In this delightful episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Guy Fieri heads to the west side of Charlotte, North Carolina. Here, he revisits an old friend, Greg Otten, who opened up a quirky joint named Pinkie’s Westside Grill after the iconic Penguin restaurant closed. Located in an old garage that once serviced Volkswagens, Pinkie’s has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
From Cars to Burgers: The Transformation of Pinkie’s
Pinkie’s Westside Grill, with its laid-back atmosphere and whimsical decor, pays homage to its roots with a Volkswagen perched on its roof. “This used to be an old garage,” Guy notes, pointing out how the place has transformed from servicing cars to serving mouth-watering food since 2010.
Greg Otten, who previously managed the Penguin, brings his culinary expertise to Pinkie’s, creating dishes that range from classic comfort foods to inventive twists. “It’s bigger, it’s badder, it’s faster than it was,” Greg says, reflecting on the restaurant’s evolution.
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The Triple G Burger: A Carnivore’s Dream
One of the standout dishes at Pinkie’s is the Triple G Burger, named after the original Triple G Volkswagen repair shop. Guy jumps right into the kitchen to see how this colossal burger is made.
Ingredients:
- Chili: Ground beef (80/20), water, yellow onion, fresh garlic, chili powder, black pepper, seasoning salt, coriander, hot sauce, cumin, and tomato paste.
- Burger: Three five-ounce patties, American cheese, house southern slaw, mustard, chopped onions, and, of course, the house-made chili.
Guy watches in awe as Greg stacks the burger, layer by layer. “This is what we’ve been waiting for,” he says, eyeing the towering creation. When he finally takes a bite, Guy is thoroughly impressed.
A Fairground Favorite: Corn Dog Shrimp
Next on the menu is an innovative dish that has customers raving—Corn Dog Shrimp. This dish combines the sweetness of corn dog batter with the savory flavor of shrimp, creating a delightful contrast.
Ingredients:
- Batter: Classic Dipsy Dog corn dog mix combined with water to form a creamy consistency.
- Shrimp: 21/25 shrimp, dipped in the batter and fried until golden brown.
Greg explains the technique of carefully dipping the shrimp to ensure they float and cook evenly. Guy takes a bite and is immediately transported to a fairground. “It tastes like a corn dog,” he says, savoring the flavor. “Sweet, crunchy batter straight from the fair, not salty.”
Rocking the House with Great Vibes
The atmosphere at Pinkie’s is as much a part of the experience as the food. Regular customers praise the eclectic energy and the friendly service. “It’s just great food, great atmosphere, and it’s just a wonderful energy that’s here,” one patron shares.
Greg continues to surprise and delight his customers with inventive dishes like the Triple G Burger and Corn Dog Shrimp. “Greg brings up things that you would think, what? And when you taste it, it’s just fantastic,” another satisfied customer remarks.
Guy’s Final Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Guy reflects on the charm and allure of Pinkie’s Westside Grill. The restaurant offers a unique blend of comfort food and culinary creativity, making it a must-visit spot in Charlotte. “If you live within 300 miles of this joint, you should be getting yourself over here right quick,” Guy urges.
Pinkie’s Westside Grill, with its whimsical decor, friendly atmosphere, and inventive menu, truly stands out as a gem in Charlotte. Whether you’re craving a massive burger or a fair-inspired treat, this place has something for everyone.