Even though we’ve all (Schwebel & Associates) lived in Charlotte for many years now, we still have trouble agreeing on where to go for dinner.

It’s been agreed that this year, for our holiday dinner, we should go somewhere in the Charlotte area that isn’t part of a chain of restaurants. Where to go? New places are opening all the time these days, and we can’t try them all out.  We’ve gone to P.F. Changs many times in the past, and enjoyed it, but thought this year it was time for something different.  Problem is, we can’t think of any place new to go.  What does ‘new’ mean?  Hmm.  Different.  Great food.  Great service.  Memorable. Someplace relatively undiscovered – at least by the four of us.

Even though we’re all based in Southeast Charlotte, we’re willing to travel if a restaurant was worth it.

So how about it – any ideas?  Do you know of a wonderful place that is just waiting to be discovered?  Do you own or run a restaurant?  Help us out here.

There are times when all I want is a a burger or sub and wash it down with my favorite soft drink.  Then there are times when I have to make a tough choice and select a place to dine.  So what am I saying?  Is it a tough choice because there are so few?  To the contrary, there are so many fine places to dine.  The list of types, styles and settings continues to grow.  Growing up on Long Island in the sixty’s we had our favorites or should I say my parents did! 

The past 25 years have brought us far more than one would have expected.  Charlotte has grown into a world class city in many ways and dining out is one of them.  My wife and I even argue as to where to go for supper. 

Do you have a favorite dining experience?  Are you moving here or visiting on business or pleasure and looking for that special place to dine?  I’m happy to make recommendations if you like.  Comments are appreciated.

With Buffalo Wings and Ribs so hot these days (no pun intended) as a restaurant item, it’s always fun to check out a new spot and do some on-site quality control testing.

This past weekend we tried Carolina Wings & Rib House (14015 Conlan Circle in Ballantyne).  The food was amazing!  We had ribs – pick up a bone and the meat slides off, wings – several varieties available, and each one we tasted was outstanding and very meaty, and shrimp – cooked perfectly with just the right amount of seasoning.

There were several tv’s around showing all of the important games, and some interesting and varied draft choices.  Not surprisingly, no one left disappointed.

If you are having a hankerin’ for some mouth watering ribs & wings, check out Carolina Wings & Rib House – you won’t be sorry!

Never did I think that 25 years ago we’d have the choices we do today.  The other evening my wife and I were trying to decide where to go for dinner.  She likes casual and I like more upscale.  So guess who won?  Well we put the top down to the convertible (by the way it would be too cold to do it back in New York) and headed out.  There are so many casual places to dine that are way above fast food that we just drove around and around, enjoyed the scenery and went to a place that overlooks fountains and plays nice music and had salads and ice cream for dessert.  It doesn’t get any better.  So if you are into knowing what’s where just send me a note!