Union Provisions
With its primo location at the corner of King and Morris (and expansive windows designed to take advantage of the views), plus chic-but-inviting interior decor, we had high hopes for Union Provisions that were dashed upon an early visit but reignited on a recent evening. Newly appointed executive chef Chari Skinner’s fried chickpeas ($4) made a tasty snack, and the “chicken and dumplings”— braised chicken with gnocchi, maitake mushrooms, and picholines ($22)—is worth going back for. Friendly, knowledgeable service and a lively crew behind the bar helped make for an enjoyable experience. www.unionprovisions.com
Minero
Sean Brock has forayed into inexpensive street food, and the results are delicioso. If you can snag a table (it took us three visits on three separate days to accomplish this; the host told us it was “first come, first survival”), delve into a menu that ranges from traditional Mexican fare, like queso fundido with chorizo ($9), to dishes that display Brock’s Southern touch, such as shrimp and masa grits ($9) and a fried catfish taco ($4). And while Minero has a solid selection of beer, tequila, and cocktails (we’re told happy hour wait times are no problema), we opted for nonalcoholic choices like horchata ($4), a delicious spiced almond milk drink made fresh daily. We’ll be heading back soon to try the signature burrito stuffed with Hoppin’ John ($9) and prepped-at-your table Valentina-sauced hot wings ($8), too. www.minerorestaurant.com
