The Charlottesville 29

Photo by Sanjay Suchak and Charlottesville Albemarle CVB

Today’s Five Finds on Friday from chef Casey Bauer of Maggie’s Midtown, where she has been helping chef Tarik Sengul make pub fare reflecting Virginia and its British roots. Tomorrow’s July 4 issue of The Daily Progress will cover their most daunting task: a traditional Sunday Roast. Bauer’s picks:

1) Smash Burgers and Family Meal at Stock Provisions. “I fell in love with Stock before even returning home from my travels. The love they put into their work as well as the care and time they put into sourcing from the right farms are beautiful things to witness and be a part of. Not to mention those boys know how to throw down. Between biscuits and smash burgers sold only on Fridays to family meals cooked daily, they stay on my mind. As for family meal — smoked bbq chicken, tri tip tacos off the Weber Grill, or mushroom risotto — whatever it was that day we knew we were eating good.”

2) Steamed Dumplings ftom Hong Kong Chinese. “These are pure nostalgia for me. After a long day as a line cook back in the day, coming home to my Dad ordering an insane amount of Chinese food for the both of us was one of my favorites things. He would always order extra dumplings because I would always eat his. Miss you Dad. Anyways these steamed dumplings fix my craving every time.”

3) Tamales from Super Amanecer. “Tamales have always felt like home to me in any kitchen. Before heading into work I will stop by this grocery store and grab maybe ten tamales. They have a couple different options to choose from. When I get to work I pass them around the kitchen staff. Sharing food is a form of love and shows appreciation. Ever since I started working in kitchens fifteen years ago, this was something coworkers would always share with me and each other before a shift or after.”

4) Wood Fired Oysters and Hamachi Crudo at Oakhart Social. “These are two of my favorite dishes of the year by far. I was introduced to these guys and have had a crush on them ever since. They are always making some bomb specials, and the flavors are so playful while still showcasing the purity of the ingredients. Just a great vibe with some great people and great food.”

5) Apple Fritters from Sbrocco’s. “These dang apple fritters are so delicious. My pregnant sister has me drive them to her on her lunch break at UVA hospital. They have the cutest little store front and offer a good selection of yeasted simply made doughnuts.”