BY ANGELA GARY
For a fun night out in New York City, check out the new Broadway musical, "Escape to Margaritaville." You will be singing along to your favorite Jimmy Buffet songs and dancing in your seat! And for a great place to stay that is located within easy walking distance of all the major attractions in Midtown Manhattan and offers spacious, comfy rooms and a friendly staff, make the Westin New York Grand Central your headquarters during your stay.
On a recent short visit to New York City, we had time for only one Broadway show and we selected “Escape to Margaritaville.” We certainly weren't disappointed with this fun musical that is a great way to escape to a tropical island for a few hours. The lobby has island decor to get you in the right frame of mind before you even enter the intimate theater, where all of the seats are "great seats."
The story line involves the good times tourists and visitors have in an island paradise. This story is interwoven with some of Buffet's most famous hits. I couldn't help but smile at the ways the songs were incorporated into the story line. One of Buffet's biggest hits, "Cheeseburger in Paradise," was featured at a wedding reception where cheeseburgers were served.
The show ends with beach balls falling across the audience where everyone keeps them bouncing in the air as they stand and sing along to the Buffet music. It's a feel-good experience that you will enjoy on your visit to NYC.
The Marquis Theatre, built in 1986, is one of the newest theaters built on Broadway. It features 1,611 seats and is a great place to catch a show.
"Escape to Margaritaville" plays through Sunday, July 1, at the Marquis Theatre – 210 West 46th Street, NYC. For tickets, call (877) 250-2929.
WHERE TO STAY
While we were in New York for a only few days before heading off on an adventure with Norwegian Cruise lines, we made sure to go to a great Broadway play, fit in time for people-watching in Times Square and check out a few great restaurants. One other important element in making for the perfect trip is to find the perfect place to make your headquarters. We did this with the Westin New York Grand Central.
The Westin New York Grand Central is a great property that is an easy walk to the theater district and all of the main attractions, dining and shopping. The hotel is located at 212 East 42nd Street, between Second and Third Avenues in the heart of the Grand Central area. It offers unmatched access to the Grand Central Terminal.
In addition to a great location, you will find spacious, comfy rooms, an on-site restaurant and gift shop and friendly staff who answer all of your questions with a smile. The views from the rooms are also great, especially at night when you can see the lights and action of the city below.
The Westin New York Grand Central opened in October 2012 with a modern design and signature Westin amenities. The hotel has 774 spacious rooms and suites, a 3,000 square-foot fitness center and THE LCL: Bar and Kitchen Restaurant.
For more information, go to www.westinnewyorkgrandcentral.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Features
Head to Albany for family fun
BY ANGELA GARY
Wandering through the winding paths in the wooded country-side to check out the exotic and wonderful animals at the zoo…Crawling through a cavern display at the aquarium to get an up close and personal look at the amazing fish…
These are just a few of the adventures that make Albany, Ga., the perfect destination for a family vacation. It’s very affordable and there is so much to do that will delight children and adults alike. On a recent visit, we enjoyed exploring the Southwest Georgia town.
Start your visit to Albany with a stop at the visitors center, where you will find information on the town, interactive displays, brochures and a gift shop. There is also a replica covered bridge behind the visitors center, as well as a playground, walking trails and a picnic area.
The visitors center is located in the Bridge House, which was built in 1858, making it one of the oldest buildings in Albany. The building has been used as a toll house, social hall, carriage house and auto parts store.
Nearby is the Flint RiverQuarium, located on the Flint River. A fun stop for the younger people in your group is the Kids Cavern of Discovery, where kids can climb through a cavern and get an up close and personal view of some of the fish. There may have even been a few adults in our group who climbed through the cavern for a photo op.
There are lots of fun photos ops at the aquarium. We posed for a group photo with the turtle sculpture at the entrance of the aquarium. Then, we found a turtle character inside for more fun photos.
While in the downtown area, be sure to stop by the Ray Charles Plaza, where you will find a lifesize sculpture of the soul musician seated at a Baby Grand piano.
Another great stop in Albany for families is Thronateeska Heritage Center, which has a history museum, science museum and planetarium and transportation museum. The Planetarium and Science Museum offers plenty of interactive and fun games for kids. The science museum has displays on arts and space, natural science, meteorology, paleontology, hydrology and archeology.
Our trip also included a visit to Chehaw, where animals are not caged but allowed to roam in larger areas. Our favorites included flamingo, cheetah, camel, rhino and meerkat.
OTHER STOPS
Other stops during our visit:
•Radium Springs and Gardens, a must stop since it’s one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders.
•Tift Park Community Market, where we found lots of cool local arts and crafts and produce in the tree-lined market.
•Albany Museum of Art, where you never know what you will find as the exhibits are always changing. We enjoyed checking out the sculptures and photographs.
•Mark’s Melon Patch, where you will find jellies, jams, boiled peanuts and other Southern foods. Music weekends, hayrides, face painting offered.
DINING
Lots of great dining is offered in Albany. Our stops included:
•The Catch, which offers a wonderful selection, including Gulf shrimp, seared ahi tuna, duck, quail, alligator and frog legs. Our appetizer choices included oysters, fried pickles and lobster rolls, all of which were wonderful. For my entrée, I chose smothered grit cakes with shrimp, scallops and grouper. Save room for the dessert. The blueberry cake is delicious!
•Blackbeards, a family-style seafood restaurant. The oysters and fish fillet combo is a great choice and the serving is huge. The fried catfish is a specialty of locals and visitors. The barbecue is also great. We tried the brisket and loved it.
•Pearly Gates, which offers a country-style Southern breakfast. The link sausage biscuits with cheese and tator tots are a filling start for a day of touring. The pancakes are also a great choice.
•Harvest Moon, which offers wonderful pizza, including “shroomage,” with tomato sauce, caramelized onions, Italian sausage, Portobello and button mushrooms, topped with mozzarella cheese. Great salads offered and they make a wonderful start to your meal.
•Eggs Up Grill, where 161,940 eggs have been served up since 2016. The chocolate crunch waffles, with granola and chocolate chips, were great!
•The Bread House, where a great start is the cheesy bread bowl. There is also a gift shop with boutique clothing offered.
•Austin’s Firegrill and Oyster Bar, where I ordered the salmon, sticky rice and spinach, which is a great combination.
WHERE TO STAY
A new Holiday Inn Express is conveniently located to all of the attractions and is a great place to make your headquarters during your visit to Albany. A hot breakfast is offered. Rooms have microwave and refrigerator.
Another option for accommodations is the charming Merry Acres Inn, located at 1500 Dawson Road, where visitors step back in time to when motor lodges dotted the country-side. Built in 1952, the inn has been renovated with modern rooms on the inside but the quaint motor lodge appearance on the outside.
The Manor House Pub is located on the grounds and it’s a fun spot to gather with friends during your stay. We met there one evening before heading out to explore the area. The inn provides delivery and transportation to three wonderful restaurants: Henry Campbell’s, The Catch, and Harvest Moon.
For more information on the inn, go to www.merryacres.com.
For more information, go to www.visitalbanyga.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Wandering through the winding paths in the wooded country-side to check out the exotic and wonderful animals at the zoo…Crawling through a cavern display at the aquarium to get an up close and personal look at the amazing fish…
These are just a few of the adventures that make Albany, Ga., the perfect destination for a family vacation. It’s very affordable and there is so much to do that will delight children and adults alike. On a recent visit, we enjoyed exploring the Southwest Georgia town.
Start your visit to Albany with a stop at the visitors center, where you will find information on the town, interactive displays, brochures and a gift shop. There is also a replica covered bridge behind the visitors center, as well as a playground, walking trails and a picnic area.
The visitors center is located in the Bridge House, which was built in 1858, making it one of the oldest buildings in Albany. The building has been used as a toll house, social hall, carriage house and auto parts store.
Nearby is the Flint RiverQuarium, located on the Flint River. A fun stop for the younger people in your group is the Kids Cavern of Discovery, where kids can climb through a cavern and get an up close and personal view of some of the fish. There may have even been a few adults in our group who climbed through the cavern for a photo op.
There are lots of fun photos ops at the aquarium. We posed for a group photo with the turtle sculpture at the entrance of the aquarium. Then, we found a turtle character inside for more fun photos.
While in the downtown area, be sure to stop by the Ray Charles Plaza, where you will find a lifesize sculpture of the soul musician seated at a Baby Grand piano.
Another great stop in Albany for families is Thronateeska Heritage Center, which has a history museum, science museum and planetarium and transportation museum. The Planetarium and Science Museum offers plenty of interactive and fun games for kids. The science museum has displays on arts and space, natural science, meteorology, paleontology, hydrology and archeology.
Our trip also included a visit to Chehaw, where animals are not caged but allowed to roam in larger areas. Our favorites included flamingo, cheetah, camel, rhino and meerkat.
OTHER STOPS
Other stops during our visit:
•Radium Springs and Gardens, a must stop since it’s one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders.
•Tift Park Community Market, where we found lots of cool local arts and crafts and produce in the tree-lined market.
•Albany Museum of Art, where you never know what you will find as the exhibits are always changing. We enjoyed checking out the sculptures and photographs.
•Mark’s Melon Patch, where you will find jellies, jams, boiled peanuts and other Southern foods. Music weekends, hayrides, face painting offered.
DINING
Lots of great dining is offered in Albany. Our stops included:
•The Catch, which offers a wonderful selection, including Gulf shrimp, seared ahi tuna, duck, quail, alligator and frog legs. Our appetizer choices included oysters, fried pickles and lobster rolls, all of which were wonderful. For my entrée, I chose smothered grit cakes with shrimp, scallops and grouper. Save room for the dessert. The blueberry cake is delicious!
•Blackbeards, a family-style seafood restaurant. The oysters and fish fillet combo is a great choice and the serving is huge. The fried catfish is a specialty of locals and visitors. The barbecue is also great. We tried the brisket and loved it.
•Pearly Gates, which offers a country-style Southern breakfast. The link sausage biscuits with cheese and tator tots are a filling start for a day of touring. The pancakes are also a great choice.
•Harvest Moon, which offers wonderful pizza, including “shroomage,” with tomato sauce, caramelized onions, Italian sausage, Portobello and button mushrooms, topped with mozzarella cheese. Great salads offered and they make a wonderful start to your meal.
•Eggs Up Grill, where 161,940 eggs have been served up since 2016. The chocolate crunch waffles, with granola and chocolate chips, were great!
•The Bread House, where a great start is the cheesy bread bowl. There is also a gift shop with boutique clothing offered.
•Austin’s Firegrill and Oyster Bar, where I ordered the salmon, sticky rice and spinach, which is a great combination.
WHERE TO STAY
A new Holiday Inn Express is conveniently located to all of the attractions and is a great place to make your headquarters during your visit to Albany. A hot breakfast is offered. Rooms have microwave and refrigerator.
Another option for accommodations is the charming Merry Acres Inn, located at 1500 Dawson Road, where visitors step back in time to when motor lodges dotted the country-side. Built in 1952, the inn has been renovated with modern rooms on the inside but the quaint motor lodge appearance on the outside.
The Manor House Pub is located on the grounds and it’s a fun spot to gather with friends during your stay. We met there one evening before heading out to explore the area. The inn provides delivery and transportation to three wonderful restaurants: Henry Campbell’s, The Catch, and Harvest Moon.
For more information on the inn, go to www.merryacres.com.
For more information, go to www.visitalbanyga.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Sharing history of Civil Rights Movement through songs and stories in Albany
BY ANGELA GARY
Miss Rutha Harris sits on the stage inside Mount Zion Baptist Church wearing a black dress. She was 18-years-old when she traveled the country singing with the Freedom Singers. Fifty years later, she still sings and shares the stories of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Freedom Singers perform at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Albany, Ga., on the second Saturday of each month. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke several times at Mt. Zion.
Other women arrive at the church, younger women who have joined with Miss Rutha to keep the legacy of the Freedom Sings alive. They all head to the back of the church.
The quiet is broken when they march through the church, carrying signs and their strong voices singing, “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around.”
Miss Rutha leads the six ladies and her sign reads, “Freedom is a constant struggle.”
“We are singing the songs and telling the stories of the Civil Rights Movement,” says Angela Gibson, Miss Rutha’s niece.
She shares that, in 1962, Ralph Abernathy began singing “Ain’t Nobody Gonna Turn Me Around,” and it became the trademark anthem for the movement.
“Allow the music to motivate, to get you involved, to do something,” she told those in the audience. “These songs became a tool to motivate.”
The concert was a special moment as the pure voices, with no instruments, only hand-clapping and foot stomping, filled the historic church, which has the original wooden pews and stained glass windows. It’s a very moving experience to hear their voices raised together in this historic church as they perform spiritual and freedom songs.
The Freedom Singers traveled to 46 states. In 1998, the church became a museum and the current Freedom Singers were formed. Those performing on the recent Saturday I was in attendance included: Miss Harris, Ms. Gibson, Victoria Johnson, Geneva Fields, Jennifer Williams and Geneva Johnson.
The performance ends with the Freedom Singers and all members of the audience joining hands in chain-style and singing together.
The church is located adjacent to the Civil Rights Institute in Albany where you will learn the stories of this time in history.
One story you will learn about is the group of African American teenage girls who went to a movie in 1963 only to be arrested and jailed for two months in horrible conditions in a stockade. The girls, who slept on the concrete floor, were fed only undercooked hamburgers and shared one toilet, are remembered as the “Stolen Girls.” They were only released after attention was brought to their arrest when a young man snuck in and took photos of the conditions they were in.
These photos and the history of the “Stolen Girls” are just one of the stories visitors to the Civil Rights Institute in Albany learn about.
Another chilling story that is shared in the museum is that of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy who was brutally beaten to death in 1955 by two white men who believed he had whistled at a white woman. The woman later shared that he had not whistled at her.
Visitors will get a history lesson on the Civil Rights movement as they follow the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. when he visited this Southwest Georgia town of Albany.
The Civil Rights Movement is an important part of the history of Albany’s history and visitors should make a stop at the Civil Rights Institute, which has a very moving display on the effort.
For more information on the museum and Freedom Singers and visiting Albany, go to www.visitalbanyga.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Miss Rutha Harris sits on the stage inside Mount Zion Baptist Church wearing a black dress. She was 18-years-old when she traveled the country singing with the Freedom Singers. Fifty years later, she still sings and shares the stories of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Freedom Singers perform at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Albany, Ga., on the second Saturday of each month. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke several times at Mt. Zion.
Other women arrive at the church, younger women who have joined with Miss Rutha to keep the legacy of the Freedom Sings alive. They all head to the back of the church.
The quiet is broken when they march through the church, carrying signs and their strong voices singing, “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around.”
Miss Rutha leads the six ladies and her sign reads, “Freedom is a constant struggle.”
“We are singing the songs and telling the stories of the Civil Rights Movement,” says Angela Gibson, Miss Rutha’s niece.
She shares that, in 1962, Ralph Abernathy began singing “Ain’t Nobody Gonna Turn Me Around,” and it became the trademark anthem for the movement.
“Allow the music to motivate, to get you involved, to do something,” she told those in the audience. “These songs became a tool to motivate.”
The concert was a special moment as the pure voices, with no instruments, only hand-clapping and foot stomping, filled the historic church, which has the original wooden pews and stained glass windows. It’s a very moving experience to hear their voices raised together in this historic church as they perform spiritual and freedom songs.
The Freedom Singers traveled to 46 states. In 1998, the church became a museum and the current Freedom Singers were formed. Those performing on the recent Saturday I was in attendance included: Miss Harris, Ms. Gibson, Victoria Johnson, Geneva Fields, Jennifer Williams and Geneva Johnson.
The performance ends with the Freedom Singers and all members of the audience joining hands in chain-style and singing together.
The church is located adjacent to the Civil Rights Institute in Albany where you will learn the stories of this time in history.
One story you will learn about is the group of African American teenage girls who went to a movie in 1963 only to be arrested and jailed for two months in horrible conditions in a stockade. The girls, who slept on the concrete floor, were fed only undercooked hamburgers and shared one toilet, are remembered as the “Stolen Girls.” They were only released after attention was brought to their arrest when a young man snuck in and took photos of the conditions they were in.
These photos and the history of the “Stolen Girls” are just one of the stories visitors to the Civil Rights Institute in Albany learn about.
Another chilling story that is shared in the museum is that of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy who was brutally beaten to death in 1955 by two white men who believed he had whistled at a white woman. The woman later shared that he had not whistled at her.
Visitors will get a history lesson on the Civil Rights movement as they follow the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. when he visited this Southwest Georgia town of Albany.
The Civil Rights Movement is an important part of the history of Albany’s history and visitors should make a stop at the Civil Rights Institute, which has a very moving display on the effort.
For more information on the museum and Freedom Singers and visiting Albany, go to www.visitalbanyga.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
The love of a mother
BY ANGELA GARY
In the past few weeks, my mother has baked 46 cakes. Yes, you read that right. She has baked 46 cakes.
Mom has always loved to bake and is known for her cakes and pies. However, she has never made 46 cakes in only a few weeks time.
What would lead a retired woman with some health issues in her “senior years,” to undertake such a big project.
My nephew, Jake, is going to Hawaii in December with the East Jackson Comprehensive High School Chorus to sing at Pearl Harbor on D-Day to veterans.
The chorus has already done some fundraisers and has more planned the rest of this year. However, we decided as a family to do some fundraisers for Jake’s trip. It was my idea but my mother, as is often the case, has ended up doing most of the work.
I posted on social media about Mom making cakes to help Jake with his trip and the first few orders came in immediately. Just 24 hours later, we had more than 20 orders. The total is now 40 and we are still getting requests for cakes.
Mom bakes while I schedule the cakes and deliver them. It’s been a whirlwind and we are so beyond appreciative to our family and friends who have ordered cakes.
This latest family project only shows again how powerful the love of a mother (and grandmother) is. I know that Jake will always remember this huge project that his Nanny took on to help with this memorable trip for him.
So many times in my life, my mother has stepped in and solved problems, comforted me and prayed for me in hard times, as well as laughed and rejoiced with me in good times.
I recently had an issue with a tooth that I thought would never end. I was in so much pain and nothing really helped. When there was nothing else she could do, my mother stood by the couch looking down at me, grabbed my hand and prayed aloud for me. While the pain may have still been there, I was comforted and had peace. That’s the most important thing a mother can do.
I have so much respect for my sweet Mama and all of the other wonderful mothers out there who are a strength and comfort to their families.
Proverbs 31: 25-29: “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children rise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praises her:
Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be contacted at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
In the past few weeks, my mother has baked 46 cakes. Yes, you read that right. She has baked 46 cakes.
Mom has always loved to bake and is known for her cakes and pies. However, she has never made 46 cakes in only a few weeks time.
What would lead a retired woman with some health issues in her “senior years,” to undertake such a big project.
My nephew, Jake, is going to Hawaii in December with the East Jackson Comprehensive High School Chorus to sing at Pearl Harbor on D-Day to veterans.
The chorus has already done some fundraisers and has more planned the rest of this year. However, we decided as a family to do some fundraisers for Jake’s trip. It was my idea but my mother, as is often the case, has ended up doing most of the work.
I posted on social media about Mom making cakes to help Jake with his trip and the first few orders came in immediately. Just 24 hours later, we had more than 20 orders. The total is now 40 and we are still getting requests for cakes.
Mom bakes while I schedule the cakes and deliver them. It’s been a whirlwind and we are so beyond appreciative to our family and friends who have ordered cakes.
This latest family project only shows again how powerful the love of a mother (and grandmother) is. I know that Jake will always remember this huge project that his Nanny took on to help with this memorable trip for him.
So many times in my life, my mother has stepped in and solved problems, comforted me and prayed for me in hard times, as well as laughed and rejoiced with me in good times.
I recently had an issue with a tooth that I thought would never end. I was in so much pain and nothing really helped. When there was nothing else she could do, my mother stood by the couch looking down at me, grabbed my hand and prayed aloud for me. While the pain may have still been there, I was comforted and had peace. That’s the most important thing a mother can do.
I have so much respect for my sweet Mama and all of the other wonderful mothers out there who are a strength and comfort to their families.
Proverbs 31: 25-29: “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children rise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praises her:
Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be contacted at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
An evening in Newberry includes stop at opera house
BY ANGELA GARY
The Victorian-style Newberry Opera House was completed in 1881 at a cost of $30,000 for use as an entertainment venue and for city government offices. The Opera House became known as the “entertainment center of the Midlands,” with touring companies of New York bringing minstrel and variety shows, vocalists and lecturers, magicians and mind readers, novelty acts and boxing exhibitions. Silent pictures were shown in the theater in the 1900s. In the 1920s, the Opera House was used as a movie theater.
In 1925, the movie theater closed and there was later talk of tearing the building down. This didn’t happen and it continued to be used for city offices until 1992. The Opera House was renovated for $5.5 million and is now an entertainment venue popular with locals and visitors to the area.
The Newberry Opera House is the focal point of the downtown area, with shopping, dining and a hotel all within steps of the historic building. It is now said that, “You haven’t played South Carolina unless you’ve played at the Newberry.”
A recent performance included an Evening With Edwin McCain, a native of South Carolina, who told the crowd he loves playing at the Newberry. He shared some of his fan favorites and new music, as he shared funny and touching stories about his family and life on the road. He is a wonderful storyteller who brings the audience into his life and the stories behind his songs.
The Newberry Opera House is located at 1201 McKibben Street. For more information, go to www.NewberryOperaHouse.com.
Before going to the theater, we had a wonderful meal at Figaro, located at 1117 Boyce Street. A great start to the meal is the amazing charcuterie plate. For an entrée, I had a wonderful fish with artichokes. Another property, Bar Figaro at 944 Main Street is a fun spot if you aren’t ready to end your night out.
Our visit to Newberry also included shopping in downtown, where you will find lots of unique shops, and a stop at Enoree River Vineyards & Winery, located at 1650 Dusty Road, where you can relax on the covered desk overlooking the vineyard.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
The Victorian-style Newberry Opera House was completed in 1881 at a cost of $30,000 for use as an entertainment venue and for city government offices. The Opera House became known as the “entertainment center of the Midlands,” with touring companies of New York bringing minstrel and variety shows, vocalists and lecturers, magicians and mind readers, novelty acts and boxing exhibitions. Silent pictures were shown in the theater in the 1900s. In the 1920s, the Opera House was used as a movie theater.
In 1925, the movie theater closed and there was later talk of tearing the building down. This didn’t happen and it continued to be used for city offices until 1992. The Opera House was renovated for $5.5 million and is now an entertainment venue popular with locals and visitors to the area.
The Newberry Opera House is the focal point of the downtown area, with shopping, dining and a hotel all within steps of the historic building. It is now said that, “You haven’t played South Carolina unless you’ve played at the Newberry.”
A recent performance included an Evening With Edwin McCain, a native of South Carolina, who told the crowd he loves playing at the Newberry. He shared some of his fan favorites and new music, as he shared funny and touching stories about his family and life on the road. He is a wonderful storyteller who brings the audience into his life and the stories behind his songs.
The Newberry Opera House is located at 1201 McKibben Street. For more information, go to www.NewberryOperaHouse.com.
Before going to the theater, we had a wonderful meal at Figaro, located at 1117 Boyce Street. A great start to the meal is the amazing charcuterie plate. For an entrée, I had a wonderful fish with artichokes. Another property, Bar Figaro at 944 Main Street is a fun spot if you aren’t ready to end your night out.
Our visit to Newberry also included shopping in downtown, where you will find lots of unique shops, and a stop at Enoree River Vineyards & Winery, located at 1650 Dusty Road, where you can relax on the covered desk overlooking the vineyard.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
Boating, waterside dining highlights of visit to Lake Murray
BY ANGELA GARY
After touring the Capital City of Columbia on a recent trip to South Carolina, we ended the trip with a few days at Lake Murray, where lake-side accommodations and dining are offered.
Lake Murray draws thousands of visitors each day and is often referred to as the “Jewel of South Carolina.” You will find some of the most scenic landscapes as you spend some time on the lake.
The islands in the Lake Murray area were used for bombing ranges during World War II. Crews dropped flare, incendiary and demolition bombs, including five B-25s that ditched or crashed into Lake Murray during the training. Four were salvaged during the war, and the last aircraft, a rare B-25C was salvaged from the lake in 2005.
Our first stop was to the dock at Lake Murray Marina where we met Capt. Kenny (Hardee) for a morning boat ride on beautiful Lake Murray. As we cruised along Lake Murray, Capt. Kenny pointed out some of the beautiful homes, told us about the nature we were passing and gave other historical information the lake and how it was created.
Capt. Kenny offers tours out of Jake Landing, fishing or cruising pontoons and after dinner cruises. His website is www.pontoonrentalsandtours.com.
We got off the boat and walked to Liberty on the Lake, located just steps from the dock. You have great views of the water and boats docked alongside. The bleu burger and shrimp tacos are both great choices. We couldn’t decide which to order, so we got both and shared.
After the boat ride, we checked in at The Residence at Marina Bay where furnished apartments are offered. It is so convenient because you can walk to the dock, restaurant and gift shop. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation.
Each summer the skies over Lunch Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive. It is estimated that more than one million birds venture north for the summer and roost on the island, giving spectators a rare look at the Purple Martins.
In addition to pontoon boating, the lake is great for fishing, sailing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking and paddle boarding.
For more information on visiting Columbia and the surrounding area, visit www.LakeMurrayCountry.com.
(NOTE: This is the second in a three-part series on exploring the Capital City/Lake Murray area of South Carolina. Next up will be a visit to Newberry).
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
After touring the Capital City of Columbia on a recent trip to South Carolina, we ended the trip with a few days at Lake Murray, where lake-side accommodations and dining are offered.
Lake Murray draws thousands of visitors each day and is often referred to as the “Jewel of South Carolina.” You will find some of the most scenic landscapes as you spend some time on the lake.
The islands in the Lake Murray area were used for bombing ranges during World War II. Crews dropped flare, incendiary and demolition bombs, including five B-25s that ditched or crashed into Lake Murray during the training. Four were salvaged during the war, and the last aircraft, a rare B-25C was salvaged from the lake in 2005.
Our first stop was to the dock at Lake Murray Marina where we met Capt. Kenny (Hardee) for a morning boat ride on beautiful Lake Murray. As we cruised along Lake Murray, Capt. Kenny pointed out some of the beautiful homes, told us about the nature we were passing and gave other historical information the lake and how it was created.
Capt. Kenny offers tours out of Jake Landing, fishing or cruising pontoons and after dinner cruises. His website is www.pontoonrentalsandtours.com.
We got off the boat and walked to Liberty on the Lake, located just steps from the dock. You have great views of the water and boats docked alongside. The bleu burger and shrimp tacos are both great choices. We couldn’t decide which to order, so we got both and shared.
After the boat ride, we checked in at The Residence at Marina Bay where furnished apartments are offered. It is so convenient because you can walk to the dock, restaurant and gift shop. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation.
Each summer the skies over Lunch Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive. It is estimated that more than one million birds venture north for the summer and roost on the island, giving spectators a rare look at the Purple Martins.
In addition to pontoon boating, the lake is great for fishing, sailing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking and paddle boarding.
For more information on visiting Columbia and the surrounding area, visit www.LakeMurrayCountry.com.
(NOTE: This is the second in a three-part series on exploring the Capital City/Lake Murray area of South Carolina. Next up will be a visit to Newberry).
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
Exploring South Carolina: History, culture and great food highlights of visit to South Carolina’s capital city of Columbia
BY ANGELA GARY
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a three-part series on exploring the Capital City/Lake Murray area of South Carolina. Other features will be on Lake Murray and Newberry).
Touring historic homes, checking out the local art scene, strolling through the zoo on a sunny afternoon and dining at local spots was among the highlights of a recent visit to South Carolina’s capital city of Columbia).
It’s always an adventure when you explore a state’s capital and my visit to Columbia proved this to be so true. I had so much fun exploring what all the city has to offer.
This May, the Historic Columbia organization is commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and will unveil major renovations to the home and grounds.
The home showcases the historic property in a way that gives visitors an up-close and hands-on experience. I got a sneak peak before the renovations were complete and can’t wait to see it all finished.
The grand opening celebration at the property, located at 1615 Blanding Street, is set for this coming Saturday, May 12. Visitors will find repairs to the mansion and huge additions to the gardens surrounding the home.
Historic Columbia also offers tours at the Robert Mills House and Gardens, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home and the Mann-Simons Site and Outdoor Museum.
For more information on historic properties in Columbia, go to www.HistoricColumbia.org.
ART
Checking out the art scene included a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art, located at 1515 Main Street, and an evening attending the Artista Vista event, which features several local art galleries.
At the Columbia Museum of Art, we enjoyed the exhibits of photos of Imogene Cunningham and Soul Culture by Renee Cox. The two are very different and equally fascinating exhibits.
For more information on the art museum, go to www.columbiamuseum.org.
Later that evening, we made a stop at several of the art galleries included on the Artista Vista agenda. It gave us a great overview of some of the art offered. Some of my favorites, that I am sure to return to, are Stormwater Studios, Lewis + Clark and One Eared Cow.
ZOO
Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, just a short drive from the downtown area.
Flamingoes and giraffe and elephants and tortoise are just a few of the animals we saw on our stroll through the zoo. I think my favorite stop was at the flamingoes, to see them in all of their colorful glory.
For more information on a visit to the zoo and gardens, go to www.riverbanks.org.
RIVERFRONT PARK
Before leaving Columbia, plan to spend some time at the Canal and Riverfront Park, which is a lovely place to get outdoors.
Featuring plenty of river views, the Riverfront Park is a nice place to unwind and get away, being only a short distance from Columbia’s business district and the university.
You can see the history of the Columbia Canal and Water Works while looking through one of the old pump houses. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables along the main section of the park, with some spectacular views of the scenery.
DINING
There are so many wonderful dining options in Columbia. A few to include on your visit are:
•Spotted Salamander, located at 1531 Richland Street, a great lunch spot in the downtown area of the capital city. They have a deviled egg of the day. The ginger and fennel relish and cornbread crumble were delicious on the egg . I also loved the crisp pork belly salad. And, for chocolate lovers, the crack pie is a favorite.
•Dinner at Cola’s Restaurant, located at 1215 Assembly Street, was a real treat. I can’t stop talking about the BBQ glazed salmon. I have always loved salmon but have never had it with the southern twist of adding BBQ. It was so good, and was served with peach on top and spinach and grits.
•One evening, we tried local cheese and heard the fascinating story of a trunk found in the basement of the building at 1635 Main Street in downtown that told the story of Lula Drake, who operated a hat shop at the site more than 100 years ago. The discovery led the owner to name his business in honor of the lady. It’s a fun gathering spot for friends.
WHERE TO STAY
We made Aloft Hotel in the Vista District at 823 Lady Street our headquarters for the visit. It is a lovely boutique hotel with a huge lobby filled with interesting art pieces that makes a great gathering spot before heading out exploring Columbia. For more information, go to www.aloftcolumbiadowntown.com.
For more information on visiting Columbia and the surrounding area, visit www.LakeMurrayCountry.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
(EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a three-part series on exploring the Capital City/Lake Murray area of South Carolina. Other features will be on Lake Murray and Newberry).
Touring historic homes, checking out the local art scene, strolling through the zoo on a sunny afternoon and dining at local spots was among the highlights of a recent visit to South Carolina’s capital city of Columbia).
It’s always an adventure when you explore a state’s capital and my visit to Columbia proved this to be so true. I had so much fun exploring what all the city has to offer.
This May, the Historic Columbia organization is commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and will unveil major renovations to the home and grounds.
The home showcases the historic property in a way that gives visitors an up-close and hands-on experience. I got a sneak peak before the renovations were complete and can’t wait to see it all finished.
The grand opening celebration at the property, located at 1615 Blanding Street, is set for this coming Saturday, May 12. Visitors will find repairs to the mansion and huge additions to the gardens surrounding the home.
Historic Columbia also offers tours at the Robert Mills House and Gardens, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home and the Mann-Simons Site and Outdoor Museum.
For more information on historic properties in Columbia, go to www.HistoricColumbia.org.
ART
Checking out the art scene included a visit to the Columbia Museum of Art, located at 1515 Main Street, and an evening attending the Artista Vista event, which features several local art galleries.
At the Columbia Museum of Art, we enjoyed the exhibits of photos of Imogene Cunningham and Soul Culture by Renee Cox. The two are very different and equally fascinating exhibits.
For more information on the art museum, go to www.columbiamuseum.org.
Later that evening, we made a stop at several of the art galleries included on the Artista Vista agenda. It gave us a great overview of some of the art offered. Some of my favorites, that I am sure to return to, are Stormwater Studios, Lewis + Clark and One Eared Cow.
ZOO
Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, just a short drive from the downtown area.
Flamingoes and giraffe and elephants and tortoise are just a few of the animals we saw on our stroll through the zoo. I think my favorite stop was at the flamingoes, to see them in all of their colorful glory.
For more information on a visit to the zoo and gardens, go to www.riverbanks.org.
RIVERFRONT PARK
Before leaving Columbia, plan to spend some time at the Canal and Riverfront Park, which is a lovely place to get outdoors.
Featuring plenty of river views, the Riverfront Park is a nice place to unwind and get away, being only a short distance from Columbia’s business district and the university.
You can see the history of the Columbia Canal and Water Works while looking through one of the old pump houses. There are plenty of benches and picnic tables along the main section of the park, with some spectacular views of the scenery.
DINING
There are so many wonderful dining options in Columbia. A few to include on your visit are:
•Spotted Salamander, located at 1531 Richland Street, a great lunch spot in the downtown area of the capital city. They have a deviled egg of the day. The ginger and fennel relish and cornbread crumble were delicious on the egg . I also loved the crisp pork belly salad. And, for chocolate lovers, the crack pie is a favorite.
•Dinner at Cola’s Restaurant, located at 1215 Assembly Street, was a real treat. I can’t stop talking about the BBQ glazed salmon. I have always loved salmon but have never had it with the southern twist of adding BBQ. It was so good, and was served with peach on top and spinach and grits.
•One evening, we tried local cheese and heard the fascinating story of a trunk found in the basement of the building at 1635 Main Street in downtown that told the story of Lula Drake, who operated a hat shop at the site more than 100 years ago. The discovery led the owner to name his business in honor of the lady. It’s a fun gathering spot for friends.
WHERE TO STAY
We made Aloft Hotel in the Vista District at 823 Lady Street our headquarters for the visit. It is a lovely boutique hotel with a huge lobby filled with interesting art pieces that makes a great gathering spot before heading out exploring Columbia. For more information, go to www.aloftcolumbiadowntown.com.
For more information on visiting Columbia and the surrounding area, visit www.LakeMurrayCountry.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at Angieeditor@aol.com.
A love that never fails
BY ANGELA GARY
“There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning. Your love never fails.”
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to the song by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture that has the words above in it.
I love praise music and have it playing it my car and often in my office as I work. It comforts me. It inspires me. In times of stress, it gives me that wonderful “peace without understanding.” It makes me smile.
Another of my favorite praise songs is “Fierce,” which is also by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture. It’s another one that I listen to at least once each day, usually several times a day.
These words from that song are so comforting: “Like a tidle wave crashing over me, rushing to meet me here, your love is fierce. Like a hurricane that I can’t escape, your love is fierce, like a hurricane.”
I love anything by Mandisa and Toby Mac. “Lose My Soul” by Toby Mac featuring Mandisa and Kirk Franklin is wonderful.
“I don’t want to gain the whole world and lose my soul.” That is a message we all need.
I have a friend who emails me a like to a “Song of the Day” each Monday. He usually sends a song that I haven’t heard before and it’s always just what I need to hear at that moment. It’s like a sermon waiting for me in my inbox every Monday morning.
Many of the songs are by Hillside Worship, including “Be Still.” This is a great song for times when you really need peace and comfort in your life.
The song includes the lyrics, “Be still and know that the Lord is in control. Be still my soul. Stand and watch as giants fall. I won’t be afraid. You are here. You silence all my fear.”
Another new song for me was “Right Here, Right Now” by 12 Stone Worship. “With all that is within my soul, I bless your name.” How powerful.
While I love praise music, I also love those old-time hymns that have been a part of my life since I was a child.
“Blessed Assurance” is a wonderful hymn that is always great to hear. The message is as meaningful today as it was in 1873 when a blind hymn writer, Fanny Crosby,” wrote it.
“This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long...Watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.”
Other old-time hymns that are among my favorites are: “It Is Well Within My Soul,” “Just As I Am,” “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.
If you are troubled, if you need guidance and peace, put on some praise music or old-time gospel music. Will it change the situation? Probably not. But it will change our outlook and give you peace.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be reached at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
“There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning. Your love never fails.”
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to the song by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture that has the words above in it.
I love praise music and have it playing it my car and often in my office as I work. It comforts me. It inspires me. In times of stress, it gives me that wonderful “peace without understanding.” It makes me smile.
Another of my favorite praise songs is “Fierce,” which is also by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture. It’s another one that I listen to at least once each day, usually several times a day.
These words from that song are so comforting: “Like a tidle wave crashing over me, rushing to meet me here, your love is fierce. Like a hurricane that I can’t escape, your love is fierce, like a hurricane.”
I love anything by Mandisa and Toby Mac. “Lose My Soul” by Toby Mac featuring Mandisa and Kirk Franklin is wonderful.
“I don’t want to gain the whole world and lose my soul.” That is a message we all need.
I have a friend who emails me a like to a “Song of the Day” each Monday. He usually sends a song that I haven’t heard before and it’s always just what I need to hear at that moment. It’s like a sermon waiting for me in my inbox every Monday morning.
Many of the songs are by Hillside Worship, including “Be Still.” This is a great song for times when you really need peace and comfort in your life.
The song includes the lyrics, “Be still and know that the Lord is in control. Be still my soul. Stand and watch as giants fall. I won’t be afraid. You are here. You silence all my fear.”
Another new song for me was “Right Here, Right Now” by 12 Stone Worship. “With all that is within my soul, I bless your name.” How powerful.
While I love praise music, I also love those old-time hymns that have been a part of my life since I was a child.
“Blessed Assurance” is a wonderful hymn that is always great to hear. The message is as meaningful today as it was in 1873 when a blind hymn writer, Fanny Crosby,” wrote it.
“This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long...Watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.”
Other old-time hymns that are among my favorites are: “It Is Well Within My Soul,” “Just As I Am,” “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.
If you are troubled, if you need guidance and peace, put on some praise music or old-time gospel music. Will it change the situation? Probably not. But it will change our outlook and give you peace.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be reached at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
A love that never fails
BY ANGELA GARY
“There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning. Your love never fails.”
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to the song by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture that has the words above in it.
I love praise music and have it playing it my car and often in my office as I work. It comforts me. It inspires me. In times of stress, it gives me that wonderful “peace without understanding.” It makes me smile.
Another of my favorite praise songs is “Fierce,” which is also by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture. It’s another one that I listen to at least once each day, usually several times a day.
These words from that song are so comforting: “Like a tidle wave crashing over me, rushing to meet me here, your love is fierce. Like a hurricane that I can’t escape, your love is fierce, like a hurricane.”
I love anything by Mandisa and Toby Mac. “Lose My Soul” by Toby Mac featuring Mandisa and Kirk Franklin is wonderful.
“I don’t want to gain the whole world and lose my soul.” That is a message we all need.
I have a friend who emails me a like to a “Song of the Day” each Monday. He usually sends a song that I haven’t heard before and it’s always just what I need to hear at that moment. It’s like a sermon waiting for me in my inbox every Monday morning.
Many of the songs are by Hillside Worship, including “Be Still.” This is a great song for times when you really need peace and comfort in your life.
The song includes the lyrics, “Be still and know that the Lord is in control. Be still my soul. Stand and watch as giants fall. I won’t be afraid. You are here. You silence all my fear.”
Another new song for me was “Right Here, Right Now” by 12 Stone Worship. “With all that is within my soul, I bless your name.” How powerful.
While I love praise music, I also love those old-time hymns that have been a part of my life since I was a child.
“Blessed Assurance” is a wonderful hymn that is always great to hear. The message is as meaningful today as it was in 1873 when a blind hymn writer, Fanny Crosby,” wrote it.
“This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long...Watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.”
Other old-time hymns that are among my favorites are: “It Is Well Within My Soul,” “Just As I Am,” “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.
If you are troubled, if you need guidance and peace, put on some praise music or old-time gospel music. Will it change the situation? Probably not. But it will change our outlook and give you peace.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be reached at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
“There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning. Your love never fails.”
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to the song by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture that has the words above in it.
I love praise music and have it playing it my car and often in my office as I work. It comforts me. It inspires me. In times of stress, it gives me that wonderful “peace without understanding.” It makes me smile.
Another of my favorite praise songs is “Fierce,” which is also by Chris Quilala and Jesus Culture. It’s another one that I listen to at least once each day, usually several times a day.
These words from that song are so comforting: “Like a tidle wave crashing over me, rushing to meet me here, your love is fierce. Like a hurricane that I can’t escape, your love is fierce, like a hurricane.”
I love anything by Mandisa and Toby Mac. “Lose My Soul” by Toby Mac featuring Mandisa and Kirk Franklin is wonderful.
“I don’t want to gain the whole world and lose my soul.” That is a message we all need.
I have a friend who emails me a like to a “Song of the Day” each Monday. He usually sends a song that I haven’t heard before and it’s always just what I need to hear at that moment. It’s like a sermon waiting for me in my inbox every Monday morning.
Many of the songs are by Hillside Worship, including “Be Still.” This is a great song for times when you really need peace and comfort in your life.
The song includes the lyrics, “Be still and know that the Lord is in control. Be still my soul. Stand and watch as giants fall. I won’t be afraid. You are here. You silence all my fear.”
Another new song for me was “Right Here, Right Now” by 12 Stone Worship. “With all that is within my soul, I bless your name.” How powerful.
While I love praise music, I also love those old-time hymns that have been a part of my life since I was a child.
“Blessed Assurance” is a wonderful hymn that is always great to hear. The message is as meaningful today as it was in 1873 when a blind hymn writer, Fanny Crosby,” wrote it.
“This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long...Watching and waiting, looking above, filled with his goodness, lost in his love.”
Other old-time hymns that are among my favorites are: “It Is Well Within My Soul,” “Just As I Am,” “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.
If you are troubled, if you need guidance and peace, put on some praise music or old-time gospel music. Will it change the situation? Probably not. But it will change our outlook and give you peace.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers. She can be reached at Angie@mainstreetnews.com.
A meal to remember at Chai Yo Modern Thai
BY ANGELA GARY
Ever have a meal that you are still thinking about days later. What about a meal that was so amazing that you are already planning your return visit to the restaurant before you even leave?
I am a foodie who enjoys a great meal and often writes about and photographs stand-out meals, so I have obviously had some over-the top meals, like that fried chicken in Memphis that makes me want to head back to Tennessee or those ribs in Mobile that I ate three times in one weekend in Alabama.
Well, I didn’t have to travel as far as to Tennessee or Alabama for this meal I had that tops my list as best ever, including not only the taste but also the presentation. I knew I was in for a treat at Chai Yo Modern Thai as it is the latest restaurant from the family that brought Nan Thai Fine Dining and Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft to Atlanta. Both are favorites of mine and I was looking forward to Chef DeeDee Niyomkui’s latest project. The menu features an inventive flavor of Thai favorites with a modern twist.
Growing up as the daughter of Atlanta Thai food legends, Charlie and Nan Niyomkul of Nan Thai Fine Dining & Tamarind, DeeDee worked her way up through every facet of her parent’s operation – bartending, waitressing, and managing. Discovering that her true passion resided within the kitchen, DeeDee spent a lot of time with her grandmother, observing old-world Thai cooking techniques and recipes. Opening her own restaurant, Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft in January of 2010 and earning many awards, DeeDee is now moving into a classical, yet modern, Thai concept with the opening of Chai Yo Modern Thai.
We started with Tapioca Dumplings and Thai Lobster Coconut Soup, both great choices. The pearl dumplings are filled with minced shrimp, chicken, pickled relish, cilantro root and crushed peanuts topped with crunchy garlic. It was a fantastic blend of flavors in the dumplings, which were served on lettuce. The soup was creamy with thick chunks of succulent lobster. The coconut flavor nicely complemented the lobster. For the entrée, I chose the Pla Kra Teim Prik Thai (Seabass Garlic) and it is this delicacy that I’m still thinking about. Chilean Seabass has been a favorite of mine since I spent some time in Chile years ago and this was the best I’ve ever had. The Pan Seared Chilean Seabass was topped with sautéed garlic, black pepper and cilantro paste over crab fried rice and bok choy.
Another great entrée choice is the Pad Thai. The jumbo prawns are served with sautéed glass noodles with tamarind pulp, lime juice, palm sugar, peanuts, tofu, sprouts, garlic chives and pickled turnip, served on an egg crepe.
For a sweet ending to this wonderful meal, we chose Thai Lava Cake, served topped with peanuts and coconut ice cream, and Green Tea Cheesecake, served with green tea ice cream. Both great choices.
The atmosphere is something else that you will remember long after leaving Chai Yo. Wood from Northern Thailand, leather banquettes and grand chandeliers make for an elegant dining experience. Service is also exceptional from the moment you are greeted as you enter the restaurant until you leave. Our server, May May, did a great job with descriptions on the dishes.
Chai Yo Modern Thai serves lunch Mondays through Fridays, with dinner being served every night of the week. For more information, call 404-464-7980 or check out the website, www.chaiyoatl.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Ever have a meal that you are still thinking about days later. What about a meal that was so amazing that you are already planning your return visit to the restaurant before you even leave?
I am a foodie who enjoys a great meal and often writes about and photographs stand-out meals, so I have obviously had some over-the top meals, like that fried chicken in Memphis that makes me want to head back to Tennessee or those ribs in Mobile that I ate three times in one weekend in Alabama.
Well, I didn’t have to travel as far as to Tennessee or Alabama for this meal I had that tops my list as best ever, including not only the taste but also the presentation. I knew I was in for a treat at Chai Yo Modern Thai as it is the latest restaurant from the family that brought Nan Thai Fine Dining and Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft to Atlanta. Both are favorites of mine and I was looking forward to Chef DeeDee Niyomkui’s latest project. The menu features an inventive flavor of Thai favorites with a modern twist.
Growing up as the daughter of Atlanta Thai food legends, Charlie and Nan Niyomkul of Nan Thai Fine Dining & Tamarind, DeeDee worked her way up through every facet of her parent’s operation – bartending, waitressing, and managing. Discovering that her true passion resided within the kitchen, DeeDee spent a lot of time with her grandmother, observing old-world Thai cooking techniques and recipes. Opening her own restaurant, Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft in January of 2010 and earning many awards, DeeDee is now moving into a classical, yet modern, Thai concept with the opening of Chai Yo Modern Thai.
We started with Tapioca Dumplings and Thai Lobster Coconut Soup, both great choices. The pearl dumplings are filled with minced shrimp, chicken, pickled relish, cilantro root and crushed peanuts topped with crunchy garlic. It was a fantastic blend of flavors in the dumplings, which were served on lettuce. The soup was creamy with thick chunks of succulent lobster. The coconut flavor nicely complemented the lobster. For the entrée, I chose the Pla Kra Teim Prik Thai (Seabass Garlic) and it is this delicacy that I’m still thinking about. Chilean Seabass has been a favorite of mine since I spent some time in Chile years ago and this was the best I’ve ever had. The Pan Seared Chilean Seabass was topped with sautéed garlic, black pepper and cilantro paste over crab fried rice and bok choy.
Another great entrée choice is the Pad Thai. The jumbo prawns are served with sautéed glass noodles with tamarind pulp, lime juice, palm sugar, peanuts, tofu, sprouts, garlic chives and pickled turnip, served on an egg crepe.
For a sweet ending to this wonderful meal, we chose Thai Lava Cake, served topped with peanuts and coconut ice cream, and Green Tea Cheesecake, served with green tea ice cream. Both great choices.
The atmosphere is something else that you will remember long after leaving Chai Yo. Wood from Northern Thailand, leather banquettes and grand chandeliers make for an elegant dining experience. Service is also exceptional from the moment you are greeted as you enter the restaurant until you leave. Our server, May May, did a great job with descriptions on the dishes.
Chai Yo Modern Thai serves lunch Mondays through Fridays, with dinner being served every night of the week. For more information, call 404-464-7980 or check out the website, www.chaiyoatl.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
Recent Comments