May 2008   View Previous Eating Out Articles 

The Fickle Pickle

  What’s on the menu: It’s gourmet, but simple. You serve your own drinks, but the peach iced tea can’t be beat. Fried Cajun pickles (a must, though a little spicy for the young ones), a variety of salads and sandwiches like smoked salmon on multigrain bread and chicken salad with dried cherries on a honey-glazed croissant. The menu also boasts daily soups, hot sandwiches and Southern-favorite dinner entrees. The Cheddar Biscuit Pot Pie is to die for; it’s a bowl of chicken, turkey sausage, potatoes, peas, carrots, onions and celery topped with a cheddar biscuit. You can also try the fried catfish or shrimp and grits. Red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing and chewy cookies will complete your meal, but be sure to order them with your meal – they tend to sell out of the crowd favorites.

  Why your kids will like it: The menu is a giant chalkboard, and the restaurant is in an old home, so it doesn’t feel like the same old place. The space is a little tight, but kids will love checking out all the action – watching other people definitely makes for an interesting pastime. Plus, the kid’s menu has tons of variety. Kids can choose from grilled cheese, hot dog, turkey and cheese, or peanut butter and jelly. Each meal comes with chips, a cookie and drink, and is only $4.95.

  Why parents will like it: Convincing your kids to finish their meals isn’t hard with a cookie staring them in the face. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, and a bit noisy, so any squeals made by your kids won’t even be noticed. The food is delicious and affordable. Sandwiches are $7.75 and come with a side and pickle; dinner entrees are just $9.95 and are also served with a side, and of course a pickle. But, beware – if you’re watching your weight keep your eyes on the kids and not the display of delectable desserts you’ll pass as you order. And, though there’s not a veggie side option for the kids, milk is available for their drink.

– Julie Knutson