So you haven't attended a NC Competition Dining Series Event? You're so missing out...what are you waiting for?!

Final Fire- Round 2-November 21, 2013
Flights Restaurant-Raleigh, NC vs. Noble's Grille, Winston-Salem, NC

Course #1 Dish:  Bacon Confit, Crispy Farro, Wild Mushroom, 64° Egg Yolk, Pecan Puree, Candied Pecans

Critique:  For the record-all is well when bacon is involved.  Sweetly thought this dish was bland, but The Hotness approved simply because of the bacon confit.  The candied pecans provided a lovely sweet tasty counter-balance against the saltiness of the bacon.

Weighted Score:  21.09 (Noble’s Grille)







Course #2 Dish:  Quail & Waffles, Pecan Fried Quail, Cornbread Waffle, Chipotle Sweet Potato, Honey Butter, Apple Ginger Honey, Candied Pecans

Critique:  Great play on the classic chicken and waffles!  The Hotness loved the crunchy crispiness of the pecan fried quail.  Sweetly complained that the quail was fried “too hard” but still was delicious, not to mention, the sweet potato puree with cornbread waffles with honey butter gave this dish the edge it needed. The Hotness secretly has a thing for waffles and fried foods.

Weighted Score: 20.18 (Flights)





Course #3 Dish:  Flounder, Citrus Ravioli, Pecan Sausage, Pecan Smoked Fennel, Tarragon Emulsion

Critique:  One of our favorite dishes of the night!  The flounder and citrus ravioli left Sweetly truly speechless.  She kept repeating “Citrus me up, baby!”  After the first bite, The Hotness wanted to be “citrused up” too…whatever that means.  This homerun dish made everyone at our table sing Kumbaya.  Tis absolutely worthy of a 4 out of 4 Hottie score!

Weighted Score:  23.32 (Noble’s Grille)



Course #4 Dish:  Pepsi® & Mystery Brewing Smoked Rye Stout Braised Pork Belly, Asian Pecan Glaze, Sweet Potato & Pecan Grits, Leese-Fitch Chardonnay Creamed Collards

Critique:  Porkbelly!  Not sure why we’re fans of everything pork, but we can’t help ourselves.  We are pork fans!  No need to hide Wilbur or Babe though.  This dish gets points for its creativity using pecans in the grits and sweet potatoes.  The chardonnay creamed collards were quite rich and flavorful, making for a heavy dish.

Weighted Score:  21.24 (Flights)




Course #5 Dish:  Toasted Pecan Caramel, Vanilla Cake, Spiced Diplomat, White Chocolate Pecan

Critique:  Awesome! Heaven on earth!  Fantastic!  There aren’t enough adjectives to describe the marvelous creation of this dessert.  We have never heard of “spiced diplomat” before, but after the first bite, we were both smiling and screaming, “Spice me up, baby!”  Simply wonderful.

Weighted Score:  21.60 (Noble’s Grille)






Course #6 Dish:  Apple Pie with Pecan Streusel, Eggnog Ice Cream, Maker’s Mark Chocolate Sauce, Spicy Pecan Syrup

Critique:  Eggnog ice cream and Maker’s Mark chocolate sauce…say what?!  The flavor of the ice cream was quite unique in very, very good way.  The apple pie with pecans was a delectable compliment to the ice cream and the texture was perfect.  No complaints at all, it was a fine plate to finish off the night.  

Weighted Score:  21.38 (Flights)




Both chefs did an outstanding and phenomenal job representing their restaurant.  Noble's Grill won this round!  Final Weighted Average Scores- 20.93 (Flights) and 21.99 (Noble's Grille)  Although we didn’t know which chefs prepared what dish when voting, we later found out that based on our favorites- Sweetly was #TeamNoblesGrille and The Hotness was #TeamFlights.  Professional judges scores count 70% and diner scores count 30% of the weighted scores.   We can’t wait until the 2014 Competition Dining Series arrives!  Visit www.competitiondining.com to find out more information!  Thank you Jimmy Crippen for bringing this event to North Carolina! +Competition Dining Series

Cheddar Makes It Oh So Better...

Restaurant:  Cheddar's Casual Cafe in Winston-Salem, NC

Dish:  Cheddar’s Chicken and Waffles

Critique:  This classic humdinger of a dish is made for those who are willing to walk on the dark calorie side. That’s right, these hand battered, crispy chicken tenders are served on top a warm Belgium waffle. Chicken and Waffles.  Who ever thought of this tasty idea deserves an award for the perfect combination. The chicken tenders tasted fine, however The Hotness demanded pieces of dark meat instead of the tenders but Cheddar’s refused this formal request.  To give this dish the extra pizazz it needs, The Hotness suggests maybe serving hot and spicy chicken instead or using unique flavored                                                                                         waffles.

                                                                                    Score: 2 ½ out of 4 Hotties!

Hickory Smoked Baby Back Ribs & Hand Battered Shrimp with Homemade Red Beans and Rice, Buttered Off the Cob Corn

Critique:  By far, the red beans and rice were the stars of this yummy entrée.  The ribs were fall off the bone good, hickory smoked just the way we liked, and topped with an awesomely tasty BBQ sauce.  While the hand battered shrimp weren’t bad, we would have preferred more of a Cajun flavor.   The corn was sweet and oh so buttery, we’re convinced that the corn was shucked right before coming to the table.

Score:  3 out of 4 Hotties!


Fresh Baked Honey Croissants

Critique:  Oh my goodness! Who loves bread? And who loves warm croissants with a touch of honey butter?  We do!   Not one to keep count, but between The Hotness and Sweetly there were at least 20 croissants devoured.  No Cheddar Croissant was safe during our dining experience.

Score:  4 out of 4 Hotties!!

Poole's Diner...Sometimes You Want to Go Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Restaurant:  Poole's Diner

Dish:  Chicken Liver Pâté with Grand Marnier and Peach Mostarda

Critique:  Okay, we won’t disclose the utter hilarity of The Hotness and Sweetly trying to pronounce the name of this dish…just know that mastering international languages is not our thing.  Poole’s Diner gets BIG points on their presentation.  If you enjoy liver then you will enjoy this dish.   When eaten together, the pâté and mustard were very harmonious.  The consistency of the pâté was smooth to a fault, but still tasty- we definitely needed the provided accompaniments to assist the pâté. 

Score: 3 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Dish:  Cornmeal Fried Okra with Roasted Tomato Aioli

Critique:  “Delectable.  Quite Delicious,” were the only words Sweetly kept uttering as she ate the okra.  What makes these delectable appetizers so unique was that each piece of okra was completely whole- no sliced okra here folks.  Yum! And the cornmeal breading was so light, the flavor of the okra wasn’t drowned out.  Extra Yum!  The okra was well seasoned and cooked to perfection.  Delectable indeed!  Oh and the roasted tomato aioli…slam dunk (Michael Jordan style)!

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Dish:  Macaroni Au Gratin

Critique:  The Hotness requested a moment of silence when the macaroni au gratin arrived at our table.  First of all, The Hotness and Sweetly are connoisseurs of macaroni and cheese, but let us tell you…this macaroni au gratin took things to another level.  Say what? Yes, what! This macaroni au gratin will leave you speechless, the super heaping portion they give you should be against the law…and The Hotness would gladly get arrested.  The cheesiness is worth it—absolutely a must have during one’s lifetime.

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Dish:  Chicken Saltimbocca with Prosciutto and Americano Charred Summer Squash, Sweet Onion Salad, and Heirloom Tomato Relish

Critique:  We don’t know who or what “Saltimbocca” is- but we love what you’ve done with the chicken.  Tender, juicy, and flavorful is all one can ask for when devouring savory chicken and Poole’s Diner more than delivered.  Not to mention, the summer squash with onions tasted awesomely fresh from the garden.  Thank you, Mr. Saltimbocca!

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Dish:  Warm Peach Cobbler with Malted Milk Ice Cream

Critique:  Simplicity at its finest. Period.  One of the best peach cobblers ever! No further words are needed to expound on this flawless dish.  The warm peaches, mouthwatering cobbler, and phenomenal ice cream.  Well done, Poole’s Diner.  Well done.

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Benjamin's Calabash! The Original Seafood Restaurant!

The Original Benjamin's Calabash Seafood Buffet

Dish:  Hushpuppies

Critique:  These are by far the best hushpuppies in all the land!  They tasted like a combination of buttery cornbread and Krispy Kreme donuts.  Be careful!  They immediately place these delicious , hot treats on the table when you sit down.  If you’re not careful, you’ll eat the entire basket and leave no room for dinner.  The Hotness decrees Benjamin’s Calabash hushpuppies are a weapon of mass yumminess!  You’ve been warned.

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  All You Can Eat Crab Legs

Critique:  Crab lovers this is the joint to crash to satisfy your crab addiction.  The Hotness and Sweetly attempted to eat  all the crab legs in sight, but to no avail- they kept bringing out more and more and more!  Yes, they were hot, steamy, and fresh- everything one can ask for from Mr. Crab!

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  Barbecue Ribs and Juicy Steak

Critique:  Who doesn’t enjoy mountains of BBQ ribs and tender steak?  We have no complaints what so ever…each item on the buffet tasted like it was prepared with time and care.  The ribs were fall off the bone good and the steak- my goodness, we don’t know how they seasoned this steak but boy do we love the Calabash style!

Score:  4 Out of 4 Hotties!!









Dish:  Cup Cakes and Rice Krispy Treats

Critique:  Honestly, this picture doesn’t do justice to the phenomenal dessert spread that takes place at Benjamin’s Calabash- there are humongous cakes, pies, and puddings.  The Hotness favorite dessert is Benjamin’s soft serve ice cream… truly tis indescribable; must be made from Mother’s Milk.

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

The Mandolin Restaurant Bringing Uniqueness to Each Dish

Restaurant:  Mandolin in Raleigh, NC

Dish:  Country-Fried Hudson Valley Foie Gras

Critique:  Yeppers!  “We’re moving on up to a deluxe apartment in the sky!”  That’s right; we’re eating fancy French food.  We have never tried foie gras before, but the way the waiter pronounced the dish (fwa gra) made it sound so beautiful.   Leave it to the French to make goose liver sound absolutely decadent.  Oh and it was! It felt like we were sinning with each bite.   Served with black truffle-creamed corn crepes, topped with plump blackberries and black pepper- this foie gras experience is worth repeating over and over again.  Merci Mandolin for providing us with our wonderful first foie gras         memories!   Until we meet again, au revoir!

                                                                                   Score: 4 out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:  Chicken and Waffles with Braised Greens

Critique:  Oh yea, babe…who doesn’t like fried chicken and waffles?  Well, the Madolin’s dish is the upscale version.  It even arrived with some pretty foam on top- Sweetly almost sent the plate back because she thought they were suds.  The Hotness had to explain that the foam was a fancy decoration.  Now to the good stuff- the chicken breast was crispy, moist, and complimented the buckwheat waffles perfectly.  Our only complaint was that the greens had way too much vinegar and the level of acidity was distracting.  Nonetheless, the sautéed mushrooms and bacon helped make this dish a hit.

                                                                                    Score: 3 ½ out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:  Peach Bourbon Bread Pudding

Critique:  The Hotness loved the tasty North Carolina peaches and one could definitely taste the bourbon throughout the dessert.  However, she only wished that the dish was sweeter, maybe add a touch off honey or a pound of sugar.  Mandolin, don’t be afraid.  Come on…bring the sweetness! We can handle it.

Score: 3 out of 4 Hotties!

Delta's Restaurant...Great Soul Food with a Twist

Restaurant:  Delta's in Charlotte, NC

Dish:  Duck Spring Roll

Critique:  A duck egg roll?  Who would have thought of such a thing?  It’s stuffed with duck, chicken, collard greens, cabbage, and carrots.  Wow, sounds fantastic, right?!  Well, unfortunately none of these ingredients are distinguishable within the egg roll.  Not to mention, there wasn’t enough filling on the inside.  We mostly tasted the wrap of the egg roll vs. the filling inside.  Excuse us Delta’s! Don’t you know if the chef doubles the egg roll filling it will equal double the eating pleasure? Ooooh Yeah! Let’s make it happen, Captain!

Score: 2 Out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:   Catfish Fingers

Critique:  Catfish fans…you won’t be disappointed.  These pieces of moist and perfectly seasoned fish were created to be devoured.  The Hotness didn’t want to share any of the fish until Sweetly politely reminded her that “sharing is caring”.  After complaining about using such a quote at an inopportune time, The Hotness managed to begrudgingly share this delectable appetizer.  Fantastic dish! Not recommended for those who have issues with sharing.

 Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:  Thick Turkey Chop Smothered in Onion Gravy

Critique:  “Happy! Happy! Joy! Joy!”  All the sides of this dish exceedingly met our expectations- collard greens, baked macaroni and cheese, and candied yams.  If we smiled any harder from the joy of consuming this meal, we would have been arrested for blinding our fellow patrons with our teeth.  The only downside…the turkey chop was a bit dry and tough.   The Hotness had to truly smother her chop with extra gravy to make it savory.

Score:  3 Out of 4 Hotties!



Dish: Peach Cobbler and Cornbread

Critique:  I bet you’re wondering why have peach cobbler with cornbread?  And I bet you’re wondering where the crust is for the peach cobbler…so were we!  The Hotness has never experienced such a travesty against a peach cobbler.  The crust was sorely missing which is why she was so happy to see the cornbread.  Who knew cornbread could be a winner?  It was crumbly, delicious, and sweet just the way we like it.  Oh Delta’s, the peaches were lovely but the dish needs some type of dough or crust to achieve that oasis known as “peach cobbler.” Until then, we’ll have the cornbread for dessert.

Score:  4 Out of 4 Hotties for Cornbread/ 2 Out of 4 Hotties for the Cobbler!

Hotpoint Deli Creates One of a Kind Dishes...Brace Yourself!

Restaurant: Hotpoint Deli in Cary, NC

 Dish:  Thanksgiving on a Bun

Critique:  For those who can’t wait for Thanksgiving to arrive once a year…this lovely sandwich will satisfy those Thanksgivingly desires.  Smoked turkey…check! Cranberries…check!  Stuffing…check!  Plus there’s Bacon!  The thick sun-dried tomato bread perfectly accompanied this traditional feast on its trip to your mouth.  The Hotness would have preferred more cranberry relish as there was plenty of turkey piled high for consumption.  Feeling like eating Thanksgiving dinner in one bite? Then Gobble Gobble! Hotpoint Deli will take care of the raging turkey craving inside of you.

Score:  3 Out of 4 Hotties!


Dish:  Catfish Quesadilla

Critique:  Wildly unique, yet tantalizing.  Sweetly didn’t have much hope on this dish being successful…a fish quesadilla?  Yeah baby…it works, tortilla crushed catfish, black beans, rice, and cheese all stuffed inside an overflowing quesadilla.  Even more fantastic is the eclectic sauce covering this Mexican plato- chipotle mixed with house made ranch dressing topped with black bean paste.  We would like to give kudos to the catfish for being moist and flavorful, thank you beans and rice for playing nicely with the fish, and to the cheese that always knows how to please…thank you for bringing harmony to this fun fiesta.  We know it was a challenge to get all the ingredients not to overshadow each other.  Well done! Encore!

Score:  3 Out of 4 Hotties!


Dish:  Garlic Shrimp Burrito

Critique:  As you can see there is no picture of el burrito.  The Hotness was too devastated to snap a picture...many moons ago she had the Garlic Shrimp Burrito at Hotpoint Deli and it was exquisite-humongous shrimp bursting to escape the burrito, savory garlic flavor that packed a punch that one could never forget.  Alas, this impostor of the garlic shrimp burrito had little shrimp with little garlic flavor.  Que Pasa? We don't know, but someone should get to the bottom of it and find the former glorious Garlic Shrimp Burrito ASAP. The Hotness has already hired a private detective to solve this tragedy.

Score: 2 Out of 4 Hotties!

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar...Wait a Second. Cow what? It's Delicious!

Restaurant:  The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar in Raleigh, NC

Dish:  Warm Bacon & Spinach Side Salad

Critique:  Ummm…Hmmm.  The Hotness usually doesn’t waste precious stomach space on salads but this here salad dish is truly the exception.  The warm bacon vinaigrette dressing is what makes this salad da bomb diggity!  Oh yes, Mr. Salad…I like the way you work it.   Beware- the feta cheese, housemade croutons, red onions, and hard-boiled eggs will treat your tastebuds to an experience those buds will never forget.  Not to mention names- but someone who wanted the flavors forever seared in her brain licked the plate clean.  Keep workin’ it, Mr. Warm Bacon Salad! Wit yo bad self…

Score:  4 Out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:  Fusion Specialty Bento Box

Critique:  We admit the combination of burgers and sushi may sound a bit strange, but let us be the first to tell our readers that The Cowfish potentially has unlocked the key to the universe by creating this unique concept.  Our bento box included the mini-Schroomin’ Swiss Burger topped with mouthwatering sautéed mushrooms, sweet & spicy Thai cucumbers, world’s best sweet potato fries, and Mark’s specialty sushi rolls.  Deep breath.  Taking deep breaths is what we had to do in order to complete our meal; we literally could not stop eating since the food was so overwhelmingly DELICIOUS.  Bravo, Cowfish!  The Hotness doesn’t care about your weird name, she doesn’t care about eating a fish with a cow, or a cow with a fish- she just cares about eating a great dish.  Sorry had to go Dr. Seuss on everyone, it's just that serious.  Great food.

Score: 4 Out of 4 Hotties!

Dish:  Fresh Berry Tall Cake

Critique:  Hallelujah! Hallelujah!  When this dish from Heaven was presented some of the actual quotes were:  “Wow, this place is really awesome.” “Oh my goodness, I can’t eat another bite. Sike!” “I feel so guilty.”  Yes, we are guilty as charged for enjoying this sheer delectable dessert.  Don’t try to eat this warm, moist lemon pound cake with super scoops of vanilla ice cream and berries all by your lonesome, this will require team effort.   Not to mention names…but someone almost cried from joy.  We highly recommend joining the Berry Tall Cake Club.

Score:  4 Out of 4 Hotties!!

Oh Taste Restaurant...We Have Tasted and We Want More!

Restaurant:  Taste in Raleigh, NC

Dish:  Fresh Caprese Salad, Bruschetta with Feta, and Taste Flatbread

Critique:  "Get down on it, Get down on it..."  That's right, Taste Restaurant makes everyone want to get down on ALL of it.  Although hidden away in Raleigh, this local gem is worthy for a grand discovery on the scale of Christopher Columbus.  Oh Taste, where have you been all our lives?  The Fresh Caprese Salad is the epitome of the word fresh, it includes roma tomatoes, avocados, fresh basil and mozzarella drizzled with Balsamic reduction.  Mr. Bruschetta and Mrs. Feta and Tomatoes were joined in a perfect union that produced a wondrous experience.  And we are still "Getting Down on It" with the flatbread topped with bacon, pineapple, and basil- this combination is DELICIOUS.  That's right, go ahead shake it Taste..."We're Getting Down on It"

Score:  4 out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  Petite Filet with Sauteed Spinach and Roasted Red Skin Potatoes

Critique:  Sure, the steak was petite but the TASTE wasn't (no pun intended)—think fireworks explosion 4th of July style.  Cooked perfectly, it was melt in your mouth perfection.  The Hotness wondered how is it possible for steak to truly melt in one's mouth?  No doubt, the truffle oil butter assisted in the steak's exquisiteness.   Savory pecans added an unique texture to the spinach while the rosemary and garlic complimented the roasted red potatoes.  Tasty, tasty, and more tasty.

Score:  4 out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  Crab Crusted Salmon with Brussels Sprouts

Critique:  First of all, the brussels sprouts had tiny bits of cherry wood bacon in every single bite. Bonus points :)  We could have done without the red peppers on top of the salmon.  The crusted crab added another dimension to this seafood medley that caused each crumb to be consumed off the plate.  If diners wish to grant their tastebuds a new adventure, then Taste Restaurant is the place to be.  Now go ahead and "Get down on it!"

Score: 3 1/2 out of 4 Hotties!

Second St. Restaurant...Who Knew Food was so Tasty in Virginia?

Restaurant: Second St: An American Bistro, Williamsburg, VA

Dish:  Second Street Lasagna

Critique:  Who on Earth has heard of Second St. Restaurant?  This place should be called First St. to our heart. Although we did not have any expectations beforehand, Second St. officially bought the party to our plates and we didn't even mind the party crashers- the more flavor the merrier! Let's talk about the lovely Lasagna...oh how lovely it is :)  The sauce is what makes this dish, it's no wallflower and let's you know who's the boss.  Italian sausage, garlic, ground beef, and a six-cheese blend?  Say what? This is classic lasagna at its' very BEST.

Score:  3 1/2 out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish: Roasted Lamb with Vegetable du Jour

Critique: Perfection...utter perfection.  From the lamb to the vegetables grown straight from the garden of Heaven, The Hotness commented this dish was too pretty to eat...she lasted for about two seconds before diving in. Twas' a noble effort indeed.

Score: 4 out of 4 Hotties!







Dish:  Caramel Street Donuts and Vanilla Bean-Ginger Creme Brulee

Critique:  "Two desserts are better than one."  Do remember these wise words when visiting Second St. Restaurant.  The donuts win the contest against creme brulee hands down and the warm salted caramel dipping sauce is an added bonus.  Let the dipping begin!!

Score:  3 out of 4 Hotties!

TriBeCa Tavern Making Burgers and Dreams Come True...Go Ahead and Make a Wish

Restaurant: TriBeCa Tavern in Raleigh, NC

Dish:  Japanese Black Chicken Wings

Critique:  Don't let your eyes deceive you, these chicken wings are not burnt.  They have been marinated in pineapple juice and soy sauce then cooked until the sugars are completely gone, leaving a crispy black crust. We must admit at first glance, the wings look a bit off putting.  However, as The Hotness mom likes to say, "Looks aren't everything...it's what's on the inside that counts."  And with these wings the outside and inside definitely count!  This appetizer was a welcome tasty surprise that receives extra points for creativity.

Score: 3 out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  Lamb Sirloin Burger and The Mountaineer Burger

Critique:  One of the great attributes of TriBeCa Tavern is that it uses all local North Carolina meats and ingredients.  With every single bite, the freshness is impossible to escape. The lamb burger is topped with buttermilk bleu cheese, grilled onions, and roasted tomatoes, it makes one forget all about Mary.  Now the Mountaineer is packed for those adventurous enough to try something unique- fresh ground beef topped with horseradish chive Havarti,  shiitake mushrooms, grilled scallions, and horseradish aioli.  Go ahead and make your day by ordering a TriBeCa Burger.  Be forewarned...although The Hotness finished it in on bite- it's a lotta burger.

Score: 4 out of 4 Hotties!!


Dish:  Banana Bread Pudding and Key Lime Pie

Critique:  Oh yea babe!  Honestly, there isn't much to be said on these two desserts besides yum and mmmy.  One doesn't realize how difficult it is to find a truly delish and fulfilling dessert until it's needed.  Boy did we need it! The Bread Pudding has roasted bananas, spicy rum caramel sauce, and white chocolate chips.  Not to be outdone, the Key Lime pie shines with the correct amount of tanginess. Good times indeed!

Score: 4 out of 4 Hotties!!