Juniper

My husband and I had a delightful lunch today. Corn chowder was as delicious as the reviews stated, as were our BLT's. Great homey atmosphere. I don't know where they acquired all the beautiful kitchen tables and chairs from the 1950s, reminded me of eating in my Grandma's kitchen. They also had beautiful artwork displayed throughout the restaurant. Restaurant staff were all friendly and efficient. Will definitely go back next time we're in town.

I first heard of this place from a PBS show called Backroad Bites. Juniper sources their ingredients locally and are known for their corn chowder. It was amazing. The dishes were seasoned perfectly, with the natural flavors of a diverse set of ingredients taking center stage. Id say the dishes had more of a focus on quality rather than getting a ton of food for cheap. I left feeling full but still able to walk around and enjoy the Peach Tree 23 yard sale.

This is hands down our favorite restaurant in this area - very worth the short drive from Aiken. The food is stellar and they are very accommodating for those with allergies or intolerances. The shrimp and grits are the best ever, the corn chowder is a not so secret favorite of anyone who we've ever taken (even in summer), and the house salad has the absolute best blue cheese vinaigrette and fresh made bacon bits on it. Almost forgot - the crab cakes are legit too, and the rueben is delicious - not things that the South is known for (Chef Brandon is originally from Maryland...I typically don't trust crabcakes from anywhere but MD). We have been to events they have catered and also had them cater our wedding - I can honestly say their food quality completely translated to catering and 7 years later people are still telling us they need to come to SC to go to Juniper because the food at our wedding was so good. And the planning aspect was easy, straightforward, and there no surprises. Our menu tasting was one of my favorite dinners we have had there. 10/10 recommend. Update: they are still awesome and are doing summer hours this summer, as well as a chef series with chef collaborations! Fridays are still the best shrimp and grits ever, and the house salad and corn chowder are still staples that are consistently delicious, visit after visit, year after year. Still 100% recommend a visit.

My 2nd time for brunch and at $22.00 +tip per person I would have thought there would be more selections on the Self-service buffet. Our choices were grits, bacon, scrambled eggs, meatloaf, desserts, seafood gravy, fruit and a biscuit. For me the value vs cost is not there as it is just mediocre food at best. The only service is them clearing your plates and taking your money. The building is pretty dilapidated although I do see they are finally making some improvements.