Food

2810[high]5: Remembering Jeff

Yesterday, Jeff Rieves, friend, Beacon contributor, and exceptional gardener passed away. His final Facebook post was a meme that reads, “The idea is to die young as late as possible.” I guess that’s what he did. Today, we remember Jeff for his insight, humor, and that well of knowledge he loved to share. Our gardens and our lives were and will continue to be, enriched by him.

I’ve been “up on the mountain”, as the locals refer to the part of Patrick County, VA, where my mother lives, giving thanks for the gifts in our lives, and helping Ma with some winter lawn and garden chores...
 
Most of my Life has been spent with books and gardens. Even my career has revolved around the the worlds of plants and words. They have informed each other, shaped how I see the world, and helped make me who I am today.
 
This Old Testament admonition to the children of Israel is a call to action for gardeners in the Fall. While more gardeners are always welcome, in this instance, we are multiplying the plants in our garden.
 
Fall planted garlic gets a light mulch to protect it from the wide variations in temperature that we often experience in winter. Normally I use leaves, but wheat straw is OK, too. Before you ask, pine needles will work, but I personally don’t like using them. (That’s another subject I’ll cover some other time.)
 
We tend to segregate our plantings...We plant an herb garden here, a vegetable garden there, a perennial flower border somewhere else, but there are lots of ways to include more food plants into all of our landscape, a technique called edible landscaping.
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Around the Table With the Burkes: The Week With No Food

I just learned, in researching for this article, that Soda Bread recipes are often unique to a family, passed down through the generations, with different fruits and spices added as available. Ours is a fairly standard version, though I guess it qualifies since I got it from my mom.
 

My happiness with avoiding fast food last week was replaced by all of the fast food this week. It was a rough one.

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On Saturday I went with the Instant Pot pulled chicken standby. It has rescued dinner at least five times in the last few weeks. Last Sunday was St. Patrick’s Day, I’m the daughter of a Barry and a Carey and married to a Burke, so Irish Traditions are a thing in our house. I have never been on the corned beef and cabbage train, so I went with stew for dinner — beef rather than lamb, with lots of potatoes and carrots. I also made Irish Soda Bread, a recipe from my mom, who got it from her grandmother. I have vivid memories of baking it with mom as a kid. She’d pull out her weathered and worn recipe notebook and tell us stories about Great Grandma Peg. I just learned, in researching for this article, that Soda Bread recipes are often unique to a family, passed down through the generations, with different fruits and spices added as available. Ours is a fairly standard version, though I guess it qualifies since I got it from my mom. It’s a little late for the holiday this year, but we always made it whenever the mood struck.


Irish Soda Bread

  • 2 cups flour

  • 2 Tbsp Sugar

  • 1 ½ tsp Baking Powder

  • ½ tsp Salt

  • ¼ tsp Baking Soda

  • ½ cup Raisins

  • 1 Tbsp Caraway Seeds

  • 1 Cup Buttermilk (I have never in my life used buttermilk, I make sour milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice mixed with enough milk to make a cup. Let it sit for a few minutes, then add it)

Mix all ingredients until combined, pour into greased loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes.


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Thus ended the week’s real dinners. We went with Publix chicken on Monday, Pizza on Tuesday, Happy Meals Wednesday, and my kids were fed by my friend on Thursday while I had a bowl of cereal. Friday I made pancakes because it seemed on-brand for the week.

I would love to do better this week, but it seems unlikely with all of the work I have to do. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, however, and then I think there will be an explosion of food at our house. Maybe I’ll throw a party, Irish hospitality lasts year-round.

Around the Table with the Burkes: Cosmic Space Odyssey

After my bout with bronchitis, I was hopeful that the illnesses were over…No such luck as my youngest came down with a nasty cold and decided the only cure was to attach himself to me like a barnacle.

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A common mantra among the self-help crowd is some variation on the idea that you get out of life what you put in. What goes around, comes around; self-fulfilling prophecies; positive mental attitude. So I wonder if my continuing declaration that 2019 is a rough year is making 2019 a rough year. And what does that have to do with food?

My husband took dinner duty on Saturday with grilled pork chops, green beans, and spaetzle. Sunday I made roast beef with broccoli and noodles. We’re eating a lot of noodles these days.

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After my bout with bronchitis, I was hopeful that the illnesses were over and we could get through a busy week as planned – meals, activities, and meetings. No such luck as my youngest came down with a nasty cold and decided the only cure was to attach himself to me like a barnacle. Fortunately, my mother-in-law arrived on Monday (seriously, thank goodness for excellent in-laws), and she helped immensely with my older kids and getting my house in order. I went prepackaged on Monday with a frozen lasagna from Costco that was surprisingly acceptable!

Tuesday we celebrated my sick toddler’s second birthday. I made some of his favorites in the hope he would eat some real food. BBQ chicken in the Instant Pot, corn, and (shocker) noodles. He ate virtually nothing. However, he did provide his only smiles of the week when presented with cake. Cake: the cure for everything!

One of the things on my plate last week was Teacher Appreciation Week at my daughter’s school. I’m a person who really, REALLY appreciates my children’s teachers, and as Head Room Mom, I had quite a lot planned with a fun Outer Space theme! Wednesday was dessert day and I LOVE to bake, so I made Cosmic Brownies for the teachers, and – since my oven was already on – banana bread and pumpkin bread for my family. (My banana bread recipe is a favorite, found here.) For Cosmic Brownies I made a Ghirardelli boxed brownie mix and drizzled the top of the finished brownies with white chocolate colored blue, purple, and pink. In a Pinterest-packed frenzy I also made fruit rockets from strawberries and bananas.

For dinner on Wednesday we went with beef tacos, accompanied by black beans, corn, lettuce, and cheese. Thursday and Friday we went simple with leftovers and pizza night. Another week survived. Now I’m putting out into the universe that the coming week will be amazing and all will go according to plan. Whatever works!

Photos by Norah Burke

Photos by Norah Burke

Around the Table with the Burkes: Solo Parenting

The potatoes are a treat for me; my children torment their Irish and German ancestors by hating on potatoes and, as such, I don’t make them often.

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I left off last week with big plans to do some freezer meals and set myself up for an organized week of solo parenting. Best laid plans…

On Saturday my oldest son insisted we throw a surprise birthday party for his best friend who a) had already had a party, and b) hates surprises. My son was not to be deterred by these facts, so I made some macaroni & cheese, threw together a veggie tray, and ordered some cupcakes. Friends brought chicken to complete the meal. We all had a great time at the party no one actually wanted to happen.

Sunday I was struck down by whatever illness is floating around my kids’ schools, so my freezer meals were tossed out the window. However, I pulled myself together just enough to put a pork shoulder in the Instant Pot with barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cider vinegar; 90 minutes later we had pulled pork, paired with spaetzle and green beans.

My husband’s job took him to Winston Salem for most of the week, and I felt like I had been hit by a truck, so after struggling through Monday I picked up Happy Meals and called it a night. All hail the red-haired clown.

I found myself feeling slightly better on Tuesday, so I made an actual dinner of pulled chicken, green beans, and roasted potatoes. The potatoes are a treat for me; my children torment their Irish and German ancestors by hating on potatoes, and as such, I don’t make them often. Peel potatoes, cut into 1-inch squares. Coat with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, crushed rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425 for 20 minutes, increase to 450 for an additional 10. They’re ready when they start to brown.

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Wednesday evening was spent in the company of two toddlers, so I busted out the leftovers. An unexpected benefit of being husband free is the abundance of food in my fridge. I might get away with only cooking once or twice a week from now on. Won’t that make for some interesting articles…

Travis made his triumphant return home on Thursday. A better wife would have made a welcome home dinner, this wife (who was still sick) ordered a pizza.

Today I went to the doctor and learned I have bronchitis. Armed with this information and some medicine I have higher hopes for getting my act together next week. As for dinner tonight, we have yet to have the circular “I don’t know, what do you want to eat?” conversation, but I’m already leaning pasta.

Weeks like this one remind me why a plan is a wonderful thing to have.

Norah’s Simple Roasted Potatoes: Peel potatoes, cut into 1-inch squares. Coat with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, crushed rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425 for 20 minutes, increase to 450 for an additional 10. They’re ready when they start to brown.

2810[top]5: Croissants

Tomorrow is National Croissant Day. After taste-testing all of the croissants in Matthews over the course of two days, Beacon staff will probably not participate, but we’ve done the legwork for you to have the very best croissant experience.

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Nova’s Bakery is, hands down, the freshest croissant in Matthews.

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3565 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd.

M-F 6:30 AM - 7 PM
Sa-Su 8 - 7 PM

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Dilworth Coffee at Plantation Market has a well-stocked pastry case, complete with flaky, buttery croissants.

Facebook

3016 Weddington Rd., Ste 600

M-F 6:30 AM - 7 PM
Sa 8 - 7 PM
Su 9 - 3 PM

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Panera Bread makes a croissant with a crispy outside and an airy inside. We try to support small businesses, but this one can’t be ignored.

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1904 Matthews Township Parkway

M-Sa 6 AM - 9 PM
Su 7 AM - 9 PM


And though there are plenty of chain cafe or grocery store croissants available, that’s where our recommendations for a Wednesday (or any weekday) croissants end. If you’re in the mood for a croissant on a Saturday, though, you’re in luck!

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Carolina Artisan Bread is merging with Your Mom’s Donuts. Their authentic croissants are lovingly layered by hand, just as a good croissant should be.

Facebook

11025 Monroe Rd, Ste F

Currently only available on Saturdays. Get there early, doors open at 7:30.

(Photo source Facebook)

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Andria, of Queen City Kitchen, is a popular woman at the Farmer’s Market and when we crowdsourced local croissants several people named her as a must-include.

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Matthews Community Farmer’s Market

Sa 8 AM - 10 AM

(Photo source Facebook)

2810[top]5: The Sandwich Edition

With Herban Legend now open, one of these places might be bumped off the list, but until we get over there to try it out, here are the favorite 5 sandwich places in Matthews {in no particular order}.

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Picadeli’s Pub-n-Deli
Why? They’ve got reubens, and fantastic onion rings.

Opened in ‘91, Picadelis is a Matthews mainstay.

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1600 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd.

M 10 AM - 5 PM, T-Th 10:30 AM - 10 PM, F-Sa 10:30 AM - 11 PM, closed Sunday

(Photo source Facebook)

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Dorian’s Deli


Why? Family-friendly and more affordable than fast food, friendly staff, and always fresh.

Another Matthews mainstay.

Door Dash menu

1240 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd.

M-F 10:30 AM - 3 PM, Sa 11 AM - 3 PM, closed Sunday

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Kebab-Je
Why? Sometimes you need a really good falafel. Authentic Lebanese food in a cozy atmosphere.

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2233 Matthews Township Pkwy Ste E (In Sycamore Commons)

T-Sa 11 AM - 9:30 PM, Su 11 AM - 9 PM, closed Monday

(Photo source Facebook)

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The Loyalist Market
Why?You can try a different sandwich every single time without disappointment. Try the grilled cheese with a side of house made soup.

theloyalistmarket.com

435 North Trade Street #102

T - Sa 12 - 9 PM, Su 11 AM - 4 PM, closed Monday

(Photo source Facebook)

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Which Which
Why? Perfect for when you need something fast. Several vegetarian options.

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930 Park Center Dr.

M - Sa 10 AM - 9 PM, Su 11 AM - 8 PM, closed Monday

(Photo source whichwhich.com)

 
 

Morning Minute: October 18, 2018

News About Town: The Matthews Police have been working hard to keep our town safe. This past Tuesday Vice and Narcotics Detectives saw a drug deal occur outside a house on Newburg Lane. After the buyer left, officers pulled him over, found heroin then later returned to search the Newburg Lane home. Two men were arrested and charged with possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia

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News Around Town: The Bellé Grille, 3022 Weddington Rd. Suite 100, is one of 17 restaurants participating in Charlotte Black Restaurant Week. The week-long celebration aims to bring new patrons and greater exposure to area black-owned restaurants. At the Bellé Grille, you can choose from entrees like fried chicken and red velvet waffles, the Belly Buster burger, or smoked turkey ribs among other options. Enjoy meals priced at $10 or $20 or $50 for two meals now through Sunday, October 21.

One Important Thing: Before you vote, get to know the six constitutional amendments on the ballot this year. When you get to the polls you’ll have chance to vote for or against each of the amendments. Many groups have weighed in on the amendments, including the National Association of Social WorkersNC Center for Nonprofits, and NC Realtors.

Matthews Morning Minute: September 27, 2018

News About Town: If you’re already making plans for the weekend, make time to meet the Matthews Board of Commissioners for coffee and conversation this Saturday (September 29) at 9:00 a.m. at Bruegger's Bagels (1905 Matthews Township Parkway). These gatherings are a great way to bend an ear of our local leaders and get the firsthand scoop on things going on with the Town of Matthews.

Native asters to brighten a humid day.

Native asters to brighten a humid day.

News Above Town: The Weather Channel says there’s a 90% chance of rain so grab the closest umbrella.

News Around Town: While we’re on the subject of the weekend, this Friday is the last Food Truck Friday of the season. You can’t go wrong with any of the trucks, but our friend Lynn sings high praise for Yummi Banh Mi. The Entertainers will get you dancing after you’ve filled up your belly. If you’re a drinker and plan on visiting the beer tent, bring your ID, they card. Trucks start serving at 5 and event goers will already be in line.

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One Good Thing: Matthews is a town with a giving heart, as evidenced by the incredible nonprofits based in our town. Thompson Child and Family Focus is one such nonprofit. Founded in 1886 as an orphanage, Thompson now serves at-risk children and families from four campuses. Using therapy, education and prevention-based care, in 2017 Thompson served 12,811 clients and provided 225 full-time jobs.

More Than A Minute, September 13, 2018

CMS schools are closed today and tomorrow so some of the campuses can house Hurricane Florence evacuees.

In lieu of our regular Morning Minute we’ve put together a list of fun things to do with your kids during the extra-long hurrication.

1. Visit the Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station Street, before the hurricane gets here and stock up on books.

2. While you’re there, head upstairs and see the Town Hall. The Board of Commissioners and Mayor likely won’t be there, but the reception area is an impressive room appointed with local art and historical items.

3. Stay parked and walk over to Edible Art, 130-H Matthews Station Street. During hurricane breaks it’s perfectly normal to have cake for brunch. (Edible Art opens at 11.)

Edible Art at Matthews Station is, in fact, an aesthetic feast.

Edible Art at Matthews Station is, in fact, an aesthetic feast.

4. The next block over from Matthews Station Street is Charles Street. Stop by Karrousel Kids, 120 East Charles Street, for a new board game. 

5. Continue up Trade Street to Renfrow’s* for some sand bags (because you never know), farm fresh veggies (to balance out the cake), and cold weather vegetable plants. Create a temporary indoor garden for green relief during what looks to be very grey days ahead.

6. Stop by Zab’s Place, 101 North Trade Street, Matthews, for Pinterest-worthy upcycling ideas and a fancy outfit for a Hurricane Tea Party. 

7. Once you’re back in your car, head to Your Mom’s Donuts, 11025 Monroe Road, for either a snack or to stock up on sugar-laden bribes.

8. If the kids are all hopped up on sugar, drop them off for some play time. Charlotte Allstar Gymnastics and Cheerleading, 11011 Monroe Road, Matthews, is hosting open gym hours from 1:00-3:00 PM, both September 13 and 14 for five year olds & up. Cost is $10/child.

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Later, when you’re stuck in the house: 

1. Make a rain gauge

2. Don your new Zab’s Place outfit and have a Hurricane Tea Party. Invite your neighbors, too!

3. Scrounge around for some socks and make a  puppet show with stuff around your house.

4. If there’s power, use the free, downloadable  movies from the library's website to your advantage. 

A few cancellations to consider: 

  • Matthews 101 postponed from September 13 to September 20.

  • Jekyll & Hyde Taphouse’s Halfway to St. Paddy’s Day celebration is postponed from September 14 & 15 to September 21 & 22.

  • Backyard Birds visit from the Raptor Center scheduled for September 15 is cancelled.

  • Matthews Community Farmers Market is cancelled for September 15. 

  • Matthews UMC Fall Consignment Sale (September 15) is cancelled.

*Renfrow’s is a sponsor of the Beacon, but they did not ask for inclusion in this article, we just think an indoor garden is a good idea when the world outside is rainy and blustery.

Matthews Morning Minute, September 12, 2018

News About Town: All eyes are on Florence. FEMA has a thorough list for preparations. ReadyNC.org has information regarding all of North Carolina. Locally, stay updated with CharMeck Alerts.

ReadyNC has an app where you can follow developments of Hurricane Florence.

ReadyNC has an app where you can follow developments of Hurricane Florence.

News Above Town: They keep saying thunderstorms, but we’ve only had a few rumbles. What will tomorrow bring? Humidity for sure, and maybe scattered thunderstorms.  Temps will reach the upper 80s. The big question is, what will Thursday bring?

News Around Town: The forecast has us avoiding the worst of the storm, but that hasn’t stopped residents from rushing for supplies. It’s breaking news when a lucky few find bread, water, or gasoline.

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One Good Thing: ​Tickets are available for Blues & BBQ, an annual fundraiser for COS Kids, October 5. COS Kids fills a niche in Matthews by offering affordable full day childcare. Blues & BBQ supports the efforts to provide safe, accessible child care for single parents through an evening of lively music and delicious fare.

Matthews Morning Minute: September 6, 2018

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News About Town: The Cottage Greenway Project goes before the Board of Adjustment next Thursday (Sepember 13). Town Public Works department has recommended construction of a private road for the subdivision. According to the Town’s Unified Development Ordinance, all streets must be dedicated public. The quasi-judicial Board of Adjustment must determine several findings before approving or denying the request for variance.

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News Above Town: The Weather Channel says we’re heading back to the 90s, but don’t start singing Pearl Jam yet. The evenings take us back to the low 70s.

News Around Town: It’s time for the September First Thursday Matthews Crawl. Check out the vendors on the green in front of town hall, then hit up Moe’s BBQ for a Thanksgiving Sandwich or $1.25 ribs.

One Fun Thing: The monarchs are here! Monarchs migrate in the spring and again in the fall. It’s not quite fall, but a few have been spotted around town on their way to Mexico. How’d they know Matthews is a pit stop on the Butterfly Highway?

Matthews Morning Minute: September 5, 2018

News About Town: Just on the heels of the John Street widening project, NCDOT unveiled their plans to widen Highway 51 between Sardis Road and John Street. This is the first phase of a widening plan that will extend to Mint Hill. NCDOT’s goal is to improve traffic flow with the most current designs, including a continuous flow intersection. Neighbors through the corridor are left with uncertainty about their homes.

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News Above Town:  The Weather Channel shows highs in the upper 80s and lows around 70. Don’t turn off the AC yet.

News Around Town: Baked Well’s made-from-scratch Cookies for Claire satisfy your sweet tooth and your desire to do good deeds. Fifty percent of each cookie sale goes to Claire’s Army, a non-profit that supports families fighting childhood cancer and your desire to do good deeds. (Image from Baked Well’s Facebook page)

Open Tuesday thru Sunday, 7 AM - 2 PM; 10915 Monroe Rd. Suite D, Matthews

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One Fun Thing:  Head out to the Sportsplex for an international match as Charlotte Independence hosts six-time Liga MX champions, Club Santos Laguna.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018; 7:30 PM until; 2425 Sports Parkway, Matthews;  $30+.

The Loyalist Market

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#PreserveMatthews supports the small businesses that make Matthews unique. I recently asked the owner of the newly opened The Loyalist Market a few questions. I hope you'll read and enjoy learning more about them. Of course, go visit and support them as well. #PreserveMatthewsLocalBizInterview

Hi, my name is Chris Sottile, and I am the owner of The Loyalist Market, recently opened in downtown Matthew's North End District.

I am not a Matthews resident, but I live only 5 minutes away, less than a mile into Charlotte.  I brought my business to Matthews because I'm obsessed with the authenticity of Main Street USA.  With Matthews being the only main street community within the I-485 loop (besides Charlotte), I knew that's where I wanted to be. 

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I looked at the obvious hot spots - NODA, Plaza Midwood, South End, and Uptown, but kept being drawn to Matthews.  I like the small town feel and I love what Matthews has become over the 11 years I've lived, especially recently.  I knew for sure I did not want to end up in a shopping center and I wanted to be a part of the community where people can start their night at The Loyalist and be able to walk down the street to end it at Seaboard, Jekyll & Hyde, or Stumptown Station. 

The amount of neighbors that have walked into our shop while we’ve been renovating to introduce themselves and tell us how excited they are has been really uplifting.

I found that I kinda overwhelmed myself with our product lineup!  It's one thing to write 2 checks to Sysco and US Foods and have everything you need, it's another to write 60 checks to all the small local independent food producers in and around our community that The Loyalist will be representing.  The concept is a cut-to-order cheese and charcuterie shop offering local artisan groceries.  But we'll also offer sandwiches and salads during the day and operate as a Cheese Bar at night with cheesemonger-driven meat and cheese boards with beer and wine. We teach several classes on cheese pairings each month and offer daily food and drink specials. If you want to bring a crowd, we host private classes for groups of 8+ and rent out our space for special events.

We've got about 40 different cheeses and 20 different cured meats so I usually have a new favorite everyday.

We've got about 40 different cheeses and 20 different cured meats so I usually have a new favorite everyday.

But on our cheese bar menu, we've got a snack called Devils on Horseback which are dates stuffed with Mexican chorizo and Manchego cheese, wrapped in bacon and served with real maple syrup.  Each one is gone in a bite, but they're insanely addictive.

I still have to drive to get to the shop, but once in downtown, you can walk almost anywhere.  Google Map us to the Matthews Station Street and we're only 900ft away.  I think once we open, people are going to realize just how walkable Trade Street really is and how much there is to offer in downtown Matthews.  And if you're within biking distance, we've got a bike rack out front to park your bike.

Two people that really helped me while I was getting this concept off the ground are Alexis Botero and Elena Mizrahi of Royal Cafe & Creperie at Matthews Station.  First of all, they have an amazing story and they are just really good, down to earth people that love what they do and care about their employees and customers.  And they've got the best crepes in the county so that doesn't hurt either!

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We're located at 435 N Trade Street #102 in the North End District. 

Hours:  11am-4pm Sunday
              CLOSED Monday
              12pm-9pm Tuesday - Saturday

Our website is www.theloyalistmarket.com

Definitely check us out on Facebook and Instagram @theloyalistmarket.

Look forward to seeing everyone real soon!

This interview was originally posted on Preserve Matthews' Facebook page. Images take for Matthews Beacon by Charles Lybrand.