Bricks & Barrels has been nominated in three distinct categories in the sixth annual People’s Choice Awards as conducted by the Charleston Convention Bureau. Area citizens of Charleston, WV, nominated Bricks & Barrels for inclusion on the 2018 ballet for Favorite Restaurant, Favorite Bartender and Favorite Dish. Nominations were accepted for the award through April 6, and the top four in each category were included on the final ballot. Owner Nikki Holbert commented, “After only three years in business, we’re honored to be chosen by our customers and the community as among the best of Charleston. We’re humbled to be mentioned in the same company as Charleston stalwarts Pies & Pints, Bluegrass Kitchen and Lola’s Pizza.”
- Favorite Dish – The Food Guy first brought Bricks & Barrels’ Mediterranean Chicken into the spotlight when he proclaimed it an early front-runner for the year’s best dish. The Food Guy
eloquently describes the dish: “That all-natural Joyce Farms bone-in chicken breast braised in capers, figs and olives over Israeli couscous and sautéed vegetables, created a beautiful symphony of flavors (sweet, tart, salty, earthy) on a colorful, gorgeously presented plate.” The entrée is among the most sought-after dishes at Bricks & Barrels, but it faces stiff competition from the Big Joe Burger from Big Joe’s, Deep Fried Feta from Adelphia, and Pickled-Brined Fried Chicken from Bluegrass Kitchen. - Favorite Bartender – Bartender Drew Smith is again on this year’s ballot after winning the 2017 event as Favorite Bartender. Drew has been the lead bartender for Bricks & Barrels since its grand opening nearly three years ago and, over that three-year span, has gathered a sizeable following of loyal customers. Drew is an expert in craft beer and bourbon, but he’s best known for his ability to concoct unique cocktails such as his Purple Rain and Pecan Pie Martini. To win again this year, Drew will have to defend his crown again three other crafty bartenders: Dave Thomas of the newly opened Gonzoburger, Howard White of South Hills Market and Josh Jenkins of Boulevard Tavern.
- Favorite Restaurant – With nominations for Favorite Dish and Favorite Bartender, it’s no surprise Bricks & Barrels is also nominated for Favorite Restaurant. Known for its pleasant, soothing ambience featuring barrel-shaped dining alcoves, Bricks & Barrels is the first dinner-only restaurant to be nominated in the six-year history of the Awards. But to win the award it will have to topple previous award winners Bluegrass Kitchen, Pies & Pints and Lola’s Pizza. Bricks & Barrels can only win by receiving your votes.
Nominations were accepted for the People’s Choice Awards through April 6th, with the top four in each category advancing to the final ballot. Voting continues through April 30th, with the top vote getter in each category receiving the final award. Charleston’s People’s Choice winners will be announced shortly thereafter.