Our friend and neighbor told us about a small, family owned restaurant that they frequent. They love the food and the people are so nice. We stopped in, not thinking, on the Saturday before Mother’s Day (College of Charleston Graduation among other things going on in Charleston). We were the third group in the door, and the only one with no reservation. They sat us at a wonderful table. We had a great time (and the best food ever!) – We’ll be back (WITH a reservation next time!)

I think it’s been tricky to get a good meal so many of the places we’ve been – justifiably so, with the shortage of staff, supplies, etc. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to run a restaurant during these times. I think we’re going to go back to mostly eating in with a few exceptions – there is a small family owned restaurant nearby, Angel Oak Restaurant, and it is outstanding. It’s been open for years – I have no idea why we haven’t tried it sooner. I’m so glad that our neighbor reminded us of this gem! Their menu changes with what’s in season – I so appreciate that – you know you’re getting really good food when they use the freshest of the fresh!

Fred had a fish sandwich with truffle fries. Thin fries, that were gorgeous. I had a cobb salad, with wonderful hunks of avocado – with homemade bleu cheese dressing. It was fabulous! I saw so many items on the menu that I would love to try one day. I think we’ll go back to eating in with an occasion GOOD eat out… 😉

😕One note… we tried again for brunch – it was a completely different experience. #sadtosay – We’ll give it another try – are hoping for the best. 🤞 We understand the issues that restaurants face, but…

One thing we tried during COVID was Marley and Me (a meal delivery service, well, let’s say, ingredient delivery service + recipes) – the calorie count on the recipes was crazy high which is what ultimately stopped us from continuing, but we made some really good dishes – and you can keep the recipes, so… #winwin It was fun to do, and it gave me SOMETHING to do! My husband worked during COVID (from home) and worked much more – long hours – sun up to late in the evening on days. But, what else was there to do? So, I spent my time looking for recipes, hehe. 🙌

How are you doing food-wise? Right now it seems like every time I go to the store it’s $97 and I only have a bag or two of groceries and really nothing for the week, maybe a meal or two. We eat a lot of meat free meals – just because it’s usually what I think of (asparagus/vidalia pasta lately!) – or meals where Fred throws something on the grill (LOVE THE GRILL!) and I make a side or two. Like grilled chicken and corn with a few baby red potatoes and sliced Vidalia onions on a skewer. Tasty and quick!

Tonight… a tuna melt – which is always good when you need something fast. Tuna salad is made, cheddar is grated, will toast the bread when we’re ready, spread the tuna, top with cheese and pop under the broiler until it melts – slap a pickle on the plate and TADA! Ring that dinner bell, hehe. 🔔

So you have any family owned restaurants that you would like to give a shout out to? Send me a message via CONTACT ME at top of page – or comment on my FB/Instagram (or comment on this post).

👩‍💻 Until next time…

📸 Image: Barbara Stroud (me!)