Self-described as a “Southern restaurant with Mountain South roots,” Tupelo Honey Café succeeds in serving up a menu that anyone, regardless of regional upbringing, can savor. This newest location of the Asheville, N.C.-based original maintains a focus on responsibly-sourced, scratch-made creative Southern fare. They do it well.

The casual upscale environment was perfect for a mid-week lunch. The attentive staff were quick to offer recommendations. This isn’t a color-your-placemat establishment so you might want to bring a few distractions for younger kids; the quick service made it a non-issue for my kids, ages 4 and 7.

What’s on the menu: The café offers a diverse, flavorful menu. My daughter devoured the Fried Green Tomatoes appetizer while my son favored the fluffy scratch biscuits with Tupelo honey and strawberry jam. The Kids Meals, ranging in price from $4.50-$7, were generously portioned and received two “thumbs-up” reviews. Both kids got the Lil Chicken Supper Plate, one with baked mac-n-cheese and the other with house-made potato chips, while I enjoyed the Southern Seafood Tacos ($10). The all-natural hormone-free chicken breast (grilled or fried) was a far cry from the highly processed chicken nuggets-of-mysterious-origin found elsewhere.

Why parents will like it: The casual upscale environment, attentive wait staff, and creative menu options make for an enjoyable dining experience. Happy Hour drinks (craft brew, Southern cocktails) and dinner specials (e.g., Taco Tuesday, Endless Mac-n-Cheese Thursday) offered Monday-Thursday can make for a nice change of pace from typical weeknight dinners. Weekend brunch, renowned in the Asheville location for its sweet potato pancakes, is sure to become just as popular here.

Why kids will like it: Familiar menu items will keep less adventurous kids happy, but delicious eclectic items will expand more venturesome kids’ palates. Service is reasonably quick and the and the environment is relaxed enough for kids to be kids.