Benjamin C.
Yelp
I came in here cautiously optimistic as I normally do when I go into fancier, high-end restaurants. I came out a firm believer and a satisfied customer. "What did it for me?" you will ask. The answer: Conecuh Braised Rabbit & Grits with Eggplant, King Trumpet, & Spiced Chow Chow. There is a lot to say about this dish, so I won't be able to capture it all, but I will do my best.
First off, the rabbit. Don't think I've ever had it before. Here, it was braised. It had a really smooth texture that didn't have a gamey taste. Both the skin and the meat kind of reminded me of duck, but the meat had nowhere near the fat content of duck. Secondly, the grits were gritty yet very rich, creamy (I can't stand "grits" that aren't gritty), and filling. Third, I really liked this dish because it had southern cooking roots, but it also had a lot of Asian components too. Thus, this dish is unofficially in the Asian fusion realm, and it is basically a microcosm of myself - an American Born Chinese (ABC). The creamy grits and Conecuh sausage are definitely staples of the south, but the spiced chow chow (cabbage), eggplant, king trumpet (mushroom), and green onion garnish really reminded me a lot of fantastic Chinese dishes I grew up on.
This dish was just a great, organized amalgam of flavors and textures. From the smoothness, savoriness, and slight saltiness of the rabbit meat to the sweet, creamy grittiness of the grits. To the fibrous bitterness of the eggplant. To the fresh earthiness of the king trumpet. Then to the slight spiciness AND sourness of the slightly pickled, spiced chow chow.
Last but certainly not least - this was a hearty dish. They weren't trying to scam me on portions here. A great portion of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates - all tasty.
All in all, this was one of the most creative and well-executed meals that I've had!!!