Winning CLT appetizers, not on the appetizer menu
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Zio pizza Charlotte
The only downside of some of our favorite restaurants? When they’re everyone else’s favorite, too. After a long wait to be seated, you want food like right now. Place one of these unorthodox appetizer orders first thing, and your friends will be undoubtedly impressed with the strong play.
Zada Jane’s – Single pancake
Brunch at Zada Jane’s is always worth the wait — but then you have to face the sweet-or-savory decision. So order a pancake (or three) for the table first, and then move on to your savory course (aka Bunny Rancheros). Problem solved.
A photo posted by Hannah (@hannahjkw) on
Crepe Cellar – Savory crepe
We’re big fans of waiting for Crepe Cellar at Growler’s next door, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t hangry by the time you get your table. Start strong with a savory crepe, and honestly, we can’t even choose the filling for you. Ham & Gruyere; Spinach & Wild Mushroom; Queen City (chicken, bacon, cheddar); Turkey, Apple, Brie; Four Cheese…You can’t go wrong. And the pesto fries still make a great side for whatever entree you choose.
@crepecellar does not mess around when it comes to crepes! Repost from @malariaofscots of this mushroom and spinach dish! #noda #cltfood #onlyinnoda #nomnomnom #artdistrict #clt #crepelove #crepecellar #queencity #foodporn #28205 A photo posted by NoDa CLT (@nodaclt) on
Zio Casual Italian – Grilled pizza
If you haven’t been to Zio, their handmade pasta dishes (especially the unsexy sounding “Spinach & Beans” with handmade fettucine and parmesan broth) are about to change your life. But first things first, you have to try their thin crust specialty, the grilled pie. So stalk the menu online, and order a pie to split as a (winning) first course, and then move onto pastas, meats, or one of the specials.
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar – Spiked milkshake
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Have no shame. If you want to mix it up from your usual fried pickles, start sweet with a spiked milkshake. Nothing sets the tone for a great night like the spiked Snickers, with chocolate, peanuts, and caramel. You’re a grownup; you’re allowed to have dessert first.
A photo posted by Bad Daddys Burger Bar (@baddaddysburger) on
Dish – Grilled pimento cheese
Dish’s homemade take on pimento cheese is already a classic, but the appetizer order is served with pita wedges or chips. To appreciate it in its finest form, order the pimento grilled cheese (same price), so you can be sure you aren’t left with an out-of-balance ratio of bread to cheese.