Dinner at Chester's

The owner of  Wooden Indian 

  

is in town and treated us to dinner at Chester's downtown, as Sunday was the night we both had available and Chester's is one of the few restaurants that is open on Sundays!  (We deeply appreciate it!)

David and I had been for lunch, so this is the second report on this "new kid on the block" restaurant.

If you missed part one, let me recap by saying it's a beautiful restaurant/bar with gorgeous decor and well-trained, friendly, professional staff.

We started with the flat bread pizza appetizer ($12) to share.  The selection changes daily and on Sunday in was barbecue chicken, tomato, basil, cheese - YUM.  The house Chardonnay ($6.50) was excellent with it. 

As a main course, I had the black Angus steak with garlic smashed potatoes and green beans ($28), and the house Cabernet ($6.50).  Perfection.  The steak was cooked exactly as I requested, and it was exceptionally well-flavored.  I thoroughly enjoyed it.

David went with a simple burger and fries, said it was awesome and I have to say from my lunch experience, their fries ARE something special.  

Patti had the trout with bacon and wilted spinach, and new potatoes ($20).  I tasted it, and the fish was good, but not great.  We were both not expecting the sides to have as sweet a finish on them and while not unpleasant (she enjoyed the meal) she would pass on it next time in favor of trying something different.

We split the flourless (and gluten-free) chocolate cake for dessert ($8) and it was warm and sinfully delicious.

Victoria was our server.  Charming and attentive, she was great fun to interact with.

Salad is à la carte on entrees, and it can get pricey fast with a few glasses of wine, so for a full meal it will be a "once in a while" treat for us.  Lunch and lite bites are much more reasonable.

Overall, we've been pleased with both experiences and recommend you give them a try.  Chester Brunnemeyer's Bar & Grill

Pampering in the Mountains? We are SO about that...

I'm getting ready to head downtown to get my mane tamed by the inimitable Jack Morton, Emmy Award-winning stylist and author, who owns Indulgence Salon, right here in our little slice of heaven!  He's a master and knows exactly what is right for your face shape and lifestyle!  We regulars make a year's worth of appointments every December; he's THAT popular.  If you want an appointment while you're in town, call well in advance.  He's worth it!  Located at 287 Church Street, Blue Ridge.  706.632.2459

If you're looking for pampering of a different sort (think mani/pedi, facial, body wraps, massage, etc.) then be certain to check into Serenity in the Mountains Spa (www.serenityinthemountains.com).  Linda Cole developed and runs this stunning spa that can handle groups, offers a large and extremely comfortable relaxation room for downtime between appointments, and has a well-trained, professional staff.  Be a considerate guest and keep voices at a whisper and phones off when in the relaxation room so that others may enjoy their time as well.  I'm partial to Julie Falls for nails & facials; she's never let me down in nine years of service!  

Finally, my choice for massage is the amazing Barb Border of New Leaf Adventures/New Leaf Naturally.  Barb is an avid outdoor enthusiast, mountain biker, and alternative wellness provider.  When traditional physical therapy could not break up the scar tissue following two hip surgeries, Barb dug right in and got me walking without pain again.  (She packs a lot of strength in a little package!)  Whatever your massage needs or physical concerns, Barb will work with you to provide incredible care.  

In addition, Barb organizes outings for groups or just one family, from simple waterfall hikes to more active adventures.  She will work with you to plan the ideal day for your group's fitness & skill level.  

New Leaf Naturally

83 Dunbarton Farm Road 
Suite 103
Blue Ridge, GA, 30513
404-217-0041
Barbara Border
Contact by e-mail
Visit their website

We’re geared to satisfy serious competitive athletes and teams, organizational groups, or families who just want to reconnect. Training camps for Mountain Biking. Kids Camps including hiking, mountain biking, canoe and kayaking, cooking, archery, rock climbing, organic farming and more....

Nature is waiting for you on the lakes, streams, forested hiking paths, mountain trails and sunny meadows where our guests realize their adventures.  http://www.blueridgemountains.com/members/ID8550

So!  Regardless of the experience you're seeking, you'll find plenty of options here in Blue Ridge.  

Have an Above the Rest day!

Dining Blue Ridge: New Restaurant in Town

There's a new restaurant in town, below the Blue Ridge Antique Mall, on the corner of Depot and Main (right where the slanted parking spots start that run down Main Street). David and I tried it last week. The atmosphere is stellar. Huge bar with comfortable seating; it was swamped at lunch so we ate the bar. Friendly and attentive service. Menu offers a good selection. I had the catfish sandwich. Everything was very fresh, the tartar sauce was delicious but that is where most of the flavor was so if you don't like, or can't eat, tartar sauce, this might not be the sandwich for you. David had the Grilled Chicken sandwich. It came out hot and delicious (I had a bite). The fries are awesome, and while we both only drank water, they have quite an extensive bar beverage selection. This is a comfortable, relaxed place to dine or have a drink, and they are open late, including Sundays! Be sure to check them out, in person and online at http://www.chestersblueridge.com/

Spring is on its way....

Spring in the mountains: it is stormy blue skies, sunlight breaking through, soft greens and new growth nudging last year’s leftover leaves off the branch. It is sweet smells and paths in woods carpeted in pine needles and mulch formed from stipules turned vibrant red, orange and yellow, now nutrients for fellow forest flora. It is bird songs and beauty; it is Blue Ridge, where it is better…. http://www.abovetherestcabins.com