The Charlottesville 29

Today’s Five Finds on Friday come from Jannatul Pramanik, guest host at the next event for Oenoverse Club, Blenheim Vineyards’ wine club dedicated to expanding opportunity in and through the Virginia wine industry. Photographer, food Instagrammer, oenophile, artist, traveler, educator, recruiter, and UVa employee, she is truly a Jannatul of all trades. On July 27, she will be at Blenheim Vineyards sharing and discussing some of her favorite wines. Tickets and info here. Jannatul’s picks:

1) Goat Curry from Rum Punch. “This is one of those you-eat-so-quickly-that-it-doesn’t-even-make-it-home kind of meals. Anything from Raquel’s farmer’s market stall is absolutely fire but my favorite definitely has to be the goat curry over rice with a side of plantains. Tender pieces of goat drenched in a flavorful curry fully soaking into the rice is my idea of a perfect Saturday lunch.”

2) Neuk Gan Sal and YangNyum Galbi, Banchan, and SooJungGwa from Bulpan. “Bulpan is one of those places that leaves you speechless every time you go. From the quality of the meats to how beautifully and intentionally they’re cooked, this Korean BBQ experience will keep bringing you back for more. The owner has really taken the time to thoughtfully curate the menu and it shows from the moment you sit down to eat that they really care about providing you a wholeheartedly good meal. I usually go with friends so we can take advantage of their combos – any combo with the neuk gan sal or yangnyum galbi is a win for me. Add all the quality banchan. The kimchi is top notch – I’ve left with a whole container of it to enjoy at home. And, round out the meal in refreshing satisfaction with their SooJungGwa, a traditional Korean chilled cinnamon and ginger punch.”

3) Five Spice Lemongrass Tofu Banh Mi from Vu Noodles. “Vu Noodles has become one of my go-to lunch spots because of their banh mi. From the crunch of the toasted hoagie roll to the flavors of the tofu to the refreshing bite of the pickled daikon & carrots, this banh mi hits the spot every time. I’ll usually also get it with all the spicy toppings – jalapenos, chili oil and dried blend red peppers for that extra kick, even on a summer day. Add an iced Vietnamese coffee and you’re in for a real treat!

4) Snack Mix from Ethos Wine & Tea. “Whenever I go to Ethos, whether I’m grabbing a happy hour glass of wine or hanging out at their monthly craft nights, their snack mix is always a constant part of my experience. The perfect blend of crunch and savory goodness with furikake and roasted chickpeas to supplement all the delicious wine and tea they have to offer. The snack mix has become one of my favorite things to munch on while hanging out at Ethos for any and all occasions.”

5) Kimbap and Spicy Braised Beef Back Ribs from Sussex Farm. “If you’ve ever had the chance to meet Jen and eat her food during her days at the farmers markets, you know how much thought and care goes into her delicious meals. Although she is no longer at the markets, she does do once in a while drops where you can pick up goodies directly from her farm. Her kimbap and spicy braised beef ribs are my favorites. Super fresh ingredients grown on her farm with flavors that always have me coming back for more. On top of that, Jen is an absolute delight so getting a chance to eat her food again but this time at her farm is truly a treat.”