The South is home to many traditions. Hospitality reigns king, shrimp and grits are a staple, and beauty resides in Spanish moss strewn oak trees, soothing gentle waves washing onto sandy shores, and local Jazz and Zydeco music.
On our many visits to the commonly called “Low Country” of South Carolina, the quaint town of Bluffton is home to a terrific southern cafe, bakery and tearoom we frequent often when there.
It’s called The Cottage.
With its quaint location on popular Calhoun Street, The Cottage is tucked under the Spanish moss bearded oak trees of the charming town. With a wrap-around porch and wind chimes that play harmoniously in the gentle breeze off the May River, there is no doubt why this location is such a local’s favorite.
A crisp glass of Chardonnay and some Southern Sweet Tea or a favorite cocktail is perfect for when the temperatures are a bit warmer, and perfect for starting to peruse the menu.
The ambiance outside if both charming and enjoyable. Everywhere one looks, there is something new and fun and creative from works of art, sculptures, ironwork art, clever signage, tinkling wind chimes blowing in a gentle breeze, or bird feeders hanging right off the eaves of the front porch.
So much dedication and creativity went into the overall feel and every last detail at The Cottage. From the metal dragonfly that hangs on a porch wall beside the front door to the colorful and artistic signs welcoming patrons in as they tempt passers-by with the day’s delectable creations, to the babbling fountain sculpture standing in the front yard beside wrought iron park benches, you will feel a sense of warmth and welcome the moment you step foot onto the property.
There is no item left out at The Cottage. Suttle-sounding wind chimes that play a melodic tune as you dine on the wrap-around porch, a bird feeder hanging cleverly from a tree in the front yard beside a cafe table, and massive healthy ferns pouring over the edges of their hanging planters dangling from the eaves of the front porch area are just part of the detailed mastery provided by the owners to create the perfect southern getaway.
Spanish moss-draped oaks offer a relaxed feel while dining at The Cottage. Whether in the front yard of the property under huge umbrellas at patio tables, or along the front verandah, diner can enjoy feeling like they are dining in their own backyard or the yard of a friend. Equally pleasing is the 2-sides wrap-around front porch where covered seating allows for comfort even in a summer rainstorm while enjoying the palatable flavors The Cottage has to offer.
Lunchtime offerings include a starter of not bread, but a plate of house made pimento cheese served in a small white ramekin with fresh cut carrot sticks. A unique change from the traditional baked bread and butter, this was unique and something a little different than everyone else, and the pimento cheese was a welcomed attribute as we perused our menus.
The Summer in Maine Lobster Pot Pie above was scrumptious with its peas, carrots, corn, mushrooms, leeks, scallions, and hearty chunks of lobster meat topped with a light as air flaky filo pastry and finished with a sour cream drizzle. The sauce was reminiscent of a hot stew on a cool fall evening with its collection of carrots, peas, and earthy mushrooms encompasses in a savory and perfectly seasoned sauce. Each bite of the pot pie provided just enough gentle crunch, then a succulent bite of tender lobster hiding inside.
Another favorite we’ve enjoyed at The Cottage is the Grilled Shrimp Cobb. Savory, delicious and enhance with mixed greens tossed with a creamy buttermilk blue cheese dressing, crisp bacon slices, boiled egg wedges, chunks of fresh tomato, creamy avocado, and a zingy balsamic topped with perfectly grilled large shrimp. that were tender and flavorsome. The overall presentation of this dish was also spectacular, reminiscent of a summer celebration or festive local street fair with its popes of vibrant orange, deep reds, and bright greens.
The Flounder Amandine was a luscious preparation with an appealing buttery crunch. Panko and Reggiano crusted, pan-seared, and finished with sliced almonds, lemon, butter, white wine, and parsley make this selection a local’s favorite! The flesh of the fish was tender, steamy, and melt in your mouth sensational, while the side of carrot salad and southern rice and peas was a mild, yet palate satisfying accompaniment.
Above, the Curried Chicken Salad Wrap include cashews, raisins, and leafy lettuce all wrapped up in an easy-to-eat thin flour tortilla served with vegetable chips. and a savory fruity chutney for dipping or drizzling. I appreciated the mild heat of the curry mixed in with the tender chicken salad mixture, while the sweetness of the fruity chutney wasn’t overly sugary and acted as a perfect flacon addition.
The Cottage prepares a beautiful version of traditional shrimp and grits as well. Creamy cheddar stone ground grits are expertly cooked, then topped with a heaping mound of fresh local shrimp sauteed with bacon, onion, garlic, mushrooms, and scallions then complimented with a delightful cornbread muffin.
The Fish Tacos were another seasonal favorite for us. Encased in soft taco shells, loaded with tender chunks of local fish, and accompanied by a salsa-filled avocado half. Another different presentation, but worthy of accolades to the chef for flavor, style, and a terrific meal for any lunch at The Cottage.
The Maine Lobster Avocado Roll was delectable with sizable chunks of Maine lobster marinated with celery, herbs and lemon on a garlic-buttered New England frank bun with fresh avocado and a lobster au jus. Presented with potato salad or vegetable chips and pickles., this was a satisfying and delicious meal perfect for enjoying on a sunny day while taking a break from shopping in the neighborhood or at the nearby local Farmer’s Market.
The historic neighborhood that The Cottage is nestled within is cozy and quaint and filled with antique shops, art galleries, upscale boutiques and endless other fun and exciting opportunities. Recipient of the 2010 and 2011 Reader’s Choice Award by Hilton Head Monthly and Best of Bluffton in the Bluffton Today, The Cottage is the original Carson Cottage now surrounded by four other more recently built cottages collectively called the Carson Cottages. The original Carson Cottage’s history dates back to 1868 when Confederate soldier J.J. Carson built the structure as his residence. In 1902, he formed the first Baptist Church of Bluffton in the home’s front room, which was later restored by Thomas Viljac in 2007.
ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: You realize you have arrived in the south when you see how you are treated at The Cottage. With the staff’s kind and friendly reputation and delightful front porch setting, you’ll be making a mental note to return to this quaint establishment!
FOOD / DRINK: Fresh ingredients, refreshing beverages, traditional southern sweet tea with mint (and a great raspberry iced tea, also), and an all-around terrific, charming ambiance on the wrap-around front porch perfectly suited for relaxed lunching and calming dinners beneath the cover of massive oaks.
LOCATION: The Cottage is located at 38 Calhoun Street in Bluffton SC 29910.
HOURS: The Cottage serves Breakfast Monday through Saturday from 8 AM – 11 AM, Lunch Monday through Saturdays between 11 AM and 3 PM, Sunday Brunch from 8 AM – 2 PM, Tapas on Thursdays after the Farmer’s Market closes next door from 5 PM, Dinner has been suspended for the summer of 2012 until Labor Day weekend and also Tea by reservation only from 3 PM – 5 PM.
SERVICE / STAFF: Always friendly, always courteous and hospitable, and always happy to recommend something to your liking.
PRICE / VALUE: Excellent value for the prices at The Cottage. We highly recommend visiting. Once you do, you’ll become a regular patron!
CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle.
CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 757-0508, Website: www.thecottagebluffton.com
PARKING: Parking is available along Calhoun Street or any of the cross streets in the neighborhood.
Please note, all information for this establishment may have changed or the location may have been permanently closed since the article’s publication.