2026 is showing its age. We’re in that part of the year I call “crunchy season”, because the heat is not letting up and the basil and elephant ears in my back yard are looking at me like John Coffey in The Green Mile, saying, “I’m tired, boss.”

Not one for tradition, New Year’s recap letters are not going to be my jam, but a solid, mid-July flashback of ground covered thus far, why not? This list isn’t so much about me telling you where I’ve been, but for you to fill me in on the places I have not yet been, but should go.

As you might imagine, it’s more efficient if you know what’s been checked off already, so let’s go! These are in NO particular order. No, really, not even on a subconscious level.

Southern Pines, NC- Sly Fox Pub- Right down the street from the Weymouth Center for the Arts, where I was wrapping up writing my second Book. Who would have thought my hands-down favorite shrimp n’ grits (so far) would be experienced in a part of NC known more for its equestrian vibe than its coastal charm? I didn’t see it coming either, but have you ever had COUNTRY HAM in your shrimp n’ grits? It will make you switch religions, no joke! All this time, I’ve been used to whatever that basic-white-girl ham is that you normally get in the dish, but the first bite of this sent me to another level, and it took me a full twenty seconds of processing to realize the genius I was experiencing. I’ve been back three times since and it never disappoints.

The only thing that disappoints is why can’t I get this on the coast? For real, I was born and raised in THE Port City, and have never had it that good.

Lexington, NC- Lexington BBQ- “Tender as a mother’s love.” I used to hear my grandfather say that at the dinner table, and it’s the first thing that came to mind when I experienced my first chopped plate here. If you are one of those folks who debates eastern vs. western style BBQ, you’re missing the point. This was LEGIT!

Charlotte, NC- Lang Van- You could pass right by this place and never know that it is making some of the best Vietnamese food in the “Great North State” . Personally, I stop there every time I’m in the Queen City. Besides the food being incredible, the people there are what make it my go-to spot in Charlotte. Every time you leave, they say, “See you tomorrow!”

Asheville, NC- Grove Park Inn- the terrace catches the setting sun, and if you are there at the right time, you can too, so bring your sunscreen. Pro-tip, you can buy a tiny can of sunscreen in the gift shop. Don’t ask me how I know this…

Have to admit, it felt strange ordering the diver scallops a few hundred miles from the Atlantic Ocean, but I can say they were super tasty.

Aspen, CO- MiChola- Man, I’m mad this place is closed last year. So convenient to town. SO FLAVORFUL! Funky too, let’s not forget how important that is. I’m sure some amazing chef will move in with an extra-bougie offering, but that little corner will never be the same. If you got there before last October, then you know what I’m talking about.

Florence, SC- Bucee’s- That felt weird to type. It’s a gas station, right? No, not really, but also, yes, very much. I haven’t pumped gas in years, but I still have to stop at Bucee’s to charge up and when I do, their fresh chips hit the spot. I can’t even explain it, except that they are crispy on a level that was previously unknown to me.

Savannah, GA- The Grey- Saw it on Chef’s table back when I used to watch tv. It was… Aright I guess. Luckily, I had good company, and that’s all I’m gonna say. Moving on…

Charleston, SC- Oyster House- Though it’s located in tourist ground-zero, it’s got good food, and the shrimp n’ grits will have you telling a friend.

Cary, NC- Damph Good BBQ- Y’all… I can’t even with this place. I’m getting emotional just tapping out these little words on the keyboard. All I’ll say is, go on Friday, GO EARLY! Ask for the beef brisket burger, and prepare yourself to cry a lil’bit because you’re not sure you deserve all that flavor!

Rocky Point, NC- Paul’s Place, Since 1928- A Carolina Dog consists of- Mustard, Chilli, Onions, Slaw. If you eat yours with ketchup only, then we can’t be friends. I will deal with your onion breath, just for the love of Suzanne Sugarbaker don’t be basic. Oh, and if you really want to get authentic, get that full-octane Sun-Drop to go with your three-dog special. Thank me later.

Wilmington, NC- Indochine- Look, I know Tik-Tok blew this place up a year or two back, but I’ve been going there for 20 years. It’s still solid. I’m not proud to admit, but will anyway, that I have driven there and back from the capital city JUST to get the lemon-grass pork. They only serve it at lunch, and even if you ask “pretty please” at dinner, they can’t help you. Now you know.

New Bern, NC- Pirate’s Cove- It’s a cool, kitschy place, I love the bar that is also an aquarium but I just discovered this town last year and am head over heels in love. If you are from there, PLEASE guide me, I am putty in your hands!

Shameless Name Dropping