Contributor: Jamie Richardson
Chef Bob VanAtta of Table 11 is providing memorable cooking and dining experiences in Cabarrus County.
Chef Bob as he is affectionately known, has a deep passion for cooking and community. Recognizing the need for more dining options in downtown Concord, he seized the opportunity to provide locals and visitors alike with a memorable dining experience.
As an avid cyclist who frequently rode along Union Street, Chef Bob fell in love with downtown Concord’s history and charming atmosphere. Choosing downtown Concord as the location for his restaurant was a deliberate decision to contribute to the preservation of the town’s heritage and to its growth. With 22 years of diverse culinary background, Chef Bob opened the restaurant doors on January 11, 2022, with his wife, Katie, by his side.
Photo Credits: Table 11 Facebook
- Chef Bob said, “I love the downtown [Concord] area and how warm the people are. It feels like an episode of ‘Cheers’ where everybody knows your name.”
Table 11’s menu features mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups and more! Their burgers are some of the most popular items on their menu. Made fresh daily, they grind their own beef using a combination of brisket and sirloin. There are also options for both vegetarians and vegans, including their popular bowls, like the Peruvian Bowl with warm grains or cauliflower rice, pickled onion relish, white beans, avocado, tomato, cotija cheese, and tangy green sauce.
But it’s not just the burgers that make Table 11 special. Their entire menu is crafted from scratch, without any preservatives. Chef Bob’s creativity and attention to detail extend beyond burgers. Chef Bob’s passion lies in taking familiar dishes and elevating them.
- Favorites include the Meatloaf made with house-ground beef and a savory tomato demi-glace or the “Grown Up Mac-n-Cheese” featuring orecchiette pasta, peppers, onion, spinach, and a rich cheddar cream sauce topped with shaved parmesan, each dish is truly special.
Chef Bob’s love for cooking extends beyond the kitchen. He believes that food has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. Inspired by his six years working at the Cobblestone Café in Florida, he initiated summer cooking camps for kids in collaboration with David and Kat Cornelius at Fulltime Funkytown (who were Table 11’s very first customers) and ClearWater Arts Center & Studios.
The overwhelming popularity of the kids’ cooking camps led to the demand for adult cooking classes which Table 11 will be offering this summer. In a small, intimate setting, you will learn from Chef Bob himself as you prepare a delicious menu. You’ll be guided through each step while enjoying a charcuterie board, a beverage of your choice, and the camaraderie of fellow food enthusiasts.
- Classes will be offered on July 15th and August 19th. These classes will be kept small, so call 980-255-8596 to reserve your spot TODAY!
As downtown Concord undergoes transformations, Chef Bob understands the importance of community and has actively engaged with other local businesses, such as Kodiak Bar and Lounge and The Cigar Loft, fostering collaboration and support. While Table 11 recently stopped offering dinner service, they continue to serve lunch during the week and brunch on Saturdays.
The restaurant now focuses on hosting special events and catering, ensuring that guests can still enjoy Table 11’s delectable cuisine.
Their next special event promises to delight food and beer enthusiasts alike. They’re partnering with Southern Strain Brewing Company for their first beer pairing dinner on Friday, July 21st! This will be a chef table dinner with seatings at 6 and 7 pm for $45. Check out the menu here. You can reserve your spot by messaging them on Facebook or calling the restaurant during normal business hours.
With the upcoming beer pairing dinner, the introduction of catering services, and the launch of adult cooking classes, Table 11 continues to provide unique and memorable experiences for its customers. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot, special event catering, or the chance to enhance your culinary skills, stop by Table 11, where every bite tells a story.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
