Ep 18. Queen City Cravings

In season 4 episode 18 of Cheap Eats, host Ali Khan travels to Charlotte, North Carolina, to explore delectable, wallet-friendly dining options in the Queen City. From classic Southern comfort foods to modern fusion dishes, Ali tries a range of flavors and culinary styles that showcase Charlotte's vibrant food scene.

The episode starts with a visit to JJ's Red Hots, a popular spot for gourmet hot dogs and sausages. Ali samples the Carolina Footlong, a signature hot dog topped with chili, slaw and mustard, and the Sausage Fest, a spicy sausage sandwich dressed with onions, peppers, and cheese. JJ's Red Hots is known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create innovative hot dog combinations that keep customers coming back for more.

Next, Ali visits Viva Chicken, a Peruvian rotisserie chain that offers flavorful, healthy dishes at an affordable price. He tries the Pollo a la Brasa, a succulent roasted chicken that's been marinated in a blend of spices, and the Quinoa-stuffed Avocado, a vegan-friendly dish that features creamy avocado, tangy quinoa, and juicy tomatoes. Viva Chicken prides itself on using only natural, free-range chicken that's been raised without antibiotics or hormones, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs to create authentic Peruvian cuisine.

The third stop on Ali's Charlotte food tour is Bistro La Bon, a cozy neighborhood bistro that serves classic French dishes with a modern twist. Ali tries the Steak Frites, a juicy hanger steak served with crispy fries and creamy Bearnaise sauce, and the Croque-Madame, a ham and cheese sandwich topped with a fried egg and served on brioche bread. Bistro La Bon sources its ingredients from local farmers and suppliers to ensure that each dish is fresh, flavorful, and sustainable.

For dessert, Ali visits Amélie's French Bakery, a whimsical bakery that offers an array of sweet treats and pastries inspired by French cuisine. He tries the Salted Caramel Brownie, a rich and fudgy chocolate brownie topped with a layer of gooey caramel and sprinkled with sea salt, and the Tiramisu Eclair, a fluffy pastry filled with coffee-flavored cream and dusted with cocoa powder. Amélie's French Bakery is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a charming ambiance and a wide selection of freshly baked goods.

The episode ends with a visit to Futo Buta, a modern ramen shop that brings authentic Japanese flavors to Charlotte. Ali tries the Tonkotsu Ramen, a hearty pork broth soup filled with tender noodles, succulent pork belly, and a jammy egg, and the Sake Collins, a refreshing cocktail made with sake, lime, cucumber, and soda. Futo Buta is known for its delicious ramen bowls that combine traditional cooking techniques with local ingredients, as well as its creative cocktail menu that features innovative drink combinations.

Overall, season 4 episode 18 of Cheap Eats showcases the best of Charlotte's culinary scene, highlighting a range of affordable and delicious dining options that are sure to satisfy any craving. From hot dogs to rotisserie chicken, French cuisine to Japanese ramen, this episode proves that you don't have to break the bank to indulge in exceptional food and drink.