I was talking with a church member the other day, discussing where to find good food in the Queen City.
“Toni,” she said, “you hit quite a few places on the town. I never hear you mention Jake’s.”
My reply: “Who is Jake?”
Well, I definitely know who Jake is now. Featured several years ago on the Food Network, Jake’s Good Eats (formerly a gas station) is out of this world! I started out with the cornmeal-fried oysters with bacon-braised spinach, which practically melted in my mouth. My main entree was a huge maple-glazed pork chop, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, candied apples and sautéed spinach topped with maple glaze.
And you best believe I didn’t leave without dessert, all of which are homemade by Jake’s mom. The bread pudding I ordered was simply scrumptious.
So if you’re looking for Toni on the town, try finding me at Jake’s. Attire is casual. The staff is extremely friendly, and manager Heather left me feeling right at home. The address is 12721 Albemarle Road.
Now for my weekend picks:
FRIDAY
Rebirth of Comedy ~ Stage actor, gospel singer and stand-up comedian David Mann, aka Mr. Brown, who starred in many of Tyler Perry’s plays and sitcoms, is performing at Elevation Church (8105 IBM Drive) in the University area. Special guest Mark Gregory and Big Red. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Seating is general admission and VIP. More info.
SATURDAY
Jazz on the Waterfront Festival ~ Performing artists are Spyro Gyra, Peter White, Richard Elliot, Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp, Chuck Loeb, Oli SIlk and many more. This three-day, outdoor event runs April 8-10 at Queens Landing, Lake Norman…rain or shine. April is jazz month, so get out and enjoy the festivities. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 800-838-3006.
SUNDAY
Plena Libre ~ While this Puerto Rican ensemble is known to follow tradition styles of music, Plena Libre also is known for its strong blend of jazz elements. This group has toured internationally and has received multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy nominations. Sponsored by the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Charlotte, this event will be at Neighborhood Theater (511 E. 36th St). Doors open at 5 p.m. with show time at 6 p.m. Cost: $20 in advance and $25 at the door. More info.
For more Charlotte-area events, visit http://qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com/events-entertainment/.
