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Feel like family at the P.I. Bar and Grill
Named the “Best Brunch” in Augusta, The Partridge Inn’s P.I. Bar and Grill will have you coming back for more. Their awardwinning cuisine is impeccably presented at this historic hotel in the Summerville district. The newly refurbished Southern hotel bar and grill is exquisite for any function or event. The catering options are extensive, and the function rooms at the hotel are gorgeous for events up to 500 guests. This restaurant is decorated to the brim with sophistication and style. “We’re historic and we are a place where memories are made,” Tijuana Jenkins, director of sales and marketing for The Partridge Inn, said about the restaurant. She explained that it has many repeating customers and the staff know them by name. The staff is hospitable, accommodating and treat regular customers like family. Taste the Southern cooking of Chef Chris Sanford, who has been in the food industry for more than 20 years, Monday through Friday at the affordable lunch buffet. From the Southern fried chicken to other delicious Southern dishes. Dine in for dinner too and try the shrimp and grits. “One of my favorite dishes for dinner is the sea bass,” Jenkins said. She also said that there are monthly dinner specials. Come join the fun for a midweek break with 50 percent off selected bottles of house wine starting at 5 p.m on Wednesdays. Or any night for nightly cocktail specials. Start the weekend with Friday’s live jazz from 9 p.m. to midnight. Then continue the fun on Saturday with a live band performance from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. There’s no cover charge, so just enjoy the music and relax on your night off. On Sunday, join The P.I. Bar and Grill for Augusta’s “Best Sunday” Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu consists of an omelet station, seafood and other delicious
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entrees, side dishes and salads. Don’t forget about the live entertainment, too. If you like to dine outdoors, there is a quarter of a mile wraparound veranda for eating and having a cocktail. There is something for everyone at the restaurant and it’s fun, according to Jenkins. “I love working here,” Jenkins explained. She said the atmosphere is warm and inviting. It’s a very welcoming place that makes people feel like they’re coming home. People who have eaten at The P.I. Bar and Grill have said that everything is delicious, the best they ever had and have asked for recipes in order to duplicate the meals. “It’s indicative of Augusta,” Jenkins said. “It gives true Southern flavor.” She said that The P.I. Bar and Grill is great for the out-of-town visitors to get a taste of the local area. Visit the restaurant at 2110 Walton Way to fill up on scrumptious Southern cuisine.
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P.I. Bar and Grill Café 209 An app a day… The Retreat Tapas Bar Laziza Mediterranean Grill & Kroc Center Café Big Daddy’s Bar & Grill* BBQ Armando’s Grill and Pizzeria & Ray’s Smokehouse Goolsby’s & Villa Europa ille Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet & French Market Gr y Habaneros Mexican Restaurant & Sunshine Baker Augustino’s St. Louis Original Hamburgers Farmhaus Burger & About Thyme Café French Market Grille West & The Boar’s Head My Friend’s Place & Freeman’s BBQ Neapolitan Cupcake and Gift Shoppe* New Moon Café Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar Mi Rancho Mexican Restaurant Articles by Taylor Hanks of Chronicle Media *articles written by business owner
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Café 209 Feels Like Home Feel at home at Café 209. They are waiting to greet you at the door with smiles and friendly service to make you feel welcome. Glen and Cassandra Brinson began their journey in the food business 18 years ago with catering. Cassandra’s passion for catering friends’ events bloomed into a full-service catering company. On Sept. 7, 2000, the couple opened Café 209 on the River on 8th Street. The cafe was able to seat 30 to 40 guests. The parking was slim at this location, so for the convenience of their customers, they moved to 566 Broad St. They reopened on March 19, 2012, as 209 Restaurant Café and Catering. Walk in through the glass doors and be greeted by the smiling staff. The service is wonderful, and the atmosphere is casual. Café 209 has a southern home feel and is full of life. “We’re all like family,” Cassandra said. Cassandra com-
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pliments her staff by saying that they are outgoing, friendly and well-rounded. Café 209 strives to make everyone who comes in feel like family by making them comfortable and welcome. “Glen, myself and Ms. Ivory do all the cooking pretty much,” Cassandra explained. She also said that people love the cafe because it’s consistent, filling and they serve quality food that tastes amazing. “Everybody loves our fried chicken and baked chicken,” Cassandra said. Other items on the menu that are popular are the homemade desserts. The desserts vary from day to day, however their, best sellers are peach cobbler and key lime cake. Since the Brinsons moved to the new location, business has picked up tremendously. The parking is great, and more people are coming to enjoy the home cooked, original recipes.
“Most people don’t get this food at home,” Cassandra explained. She said that some customers don’t have time to cook at home, so they come to Café 209 for full homemade meals. “I enjoy working here and I love the catering and events,” Cassandra raved. The Brinsons have a catering business that provides everything from decorations, linens, lights, food and more for every event. Cassandra said it’s her favorite thing to do. The catering menu for Café 209 is extensive. Options for your special event range from cocktail hors d’oeuvres to pasta bars to full meals of fish, chicken or steak. Come by today and experience the family oriented Café 209. New hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you are interested in the catering, go online at www.uniqueeventsandmore.com for more information.
An app a day... Top Smartphone apps for finding an area’s most highly-rated restaurants,
pictures of the most popular dishes and reviews from diners. The CSRA has a variety of unique restaurants many of which can be found on these apps.
Yelp: Looking for a burrito joint open now? An Irish pub nearby? Yelp for your iPhone or iPad is here to help. Use us to search for places to eat, shop, drink, relax and play then read reviews from an active community of locals in the know.
OpenTable: Make restaurant reservations – free, instant, confirmed! OpenTable is the only app that helps you book a table at more than 20,000 restaurants in the US and Canada. Plus, members can earn dining points to pay for meals at any OpenTable restaurant.
VegOut: Every vegetarian knows that eating out can be a difficult task. VegOut makes this task easier by providing you with the world’s largest international listing of vegan, vegetarian and vegetarian-friendly restaurants at your finger tips. Restaurant listings can be found by your exact location or a custom location if you’re planning to travel. VegOut is a must have for any vegetarian who travels or is just looking for a new place to eat!
Urbanspoon: Can’t decide where to eat? Urbanspoon can help. SHAKE your iPhone and the Urbanspoon slot machine will suggest a restaurant. DISCOVER great new places to eat. See what’s NEARBY in your ‘hood, or BROWSE a comprehensive list of restaurants. Make a RESERVATION, and expand your DINELINE by checking in. See what your FRIENDS like.
Foodspotting is the leading app for finding and rating dishes, not just restaurants. With this visual guide to good food and where to find it, you can find whatever you’re craving, see what’s good at any restaurant and learn what foodspotters, friends and experts love wherever you go.
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Take a break Take a break from a long day at work, or maybe have a night out with some friends at The Retreat Tapas Bar. It’s a great way to unwind and have a cold drink and some fabulous food. “It is a tapas bar with shared plates and everything is made fresh every day,” said Pam Ashley, general manager of The Retreat Tapas Bar. There is not another restaurant like this one in Columbia County. The tapas bar is perfect for the intimate get together or date night. Candlelight fills the room to create a romantic ambiance and classy setting, but it’s a casual dining experience. If it’s a nice day, sit outside and enjoy your food or drink in the fresh air. Before you order, be sure to ask about the signature cocktails. The staff is courteous, classy and ready to answer any questions you may have about the menu. Don’t forget to try the fresh watermelon martini! It also has its own house-made Sangria, Black Cherry Manhattan, and much more.
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at The Retreat Tapas Bar
The Retreat opened at the beginning of April at 4446 Washington Road. Founded by Pam Ashley, Ted Shultz and Chef Christopher Byrd, this tapas restaurant and bar is full of life. Ashley and Shultz met 21 years ago while working at a bar and have kept in touch over the years. They always talked about opening a business. When the The Retreat Tapas Bar first opened, the previous owners had a rocky start. Ashley and Shultz, with 20 years of restaurant experience, pounced on the opportunity and bought the locally-owned establishment with Chef Byrd. “It just kind-of fell in our lap,” Shultz said. Chef Byrd’s unique style of classically prepared food is beautiful in its presentation. With training in culinary arts, Byrd will have your mouth full of flavor. “I normally get the burger melt and house-made fries,“ Shultz said. Byrd’s blue cheese grits are absolutely delicious. They are the only grits Shultz will eat. The blue cheese
grits are served usually with specials of either seafood or steak. “Everything we serve is different from Augusta,” Shultz raved. Some of the more popular items on the menu include shrimp and grits, crab dip and collard green egg rolls. Don’t judge the egg rolls until you try them. It’s great for your parties and gatherings, too. Why? Because The Retreat Tapas Bar also does catering. Choose your food from crab cakes to duck quesadillas to baked brie. Byrd will not let your guests’ taste buds go unsatisfied. The restaurant is described as an upscale, casual and friendly dining retreat. It’s comfortable, yet you get quality food from a trained chef. Come by for dinner and drinks Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm ‘until’. It’s casual, so just walk-in, but to make sure you have a seat, they take reservations as well.
Be adventurous at Laziza Mediterranean Grill
Walk under the green-striped canopy and enter the exotic food restaurant of Laziza Mediterranean Grill. It’s no ordinary food joint with burgers and fries. This place has pizzazz! From chicken shawarma and falafel to baklava and crépes, this restaurant will have your taste buds soaring. “It’s fast and casual,” Nader Khatib, coowner of Laziza Mediterranean Grill, explained about the restaurant. Khatib and his business partner, Leigh Fletcher, are new to the restaurant business, but the service is friendly and the food is delicious. The grill serves Greek, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, vegetarian and vegan dishes. Everything is made fresh to order. The establishment does catering, too, and is in the process of getting a food truck by August.
“My favorite thing on the menu is the chicken shawarma,” Khatib said. Enter the room and your senses will ignite. The delicious smell of chicken shawarma, slow roasted chicken on a vertical broiler, will have your mouth watering with anticipation. Don’t forget to order one of the four choices of home-made hummus. Everything that comes on a platter in this restaurant also comes as a wraps. Laziza Mediterranean Grill opened on Sept. 13, 2011, with the mind-set of expanding the adventurous palate of locals who like to try new cuisines. Come check it out at the Publix shopping center at 4272 Washington Road, Suite 5A, in Evans from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Great selection at Kroc Center Cafe
Follow RJ Krocodile into the Kroc Center Café for a great selection of good food. A full-fledged breakfast buffet is waiting for you to sink your teeth into at just $5. If you can’t make it for the all-you-can -eat breakfast buffet, don’t get discouraged. They serve delicious options for lunch and dinner, as well. Choose a meal to go, or sit-in and enjoy a salad, sandwich, or wrap any day. The cafe uses Boar’s Head products. The lunch and dinner hot meals, of one meat and two sides, are different Monday through Friday. “Our most popular are the catfish or meatloaf,” Patrick Robinson, Assistant Business Director of the Kroc Center, said about the cafe line meats prepared by Chef Tony Direnzo. People have said that the Kroc Center
Cafe food is really enjoyable. Robinson’s favorite item on the menu is the Buffalo Chicken Wrap, but the Ruben sandwich, with slow roasted corn beef, is a favorite among most customers who say that it’s the best in town. “We don’t cater just to members, but cater to the public as well,” Robinson explained. If you have a special event, such as a wedding, use the theater for the venue and the cafe, that can seat up to 260 guests, for the reception. The Kroc Center Café is a Salvation Army Kroc Center restaurant at 1833 Broad St. Open hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Quench your craving Where do you go when you crave great barbeque, chargrilled burgers, babyback ribs and quality service? Well, there’s a new place in town! Walk into Big Daddy’s Bar and Grill and quench that craving! It’s not your typical barbeque and burger joint. They offer a whole array of tasty dishes along with award-winning BBQ! Bo Handy, a longtime restaurateur in Augusta, is the owner and General Manager of Big Daddy’s. On most days, you can catch Handy at the front door meeting and greeting, or roaming the dining rooms checking on tables, or working in the kitchen in order to insure quality food and service for his guests. “I love the interaction with the guests and staff,” Handy said. If you are a burger aficionado, then you must try the chargrilled burgers at Big Daddy’s. They use a half pound of fresh ground beef, seasoned with their own unique seasoning, toss it on their big ol’ char grill for that backyard grill flavor and serve it on their big, buttery, toasted egg buns. They are the best burgers in town!
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Some of the entrees you absolutely have to try are the babyback ribs, the smokey BBQ pulled chicken and the award-winning BBQ pulled pork. Handy describes his babybacks as “Hang-Off-The-Plate-Fall-Off-The-Bone” ribs. Handy, who has been in the food business since 1987, gives a lot of credit for his barbeque recipes and cooking techniques to his old college friend, The BBQ Whisperer, also known as Marty Todd. He, also, attributes his award winning pulled pork to an old high school friend and Grand Champion barbequer, Jim Burg (winner of Augusta’s Banjo-B-Que & Waynesboro’s Boss Hog BBQ competitions), who is on Handy’s team. Big Daddy’s is more than BBQ, burgers and ribs. They offer an array of sandwiches and poboys, a large variety of salads and some vegetarian dishes as well. Some of their entrees include Blackened Catfish Fillets, Fried or Boiled Shrimp, Roasted Veggie Kebobs and a great chargrilled ribeye steak. They have hash and rice, but also have award winning chili, chicken and dumplings and a large selec-
at Big Daddy’s Bar and Grill tion of made-from-scratch sides too. After dinner, try the mouth-watering Peanut Butter Pie (Handy’s ex-mother-inlaws recipe), or the homemade Peach Cobbler. “We’re like family, so we want families to come visit,” said Tarla Mitchel, manager of Big Daddy’s Bar and Grill. This restaurant is a fun, casual place to visit for dinner or a quick lunch or happy hour (open until 7 p.m. daily). Big Daddy’s Bar and Grill has an extensive kids menu, will cater any event and offers a private dining room. Check out their Facebook page for daily lunch, dinner and bar specials, and see their menu on www.bigdaddysaugusta.com. Big Daddy’s has 10% military and uniformed officer discounts. Open for lunch and dinner from 11am till late night everyday. We love Take-Out! 706-869-2388 4045 Jimmie Dyess Parkway, Augusta, GA 30909
Armando’s Grill and Pizzeria is
The Neighborhood Hangout For that neighborhood pizzeria that you’ve been searching for, look no further than Armando’s Grill and Pizzeria. Open since May, the family-owned establishment has been packed with customers for the stuffed pizza and the delicious lasagna. “We have a great atmosphere,” Tim Bowlby, chef and co-owner of Armando’s Grill and Pizzeria, said. “The food is second to none.” Bowlby, with 20 years of experience in the food industry, decided to open the restaurant and partner with close friend and owner of the other two Armando’s in the area. He was tired of travelling with his previous job and wanted something that was close to home. Bowlby picked this location for the relaxed neighborhood feel, without all the hussle-and-bussle of the city.
“It’s nice, fun, family oriented and our food is excellent,” Bowbly raved. All the recipes are originals of family members, the co-owner and his own. Try the Wise Guy or The Forget About It on the menu and taste the goodness. “Everyone has said so far that it is excellent,” Bowlby explained about what his customers have said about the food. Some of the best sellers are the calamari, the mozzarella triangles and the Forget About It, but after eating at this restaurant, you won’t be forgetting your experience. Come by today and try the fun menu where everything has a name at 5117 Washington Road. Open hours are Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 9 p.m.
Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ is
Full of Smokey Flavor J a z z u p yo u r d a y w i t h s o m e o f the Augusta area’s barbecue at Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ. Come in and try the smokey flavors of the Mississippi Delta blues and food at this local restaurant. Robert Ray is the owner of Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ. Growing up around his uncle’s hog farm and barbecuing all his life, Ray’s passion for barbecue lead him to open a restaurant. July 4, 2011, Ray opened the barbecue joint cooking with all his own recipes. “Everything in here has smoke in it,” Ray explained. Everything from the baked beans to the chicken is smoked to perfection. “We have a real awesome beef brisket,” Ray raved.
People have been saying it’s the best barbeque in town. Ray can’t decide what his favorite items on the menu are. He said itss all good. Don’t forget to save room for dessert. All the desserts are home-made and pound cake is a favorite among customers. For the family function or special occasion, ask about the catering options. The establishment also has a website for online ordering at www.rayssmokehousebbq. com, or just come visit Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ at 2813 Deans Bridge Road Thursday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The lunch buffet is on Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Old-fashioned Cooking, Good Southern Food at Goolsby’s Go back in time with the Southern homecooking at Goolsby’s. “It’s a place to quickly be served, but with product that takes you back to a slower time,” said owner Richard Goolsby. Goolsby fashioned his cooking after the old-fashioned methods of Southern homecooking. He began his venture, in 1982, cooking on Saturdays for lunch at his 100-year-old, family-owned country store in Lincolnton, Ga. After the store became a full-fledged restaurant, Goolsby moved it to Evans to present it to a community that appreciates good Southern food in 2007. “Stop by and walk through our serving line and walk out with a full meal for everyone at home in about 5 minutes,” Goolsby said. It’s
a casual family atmosphere, but you can also enjoy it at home. Out of the 28 different items on the serving line, the most popular are the barbeque chicken with its original barbecue sauce and the fresh fried pork steak with gravy. According to Goolsby, his customers have told him that the food reminds them of a place and time in their own life that they are fond of. Goolsby’s won Best New Local Restaurant in 2007 and has won Best Down-Home Cooking every year since they opened in Evans. Visit the dedicated staff members at Goolsby’s, and eat the award-winning cuisine at 4460 Washington Road.
Experience the Gemuetlichkeit of Villa Europa Come experience the Gemuetlichkeit of Villa Europa, and its exquisite German, Italian and American cuisine. There are seven beautiful dining areas that are stunning and are often enjoyed by parties for friends and family gatherings, proposals, rehearsal dinners, receptions and business meetings. “We’ve been in business for 39 years,” said Pat Schaffer, vice president of Villa Europa. The restaurant began in 1964 as Pizza Villa and in 1974 moved to its current location at 3044 Deans Bridge Road. The longevity of staff members, blend of continental cuisine and eclectic music make this restaurant a unique dining experience. The restaurant is decorated to optimal elegance with Neuschwanstein Castle influences, Augusta National decorative portraits, and much more. There is even a well-stocked bar
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featuring a selection of German Schnapps and beer. If it’s a nice day, lounge outside at a table in the Bier Garten. Have some schnitzel or bratwurst with your beer and relax in the great environment of Villa Europa. If you have a sweet tooth, the dessert counter is where you will find a grand selection of decadent Bavarian sweets to satisfy that craving. “We have people that have been coming here for three generations,” Schaffer said. “There are people who bring in their grandchildren for the first time and we get to see them try escargot.” The quality, quantity and price is why people should come try the family recipes of the German native, Anneliese Schaffer-Neises, who became president of Villa Europa in 1989.
Taste an array of creations at Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet Have a craving for pizza, hibachi, sushi, steak, sesame chicken and Italian shrimp? Bring your appetite to the all you can eat Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet. “We are a large buffet,” Benny Chen, manager of the Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet. This restaurant is one of the largest dining establishments in Augusta. It’s family oriented and has kid-friendly cuisine, a large salad buffet with various dressings including made fresh ranch dressing and a full hibachi grill. Pick your own ingredients from the hibachi grill and the hibachi chef will cook right in front of you. All the buffet recipes are creations of Jin Bing, the kitchen manager for Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet, according to Chen. If you have a sweet tooth, experience the extensive dessert bar that is stock-full
of fruits, pastries and eight flavors of ice cream. “Our food is fresh all the time and the food quality is what people come for,” Chen said. The food isn’t the only thing that is quick and good, the service is fast and the staff is polite, friendly and welcoming. Planning an event? There is a private room that is perfect for the rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, birthday party or business lunch. You can’t go wrong with this buffet with its 250 diverse food options on display. There is something for everyone. Come enjoy the extensive buffet of food and their fun and eclectic atmosphere.
Love the Flavors The Largest and Most Elegant Chinese, Japanese & American Cuisine Restaurant We have over 250 50 dif diff different ferentt iitems tems on o th the ba bbar. Plus bar Plus we hhave ave a HIBA HIBACHI CHI section which you can pick and choose to make up your own menu, so we we can can cook cook it it on the h HIBACHI HIBACHI for noo additional a tion addi tional al charge. char charg harge. e.
LUNCH BUFFET
Monday - Saturday 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM Mon - Sat $6.99 Kids 3-6 y/o $2.49 7-10 y/o $4.49 KIDS 2 & UNDER EAT FREE!
We We offer off ffer Rib-Eye Rib Eye St Ste Steak, akk Salm SSalmon l on FFi Fish, ishh Butter B tter Shrim Sh Shrimp, i Black Pepper Shrimp, Crabmeat, Cheese, General’s Chicken & Different Selections of Sushi. Sushi Sushi u . Large Large sele selection lectio ctionn of o salads, salads, fru fruits, its, and des dessert desserts. serts. s.
1343 Augusta West Parkway Augusta, GA 30909 Next to Dollar Tree & Burlington Coat Factory in the Augusta West Plaza
For more info.
please call 706-868-6886 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
DINNER BUFFET
Monday - Thursday 3:30 PM - 9:30 PM Friday & Saturday 3:30 PM - 10:00 PM Adult $9.69 Kids 3-6 y/o $4.19 7-10 y/o $5.99 SUNDAY ALL DAY DINNER
of French Market Grille Planes, trains and automobiles. You don’t need a long air, rail or road trip to get that New Orleans creole and Cajun deliciousness. Just drive a short distance and you’ll immerse yourself into the unique Louisiana atmosphere of French Market Grille at Surrey Center. French Market Grille was created by Chuck and Gail Baldwin in 1984. For almost 30 years, the restaurant has flourished as one of Augusta’s most popular dining establishments. The casual dining experience is perfect for anyone and has won several awards, such as “Best Restaurant in Augusta” for 17 years in a row. They have also won awards for best business lunch, best dessert, friendly service and best martini. “ I t ’s a C a j u n - s t y l e r e s t a u ra n t ,” Shannon Cain, the general manager of French Market Grille, explained. “And it’s a family-style restaurant.”
This restaurant will have your senses whirling with spice and flavors of the Lousiana cuisine. “Our [restaurant] has a really unique flavor,” Cain said. She said that the regulars, who make up 80 percent of their customers, love the flavors, spice and freshness of the food. French Market Grille serves fresh oysters and shrimp every day. The grill’s best sellers include the Seafood Stuffed Trout, the Shrimp Etoufee and their scrumptious peanut butter pie. There are gluten free options at this restaurant, too. Come try the spectacular Louisianacuisine at 425 Highland Ave. from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday. They are closed on Sunday.
We have a large party room available for birthday parties, office meetings and weddings.
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Enjoy the Vibrant Atmosphere at Habaneros Mexican Restaurant
Bring your appetite and put on those loose jeans. Habaneros Mexican Restaurant will fill you to the brim with freshly-made chips and salsa and some delicious dishes. Habaneros opened in July 2009 and has been voted the best Mexican food in McDuffie County for the past three years. “Well, if they want to enjoy good Mexican food, they should come here,” Miguel Chavez, owner of Habaneros Mexican Restaurant said. Chavez was a manager at Monterrey’s for five years before he opened his own restaurant. He saved money and found a good location to do what he enjoys, which is making people happy and giving them a place to have a good
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time after work. Chavez raved about his staff, calling them polite, friendly and wonderful. After work, stopin and unwind with a margarita and some of the establishment’s fantastic food. “We have new menus and added new items,” Chavez said. That includes the customers’ popular choices of Maria’s Steak and Pollo Jalisco. Come enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that is full of life, and the beautiful Mexican-style decor at 1435 Washington Road in Thomson, Ga. They’re excited for you to come try their amazing cuisine for lunch or dinner.
Hello Josephine at Sunshine Bakery
Count the sun rises of 67 years of business at Sunshine Bakery. This bakery will fill you up with grandma’s cooking. The bakery was opened in 1946 by the grandmother of Steven Kaplan, the owner and operator of Sunshine Bakery. “She was a really good cook and loved to feed people,” Kaplan said. For the past 67 years, the restaurant has gone through many changes. However, the phenomenal service, original family recipes and casual atmosphere has kept the business running. If you’ve never tasted sunshine, then try the Sunshine Tea. You’ll taste the special sweet and sunny mixture of tea and lemonade. Say hello to the Josephine! The custard filled, flaky, chocolate covered famous pastry is what Sunshine Bakery’s customers love. It’s their most popular dessert.
“The favorite is the soup for me,” Kaplan explained when asked what his favorite item on the menu was. Try the soup of the day while you’re out. The bakery has won Best Soup of Augusta for over 25 years. Some people have said the split pea soup is the best in the United States. Kaplan raved about the food because of the kosher like products they use. He said that because of the products they use, the food just tastes better. “We’re unique and we’re special,” Kaplan said. “We make really good products and have good prices.” Open for breakfast and lunch, come try their wonderful, made from scratch soups, sandwiches and desserts.Sunshine hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Be enchanted Staying at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center? Then walk on down to Augustino’s Italian Eatery and Prime Steaks for the eco-friendly cuisine. Everything is locally grown and raised by surrounding plantations. Walk into the beautiful dining area and sit in the romantically lit setting. Enjoy the in-house crafted and cured dishes with the freshest herbs picked from their own organic onsite garden. The local organic meats and produce are what makes Executive Chef Craig LaPonzina’s foods delicious. “We are committed to our sustainability and our environment,” said Greg DeSandy, director of sales and marketing for the Marriott. He said that the Marriott has a big footprint in the community because of how much power and products they use. To reduce that footprint, the Marriott strives to use local products, florescent lighting and they recycle anything they can. Including gently-used shampoos, conditioners and soaps that are reprocessed and sent to those in need.
by Augustino’s Italian Eatery and Prime Steaks
Don’t forget to pair that juicy steak, or mouth-watering prosciutto with a fabulous, award-winning wine. Augustino’s is one of two locations in the Augusta area to have won the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. “The most unique thing about us is we are open 365 days a year, three times a day for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” DeSandy said about the restaurant. Augustino’s menu is constantly evolving as people’s tastes are evolving. The menu, also, caters to those who need gluten free or who count calories. LaPonzina is Augusta area’s leader in obtaining local products from regional vendors such as Wade Plantation in Sylvania. Come enjoy the Northern Italy inspired food and taste LaPonzina’s magnificent creations. Stop in for a Good Start Buffet or pancakes for breakfast. Or come by for lunch and try the pasta bar, which is a popular buffet for guests. They can create their own pasta with their own ingredients. It’s available Monday through Friday for lunch. Don’t miss out on dinner, either. Augustino’s will satisfy your hunger with a succulent New
York strip or maybe some fresh Atlantic salmon. If you have an event somewhere else, ask about the catering options. Your guests won’t be disappointed. The upscale atmosphere will enchant you with its lovely decor of darker wood dining areas and lighter accents. With its elegant modern decor, Augustino’s is perfect for the formal function, family gathering or business meeting up to thirty guests in the private dining areas. If you like to enjoy a beautiful sunny day, then sit outside and eat. There is a lovely setting outside that will have you feeling relaxed and able to take in the beautiful surrounding area. “The location is great,” DeSandy raved. Augustino’s is located downtown at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center by the Augusta Riverwalk at 2 Tenth St. If you want to take a stroll down the riverwalk and then eat breakfast, lunch or dinner at Augustino’s, you can park there and they will validate your parking.
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Now Open! SERVING
FRESH HAND-PATTIED
BURGERS & HAND-CUT FRIES, PITA WRAPS, SALADS, CHICKEN AND MORE!
COME BY AND SEE US TODAY!
Open 7 Days a Week 11am - 10pm
407 Fury’s Ferry Rd Next to Publix
706-755-2023
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St. Louis Original Hamburgers is
A Sensation In 1904, the hamburger became a sensation and it began at the St. Louis World Fair. Now the hamburger has made its way to Martinez as a fresh new hand-crafted patty at St. Louis Original Hamburgers. “The quality of food is really really good,” said Jon Simmons, general manager of St. Louis Original Hamburgers. St. Louis Original Hamburgers opened to give the public a fresh hamburger. None of the hamburgers are pre-made and all are hand-pattied. The restaurant opened April 5 and these hamburgers have been made to perfection with fresh ingredients every day. They’re also 100% real beef. The best sellers are the Double Louie Deluxe and the Bacon Cheddar. “My favorite is the Bacon Cheddar,” Simmons admitted. “I have one almost every day.” Don’t miss out on these mouth-watering burgers with the freshest lettuce and tomato to top it off. Its french fries are freshly cut, cooked and seasoned for the side item. If you like to eat on the lighter side, St. Louis Original Hamburgers also creates pita wraps. The favorite is the Original BLT Pita Wrap. “Everyone is raving about the food online,” Simmons claimed. St. Louis Original Hamburgers is a family-oriented restaurant and you can dine there or take it home, either way it’s still delicious. The restaurant is open to any suggestions about the menu and food, it can change or add anything. That’s the beauty of being a local venue. The service is very friendly and the quality is great.
The atmosphere of this establishment is between casual and sit-down dining. It’s a relaxed setting. Stop in and try some of their fabulous pound cake or array of desserts. The most popular dessert is the red velvet cake. All their desserts are made fresh daily. Come enjoy the food. Open hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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2 0 1 3 By Mark Albertin Photos
Make Time for About Thyme Cafe
It’s about time at the About Thyme Cafe for some lunch or early dinner. Liz Victor opened the cafe in July 2012. She picked the location at 220 Georgia Ave. because she thought it would be “cool to be on the corridor of the state” of South Carolina. Victor’s father, T., makes all of the cakes at the cafe from scratch. They’re family recipes passed down from Victor’s grandmother. “I knew I always wanted a business,” Victor said. This cafe is great for a quick getaway for a sandwich, soup or create your own salad dish. Of course, the special dishes are the casseroles. “I could not pick any one thing,” Victor said when asked what her favorite food on the menu is. “We’ve had a great response to our chicken salad.”
Farmhaus Burger is
local and fresh Farmhaus Burger is helping beef up the local economy by using local farms and vendors for all its ingredients. From humanely raised cattle to organic and gluten-free products, the fresh doesn’t get fresher. At this clean, downtown Augusta burger restaurant, build your own or order the favorite “Haus: burger.” Everything is made from scratch, from the ketchup to the entrees. “It’s hard to narrow it down to just one,” Sean Wight, owner of Farmhaus Burger, said when asked his favorite item on the menu. “It’s a burger restaurant, so the burgers are my favorite.” For the side, try the haus-cut russet fries that comes with sea salt and cracked pepper, split creek farms feta dipping sauce or haus red bean chili and shredded Georgia
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red cheese. Or, try the sweet potato tattertots. “I like making people happy with good food,” Wight said. Wight started in the food industry bussing tables and now has been in the business for 20 years. He also creates the recipes for the hamburgers. Not only does Farmhaus Burger serve fantastic food, but it also serves milk shakes. This local burger joint has regular milk shakes, such as oreo, to the not so traditional, such as the gorilla milk with tequila, vodka and kahlua. They also have a full bar. Stop in for lunch, dinner or drinks at this local downtown restaurant at 1204 Broad St. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Friday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The most popular dish is the shrimp and grits casserole. The grits are real stone ground grits, and the shrimp is from the South Carolina coast. The atmosphere at the About Thyme Cafe is described by Victor as being a place of good, positive energy. She said everyone is very friendly. “Every body on our staff knows how to do everything in the restaurant,” Victor explained. The staff works as a team, and everyone does dishes and everyone cooks. They help each other by checking behind one another for quality control. Dine-in or take-out at About Thyme Cafe in North Augusta. To order ahead of time, call (803) 426-8306. Open hours are Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and for Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Boar’s Head is
spectacular Instead of flying to Britain for the fabulous bangers and mash, order it locally at The Boar’s Head Public House. This authentic British pub has all the greats from Shepherds Pie to Fish and Chips, the delicious cuisine is worth the trip. Try out one of the imported beers, some wine or maybe the spirits. There are even special beers served at certain times by suggestion of patrons. “Everything is made from scratch,” Musa Anderson, co-owner of The Boar’s Head Public House, said. “Everything is done by hand.” The recipes are originals of Chris Anderson, coowner and kitchen manager of the pub, and everything is cut and mixed by the cooks. There are no food processors to help chop, Ms. Anderson explained.
After you eat your mouth-watering dinner, order some dessert- hopefully you’re not full yet. The Sticky Toffee Pudding is a phenomenal dessert that is sticky and sweet to the core. It’s also served warm with vanilla ice cream to top it off. People come all the way from Aiken just to have some of this delicious dessert, according to Ms. Anderson. The mother and son owners have put labor into this pub making it a spectacular place to eat, relax and be merry with a British ale and a hearty meal. Come by today and try The Boar’s Head Public House at 1135 Broad St. Open hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 to 2 a.m.
Experience the
spice and charm of French Market Grille West
Whenever you feel the urge to eat New Orleans cajun or creole cuisine, head to French Market Grille West. This restaurant is full of the spice and charm of the Louisiana city, yet it’s local. Jim Beck purchased French Market Grille West in 2006, nine years after it first opened. For 25 years in the food industry, Beck has strived to create a fantastic array of Cajun and creole cuisine that will give the taste and flair of New Orleans. “The uniqueness about our Cajun and creole is it’s made from scratch,” Beck said. The made-from-scratch recipes were created by Beck himself, and the specials that run on the menu were a collaborative effort with two of his chefs, Tuo Sivised and Adam Winfrey.
Sit down in the Mardi Gras of colors and begin your meal with the Creole File Gumbo and then move on to the daily flown-in sea bass or crawfish. Once you’ve had your fill of the Cajun and creole, dive into the sweet and try the combo pie of peanut butter and turtle deliciousness. “If you haven’t experienced French Market Grille West, you need to give it a try,” Beck said. Everyone should try the food, not just because of the freshness, but because of the value. Come by Tuesday through Saturday to listen to live music and join in on the fun. The restaurant at 368 Furys Ferry Road, Martinez, is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 11p.m. It is closed on Sundays and Monday.
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Healthy Choices at My Friend’s Place
Running short on time and need a quick lunch, but also want a healthy choice? The place you’re looking for is My Friend’s Place Deli. The deli has been open for eight years, but in March 2012, Jamie Mayson bought the establishment. He wanted to do something unique and My Friend’s Place Deli was something he wanted to be a part of. “You can’t get any fresher than what we make,” Mayson said. According to Mayson, the deli caters to people more on the healthier side by serving non-processed and preservative free choices. This friendly neighborhood deli strives to serve the freshest and best ingredients for a healthy and fit lifestyle. Sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads make up the delicious
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menu. “The chicken, tuna and egg salads are the specialty items,” Mayson explained. He described the salads as really good and the trio salad is a favorite among customers. One scoop of each salad on top of a bed of lettuce with fresh, local produce will have you raving about the place. It’s also make their own lite mayonaise and the tuna is preservative free. Eat at the healthier choice that is approved by Georgia Regents Medical Center’s Vascular Biology Center as being heart healthy and leave satisfied at My Friend’s Place Deli. It’s located at 353 Highland Ave. in Surrey Center. Their open hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Over 50 Years of Good Barbecue at Freeman’s BBQ Come in to the 2008 Number One Barbecue Restaurant in the CSRA. Freeman’s BBQ began over 50 years ago and continues to serve generations of customers. “[My father] has seen a lot of customers grow up and customers have seen him grow up,” said Christa Freeman, Public Relations Representative for Freeman’s BBQ. Christa’s grandfather, James Freeman II, began the restaurant just down the street from where it is located now. James Freeman III, owner of Freeman’s BBQ, has been around barbeque all his life. Everything served at Freeman’s BBQ are original family recipes, hand-chopped meat and made fresh daily. The best sellers at this barbecue landmark are the new pulled chicken sandwich that is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, the finger-licking-good ribs and the hash. “People should come here because of the
long-standing history,” Christa explained. “Bad food doesn’t survive 50 years. It should speak for itself.” After so many years of business, being consistent is an accomplishment and their customers have said that the food always tastes the same, according to the public relations representative for Freeman’s. They have 70 year old patrons who have been faithful to the restaurant since they were teenagers. If you want more information about this barbecue joint, look for it in “BBQ Joints: Stories and Secret Recipes from the Barbeque Belt” by David Gelin. Freeman’s BBQ is not far away. The familyowned restaurant is only 5 minutes from downtown Augusta, 10 minutes from South Augusta and only 15 minutes from west Augusta. It’s located at 1060 Sandbar Ferry Road in Beech Island. Open hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
Ooey Gooey Butter Pound Cake, Pina Colada and Key Lime Pie are just a few of the creative cupcake concoctions available at Neapolitan Cupcake and Gift Shoppe. Open for over two and half years, Neapolitan continues to sweeten the Augusta market with their desserts that are stunning in presentation and delicious in consumption. Walking into Neapolitan, the multi-sensory experience is one of a kind in the CSRA. The walls are pink, the aroma is sweet and the energy is nothing short of chic. Customers can delight in gourmet cupcakes, cake pops, English toffee, macaroons, cookies and more. While indulging in fresh baked goods, enjoy a cup of Athens-based Jittery Joe’s coffee while your eyes pan a wall of newspaper clippings and customer thank-you notes. Dually noted, their “pop-art” décor begins with a cupcake mural by local artist Richard Worth and ends with a pink electric guitar, autographed by pop-singer Taylor Swift. In addition to the cupcake flavor and recipe development, owner and operator, Molly Meek stresses a passion for Neapolitan’s special events including catering for private parties, weddings and showers. When Neapolitan is not being used to host a birthday party, the store is often rented for bridal
showers, bachelorette parties, business meetings and any other occasions, which require some “feel good pink.” This year, Meek has forged a new avenue for her cupcake business teaming up with Jenna Lee Wright, host and producer of The Dish, a local cooking show on Channel 6 WJBF-TV. The Dish airs every Friday at 12:30 p.m. and showcases local eateries, chefs, wedding cake decorators, wine enthusiasts and other local food and beverage entrepreneurs providing Augusta with a taste for local. Meek was first asked to appear on The Dish for the taping of the Masters® show. Meek featured Neapolitan’s signature golf cupcakes, cake pops and mini golf cupcakes. Since then, she has appeared on The Dish twice. “She’s our go-to cupcake lady,” Wright explained about Meek. “Every time she comes on the show we have a blast.” While taping an episode, the two realized that not only are cupcakes fun and universally appealing, but the live audience and even the crew showed a strong curiosity about “flavor innovation” and the “crafty” aspect of cupcakes. This insight left Meek and Wright with a feeling that something bigger was cooking on set. After a brainstorm and a few meetings, The Dish “Cupcake Flavor of the Month” promotion was born.
Viewers of The Dish, cupcake enthusiasts and Augusta at large are being asked to submit their cupcake flavor idea online. “The more outlandish, the better,” said Meek about the cupcake ideas. Meek, and her Neapolitan staff, review the entries each month and decide on a winning flavor, which appears on the Neapolitan monthly cupcake flavor menu. The winner is also mentioned on The Dish, receives a dozen free cupcakes from Neapolitan and will be entered to win a prize for the “2013 Cupcake Flavor of the Year.” To enter a flavor idea, visit www. thedishon6.com. Meek will appear on The Dish once a month throughout the remainder of the year. “Working with Jenna Lee and her crew has been both personally and professionally rewarding,” Meek expressed. Try the “Cupcake Flavor of the Month” at Neapolitan Cupcake and Gift Shoppe located in Le Pavilion shopping center at the corner of Pleasant Home and Washington Road. 106 Pleasant Home Road. Store Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 706-814-8959
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The New Moon Café is There’s a full moon this morning, so take it as a sign to start your day with The New Moon Cafe. The New Moon Cafe was established in 1995 by Christine Sherer, owner and operator. “It was quite successful from the very beginning,” Sherer said. The New Moon Cafe is friendly and open to anyone. It’s a well-rounded atmosphere full of creativity and expression from the local community. From bikers to politicians, the cafe stays busy. “There is something that is so fulfilling to feed people in the community,” Sherer said. Sherer began her journey in the food industry at the age of 17. Her first job with food was at a pizza joint. Sherer said she was a walking disaster when it came to serving people, but she loved it. She loved meeting new people and creating a relationship with repeating customers. Sherer said that she has loved every year that she has been in the food business and she said it’s a privilege. “They say the coffee is strong and it’s good,” Sherer shared about what her customers say about the coffee.
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full of creativity
The coffee at this cafe is roasted in small batches inhouse five times a week. The favorite is the Seven Monkey Fury Blend. People from all over the country buy the blend online at www.newmoondowntown.com. Everything served here is authentic. They bake and cook their breads, pastries and made-from-scratch soups daily. The cafe strives to make all its products from scratch and use local vendors for its ingredients, if possible. For example, the strawberries are from Lexington, S.C. and the tomatoes are from Columbia, S.C. They use naturally grown and free of child labor products. From scrumptious peaches and cream muffins to applewood smoked bacon and dark chocolate chip cookies, The New Moon Cafe keeps things unique and tasty. “All of our food is very intentional and is attended to with great attention to detail,” Sherer explained. There is a baker, chef and coffee roaster at the locations for Aiken and Augusta. Even the milk shakes are hand spun from scooping the ice cream to pouring the chocolate. The atmosphere at The New Moon Cafe is laid back and relaxing. The walls are decorated with local amateur art and with lots of things to look at from neighbors in
the community. The cafe has local art exhibitions, as well, for children and amateur artists. Sherer described her staff as “really good people” and “overwhelmingly creative.” She said they’re loving and they’re quite of group of individuals. “People should come to the cafe because it’s local,” Sherer explained. Sherer likes to have choices, and she wanted locals to have the choice of something local that has quality products. “I have things that are very, very indulgent, and things that are very, very healthy,” Sherer raved. There is something for everyone. Visit the downtown Aiken establishment at 116 Laurens St. or visit the downtown Augusta cafe at 1002 Broad St. The hours are Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. For Sunday Brunch the Aiken location is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the Augusta location is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come join The New Moon Cafe for coffee and a pastry this morning.
Loosen your tie at Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar Loosen that tie for the beyond casual dining experience at Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar. You don’t have to dress nice to eat well-prepared and seasoned seafood. Craig and Amy Bailey opened the restaurant in 1983 with Aunt Nancy’s toaster oven and a refrigerator. Finding the location is a key part in any business, and one of Craig’s talents. Taking a class in college called Seizeability Studies, Craig found the prime location at 3051 Washington Road with a stoplight in front. The restaurant began as a sandwich shop and business was slow. Sometimes only getting one customer an hour, the couple would play monopoly or ballroom dance in the back. After much deliberation, they closed the sandwich shop and reopened as Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar in July 1987. They named the establishment after their Aunt Nancy’s maiden name, Rhinehart. “It’s a constant challenge,” Amy explained. She said that she has always been fascinated with business and really likes the dynamics of running a restaurant. Amy explained that you have to love serving people – it can’t be about the money. It’s constant chaos, but it’s addicting.
Stroll into the beach-shack atmosphere with picnic tables and writing on the walls, and enjoy an ice-cold beer or another drink from the full bar. “There’s no one who will feel uncomfortable here,” Amy said. Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar is a “come as you are” kind of establishment. Come in cut-off shorts or a tuxedo and feel welcomed. The food is delicious from hamburgers to chicken fingers to crab legs and oysters, you can’t leave without being stuffed. Amy’s favorite items on the menu are the fried shrimp and the oyster stew. “I get every piece of juice left in the bowl,” Amy admitted about the oyster stew. Customers have claimed that Rhinehart’s also has the best fried shrimp they ever had. They have even won awards such as “Best Seafood in Augusta” and “Best Hamburger.” When asked what the staff is like, Amy responded, Revenge of the Nerds meets Animal House. She said her staff members are intelligent and friendly people. The Baileys also only hire cooks who love the craft of
cooking. Amy and Esha Tankersley, general manager of Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar, create all the delicious recipes and their cooks prepare them perfectly before serving the customers. “It’s a fun, big party picnic,” Amy raved about her seafood restaurant. Feel free to etch your name into the table top for memories sake and come back again to reminisce about the last experience you had at the seafood restaurant. Augusta patrons aren’t scared of this unique casual dining, and after thirty years in the business Rhinehart’s is still booming. The Baileys opened a second Rhinehart’s Oyster bar location at 305 N. Belair Road. They even have a catering hotline for your family gathering or event and are ready to make party trays of all sorts to satisfy your guests. Call them for more catering information at (706) 829-4997. Come enjoy the fried cheese, giant snow crab legs or combo platter from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. any day.
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Meet New Friends at Mi Rancho Have fun at the Mexican restaurant that has karaoke, drinks and good food. Visit Mi Rancho for the great atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. Teodosio Estrada and Melissa Ruiz, co-owners of the 10 Mi Rancho Mexican restaurants, started out with a rough beginning. Estrada began his journey to Augusta from a small town in Guerrero, Mexico. He grew up as the eldest of five siblings, with parents who were struggling financially. Estrada’s mother pushed all her children to finish high school and he worked hard to help his parents make ends meet. Living off of mostly corn that his father grew every year, Estrada finished high school. After he graduated, Estrada decided to make a better life for himself and moved in with his cousin in San Diego. He made his way to Sumter, and Estrada received his first job washing dishes at a Mexican restaurant. Once that restaurant closed, he became a cook for Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant in Beaufort, S.C., which was where he met Ruiz. Later, he was transferred to an Augusta location. Estrada worked his way from the bottom to the top and learned the ins and outs of running a Mexican restaurant. “It was Teo’s dream and I was just the best friend to make it happen,” Ruiz explained. For eight years, Estrada saved money and in 1996, they opened the first Mi Rancho Mexican Restaurant in Clearwater, S.C. Everyday was a struggle for about a year, living with five people in a house and walking to work. All the money went into the restaurant and they
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couldn’t even pay themselves. The two owners made a great team, however. Estrada was the cook and did everything in the back, while Ruiz was the waitress and did everything in the front. After a year, the restaurant began to see progress. Nine other locations have opened over the years since then. “When we opened, I was 21 years old and very ambitious, but I never dreamed that 17 years later we would have 10 different locations,” Ruiz said. “We are very blessed to have faithful employees and customers. Without them, I don’t think we would be where we are at, now.” Ruiz has been in the food industry for 23 years. Starting out as a waitress she is now part owner of one of the biggest local Mexican restaurant chains in the area. The menu at Mi Rancho has a diverse selection of dishes. They have some authentic Mexican cuisine, and then they have pork chops, steaks and seafood. They also cater to vegetarians. When the first restaurant opened in Clearwater, all the recipes were originals of Estrada and Ruiz. Now the recipes for the menu have come from the two owners and the managers of all the locations. “It’s a group effort,” Ruiz explained about the recipes that are cooked and served at the establishments. The specialty items on the menu are the cheese dip, Fajitas Mi Rancho, Burrito Mi Rancho, Burrito Macho, Carne Azada and, of course, the margaritas. Ruiz’s favorite items on the menu are the Tacos de Carnitas and the Pollo Sante Fe. The atmosphere at the locations varies. Some locations, such as the one in Grovetown, have a
more family friendly atmosphere. Others, such as the one in downtown Augusta, have more of a party atmosphere because of the karaoke nights. The karaoke times vary from location to location, so call a Mi Rancho in your area for more information. “We’ve never picked locations by traffic,” Ruiz said. “We pick locations by the need of food locations. For example, we just opened the Wagener location. There’s not much traffic, but it’s an amazing location.” The Mi Rancho that just opened in Wagener, S.C. is the only restaurant in town like it. Come into any location of Mi Rancho and be greeted by the wonderful staff members. According to Ruiz, they have the best service at their restaurants. They treat customers like friends. “I have some of the best employees,” Ruiz raved. “I couldn’t ask for more dedicated employees.” According to Ruiz, their Mexican restaurant locations stay busy. She never gets a day off. People love the food and, Ruiz claims, that the restaurant has the best Mexican food and Margaritas in town. The owners want to see Mi Rancho get better everyday and give their best for the customers that come in. The bar is set high and it shows in the success of the restaurant. “Thanks to all the customers who support us,” Ruiz said. Come by any of the 10 locations and enjoy the great atmosphere, friendly service, good food and margaritas. Open hours vary from location to location.
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