Fig Aiken Summer 2021

City of

Aiken

The Food & Drink Issue ISSUE No 9 | SUM M E R 2021 Celebrating local shopping, dining, arts, events, and community

Big Smile Peaches has been a family-owned and operated farm since 1931, and is currently run by the 4 th generation of the family!

A peachy summer’s day This summer, load up the car and take a drive down to Johnston, where you’ll discover some of the tastiest, sweetest peaches that you’ve ever had. Big Smile Peaches harvests fresh peaches from over 4,300 acres on their family farm from the beginning of May until Labor Day. During peak season, they collect up to 800,000 pounds of the fuzzy fruit a day! You can drive right up to their office and pick up your own box of freshly picked peaches—you’ll be welcomed with a smile, and you’ll leave with an even bigger one as you head home with your Certified SC Grown peaches!

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37 Yonce Pond Road, Johnston

803.275.3244

bigsmilepeaches.com

I N T H I S I S S U E Grab your knife and fork, and tuck your napkin into your lap: Aiken is overflowing with incredible restaurants that are ready to serve you a remarkable meal!

Aiken’s Global Flavors COVER: We’ve taken you back to your childhood and your love of scratch-andsniff stickers—give our cover a scratch and be rewarded with the delightful smell of a fresh South Carolina peach!

Travel the world this summer without leaving Aiken—try out new-to-you restaurants influenced by countries and cultures around the globe.

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Fig Authentic We sat down with Becky Risher to learn more about her family’s history of farming, and the impact she and her mother continue to make on our local food scene.

Contents

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Dining Out on the Town Keep your oven turned off and your kitchen cool this summer, and instead, head out to one of our many local restaurants, where you can dine alfresco, enjoy a meal inside, or opt to pick up a meal to go. Our town offers up a wide variety of tastes and flavors for you to enjoy this summer.

Flip through our pages and discover a new restaurant to try, or make plans to meet up with a friend at an old favorite. No matter how you choose to dine, we hope you choose local!

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Dine Around Downtown Aiken 28 Our 2021 Social Mission Partner: Aiken Center for the Arts 14 Keeping Aiken Saucy with The Sauce 24 Follow Us on Social Media!

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And of course great shopping, dining, arts, events, and community— as always. Keep Reading

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P R O D U C E D B Y B Y FA R R D E S I G N

Learn more about our mission and meet our team at byfarr.com.

THE FOOD & DRINK ISSUE

Credits

PUBLISHER Fig Industries DIRECTOR Brynley Farr REGIONAL DIRECTOR Erin Truitt DESIGNERS RJ Jackson Laura Windham WRITERS Chesson Merritt Jefferson Maia PRODUCTION Chris Farr Catalina Olvera Emily Davis

PHOTOGRAPHERS Forrest Clonts Joshua Aaron Photography Donovan McMasters ALL THINGS SOCIAL Look for Fig Aiken on Facebook and Instagram for daily coverage of local events, food, and community.

A D V E RT I S I N G I N F I G To find out how you can strategically market your business through the Fig communications package, contact Erin Truitt at figaiken@byfarr.com.

Fig Industries is redefining success through social impact and environmental accountability in the communities we serve. Learn more about our B-Corp certification at figindustries.com/b-corp/.

Fig Industries, LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Fig Industries, LLC. Fig Industries, LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication. Copyright: Copyright 2021 © Fig Industries, LLC. All rights reserved. Photography or page layout contained in Fig shall not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Fig Industries, LLC. Contact 717.394.7737 or studio@figindustries.com.

There’s nothing like summer in

Pictured: A delectable spread at La Parisienne.

A note from Fig

Aiken For some, food is a way of life. From the growing and harvesting of produce to the time spent in the kitchen bringing family recipes to life, meals have always taken on a deeper meaning. They have become a reason to gather socially and are a sacred blend of good food, good company, and good times. Each culinary style is steeped in its own traditions, ingredients, recipes, history, and culture, and often times, in the South, that equates to homecooked comfort food.

You can find that right here in Aiken, but you’ll also find so much more as you take time to discover our local culinary scene.

Our hometown is a rich melting pot of different backgrounds, and exceptional cuisine of all kinds has made its way into our quaint little town. One thing that I have always loved about Aiken’s food and drink scene is that everyone can find something here that they love. Whether it’s a fancy dinner out on the town, freshly roasted coffee at a local coffee shop, decadent deli-style sandwiches, or locally farmed meat and produce to prepare in

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your own kitchen, it’s there and waiting for you to try.

We are dedicating this summer issue to those in the food and drink industry that give us all the reasons to gather, celebrate, and cheers together! From our peach-scented cover to our local, fan-favorite restaurants, we are ready to toast to the incredible food found right here in our hometown. I can only hope that you are able to discover some of Aiken’s best kept secrets—your taste buds will thank you! Our Fig Summer Food & Drink issue is here to highlight many of these new lovely establishments as well as continue to help our small business community thrive.

“Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people get together to eat.” — Guy Fieri WARMLY, ERIN TRUITT + THE FIG AIKEN TEAM

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Design & Renovation Residential Homes Vacation Getaways Commercial Properties

Bringing international tastes to Aiken With a portfolio that includes projects in America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, Phyllis Burke brings a world of design influences with her to Aiken through her interior design business, Camellia Cottages. Design and renovation are her passion—she loves to study the architecture of a building to see what’s possible, and then present a design concept to a client to show them what “could be.” From initial concept and demo day through to adding the final touches of décor, Phyllis will bring your interior design and renovation projects to life and will give your space a fresh new look for you to enjoy.

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Consultation with Phyllis 336.430.9930

phyllis@camellia-cottages.com

Camellia-Cottages.com

Getting your smile summer ready Experience the everlasting confidence of a sparkling smile Dr. Vereen and his team can give you! Achieving a full dental makeover or enjoying summer with a healthier grin have never been more accessible with their family and cosmetic dentistry services, including CEREC same-day crowns and iTero digital impressions. Whatever your reason is for renewing your signature accessory, their patient-centered approach is sure to leave you beaming from ear to ear again at the restaurant table and beyond.

General & Preventive Care Cosmetic Dentistry Reconstructive Dentistry Advanced Dental Care Same-day Crowns Digital X-rays

1522 Two Notch Road

803.642.5747

drvereendental.com

Women’s Health Aromatherapy Agora CBD Laser Services Private Consultations

Find balance for your mind, body, and spirit The highly trained team led by Dr. Cindy Besson combines years of experience and knowledge to help you be your best with holistic-minded consultations. If you’re having trouble sleeping or need help easing your allergies and relieving pain, Level 2 NAHA Certified Professional Aromatherapist and Registered Nurse Lynn Tholborn can help you discover the natural benefits

Custom Blending Online Shopping

of aromatherapy. You get to choose from their extensive selection of essential oils that go from warm manuka to lavender or may chang! Find a relaxing space designed for the private and personalized care you deserve right at their office location, or bring a dose of harmony into your home with their custom specialty blends.

Voted Aiken’s Choice Top Doc for the last 5 years, Women’s Health Associates has cared for women of all ages since 1993 and continues to offer Aiken a wide range of holistic-focused services. From gynecological screenings to laser procedures, the all-female team led by Dr. Cindy Besson is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care backed by treatment options that will make you look and feel your healthiest this summer and beyond.

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121 Aurora Place, Suite A

803.648.0803

whaaiken.com

Strength, flexibility, and well-being Find your personal recipe for all-around lifestyle transformation and wellness with Catie Koman, a certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach with over 30 years of experience. She is helping all ages and fitness levels here in Aiken “shake” things up…quite literally! Take the guess work out of achieving your wellness goals with a combination of Pilates reformer, Pilates suspension training, Skulpt conditioning, health assessments, and much more.

She will use these to set up your personal strategies to ensure your long-term success. Contact her today to schedule a FREE Discovery Session!

Find the best clothing and toys for your littles, too! Drop in next door to shop at Caroline’s Boutique’s sister company, Pitter Patter.

Beach days to summer soirées

No matter where your social calendar and travels take you this summer, Caroline’s Boutique has just what you need for the occasion. Stroll in to discover the right outfit and accessories to keep you cool and stylish, or pick up a tote bag, towel, and hat for a day in the sun.

131 Lauren’s Street SW pilatesperformanceandwellness.com

803.644.5606

carolinesaiken.com

Your home is your retreat Your relationship with your home likely has changed dramatically over this last year. Your home may be your part-time office, classroom, gym, spa, bar and restaurant­­—all in one! Let Cissie Sullivan and Tracey Turner be your guides to discovering a serene haven in Aiken, where finding balance feels like a summer breeze.

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142 Laurens Street Northwest

803.998.0198

Southern summer style Mornings on the golf course, afternoons at the track, and evenings out on the town—the menswear experts at Lionel Smith, Ltd. have everything that a dapper Southern gentleman needs in his wardrobe for all of his activities and travel this summer.

Peter Millar Coppley Brax Alan Paine 132 Laurens Street SW 803.648.2100 lionelsmithltd.com

Bugatchi

Circuit Training

Interval Training

Personal Training

Weight Training

Group Training

Yoga

Be unrivaled At Unrivaled Fitness, everyone is working towards one goal: to be the absolute best version of themselves. Owner and trainer Josh Bolen has created an unrivaled program designed to provide you everything that you need to improve your health and fitness as you work towards meeting all of your goals. Begin the journey towards the best version of yourself this summer!

126 Dominion Drive

803.673.8896

facebook.com/UnrivaledFitnessAiken

A corner of quiet, luxurious comfort At the corner of Fairfield and Park, in the once-abandoned historic Teamsters Union Building, you’ll find five beautifully renovated, luxurious apartments overlooking downtown Aiken. Elegant and fully furnished from the bedroom to the kitchen, these apartments are just a short walk away from the downtown shopping and dining that you love and have all the conveniences you need for a comfortable stay.

Available for long-term and short-term rental Owners Chad and Chriss Matthews were determined to support local where they could in creating Fairfield and Park and worked with only local vendors and businesses to bring their idea to life.

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227 Park Ave. SE

fairfieldandpark.com

Women’s Apparel Jewelry Shoes

A double scoop of style Put a sweet spin on your wardrobe this summer, and refresh it to include new outfits to wear everywhere from a date night out to a beach vacation. Owner Brooke Thomas has an eye for fashion, and she can guide you towards exactly what you need for every event on your calendar this season. Complete your outfit by sprinkling in a brand new pair of shoes and a new accessory—you’ll be ready to hit the town in style!

110 Laurens Street SW

803.226.0340

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Social Mission | Making a difference in the lives of others This summer and fall, folk musicians Roger Bellow and Berita Martin are coming to ACA to make summer camps even more diverse with special ukulele classes for young campers.

send an art therapist into nursing homes to conduct one-on-one painting sessions with residents.”

Social Mission Aiken Center for the Arts Although each local nonprofit plays an equally important role in enriching and supporting our community, what sets each one apart is their unique missions and how they are shared. With a rich history that tells the story of creativity in our city, Aiken Center for the Arts provides our region with the best available instruction in fine arts and crafts, as well as a 22,000-square foot art gallery and shop, painting a future where more and more local artists and art lovers come together to share, learn, and grow.

to be a creative space where people can gather in the spirit of community, to enjoy one another, and to celebrate art as a shared experience. We are looking ahead and continually searching for diverse ways to deliver our mission through dynamic arts partnerships we enjoy with our community.”

Aiken Center for the Arts meets the need for greater accessibility through scholarships for workshops and summer camps, as well as programs designed to create art experiences for special populations. “For instance, our Art and “Whether you enjoyed one of our Music Camp for Special Needs started in exhibitions or orchestra concerts in the 2017 with one week of camp for 5–13-yearpast, attended our Aiken Antique Show, olds,” illustrates Caroline. “This year, with experimented with a new art medium, the support of two other local non-profits, or discovered a local work of art in our Gallery Shop, you have helped to bring the we are offering two weeks of this summer camp to all ages, along with six one-day ACA to life,” explains Executive Director workshops throughout the year. Joy in the Caroline Gwinn. “Today, our mission is to continue to give back, inspire, and educate Journey is also an example of inclusion by providing unique visual and performing for those in our community living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, whereby we arts experiences for all ages. We strive 14

Learn more about Fig Social Mission at figaiken.com

On the same note, lifelong folk musician Roger Bellow is also teaching a weeklong ukulele camp infused with music, art, and language at ACA this summer.

Students will receive their own ukuleles, learn how to play through folk music with whimsical melodies in Spanish and English, and even turn their ukulele into a personal work of art. In the fall, Berita Martin will then join Roger to teach students the Spanish language through interactive performances with puppets and original songs.

The opportunities for inclusion at our community arts center also extend to exhibiting artists. Their doors open conversations with community members and visitors alike, and this ongoing collaboration with people and organizations brings ideas that Caroline’s team weaves into their mission throughout the year. Having grown up in rural South Carolina and recently moved to Aiken, James Andre is exhibiting in ACA’s main gallery this summer. As a traveling artist, André’s brush speaks the language of movement, with an accent that is full of life. He brings together energy and color to convey his heart and soul, and we get to explore the joie de vivre in his artworks from June 17 to July 23 in this unique summer exhibition, free and open to the public.

Welcoming you home to Aiken

Not only does luxury real estate agent Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt find you just the right home to call your own, she also helps you feel at home in Aiken and our community, both before and long after the deal is closed. She will expertly navigate you through the home buying process as she puts her connections, her knowledge, and her lifelong equestrian lifestyle to use for you. You’ll rest assured knowing that you made the right real estate decision when you choose to work with Deirdre!

THIS IS MY NEIGHBORHOOD

@aikenhorsefarms Deirdre’s clothes provided by Equine Divine.

803.640.4591

aikenscproperties.com

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Assisted Living Recreation Programming Rehabilitation Services: Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy

Keeping seniors cool this summer

More than assisted living and rehabilitation services, The Place at Shadow Oaks provides a full menu of dynamic recreational programming for Aiken’s seniors in a vibrant, homelike community.

Whether it’s going for a walk by the pond or having a cookout on the back patio, there’s always something cooking for their residents! Make an appointment to tour Shadow Oaks’ facilities, meet with staff, and participate in a weekly outing, exercise class, art workshop, picnic, or any of their planned activities to witness the warm smiles for yourself. Your loved one deserves a better care and healthy aging experience that starts at Shadow Oaks.

16 108 Gregg Avenue

803.643.0300

shadow-oaks.com

Help your kids choose healthy sweets this summer!

Look for tooth-friendly treats made with xylitol. This sugarless sweetener is plantbased, low-cal and, most importantly, good for your child’s oral health!

The sweetest smiles When it comes to kids and going to the dentist—well, it can be a bit like pulling teeth!

The exception? When you take your littles to see Dr. Thom and Anna at Kitfox Pediatric Dentistry. They take care of your child’s smile by teaching good dental hygiene habits from the beginning in the most positive, fun-filled environment. A healthier taste of summer starts at Kitfox!

1395 Silver Bluff Road

803.393.4550 kitfoxdental.com

like this would ever carry further than my own life, but to my surprise, my work team began to take notice. People would start to ask my wife and I, “can we join you for a walk?” “How can I eat healthier?”

Our new mission began: Advanced On The Move, a walking/running club that allowed us to share the benefits of what was happening to Jennibeth and I with the people surrounding us. Suddenly healthier meals started to show up at lunchtime. Substitutions with healthy habits and food began to overtake long addictions and behaviors that were imprisoning the beautiful potential of our team.

Advanced-level care A couple of years ago I woke up to two questions that had been facing me for many years without a real address.

Number one, how do I spend more time with my family? Number two, how can I be healthy? Like most Americans, I struggled with the work and family life balance and most often the scales were tipped in favor of work. My health was far from optimal. On the surface I seem to be full of pepper and vinegar but deep down my physical body was nearing the point of initial breakdown.

That morning I made a decision not to keep making the same request over and over again that often sounds like “oh help me spend more time with my family” or “oh help me to be healthy.”

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18 & 20 Tea Olive Court

The request this time was “show me how to do it, show me how to be more healthy and more present with my family and I will do anything asked of me even if it kills me.” Little did I know that the subtle change of words from “help” to “show” would ignite all the cosmos and it’s benevolence to meet me at the point I was at and show me the path to becoming the best version of myself. I used to be the type of person that thought one person surely can’t make a difference but as I started to see changes in my life, the ripple effects began to spread out from the epicenter, first touching my wife’s life and behaviors and igniting the true self inside her and then on to my children.

I never thought that making a decision

803.648.0056

smileaiken.com

Fast forward two years, many races, workouts, and 3 1/2 marathons now behind us, our team has embarked on a wellness journey together. Sharing pearls of wisdom on everything from nutrition, to work out templates, to even such spiritual truths such as practicing the power of the present moment (The Now). Our team has lost many pounds collectively, but more importantly, we are all here, we are all present with each other, with our patients, with our referring doctors, and with our community. So yes one pebble tossed in a vast ocean can send out ripples affecting many shores, many miles away. Don’t wait for the future, welcome to the now, welcome to the Advanced Way of Life!

— D R . S H AWN V E LE Z

Age healthily, live happier Palmetto Wellness is your home for functional and integrated medicine in Aiken. Pull up a chair, and have an open chat with Dr. Gregory Eaves about the age-related changes your body is going through. Working side-by-side with your primary care physician and drawing on years of experience and board certifications, he and his knowledgeable medical team will develop a holistic treatment plan to address estrogen or testosterone deficiency early on and protect long-term health, so you can become your healthiest self from the inside out.

Functional Medicine Weight Loss Plans Diabetes Prevention Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention Hormone Replacement Therapy 210 High Gate Loop

803.646.5003

aikenweightloss.com

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THE TASTE OF SUMMER STROLL THROUGH DOWNTOWN AIKEN ON A THURSDAY EVENING AND STEP INTO THE ALLEY—what do you notice?

The restaurants are bustling with activity as servers come in and out to serve patrons seated at outdoor tables, and inside, you’ll find tables filled with friends catching up with one another over a delicious meal. Cocktails are being shaken and poured at the bar, glasses of wine are being topped off down the street in an outdoor Weingarten, and craft beers are being raised in a toast to summertime.

Our small town serves up some incredibly good food and drink, and it’s filled with culinary influences from around the world. Restauranteurs and chefs alike have pulled inspiration from their travels to create menus that will delight every taste bud. Whether you choose to dine al fresco, indoors, or at home with a to-go meal, we hope you enjoy every last bite!

ELEGANT SIMPLICITY

Jeffrey Hairston, the executive chef at both Sheffield’s and The Stables Restaurant at Rose Hill in Aiken, loves combining prosaic ingredients and turning them into elevated meals bursting with umami flavors, textures, and aromas that will delight and astound all of your senses.

Paired with fresh-squeezed cocktails, live music, and the historic charm of Rose Hill’s five-acre facilities, a dining experience at either one of Rose Hill’s restaurants is to be savored to the full.

chef’s choice FILET M I G N O N

why we love it With sautéed mushrooms, butter-fried potatoes, and grilled asparagus, this juicy filet mignon is seared to perfection and served with a piping hot sauce.

221 GREENVILLE STREET NW

803.648.1181

ROSEHILLINAIKEN.COM

A SIP AND SPLASH OF SUMMERTIME Dive into summer at Woodside Country Club, and discover the wonderful amenities that both you and your family can enjoy this season. Take in a round of golf on their world-class course, cool off with a dip in their resort-style swimming pool, or plan an elegant evening out in their Charleston Dining Room. No matter your age or your interests, there’s something for everyone this summer at Woodside Country Club.

1000 WOODSIDE PLANTATION DRIVE 803.649.3383

Fitness Center Golf Tennis Juniors Swimming Dining Kidz Zone Clubs

WOODSIDECC.COM

Tabletop Glassware Kitchen Tools Cookware Cutlery Pantry

BETTER MEALS START HERE

Wine Gift Certificates

Our favorite summer-scented pantry goods plus premium kitchenware in one place. Now that’s a combo we can get behind! In fact, we can spend the entire day at Plum Pudding Gourmet Kitchen just basking in their gourmet selections. We have our choice of Smithey hand-forged skillets, VIETRI ceramic dinner plates, Summer Water rosé, cookbooks for perfect peach recipes... No matter the occasion, getting more out of any homemade meal is guaranteed with SO much to choose from!

101 LAURENS STREET NW

803.644.4600

PLUMPUDDINGKITCHEN.COM

GETTIN’ SAUCY WITH IT

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803.508.3275

THESAUCELLC.COM

Thank you to Mike and Debra Bates for the use of their outdoor space.

chef’s choice

BE E CH IS LAND GOL D

why we love it Versatility! It’s good on anything.

Known as “The Sauce,” its beginnings are as simple and humble as its name.

Donald Waters can recall back to his childhood in Beech Island, SC, where his father, Jack, first taught him how to make his famous recipe for BBQ sauce in their home kitchen.

Each fall, when it came time for the Waters Family Reunion, Jack would bring out the big pot, mix together all of the ingredients, and set it to simmer on the stove as it filled the house with a delicious aroma. It was then poured into ketchup bottles and a sharpie was used to label it: The Sauce.

Bottles of it would disappear at family reunions and friends were happily taking any extra bottles that were available. The demand for The Sauce was higher than the supply!

Everyone loved it, and everyone

asked Donald if he would ever sell or market The Sauce.

In 2016, Donald decided that it was time. Donald made a big batch of The Sauce, his son created the website, and they started giving away bottles to see what would happen.

The response was overwhelming!

It has been a family affair since the beginning, with two of Donald’s sons, an uncle, and close friends making up The Sauce Team.

Today, the Waters Family tradition lives on—Donald now markets and sells The Sauce throughout our state.

With a variety of flavors—Original, Beech Island Gold, Bold, and Mama’s Favorite—you can find a version of The Sauce that will perfectly match with every meal. It truly is an “everything” sauce and you can enjoy it on any type of meat. Pork, chicken, turkey, shrimp… you name it!

Home of BEECH ISLAND GOLD Aiken, SC Add The Sauce to your family’s BBQ traditions! You can pick up your own bottle of The Sauce at local shops throughout the state and right here in Aiken: Woods Produce

Grice’s Butcher Shop

Feaster’s Foods

Todd’s Convenience Stores

Plum Pudding Aiken Dry Goods Cold Creek Nurseries

Aiken County Visitors Center Cork and Cap

You can also order a bottle online!

H OME C OO K E D ON THE GO Keep fresh, home-cooked meals on your table even during your busiest weeks this summer by meal planning with Blue Collard. Their neighborhood takeout market is your one-stop shop for dinner and dessert, and if you’re headed on a family vacation, you can grab some of their tasty dips to go, too!

S UM M ER I N CO LO R Opposites attract to make epic charcuterie and custom boards in Aiken! Best friends Ashley and Casey combine their different backgrounds and personalities to build and deliver assortments of cured meats, cheeses, veggies, dips, fruits, crackers/bread, and more fresh ingredients to brighten up any table. Your social get-together just got so much better!

Traditional Custom

Dessert Combo

Half/half Brunch

Kid

Specialty

Catering

6000 WOODSIDE EXECUTIVE CT 803.646.8630 BOARDINAIKEN.COM

Blue Collard offers full-service catering as well—contact them to begin planning the menu for your next event.

113 WATERLOO STREET 803.679.0115 BLUECOLLARD.COM

COCKTAILS & CROQUET

Whether you prefer a round of croquet out on the lawn or a cocktail inside before dinner (or both!), the rich variety of amenities and benefits of a membership at the Green Boundary Club are not to be missed. Fill your summer with new friendships, extraordinary dining, and world-class service as you experience the best club life in Aiken and beyond— members of Green Boundary Club enjoy exclusive reciprocal club benefits around the country through ClubCorp®.

780 WHISKEY ROAD

803.649.2549

GREENBOUNDARYCLUB.COM

Vampire Penguin

MacK’s

Eat it all in downtown Aiken Plan a fun summer day in downtown Aiken and experience distinct Southern flavors that will appeal to the most distinct palates!

You’ll want to stop by La Parisienne to kick off the day with the freshest French pastries and pies, including quiches, croissants, and sandwiches. Oh, and wait until you see their drink menu. We don’t know about you, but we could drink cappuccinos and mango mimosas all. day. looong!

Go classic with a twist with MacK’s scrumptious sandwiches paired with waffle fries or sweet potato fries. Then wash all those savory flavors down with a refreshing bottle of Coke or lemonade. Just reading these ideas is soothing!

Vampire Penguin has colorful dessert options that both kids and adults alike will love when that post-lunch sugar craving hits. The best part? Their snows have four times less sugar and calories than ice cream, yet with abundant flavor and sweetness. Dessert plans made!

La Parisienne

OPTIONS FOR EVERY PALATE! Aiken Brewing Company Jack’s Cafe & Lounge Rose Hill

Betsy’s Round the Corner La Parisienne

Whiskey Alley

MacK’s

Casa Bella Italian Restaurant

Mellow Mushroom

The Alley Downtown Taproom

Takosushi

Flanigan’s Ice Cream Parlor

The New Moon Cafe Vampire Penguin

The Pizza Joint The Willcox

Prime

Market days are back!

Big! News! Just in time for summer, The Market returns to The Alley this June from 6 to 8pm on Thursdays. In collaboration with the City of Aiken, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, this annual Aiken Development Downtown Association event provides a unique opportunity for the city to come together as one to enjoy live music, bites, artisan goods, farm-fresh produce, and more. You also get to cross off any remaining items on your shopping list by extending your visit to the shops and restaurants downtown where you can spend the rest of your evening with family and friends.

In addition to the Market in The Alley, the Aiken County Farmers Market is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7:30 am until 11:30 am at its permanent location at 115 Williamsburg Street, where it has served Aiken County for over 50 years now. Think fresh produce, baked goods, meat, honey, dairy products, and even handmade crafts.

Outdoor oases, here we come!

The temperature’s rising in downtown Aiken! Get your nature fix, a blast from the past, first-rate equestrian events, and a bustling arts scene that make for a blissful day out with entertainment options for the whole family. Plus—when each store, hotel, or restaurant is a getaway of its own, the only risk is not wanting to leave! Head to downtown Aiken, and let the summer chillaxing begin.

113 Laurens St SW, Suite 107, Aiken, SC 29801

803.649.2221

Photography provided by South Carolina National Heritage Corridor

downtownaiken.com

Landscape design and maintenance Garden center Market

Grow it, grill it Take your cooking and dining experience al fresco this summer, and step outside of your house to enjoy outdoor living with a custom outdoor kitchen, living room, or fire pit designed by Cold Creek Nurseries. Their team specializes in creating these custom outdoor rooms, working closely with their customers to design a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional. These spaces add value to your home and, in our southern climate, are able to be used year round. In addition, they offer landscaping and landscape maintenance to complete your outdoor oasis!

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398 Hitchcock Pkwy

803.648.6810

coldcreeknurseries.net

Wine Tasting in Home

Beauty for your home and your palate I N T E R I O R D E S I G N : Meet with owner Camille to bring a new look to your residential or commercial space through appointment-only design consultation.

Virtual Wine Tasting

L A B O U T I Q U E : Shop antiques, interior design, art books, artwork, furniture, roses, beauty products, and more in the highly curated retail shop.

Wine Tasting in the Garden

L E C A F É : Dine on organic, farm-to-table food and sip on specialty coffee, teas, and drinks in the café.

Don’t forget to order a French pastry!

A W I N E TAST I NG FO R A N Y O C CASI O N Over their first year of business, Cork and Cap introduced Aiken to the best old-world and new-world wines alongside locally brewed craft beers. This summer, they’re leveling up and bringing their deep knowledge of wine directly to us with their new wine-tasting parties. Simply choose your preferred package, and they’ll put together a fun, informative tasting event that’s a perfect way to begin a dinner party or to relax with good friends outside in Cork and Cap’s courtyard.

146 LAURENS STREET NW 803.761.0768 SHOPCORKANDCAP.COM

116 Pendleton Street SW

803.221.1211

pompadourdc.com

INTER N ATI O N A L LY DE L IC IO US No need to travel far when you need a change of scenery! You can experience flavors and textures from all over the world right here in Aiken. Accessible, affordable, and heavenly delicious, our international food options reflect the rich diversity of peoples and cultures that add a key ingredient to our city mix.

EL BORIKUA ZO RESTAURANT (P UERTO RICA N) Try this stuffed mofongo with shrimp this season!

Or kan kan pork chops, fish ceviche, mamposteao rice, fried plantains, guava-stuffed crepes... plus mojitos! Perfect for the season, virtually any menu option from this Puerto Rican gem on University Parkway is cool for the summer.

APIZZA DI N A PO LI (ITALI AN) Time to start planning your next trip to Italy, that is, to Apizza di Napoli on Silver Bluff Road! Raise your hand if you could also eat fire-kissed, Neapolitan baked pies made with authentic ingredients while practicing your Italian with owners Wanda and Cliff Garzzillo all summer long!

TAJ A IK EN INDIA N C UISINE (INDIA N) Head to Richland Avenue Tuesday through Sunday to give your taste buds a round trip to India with a buffet menu that changes daily. Be sure to try their deep-fried proteins marinated with yogurt, curry, leaf ginger, and cumin powder, and thanks us later for the explosion of flavors in every bite!

TEQUI LA’S M E XI CA N RESTAU RANT GR I L L AND BAR (ME XI CAN ) If anything can raise our summer spirits, it’s a traditional Mexican dish or a comfort food classic served alongside a selection of tequilas, beers & cocktails, and enjoyed in a friendly bar atmosphere. Yet another reason to check out the dining options on Richland Avenue during the week! Dame más.

Dr. Kyle H. O'Neal, DDS Dr. William A. Trotter IV, DMD Dr. Daniel D. Scott, DMD Dr. Bradford P. Huffman, DMD

Dr. Kyle H. O’Neal, DDS

Designing smiles With expertise ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom teeth removal to corrective jaw surgery, the Doctors at Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can help improve your smile and your quality of life.

CH OI CE S ( CARRIB BEAN ) One bite is all it takes to fall head over heels for this Caribbean-inspired restaurant on Canal Street.

With colorful menu features that include oxtail, jerk chicken, curry goat, and escoveitch fish, you get to enjoy a savory Jamaican twist to many of your takeout favorites.

CFOMS.COM 1907 Pawnee Street, Aiken 803.716.9586 101 Nutgrove Drive, N. Augusta 803.278.2050 7011 Evans Town Center Blvd, Evans 706.724.8735

Authentic | Leading the way through innovation and example

Authentic Becky Risher I N 19 5 5 , B E C K Y R I S H E R ’ S FAT H E R C A M E T O A I K E N and shortly after getting settled, he planted his first garden. By the time Becky was born, the garden had grown to five acres and he was growing cantaloupe, watermelon, corn, squash, zucchini, corn, green beans, butter beans, tomatoes, peaches, plums, apples, and more for our local community.

“He passed away about three years ago at 90 years old,” Becky said. “My mom wanted to continue on the garden, so we did. We currently have about a one-acre garden and we’re producing all of the same things.

She’ll be 91 this year and it’s still her happy place.”

Being out in the garden is Becky’s happy place, too.

Becky spent her entire life growing up around the garden, watching and learning from her parents as they tended to their plants. Her father’s garden produced more than just excellent fruits and vegetables—it produced a second generation gardener in Becky.

“I love digging in the dirt,” said Becky. “I love planting the seed and then seeing it flourish into a plant that yields quality produce. There’s nothing like enjoying a green bean that’s fresh from the fields.

I can cook you a pot of garden-fresh green beans and a pot of ones from the can—you tell me which you love more! It’s going to be the garden ones.”

It’s still early garden season for Becky right now, but once things get rolling in the summertime, she will be out in the garden picking every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Then on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, she sets up a tent behind Mercy Church on Whiskey Road. She sells what she has when she has it, and if there’s anything leftover, she takes it up to Wood Farms Market for them to sell.

“When you buy local, fresh produce, there’s a lot that goes into what you’ve bought,” said Becky. “A lot of time and effort go into the garden—it’s a labor of love.

It’s my father’s legacy, and I love continuing it on.”

Learn more about fig Authentic at figaiken.com

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Aiken Senior Life Services has partnered with Meals on Wheels.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit www.aikensenior.org

Good news to savor Aiken Senior Life Services—a nonprofit organization that provides meals, transportation, and enrichment to older adults in Aiken County—has partnered with Meals on Wheels America to help more seniors age with dignity and without fear of hunger. Yet it’s so much more than a hot meal. It’s a heaping helping of social interaction that seniors crave.

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159 Morgan Street NW

803.648.5447

aikensenior.org

Cheers to 30 years!

In 1991, Dr. Carson Kight opened the doors to Distinctive Dentistry in Aiken alongside her sister, Jessica Kight, and her mother, Sue Kight. In the three decades since, they have served thousands of dental patients in our community. Dr Kight and her team pride themselves on providing the most pain-free dental care possible as they utilize the latest technologies and procedures available, all while being committed to their patients’ comfort. Here’s to another 30 years of bright, beautiful smiles, compliments of Distinctive Dentistry!

10 Tea Olive Court

803.648.7400

distinctivedentistryofaiken.com

In this remodel, Senior Kitchen & Bath Designer, Emily Holley, took an old home’s kitchen and gave it a fresh look with new cabinetry, counters, flooring, and more.

Reimagine your home

This summer is the summer to take the plunge and invest in upgrading your home. With the help of Merit Flooring, Kitchen and Bath, you can design and renovate your current home into the dream home that you’ve always wanted. You will have a dedicated design team to walk alongside you throughout the renovation process to ensure everything runs smoothly from beginning to end, and that your vision is brought to life in your home.

Aiken 803.649.0961 Augusta 706.736.1491 Evans 706.863.5839 MERITFLOOR.COM

Quench your thirst for outdoor adventure It’s the coolest way to get around town during the summer months! Pedal—or cruise—your way through Aiken on a Pedego electric bike as you commute to work, run errands, or even have a unique day date with your significant other. Going on vacation? Your Pedego can go with you wherever your travels take you!

4019 Pavilion Pass

803.226.9007

pedegoelectricbikes.com

Sandi is a longtime Aikenite and retired nationally licensed massage therapist. After serving as the primary caregiver for her mother for nearly a decade, she’s become an advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness and research. She is pictured here enjoying a mango smoothie with her rescue corgi, Baby, at New Moon Cafe.

A dose of summer care What better time to get some reading done than the new season? Your summer reading list is complete with the second edition of Sandra Savell’s “Dear Clueless: A Daughter’s Journey Through Alzheimer’s Caregiving,” which includes sites and organizations for caregivers to learn more about Alzheimer’s, updated research findings on this increasingly common disease, and practical advice for caring for yourself while giving care. Digital and paperback formats are available on Amazon, and signed copies can be ordered directly through Savell’s Facebook page. Now all you need is a refreshing drink from New Moon Cafe to enjoy along with your summer read!

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luke1-45@bellsouth.net

803.270.2016

facebook.com/savellsandra

Kitchen designed & built by Don Cerra of Cerra Homes.

To see inspirational ideas for building your home, visit cerrahomes.com.

Toasting a New Space!

Whether creating an original recipe, cooking, entertaining, or toasting a new space, a kitchen such as this inspires celebration.

Such a great spot for happy occasions!

Contact Nancy at 803.295.3424 or nancy@nancycerra.com 41

Photo by Joshua Aaron Photography

Thankful for the tastemakers For every local business that comes to our design table and trusts us with their brand—whether they’re catering grand events, brewing artisan coffee, growing produce, preparing outstanding meals in their kitchen, crafting specialty tea, curating craft beers, or designing and building infrared grills—we are grateful.

M A RKE TIN G B R A N D IN G

WEB D E SI G N PACK AG IN G D E SI G N

Clockwise from top left: Southern Way Catering menu design and letterpress, Loveland Coffee packaging design, WP Rawl packaging design, Private Property photography and marketing, Cornwallis Tea Room branding and packaging design, Craft & Draft website design, TEC Grills photography & marketing 2112 SUMTER STREET

803.200.1004

BYFARR.COM

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