This week was all about movement — another work trip to Charlotte, connecting with customers over good food, and then ending the week back home with family, friends, and a perfectly smoked Sunday dinner. It was a reminder that even in the busiest of weeks, a good meal has a way of grounding you.
Charlotte Days and Golden Owl Nights
Monday kicked off with another work trip to Charlotte. After a delayed flight, I finally landed and checked into the UNC Charlotte Marriott, where I grabbed a late bite at The Golden Owl Tavern, the hotel’s stylish bar and restaurant. My chicken avocado sandwich with fries hit the spot — simple, hearty, and perfect after a long day of travel.
The next day was a full day of meetings with my customer. The cafeteria, unfortunately, was a complete miss. What I thought was a Buffalo chicken sandwich turned out to be Buffalo chicken salad, and not in a good way. Let’s just say the chips were the highlight. Dinner, however, made up for it with a burger and beer back at the Golden Owl — classic comfort after a long day.
UNC Charlotte Marriot Charlotte NC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Team Time & Tavern Vibes
By Wednesday, it was another full schedule. After hosting my customer for a team happy hour at City Tavern in Salisbury, the evening wrapped with great conversation and cold drinks. The relaxed setting was a nice shift from the day’s meetings. I ended the night back at the hotel with an Old Fashioned and a personal flatbread pizza — the perfect pairing for a quiet unwind.
Thursday morning came quickly, with breakfast at the hotel — eggs, bacon, and potatoes with the team — before catching my flight home.
City Tavern in Salisbury ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Back Home with Friends and Family
Friday night was all about reconnecting locally. We met up with friends at Notch 8 Tavern in Bethel, a favorite spot for craft beer and great bites. The burrata appetizer was creamy and rich, and the pizza was perfectly crisp. Between laughs and good company, it was a perfect Friday night.
Saturday brought family time — cheering on my 10-year-old nephew’s flag football team in the championship against Westport. The kids played great, and though they lost, it was such a close, exciting game. Afterward, we headed to Studio Café to meet our kids for brunch. Everything from the coffee to the food was on point, as always.
Notch 8 Tavern in Bethel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Studio Cafe Westport ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sunday Comfort and Smoke
Sunday was the ultimate lazy day: football on TV, windows open, and the smoker fired up. On the menu — prime rib smoked on the pellet grill, paired with roasted white sweet potatoes and sautéed broccoli. The aroma filled the house and the first bite confirmed it: there’s no better way to wrap up a long week than with slow-cooked comfort and family nearby.
