Posted in South Carolina
November 04, 2017
The Secluded Restaurant In South Carolina That Looks Straight Out Of A Storybook
Tucked away inside one of the South’s most beloved historic plantations sits a restaurant that could be plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. Set amidst swooning Spanish ivy-covered oak trees in a picturesque plantation along a meandering river, the Middleton Place Restaurant is awe-worthy from not only the eye’s point of view, but also to the palate.
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Flanked by lavish old oak trees and covered in places by layers of moss and meticulously trimmed ivy, the old brick building that houses this storybook restaurant could be considered akin to the faux abode where we found Hansel and Gretel in our earlier years.
And a walk around the grounds either before or after your meal could bring an unforgettable encounter with a horse-drawn carriage. No, Cinderella won't be among the passengers, but that won't matter because at this point you'll be in your own fairy tale of sorts.
The fable-like restaurant can be found among the 110 acres of the historic Middleton Place Plantation, located approximately 15 miles northwest of Charleston. Set along the banks of the Ashley River, the perfectly manicured grounds offer unobstructed views of the oasis for nearly a mile downstream.
Visitors from all over the world flock to this plantation in the Lowcountry to appreciate the history and beauty found at the historic site. But few realize this storybook-like restaurant even exists until they stumble upon it.
The main part of the restaurant was built in 1933 as a guest house. And in 1949, the restaurant (opened since 1921) was relocated to its present location. Featuring more than one dining room, the restaurant offers some seating with clear views and a front row seat for admiring the beautiful gardens and sights right outside the eatery.
There's a lot to see and admire, from formal gardens — to the river, historic buildings, and the Crane Pool shown above. This storybook setting is a real-life adventure of a lifetime.
Who knows? Maybe you'll even spot one of the free-range peacocks that call this historic retreat home!
But not all of the views are outside the restaurant. You'll admire whatever you order... again, with your eyes — and your tastebuds!
From a hearty crab soup to a skilleted shrimp and grits entree and other mouthwatering delectables like quail or Southern fried chicken, the traditional Lowcountry fare and the charming setting at this storybook restaurant is all you've ever dreamed of and more.
Want to head to this Lowcountry eatery that's straight out of a storybook?
Lunch They currently serve lunch from noon to 3:00 p.m. daily. A general admission ticket to the plantation (which includes all the tours) is required if you want to eat lunch here.
Dinner If you want to eat dinner, which is served from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, you'll just need to make a reservation. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and you'll be allowed to enter for free and to roam the beautiful grounds freely before or after your meal until the gates close. No general admission ticket is required for dinner since the various buildings are closed for tours.
Lunch They currently serve lunch from noon to 3:00 p.m. daily. A general admission ticket to the plantation (which includes all the tours) is required if you want to eat lunch here.
Dinner If you want to eat dinner, which is served from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, you'll just need to make a reservation. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and you'll be allowed to enter for free and to roam the beautiful grounds freely before or after your meal until the gates close. No general admission ticket is required for dinner since the various buildings are closed for tours.
Middleton Place Restaurant is located at 4300 Ashley River Rd., Charleston, SC 29414. For more information, you can refer to their official website. To make a reservation, call 843-266-7477.
Want more to do while you’re in the Lowcountry? You can’t miss an opportunity to visit the Angel Oak Tree!
