Restaurant Review: 131 MAIN
FIT-FOODIE, MAGAZINE, RESTAURANT REVIEWS
Amber Valentine and I, Margi Kyle, enjoyed a delicious luncheon at 131 MAIN!
If there was ever any doubt about where to go for a fantastic meal, you can never go wrong at 131 MAIN. Over the past 20 years, every experience I’ve had at 131 MAIN has been nothing short of the “Best of the Best” in service, food, and drinks.
I3I Wall of Fame:
Left are Amber Valentine, Margi Kyle, and Tom Howe (General Manager of 131 MAIN).
Between the owner, Joe Douglas, Tom Howe, and our server, Jennifer Stumbo, we had a tremendous experience and a delicious meal. One thing I have always loved about 131 MAIN is the ambiance. You walk into the soft and inviting lighting of candles on the table instead of overhead lighting. I don’t like the feeling that the restaurant may be performing surgery. If it is too dark for you, Jennifer is happy to bring another real candle.
Every time I have the pleasure of dining at 131 MAIN, I have to start with their Hickory Wood Grilled Artichokes, which are simply seasoned and served with remoulade sauce. As a child, I always loved artichokes and still do. Amber was hesitant. I told her, “Amber, they are really good for you. Keep trying them!”
Another one of my favorite side dishes is their Cast Iron Corn Bread with green chiles, jack & cheddar cheese.
Amber selected her favorite starter: Tuna Stack. We always share, so we feel like we are getting double the food and enjoyment
As for the main course, Amber loved the thought of the Taco Feature with beef tenderloin and other great tastes!
Amber Explains:
I always recommend eating “real” food, meaning foods that have one item listed in the ingredients. Margi insisted I try the artichokes, a first for me. While the preparation was flawless, artichokes just aren’t my thing. However, I can appreciate the care and expertise that went into the dish.
I opted for the steak tacos, which were perfectly seasoned and served on a corn tortilla with a side of chips and guac. This meal fit perfectly into my meal plan for the day—ideal for someone lifting weights and watching their diet. The tacos are perfect because they are made with steak and veggies, two things I can easily recognize as “real food.” 131 MAIN had a lot of real food options on their menu!
Our server, Jennifer Stumbo, served us with great pride the best tacos I have ever eaten! I was not a huge taco fan until today. They were out of this world, and Amber was not sure she was going to share.
The real fun was behind the scenes. 131 MAIN’s kitchen was the cleanest I have ever seen. Whoever keeps it organized needs to come to my kitchen. We were so impressed!
One of 131 MAIN’s claims to fame is that everything is fresh and cooked on a hickory wood-fired grill.
We had the opportunity to visit the walk-in cooler, which was spotless. There was only one small freezer for ice cream. The space was very organized, and everything was clearly labeled with expiration dates. Behind the scenes tells the true story, and 131 MAIN wrote the book!
Last but totally not least was the End of the Meal Treat: White Chocolate Creme Brulée
What I discovered and truly appreciated is that the kitchen area has a small service bar dedicated to the dining room guests. This setup takes the pressure off the main bar and helps the service team provide drinks to dining room guests more quickly.
It also makes the bar area more private and personal. 131 MAIN has thought of everything, and I am even more impressed than before. I didn’t think that could happen. If you have not been to their restaurant, there is no time like the present to try it. Whether for lunch or dinner, you will not be disappointed!
Nutrition Corner – Amber Valentine – Hotmess2Hotness.com
When it comes to menu options, 131 MAIN has something for everyone, especially those following a ketogenic or carnivore diet. The menu is packed with protein-rich dishes, and if you’re aiming for low fat, the seafood options are abundant and fresh. I even had the opportunity to peek into their walk-in cooler, and let me tell you, they are serious about fresh ingredients. It was the most organized, fresh, and clean produce and prep area I’ve ever seen.
For those on my Worth It Nutrition (W.I.N.) program, the fresh grilled seafood items are an excellent choice, or you can opt for the slow-roasted chicken without the demi-glace, substituting the potato with a veggie. Despite the menu being just one page, it has everything you need for either a super healthy meal to meet your diet plan requirements or a delightfully balanced cheat day treat.
LAKE NORMAN
131 MAIN Restaurant
17830 Statesville RdCornelius, NC 28031
(704) 896-0131
