We are now just a few days away from the 2014 Vintage Charlotte Winter Market. We have worked tirelessly to make sure we have thought of everything to make your market experience phenomenal. While there are few things that top market shopping, I’ve got to say that market shopping with delicious gourmet food in-hand takes the cake. Below are this season’s food vendors and some of their best offerings:
Queen Charlotte’s Pimento Cheese-
With each batch made and packed by Charlotte natives, this southern classic has taken a delicious turn that has taken the city by storm. With all batches gluten-free, this pimento cheese is the perfect market snack for most everyone. In addition to their original blend, Queen Charlotte’s Pimento Cheese also offers both a spicy and blue cheese blend. Word on the street is that they are releasing their Bacon blend the day of the market!
Liz’s Pick – Original. If you haven’t had this before, start with the basics and work your way up. It will not disappoint.
King of Pops-
Atlanta born and Charlotte bred King of Pops continues to delight the city from markets to street corners with their carts of hand-made original recipe popsicles. With flavors ranging from fresh fruit to classic desserts (like pumpkin pie and banana pudding, to name a few), King of Pops is a definite crowd pleaser.
Liz’s Pick – Pumpkin flavored anything. This is sure to get us all in the mood for the holiday season
Central Coffee-
As one of Charlotte’s flagship coffee spots, Central Coffee is setting up shop, pop-up style with a full espresso bar to meet all of your caffeine needs.
Liz’s Pick -Mocha. It’s essentially a caffeinated hot chocolate. What’s not to love?
Ooo Wee BBQ-
Professional basketball player turned barbecue king, George Leach, brings his own spin to an NC favorite. George offers unique takes on BBQ such as barbecue egg rolls (yes, it’s a thing) and caters to the those who may not be seeking fried foods by offering delicious salads all out of his bright yellow food truck.
Liz’s Pick – barbecue sundae. Layers of meat, beans, slaw, and Mac and cheese, all in a sundae cup. It’s heaven.
Bleu Barn Bistro-
Chef Tara, who you may recognize from Herban Legend food truck, has set sail on her own culinary ventures to bring us creative foods from local pesticide and hormone-free sources. Tara’s creative flavor profiles and thought-out menu have made her a quick success in her few short months of business.
Liz’s Pick – Spicy Goat Grilled Cheese. Goat cheese, Swiss cheese, pepper jelly and mixed greens. Perfect.
Nicole Lee Confections-
Who doesn’t love cookies? Seriously. Lisa Childers loved them so much she left a career in medicine to follow her passion for baking and decorating. Lisa will have tons of cookies to choose from and you can bet they will be as delicious as they are beautiful.
Liz’s Pick – Cookie Gift Baskets. You would officially be everyone’s best friend.
Turley’s Homegrown Goods-
Chrissi Turley will be on-site with jars of quaintly packaged and original recipe goods. These jars of pickles and Bloody Mary mixes make the perfect holiday gift for hostesses and family members (or yourself). Be sure to grab a few to take home with you!
Liz’s Pick – Bloody Mary Mix. Make your holiday brunches complete with a homemade mix to compliment your breakfast cocktails.
Don’t worry if you are in a hurry to get to the market and leave the house under-caffeinated and half-starved. We’ve got you covered from coffee to cookies to cheese. And to spice it up even further, the bar will be open, which always makes shopping (and everything) way more fun. See you Saturday!
