Sugar Magnolia

From tapas to Italian to Low Country, then back to tapas, and, yes, even a steak house, these are the top new places to eat

Written by Jon Luther and Richard Thurmond
Photographs by Chris Edwards

 
Sugar Magnolia
9824 Rea Road, in Blakeney
704-540-0000

This warm spot opened late last year, but ongoing construction at its Blakeney home has kept it under the radar. That's too bad, because everyone needs to know about this place. Owners Chris and Brandy Warren have layered a laid-back vibe on this Low-Country diorama of a restaurant, complete with open kitchen, cobblestone floor, and gas lamps. It works really, really well. Chef Cody Stewart's Charleston-style menu is excellent, from the required and rich shrimp and grits to the standout grilled lamb chops dabbed with a sauce of apricot brandy, apricots, pecans, and rosemary.

Also Good
The crab cakes, filled with lump backfin crab and topped with she-crab sauce.

Nice Surprise
Service, which can be hit-or-miss at suburban restaurants, is excellent. Ask for Erin's section.

Jam On
After ten, the bar rocks with the Warrens' fave jam bands—Grateful Dead, Widespread Panic, Phish.

To Get a Table on a Weekend
Make a reservation. This intimate place fills up fast.