The Charlottesville 29

Where to eat in Charlottesville

Tag: Jack Brown’s

06/19/2015

Five Finds on Friday: Peter Griesar

Peter

On Fridays, we feature five food finds selected by local chefs and personalities. Today’s picks come from Peter Griesar, co-owner of Brazos Tacos, the former pop-up that recently re-opened for good. What Griesar especially likes about his picks is that “each has a super staff.” “Restaurants are as much about the people as they are about the food,” Griesar said.  Griesar’s picks:

1)  Porktopus Noodle Bowl at MAS Tapas.  “What seems like an odd pairing is a genius delicious mix. Served as a noodle bowl, it has a long spicy burn that builds to a fever pitch of mouth-watering flavors. Pair it with the rest of Mas’ fantastic menu, and let the amazing staff help you navigate their library of wines.”

2)  Margherita Pizza at Lampo.  “Sometimes when you’re overworked and exhausted the best thing is to load up on carbs, and what better way than with a gorgeous Lampo pizza. The margherita mixed with wine – it makes for the dreamiest sleeps.”

3)  Fried Chicken Thighs at Brown’s.  “When I first moved to Esmont, Brown’s Mini Mart was just around the corner. Eventually the Brown’s moved into Charlottesville, and my favorite chicken disappeared. So I was ecstatic to find out when the Browns took over the former Stoney’s and started up their pressure fryer again. Don’t let the gas station fool you, this is best fried chicken you’ll eat in these parts.”

4)  Greg Brady w/Bacon at Jack Brown’s. “Everyday at lunch during our build, it became a tradition to run over to the new Jack Brown’s downtown for a burger.  As I worked my way through the menu I came across the Greg Brady, a burger with mac and cheese and chips on it. Add bacon to take it over the top!”

5)  El Rey Burrito at Mono Loco. “Last but definitely not least this ‘surf and turf’ burrito is a favorite with fried oysters and steak. Filling and flavorful. Hands down the King of local burritos.”

 

05/29/2015

Five Finds on Friday: Christian Johnston

chris

On Fridays, we feature five food finds from local chefs and personalities. Today’s picks come from Christian Johnston, the Micah LeMon protegé who is now managing the bar at Tavola’s brand new cicchetti bar.  Check back here Monday for a full preview of the bar, which will serve small plates, cocktails, and more.  Meanwhile, Johnston’s picks:

1)  Carrots at The Alley Light.  “Never before in Charlottesville have I seen a vegetable as a standout dish on a menu. Chef Jose de Brito’s ability to bring bright flavors to a dish without overwhelming the main component is truly impressive. Pair that with a cocktail from Micah LeMon and it’s no wonder why these guys got a James Beard nod.”

2)  Cocktails at Parallel 38. “Definitely worth the hike from the downtown mall, this place has some great talent which can be seen in their cocktail program. Often putting spins on classics, Justin Ross and Jesse Fellows use ingredients and techniques you aren’t likely to find in any other establishment.”

3)  Gyoza at Now & Zen.  “Chef Toshi knows his craft and the Nagasaki variant of this dish is great. The sauce that is paired with this is savory as it is flavorful and really ties the whole thing together.”

4)  Infused Margarita at Yearbook Taco.  “You know things are going good in Charlottesville when the local taco joint is stepping up their cocktail game. With infusions made fresh every week, it showcases how a quality product can elevate a simple drink. Tegan Peterson and Acacia Schepps work nights there, so if you see them behind the bar, you know you’re in good hands.”

5)  Greg Brady at Jack Brown’s.  “Getting out of work late usually means there is a struggle to find good late night food. This ridiculous creation (a burger topped with bbq potato chips and mac and cheese) always satisfies and with former Beer Run beer guru Steve Yang behind their drink selection, you’ll never go home thirsty.”

04/03/2015

Five Finds on Friday: Aris Cuadra

Aris

On Fridays, we feature five food finds selected by area chefs and personalities.  Today’s picks come from Aris Cuadra, chef at tavola.  Next Sunday, April 12, tavola will play host to world-renowned winemaker Piero Mastroberardino for a very special wine dinnerr featuring the wines of Mastroberardino.  The six course meal, including pairings, is $125 per person.  For info and reservations for this very rare opportunity, email info@tavolavino.com or call (434) 972-9463.  Cuadra’s picks:

1)  Cheeseburger at Jack Brown’s.  “Super simple good quality beef, nicely seasoned, griddle pressed well done, with a side of fries, a pickle and secret sauce…oh yea and they have “a few beers”.

2)  Dry Fried Eggplant at Peter Chang’s. “Perfectly crispy, light and airy, nice balance of heat and earthiness from the chilies, cilantro and scallions, and a slight sweetness from the eggplant.”

3)  Ham Biscuit at JM Stock Provisions.  “House cured ham in between their biscuits made with butter and pork fat.”

4)  Lemon Buttermilk Pie at Pasture Q.  “Light flaky crust, nice balance of tart and not too sweet filling, tea infused whipped cream.”

5)  Linguini Alla Carbonara at tavola.  “Yes, I know some will criticize this pick, but those who have had it know exactly what I’m talking about and those who have not . . . you need to come try one.”