Summertime and the living is easy …..and the eating is good at RYE BAR & SOUTHERN KITCHEN !

I headed over there recently to sample their new seasonal summer menu. I wanted to see and taste what all the Buzz is about ( especially since they harvest their own honey from the beehive on the rooftop garden) !

Southern Comfort Cuisine with a sophisticated twist. Fresh real ingredients at their best. Although located inside a big hotel this is not, I repeat NOT a typical boring “hotel” restaurant. Executive Chef {and General Manager} Mike Rigot has really elevated food that good for the soul by using fresh quality ingredients. The term, Farm-To Table is such a overused catch phrase nowadays but Rye takes that term very seriously. Chef Mike told me they source as much as possible and viable from local NC farmers. Supplier listings on their menu attest to their dedication to local sourcing. From local beef and vegetables to local ingredients for their superb craft cocktail menu.

They also have an extensive Bourbon and Whiskey menu {Hence the name Rye}.

I went on a Tuesday evening for an early dinner with my family. The multiple wooden rocking chairs out front told me this was a special place. We entered into a very stylish and modern restaurant. But modern often means cold and aloof. Not here. Warm hardwoods and an open floor plan include a fireplace and handsome bar area. There is a private section in the rear for events but also a few huge tables adjacent to the kitchen where foodies can watch the ballet, which is what I call their kitchen operation. Although there for dinner , I saw that they have a popular lunch menu where you get a meat and 3 sides and a beverage for $10. Yup, $10 for REAL food for lunch. The lunch menu is placed on the sidewalk outside where the meat choice changes daily.

Water was served in mason jars. NOTHING says the south like a mason jar! It just makes me smile. We started off with two great cocktails : Southern Sour and Hammocks Calling. Both were unique and delicious. I even observed the bartender using farm fresh rasberries. First to arrive at our beautiful solid wood table were the shrimp and grits. They were heaven sent ! I absolutely loved the flavor. Grits made to perfection and the sauce/gravy was subtle perfection. The Ceasars salad wedge is uniquely presented with bacon. I was pleased with the portions of everything, especially the entree of the ribs marinated in Cherrywine. Picked them up and the meat fell off. THAT is what I call ribs ! The grilled Chicken with carrots and goat cheese was also incredible. ANYTHING with goat cheese is a must in my book. Ps..no dinner is complete without something sweet. We had the banana pudding and authentic Strawberry Shortcake for dessert! If it is real food with superb service and atmosphere you seek, then it is now found. At Rye. You can thank me now!

Enjoy my slideshow and photos from this delicious dining experience.
https://instagram.com/p/5zPLFBCXG5/