Charlotte: Pre-Theater Eats

[lynnlato]

Hey All,

We're heading uptown to see Avenue Q at the Belk Theater on Thursday. I'm stumped trying to think where I'd like to go to get a bite to eat beforehand. We'd prefer to sit at the bar for some apps/tapas and a drink. No chains please.

We'd also like something that is walking distance to The Belk Theater. Thanks!

[lynnlato]

Okay, Avenue Q was hilarious - I haven't laughed that hard in awhile. Now, on to the food.

Arpa had great service. Amy was so accomodating. As was the manager, who went out of his way to help us. The food was good, but no wow factor. The price tag was awfully steep. $10 for any of the tempranillos by the glass - wow. We had the meat & cheese selection w/ accompaniments for $9. We selected the prosciutto (bland), manchego & cabrales w/ fig jam & roasted peppers. Portions were good, but we had to order a side of flatbread for an additional $3.50 (6 triangles). We then had the grilled octopus w/ grilled potato & onion salad w/ capers and a saffron aioli. It was cooked well, but not a bunch of flavor for $11. However, the chorizo-stuffed cherry peppers were delicious at $6 for 6. Lots of flavor & slightly spicy. Our server was great. She brought me a taste of the sangria and then later in the evening she surprised me w/ a taste of a cab she thought I would enjoy. I had asked about their hours and valet parking (since we wanted to leave our car and walk to the theater) and she said we should check w/ mgmt. just to be sure. Next thing we knew, the manager was at our table eager to answer our questions. They offered a happy hour buffet of seafood paella or chicken & chorizo paella, hummus and other dips and flatbreads for $15/person. We dined outside and it was nice. Nice atmosphere. I will go back for a casual in-town meal, but I'm looking forward to some Las Ramblas action!

[HungryGrayCat]

Las Ramblas is definitely better than ARPA. It's not any less costly but the food is better. ARPA's good for a light meal and glass of wine if you're in Uptown but I wouldn't call it a destination restaurant. The buffet deal sounds pretty reasonable though!

[cltsavvy]

I've been to Arpa many times and it's always been very good. Good wine list as well. it may be easiest to valet there, eat and come back to get your car.

[lynnlato]

Thanks for the valet suggestion. What a great idea.

[lynnlato]

Thanks guys! See, I knew you folks wouldn't disappoint me. For whatever reason, my mind goes blank when I think of restos uptown. I guess I just don't get up there that often. I like both your suggestions. Cosmos is a great atmosphere w/ good food and sushi. I just checked out Arpa's menu and it looks great... I've never been so I may have to give it a try. Not to mention, serrano ham, manchego, figs, grilled octopus and olives.... please, that's right up my alley!

[HungryGrayCat]

ARPA definitely has a bar and it's comfortable and accomodating for tapas. It looks like they've totally updated the menu since I was there last but I can recommend the albondigas, the patatas bravas, and I liked the bread basket selection with a few cheeses and meats.

[lynnlato]

Okay, you're totally making me hungry. Thanks everybody!

[GodfatherofLunch]

I look forward to hearing all about it. I was not thrilled by M5 a member of the Harpers Group Chain of restaurants as is Arpa.
While very upscale I still felt like I was dining at a factory that was into mass production rather than a restaurant that practices the art of fine cuisine. Have a blast at Avenue Q!!!!!!!!!!

[ickymettle]

Agreed. I've never been really impressed with any of the Harpers Group restaurants.

[southernitalian]

I've gotten the same odd feeling at some of their restaurants, Mimosa Grill in particular. Felt like I was on a set. But I still like Harper's in Southpark. And I still think M5 is one of the prettiest restaurants in Charlotte, for what it's worth.

[GodfatherofLunch]

Harpers in Southpark is a very consistent place and the food is not bad. As far as M5 goes the decor is a matter of taste. You like very modern I am not a fan of modern decor I prefer more traditional. I felt crowded at M5 the vibe just didn't happen for me. Oh well different strokes for different folks.

[GodfatherofLunch]

Based on the description of your alley and what's up it. Have you been to Las Ramblas yet. I'm pretty sure you will flip for the first class tapas and wine selection.

[lynnlato]

I haven't been to Las Ramblas yet but I want to go very badly! In fact, when I saw Arpa's menu it made me think of Las Ramblas. I've got to get there and soon!

You know, now that y'all mention it I've never been big on The Harpers Group either. I never really liked Mimosa or Harpers.

Oh, by the way, what chew been eatin' lately, GFL????

[southernitalian]

The Harper's Group is not getting a lot of love on this site today. This isn't the only post. I hope they are aware.

[GodfatherofLunch]

Cluck,cluck,cluck - Lots and lots of chicken. Every which way but fried. Grateful Growers pork loin, Wild salmon, salads,fruits and this brand of greek yogurt called Fage. I have the 0 fat yogurt with fresh blueberries mixed in and it is superb. For breakfast most mornings I have a Trader Joe's Whole Wheat British Muffin with 0 fat cream cheese and smoked salmon. Add a cup of black coffee and Godfather is ready for anything.

[artlee]

How much have you lost? You seem to be quite determined. I wish I could garner up that will power.

[southernitalian]

Arpa and Cosmos are both great recs and I would also consider Lavecchia's or Taverna(full disclosure: I have not been to Taverna). Not positive Arpa has a bar, it's been a while. Just keep in mind that on that end of the street, at that time of day, a lot of places can get very "banky" (not that there's anything wrong with that!) and it's tough to get served. Those places should be fine though. Enjoy!

[GodfatherofLunch]

A fun pre-theater spot might be Cosmos Cafe.

[concordcourtney]

Hi Lynn, If it were me, I'd pick Arpa probably. They open at five so it should be enough time.

http://www.harpersrestaurants.com/arp...