Friday, February 3, 2012

Secret Charlotte menus?

Do you order a dish at your favorite area place that actually isn't on the menu? It might be a dish the place used to serve, but removed from the menu (but regulars know the kitchen is still willing and able to make it, occasionally), or it may be a special preparation or presentation of a regular dish.

I'd like to hear about it -- here, or through e-mail at hschwab@charlotteobserver.com. Restaurateurs: If you offer something only to insiders who know how to ask, or if there's an old favorite you make for a few folks and want to share, shoot me an e-mail.

In the meantime, Zagat's found a bunch of national "not-on-the-menu" dishes; they're here. Have to say, I'm most excited by the "Boozy Donuts" at the fabulously named Flex Mussels in New York... (Photo from thewhiskeydame.wordpress.com)

And in case you didn't know about In-N-Out Burger's secret menu (you can get just about anything "Animal Style" except the "Flying Dutchman"), you can get the skinny here.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Cool concept but I'd never break the "regulars" code by giving away the secrets so willy nilly.

Paul from Peachland said...

You can always order the double fish fillet sandwich at McDonald's even if it's not on the menu.

Anonymous said...

Not exactly fine cuisine, but go to Chili's and ask for the Nacho Burger. Shredded lettuce, tortilla strips, chili queso, green onion, sour cream, guacamole, jalapenos and pico de gallo.

Pat R. said...

The "All American Meal" at McDonald's is not on the menu but still available. Cheeseburger/small fries/small drink for around $2. Not sure if this was ever actually on the menu.

Anonymous said...

OK a little off the beaten track but Brian Seeley at the Herban Legend food truck took his shwarma pita and put it on a bed of delicious arugula for me when I didn't want the bread. It is so good and I will never have anything else.

robw222 said...

I'm a little late with this but at Lotus in Mooresville we have been ordering the Japanese noodle soup for many years. Not on the menu, but my husband, while at lunch one day spotted someone having a big bowl of soup with all kinds of meats, veggies and noodles. He asked what it was and tried it.. Love at first bite. Chicken, shrimp and pork with noodles and veggies with some hot chili oil on the side to spice it up. It is my ultimate comfort soup.

Lyns said...

helen, i moved from charlotte to nyc and still love following your blog. flex mussels is down the street from me, and i have walked by it many times...now i have one more reason to go!