Welcome! I’m so excited you’ve found your way to Off the Eaten Path — consider this your official detour into something delicious.
Off the Eaten Path is all about helping busy families create meaningful memories around food and travel.

Whether it’s a weekend trip to the mountains, a backyard cheese board with friends, a Tuesday-night dinner that feels a little special, or finding a restaurant worth hiring a babysitter for, Off the Eaten Path is all about making everyday life feel richer, more connected, and more delicious — without needing unlimited time, money, or energy.
Forget aspirational perfection. Around here, you’ll find real-life enjoyment — the kind that works for people juggling careers, kids, relationships, and the general chaos of adulthood.
Think of me as your trusted friend who has done the research and is sharing what’s worth it (and what’s not!) with you over a cup of coffee or a cocktail. You’ll come away with:
➤ Practical inspiration you can actually execute.
➤ Confidence to host without overthinking.
➤ Family travel ideas that feel fun instead of overwhelming.
➤ Local guides that help you experience the places you live or visit more deeply.
➤ Recipes and entertaining ideas that prioritize joy over perfection.
Where it all began…
I started Off the Eaten Path in 2013, about six months after I moved to Charlotte and realized that I didn’t know anyone, and I definitely wasn’t going to make friends sitting on my couch. So naturally, I decided to eat my way through the city instead. (Spoiler: It worked.)
What began as a little hobby fueled by burgers and curiosity has turned into a delicious adventure. Over the years I’ve added a husband and two kids into the mix, but some things never change — you’ll still find me annoying my friends and family by taking pictures of their food before they get to dig in.

About Chrissie
I’m Chrissie — a full-time public defender, food lover, North Carolina explorer, toddler wrangler, and lifelong cheese enthusiast.
I love the beach, craft beer, Mexican food, and trashy reality TV. Catch me chasing my kids, laughing too loudly, sipping margaritas on a nearby patio, and telling my husband “just one more quick picture.”
Stay in touch
- Comment on my posts, and be sure to rate the recipes! I love to hear from readers, and your feedback helps make this site better for everyone!
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- Contact me directly at offtheeatenpathclt@gmail.com
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