Park & Grove
By Avery Gavornik, CharlotteBergerPR
What was once a cozy cafe tucked away on the corner of Park & Rutledge known for its boozy coffees and avocado toast has transformed into an upscale seasonal eatery still serving brunch and lunch, but with a focus on dinner. Chef Ramon (formerly of Peninsula Grille) is leading the charge on the cuisine, while General Manager Samson Kohanski has developed a killer cocktail menu. At Park & Grove you can enjoy a little bit of everything, from seafood to pasta to short ribs, and everything in between, without the fuss of the downtown tourist crowd (think date night or when a friend comes to town).
@hoangviton
Lucky for us, we tried (literally) everything, so as you can guess, it was hard to choose what item was our favorite. Drinks ranged from Strawberry Margaritas to Old Fashioneds to tart Daiquiris.
@jaieats
We snacked on Cornmeal Fried Oysters, Heirloom Tomatoes and the Baby Gem Lettuce & Kale Caesar, all of which were worthy of applause. Who knew appetizers could double as entrées?
@tastemakerschs
@tastemakerschs
You would’ve thought we had walked straight onto the streets of Italy after twirling our forks into the Summer Tomato Rigatoni and Bucatini with pesto and pork belly.
@jaieats
@tastemakerschs
Our eyes widened as more and more plates were placed in front of us, including Sea Scallops with citrus butter, Grilled Hanger Steak with house steak sauce, and a Roasted Half Chicken.
@tastemakerschs
@tastemakerschs
Sides are key when you come with a large, hungry crowd, and Park & Grove did not skimp out. This stunning array consisted of Local Greens, Butterbeans, Charred Okra, Pan Fried Corn, and Roasted Fingerling Potatoes.
We saluted a chef’s kiss to every detail of every dish and gave this restaurant the Tastemakers seal of approval.
@hoangviton
The charming and friendly Kenai, Program Director for The Green Heart Project, greeted each and every one of us throughout dinner and gave us a quick synopsis of the nonprofit’s mission: to build garden-based experiential learning projects and school garden programs to educate students and connect communities through growing, eating, and celebrating food (something the Tastemakers do quite often around here). Throughout the month of September, $1 from every Daiquiri sold will benefit this amazing nonprofit, for which Park & Grove’s Owner Karalee also serves as Founder.
Are you ready to move with the seasons? If so, head on over to Park & Grove today. And don’t worry, you can still get your Avocado Toast fix any time of day on the new menu!
730 Rutledge Avenue
