home. I cook a lot at home, where I keep things basic and try to stick to single ingredient foods. I am spoiled too because I get a loaf of homemade sourdough each week from my mom.  My vices other than my mom’s bread are popcorn and avocado-oil lime tortilla chips.”

1) Carne Asada at MAS Tapas. “Racion portion, because there’s never enough to go around. I can eat this as an entree, but it is meant to be shared. In a group of four or more, if this dish comes too early while dining, you might order it again for dessert.”

2) Prime NY Strip with the Golden Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts and Broccolini at Black Cow Chop House. “Go with a small group and come hungry.”

3) Two orders of the Polpettine Panuozzo at Lampo. “Cut each in half – four halves. When I’m with another person, I eat three halves in house and share the remaining half or take it home. I am sensitive to lactose, but this sandwich is that good and worth it.”

4) Hanger Steak and a Orange Spice Hot Toddy at Oakhart Social. “On a cold winter evening, after dry January that is. Or, order the cocktail virgin.”

5) Coliflor at Conmole. “One of the tastiest small dishes in town. Pan seared cauliflower and farm eggs in mole verde.”