Eat at Panciuto

I've said it before, but it bears repeating:  If you don't already regularly eat at Panciuto, you need to head over there.  Everyone in the area should know this restaurant.  As much as it would hurt me personally, reservations should be impossible to get.  Chef Aaron Vandemark should already have won Best Chef in the Southeast in the Beard awards. 

Panciuto is, among its many virtues, one of the finest places to eat on a cold winter night, which is exactly why I was there earlier tonight.  With great food, a warm and cozy dining room, and a friendly staff, it's just the right place to be when you want the kind of meal you wish you could make but almost certainly can't.

The portions here are never small and rarely light, but they are always delicious.  Just check out my main dish tonight, a pork shoulder with polenta gnocchi.

Click the image to see a larger version.

Wow, was it wonderful!  The pork fell apart at the touch of a fork, was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and tasted amazing.  The gnocchi were a revelation, soft and flavorful.  Though I hate to admit it, I even enjoyed the grilled Brussels sprouts. 

Do yourself a favor and go to Panciuto.  You'll be very glad you did.