How big is North Carolina’s wine industry? Bigger than ever, according to a study commissioned by the N.C. Department of Commerce. The state now has 106 wineries in 49 counties, double the number in 2005. Gov. Beverly Perdue recently proclaimed September 2011 as Wine Appreciation Month in North Carolina.

The state now ranks No. 9 nationwide in wine and grape production, according to state officials. Read the full story

Nothing like a little chill in the air to inspire thoughts of autumn – and beer festivals. The Galway Hooker in Cornelius this Saturday hosts the 2011 Lake Norman Beer Fest, where beer lovers can sample brews from international and regional brewers and listen to a bit of live music. Meanwhile, Restaurant X in Davidson has a benefit night Thursday, and recently won a customer satisfaction award. And Flatiron Kitchen + Taphouse in downtown Davidson is getting ready to tweak its menu for fall. Read the full story

T1 Tapas in Huntersville’s Birkdale Village has undergone a metamorphosis over the past few weeks, becoming the British-themed iPub. Meanwhile, Hot Diggitee Dogz on Davidson’s West Side closed its doors last week, becoming the latest takeout restaurant to fold in the space near Ada Jenkins Center. Its owner plans to reopen in downtown Cornelius. Also, Flatiron Kitchen + Taphouse is introducing live music on Wednesday nights, and the Festival for Hope & Housing will include area restaurants serving food on the Green in Davidson Saturday. Read the full story

As awareness and interest in local food has broadened in recent years, farm tours have become a popular way to educate consumers about the sources of their food. On Sept. 17-18, Davidson-based Know Your Farms LLCwill host its third annual Charlotte Area Farm Tour, a two-day self-guided tour at 32 farms across the region.

“What we’re trying to do is strengthen connections between the farms and consumers. It’s just a fun way to do it, and it’s family friendly,” said Wes Shi, co-founder of Know Your Farms. Read the full story

Our foodie friend and Davidson grad Nikki Sawyer Moore has a delicious sounding recipe over on her Minced blog today: “Vietnamese Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches With Sriracha Mayo.” It’s not close to lunch but my mouth is watering. She describes it:

“Ground pork, lemongrass, green onions, garlic, jalapeno, and fish sauce combine to make juicy meatballs.  The meatballs are then seared off in a pan, before being placed on a noisily crunchy baguette and topped with pickled carrots, fresh cilantro, and a spicy sriracha mayonnaise.   It’s about the farthest thing from boring and it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, a late-night snack, or a Sunday football game.”

“This is a sandwich you want to feed people,” she writes. OK, we’re ready.

LINK: Sept. 1, 2011, Nikki Sawyer Moore’s “Minced” blog,  “Vietnamese Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches With Sriracha Mayo.”

248 N. Main St.
Mooresville, NC
704-662-0270
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