I enjoy being out on the town and having a good meal, and I recently ran across a fairly new soul food spot called Rebecca’s Taste of the South, located next to Cheddar’s Restaurant in the University area.
The venue is extremely large, with a private banquet room. So I was a bit taken aback when I walked in on a Friday around dinnertime and, with the exception of one couple, the place was empty. I had an Arsenio Hall moment, thinking to myself, “things that make you go hummm.”
The hostess was extremely pleasant, and I was seated in the banquet area for a private film screening. Several minutes later a waiter asked if I was ready to order. I asked for a menu and a glass of cold water, no ice.
The time was 5:15 p.m., and the venue wasn’t crowded. I left close to 8 p.m. Oh, and by the way, I never saw my waiter again.
Not sure whether Rebecca’s is a bust or must, but I do know that I left hungry and displeased. I certainly hope this was just a temporary setback, because dining in the University area is one of my favorite things to do on the town.
Sherwin Forte, one of the six original Black Panthers, was in town last weekend for an intimate meet and greet at Little Rock AME Zion Church. The evening was definitely an educational experience. Listening to him share his journey as a Panther was priceless!
Mr. Forte is featured in the new documentary, “The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution.” If you missed the Dec. 3 screening at Concord Mills, no worries; another will be held Monday, Jan. 18, at Studio Movie Grill EpiCentre.
Jazz season 2015 came to a close last weekend in the Charlotte area with a superb show featuring the legendary David Sanborn. Opening for Sanborn was the Mike Frost band. If you are not familiar with Mike Frost, you better ask someone.
Now for my weekend picks.
FRIDAY
Christmas by the Lake ~ This annual event features boaters who trim their vessels with lights and holiday décor to parade on Lake Wylie near the Buster Boyd Bridge. Boats will meet at T-Bones on the Lake to line up, and the route spans both sides of the bride. Best viewing is from the deck at T-Bones and the boat landing. Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. More info: Call the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce (803-831-2827) or email info@lakewyliesc.com.
SATURDAY
Comedian Shaun Jones ~ Shaun Jones has been on B.E.T’s Comic View, “1st Amendment Standup” on Starz, and Robert Townsend’s “Partners in Crime: The Next Generation.” He also was in the 2003 film “Shade” as a crooked poker player. Check him out this weekend (Dec. 9-12) at The Comedy Zone (1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.) More info: https://www.cltcomedyzone.com
SUNDAY
Ultimate Tailgate Party (Panthers vs Falcons) ~ Head to Sydney’s Martini & Wine Bar and join the Law Offices of Harold Cogdell Jr., Herb and Felicia Gray, Artie and Allen Grier, Corie Shackleford & Executive Entertainment for the ultimate tailgate party. We will be cheering the Panthers on to victory! Early arrival is advised. The location is 401 N. Tryon St. More info: (704) 503-9060.
For more Charlotte-area events, visit www.qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com/events.
