One of Charlotte’s Favorite Taco Joints Is About To Open Their 6th Location

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One of Charlotte’s favorite taco joints is about to open their sixth location in the heart of South Park.

Sabor Latin Street Grill will be opening their newest 1,955 square feet location in the Morrison development off Sharon Road.

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Owner Dalton Espaillat said the new location will open sometime in March, according to a recent press release.

“We are excited about Sabor’s future. We feel fortunate that the community has attached to us in this manner and we will always strive to give them the best food and best value to honor and retain that loyalty,” Espaillat commented.

Sabor opened their first location in the Elizabeth Neighborhood just 3 years ago, focused on traditional flavors of authentic Latin American street food.

Hello Nacho!!! Nice to eat ya! que rico!!! Gracias @saborlatingrill @saborlatinstreetgrill

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They offer scratch-items that are prepared using authentic techniques, including; tacos, burritos, empanada, arepas, nachos made with yuca fries or Elote Loco (corn on the cob coated with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder).

sometimes you want the elote more than the tacos #elote #saborlatingrill #charlotte #clt

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They currently have 5 locations around the Charlotte area, including in Elizabeth, NoDa, Wesley Chapel, Indian Trail, and Steele Creek.

Have you been to Sabor before?

Are you excited about their new South Park location?

Here’s What Makes Charlotte’s Elizabeth Neighborhood Truly Unique – Neighborhood Stories

streetscape_optCharlotte’s neighborhoods represent the eclectic and diverse side of the Queen City. Each community has its own personality and vibe. For many, their neighborhood becomes an extended family. Residents develop strong pride and love for the people, events and local businesses. Neighborhood Stories will highlight the various neighborhoods in and around Charlotte.

The Elizabeth neighborhood, named for Elizabeth College, is located southeast of center city. The community includes Central Piedmont Community College, Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Carolinas Medical Center-Mercy, and many restaurants, shops and bars. It is also home to Independence Park, the City of Charlotte’s first owned public-park, which was built in 1904. The Gold Line trolley is a recent addition to the neighborhood. It runs from the Time Warner Cable Arena to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center.

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Vibrant Community

Elizabeth iVersion 2s an active neighborhood with year-round events planned by residents and the Elizabeth Community Association (ECA). Community-wide events are planned almost every month. The neighborhood is known in Charlotte for their Great Pumpkin Wall, Rosemont Manor Haunted House and having one of the best cheering parties for the Charlotte Marathon.

Charlotte’s oldest road race, the Elizabeth 8K Road Race is in its 31st year. This year the race is on Saturday, March 25, 2017. It starts and ends at Independence Park. Proceeds from the race benefit trees.

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Rob Zabel, an 11-year resident of Elizabeth, coordinates the race. “It benefits trees – the beautification of the Elizabeth neighborhood and the replenishing of Elizabeth and Charlotte tree canopies,” said Zabel.

For the first time, the race will have its own signature beer. Legion Brewing is creating an Elizabeth 8K Session Ale for the event, and it will be available on-tap at Legion and on-site at the race.

Independence Park is a 19-acre park located on the western end of the neighborhood. It has a playground, sand volleyball court, baseball field, basketball courts, ping-pong and walking trails that lead to Little Sugar Creek Greenway. The newly renovated Rose Garden within Independence Park will be rededicated at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 20, 2017.

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Vibe

Laina Kafiti, an Elizabeth resident for six years, explained that the parks and local businesses are like their personal back yard. She said, “It feels like an urban family environment to me – kids hanging out on the street, riding their bikes, going to each other’s houses, playing in the yards. My kids are walking up to Showmars, Starbucks and up to the park.”

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Zabel said, “It has a good eclectic urban feel. I moved down with my wife from New York. I didn’t want to end up in the suburbs someplace. I am able to walk a block to a Starbucks, do my dry cleaning, hit yoga and multiple bars.”

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Kris Solow has been a resident of Elizabeth for 29 years. She and her husband, Rick Solow, raised their sons in the neighborhood. She said, “A lot of people are transplants and Elizabeth gives a sense of community. People come together for a common cause. We have events and neighborhood camaraderie.” Solow was concerned that the neighborhood did not have any public art. With a grant from the city and the Arts and Science Council, they were able to get a three-piece installation at the water tower on Pecan Ave.

 

Neighborhood Picks

Sunflour Bakery
Earl’s Grocery
Elizabeth Creamery
Spoke Easy
Bang Bang Burgers
Fig Tree
Sabor
Hawthorne’s New York Pizza & Bar
Anntony’s Caribbean Café
Cajun Queen
Viva Chicken
Carpé Diem
Passion8
Customshop
Kennedy’s

Connect on social media

Elizabeth Community Facebook page
Instagram
Twitter
“Ticket to Elizabeth” – 2009 podcast that provides an in-depth look at Elizabeth

Photos: Kris Solow, Ken Magas, Vanessa Infanzon

If you are interested in having your community highlighted in Neighborhood Stories, email Vanessa Infanzon at vanessainfanzon@gmail.com. Please add “Neighborhood Stories” to the subject line.

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South End

3 Firefighters From Charlotte Risked Their Lives To Save 2 Lost Hikers Who Almost Froze To Death

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charlotte-helicopter-rescue-missionTwo hikers from Charlotte, that went missing on Thursday, Jan. 5 in the Shining Rock Wilderness Area near Asheville, were just rescued by a couple helicopter pilots and 3 firefighters from Charlotte with the North Carolina Helicopter and Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART).

David Crockett and his friend Sultan Alraddadi became disoriented on Friday and decided to call 911 to ask for help, but since their cell phone had poor reception, they couldn’t be easily tracked.

Over 100 ground-based rescuers from two dozen local, state, and federal agencies were searching for the lost hikers day and night, and with sub-freezing temperatures sweeping in, the chance of finding them alive was getting smaller and smaller.

On Saturday afternoon, at 2pm, the NCHART team was sent in, made up of a State Highway Patrol helicopter, a NC Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and three Charlotte firefighters:

The helicopter that saved them had to wait until the storm that dumped about 7 inches of snow in the area cleared the area – even then the pilots knew the storm could pick back up at any moment.

It then took the helicopter crew about two hours to find and rescue the men. They were taken to the hospital, and they’ve since made a full recovery.

David Crockett had this to say on Facebook after his near-death rescue:

NCHART, the first unit of its kind in the America is now serving its 14th year in North Carolina, and is now credited with over 80 successful rescues.

Top 25 Valentine’s Day Restaurant Deals In Charlotte

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best-food-in-charlotteHappy Valentine’s Day everyone!

Feb. 14 is officially the second most popular day for dining out (Mother’s Day is the first, According to the National Restaurant Association), with about 25% of all Americans now planning on going out for a romantic dinner today.

In honor of today, we put together a list of the best deals and specials that are being offered around Charlotte:

  • Baskin-Robbins: Use promo code LOVEU at checkout and save $3 on a cake purchase of $15 or more.
  • BRIO Tuscan Grille: A two-course prix fixe menu is available through Sunday. Prices start at $20.95 per person. Entrees include Scallop Risotto, Crab Stuffed Shrimp & Lobster Tail, and Filet Mignon.
  • Bob EvansTake $4 off purchases of $20 after 2 p.m., on both dine-in or carryout through Feb. 20. Use the coupon code 0759002580.
  • Boston Market: Get $4 off through Feb. 18, on any $20 purchase with coupon code 39238.
  • California Pizza Kitchen: Look for deals on a “Sweet Deal for 2” menu available through Tuesday. Choose an appetizer, two entrees and a dessert for just $35.
  • Cheeseburger in Paradise: You can get a four-course dinner for two for $35, or, if you want, a two-course dinner is $25.
  • Chili’s: You can get an appetizer and a dinner for two for $20 from Chili’s on Tuesday.
  • Fleming’sThrough Feb.19, Flemings is offering a four-course Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu for two with wine for $89.99 per person.
  • Jillian’s Fine Dining: For $110 per person (plus 20 percent gratuity) you can get an appetizer sampler, Maine lobster salad, your choice from several entrees, dessert, and coffee and tea.
  • Krispy Kreme: The doughnut shop is going straight for the heart with three varieties of special Valentine’s-themed doughnuts: Red Heart, Pink Heart, and Sprinkled Heart.
  • Macaroni Grill: If you sign up for the restaurant’s newsletter you can take $5 off your next visit, including on Valentine’s Day.
  • Maggiano’s: Maggiano’s is offering a deal that includes an appetizer or two side salads, followed by two entrees and a dessert to share for $85. The price Includes wine.
  • McAlister’s Deli: Up to two children, 12 and younger, can eat free with the purchase of an adult dine-in entree.
  • Melting Pot: On Tuesday, Melting Pot is offering a starter, cheese fondue, salad, your choice of entrees and chocolate fondue for dessert. Prices and menus vary by location.
  • Morton’s Steakhouse: Morton’s is offering a steak and lobster combo for $56.
  • Olive GardenThe Italian restaurant is offering a new Never-Ending Classics menu starting at $11.99. You get bread sticks and unlimited soup or salad. The deal is good for a limited time in February.
  • Outback Steakhouse: If you are an AARP member, you can take 10 percent off your entire check at Outback.
  • Panera: Take 50 percent off orders of $5 or more if you use the coupon code BOLFD through March 31.
  • Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut has a “Valentine Bundle” for $13.99 that includes a one-topping, heart-shaped pizza and your choice of dessert.
  • Red Lobster: Get a free appetizer or dessert when you sign up for the “Fresh Catch Club.”
  • Ruby Tuesday: Ruby Tuesday has two Valentine’s Day offers — buy one adult entree and get a second at 50 percent off; or get $5 off a $15 food purchase.
  • Seasons 52: The restaurant is offering a four-course dinner for two with a sparkling wine toast for $60. Valid through Monday.
  • Shoneys: Purchase special Valentine’s Day all-you-care-to-eat food bar for dinner and get a free Hot Fudge Cake. February 14th, 4 p.m. to closing.
  • Steak ‘n Shake: Get a free iced tea with the purchase of a regular-priced fried chicken or grilled chicken salad at participating locations through Feb. 19 with this coupon.
  • Waffle House: You can make reservations for Valentine’s Day at the restaurant.

What are your plans for today? 

New Earth Fare Is Coming To Concord Mills Area

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earth-fare-in-concordA new Earth Fare is coming to a new retail development now under construction at the corner of Concord Mills Blvd. and Derita Rd.

The store will take up about 23,000 square feet of the entire development, which will total about 108,000 square feet.

The development already has several other committed tenants, including, Pet Supplies Plus, Lee Nails and Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar.

The new stores are now set to open in the next few months.

What do you think about new developments around Concord Mills?

2 New Charlotte Restaurants Are About To Be Featured on Diners Drive-Ins & Dives

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bang-bang-burgers2Last week, the hit show on Food Network, Diners Drive-Ins, & Dives aired an episode featuring a Charlotte restaurant and food truck – they’ve now announced that they’re about to feature 2 more.

Triple D will be featuring the Queen City yet again, specifically the Improper Pig and Bang Bang Burgers, on an upcoming episode, titled “Beef, Lamb and Pig.”

The new episode is now set to air at 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17.

The menu at the Improper Pig includes traditional fare such as pulled pork and brisket and Asian shrimp tacos and Southern egg rolls with sweet potato hash and collard greens.

Bang Bang Burgers is quickly becoming on of Charlotte’s favorite burger joints. The legendary Elizabeth eatery features angus burgers sourced from America’s top butcher, and some of the best fried pickles in the city.

Have you ever been to the Improper Pig or Bang Bang Burgers?

What are your thoughts? 

Take A Ride On Carowind’s Fury 325 – The World’s Tallest and Fastest Giga Coaster (Video)

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The world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster opened to the public last season and there is now a viral video from a front-row ride on Carowind’s new Fury 325 that has almost 3 million views.

Check out the new first-person video from the ride…if you dare:

The Fury 325 is so tall that it’s even visible from uptown Charlotte, renewing the park’s skyline and serving as a symbol of changes to come.

Fury 325 is part of a $50 million dollar renovation of Carowinds to bring new life into one of the fastest growing parks in America. The park will be revamped from top to bottom to celebrate Carolina culture including new rides and attractions, signature Carolina food offerings and entertainment. The Fury 325 is now the centerpiece of a new 8.2 acre main entrance plaza that includes a state-of-the-art ticketing and season pass processing area and expanded guest service facilities.

Please share;

NoDa Family Who’s House Burt Down Asking For Help With Medical Expenses For Their Daughter

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katlyn-cook-and-familyAbout a week ago, the Cook’s family’s house burnt down in NoDa. Not only did the fire destroy most of their possessions, but it also put their daughter, Katyln Cook, in critical condition.

On the morning of Feb. 6, a fire started at the Merry Oaks apartment complex. Katlyn Cook, the family’s 6-year old daughter was badly burned with 2nd and 3rd degree burns on 60% of her body. She was quickly airlifted to Winston Salem for her injuries.

Several NoDa residents have since launched a GoFundMe Campaign to raise funds to assist in the family’s medical expenses and re-establishment of their new home.

According to the campaign’s last update, “Katlyn had her 1st surgery today. It went well. Her kidneys are functional again and she is progressing. Thank you to all who have dropped off clothing, towels, shoes, soap, toothpaste, etc at Station 7. We really do have the BEST neighbors!”

Please consider give to or sharing Katyln’s campaign here.

UNC Student Mocks Tripping Record of Duke’s Grayson Allen In New Viral Video

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This past week, UNC student Joe Nail posted a hilarious video that mocks Duke’s Grayson Allen’s tripping issues.

It’s already been viewed over 75,000 times on Youtube:

The video was made to mock the absurd about of times that Duke’s Grayson Allen has been caught tripping other players over the past few years.

The star of the video, Joe Nail, is now hoping to win the election for student body president, and he’s hoping this new locally viral video will help his chances.

Elections for student body president were set for Feb. 14, but have since been put on hold, according to the on-campus paper The Daily Tar Heel.

 

Do you think this video will help his chances? 

Two Injured After Fixture Drops from Ceiling in Matthews Restaurant

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Two people were recently injured in a Matthews restaurant when a giant bar collapsed from the ceiling.

The accident occurred at around 7 p.m. this past Friday night at the Azteca restaurant off E. Independence Boulevard. Matthews police said a woman was taken to Novant Presbyterian with neck and shoulder injuries, and a man who had injured his arm drove himself to the Novant Presbyterian.

Both victims are expected to make a full recovery.

The restaurant remained open for business Friday evening, and opened back up for normal business hours all day yesterday.