DestinationFAY

MAYBE YOU DIDN'T KNOW... Many of the best restaurants in Fayetteville are owned by Greek families – and their passion shows in everything they do. Topping the list for special "experience" dining are Luigi's Italian (yes, Italian) Chophouse & Bar and Chris's Steak & Seafood House. On the casual side, a must-do is Zorba's Gyro On A Spit. Huge omelets and club sandwiches are the rule at New York Restaurant, a nostalgia-filled diner on the edge of downtown. As for the owners/ entertaining conversationalists at each of these establishments, say hello in order to: Nick, Greg, Tommy and Nick! – Janet Gibson WHERE CAN I GET SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN? How about finger-licking fried chicken atop buttermilk waffles liberally sprinkled with powdered sugar? The dish is positively addictive for dinner or Sunday brunch at Uptown's Chicken & Waffles. The restaurant is one in a growing empire owned by Chef Judith Cage, who has been featured on "Chopped" and "Supermarket Stakeout," both on the Food Network. WE KEEP HEARING ABOUT YOUR FAMOUS BARBECUE … DO TELL! All the latest buzz is about Fowler's Southern Gourmet and also Southern Coals, unrelated establishments that serve up some of the tastiest Q, beef brisket, burnt ends (don't ask, just get them) and authentic side dishes in the state. We also dig the chopped pork barbecue at the stalwart Bar-B-Que Hut (great fried chicken, slaw and hush puppies, too, since 1965). Wherever you go, do yourself a favor and wash it all down the proper way – with sweet tea. the top. Delicious consistency and friendly service keep the crowds coming back not just for pizza but authentic Italian pasta dishes and more. With a crust that is neither too thick nor too thin and impeccably fresh toppings, Little Italy near Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Pierro's downtown and on Ramsey Street all get the green light. WHERE CAN I GET THE MOST AUTHENTIC ASIAN FOOD? So many choices, so little time. Let's start with Saigon Bistro, the place for slow food, done right. Hands- down, the best pho (commonly pronounced fuh), the Vietnamese comfort soup. Actually, the menu is a combination of Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese dishes, and their avocado or mango smoothies are nirvana on hot days. Make sure to say hello to the friendly husband- and-wife owners, Kim and Kha. Another great choice for strictly Thai is Prik ai. Favorites are the Tom Kha, a coconut milk-based soup that's spiked with lemongrass, and Pad Thai, rich with thick noodles and peanut sauce (add chicken, shrimp or tofu). For Chinese takeout, it's hard to beat Hong Kong Restaurant in Westwood Shopping Center. Supremely fresh ingredients and generous portions turn one meal into two – or more. And the best steamed dumplings, too. WHERE CAN WE GO FOR VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN DISHES? Run – don't walk – to perennial award winner Bombay Bistro. Chef Kelly makes magic of legumes and vegetables in aromatic sauces, herbs and spices. The saag tofu and curries are beyond splendid. Nonvegetarian standouts include the tender tandoori chicken, mild chicken korma and, for those who like it extra-hot, the vindaloo. 3015 North Main St. Hope Mills • 910 429-3004 1405 Walter Reed Rd Fayetteville • 910 223-1111 9556 Cliffdale Rd Fayetteville • 910 491-7100 Free Nibbler with any purchase Stop a snack craving in its tracks with one of our classic Chicken Fingerz ® , tucked in a toasted bun and topped with Zax Sauce ® . 37 DestinationFAY 2021-2022

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