By Pamela Brownstein
As soon as the renovations to the former City Hall building were complete and Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe opened its doors, the Lunch Bunch, like so many other foodies in town, has been excited to dine there.
Inside, the long windows, high ceilings, shelves stocked with gourmet items and bustling dining area create a welcoming, yet upscale, atmosphere.
Kim ordered her favorite, the Ooey Gooey. This unique sandwich made with grilled pimento cheese, bacon and garlic pepper jelly is a definite must-try.
Buck had the Pimento burger, a best-seller at Lowcountry Produce. Come hungry because the burgers, made fresh daily, are generous portions. Buck said he knew his was good because “I had to fork it.”
Meaning, to finish the burger, he had to cut up what was on his plate.
Elizabeth tried the Greek grilled cheese: a sandwich with feta and cheddar cheese, tomatoes, onions and sour cream dressing inside a pita. It was so awesome she cleaned her plate.
April’s egg salad sandwich on wheat with lettuce and tomato looked delicious, and she said it was. Her side of Cheddar Mac Salad was also super scrumptious.
The popular steak salad with Bleu cheese crumbles, tomatoes and balsamic dressing struck my fancy, and it was fantastic. The big strips of steak were juicy and cooked perfectly.
For dessert we all shared a molasses cookie, baby cheesecakes and a red velvet cupcake by Sweet Vivi. Then we all shared the homemade banana pudding and it was heavenly. Whipped and light, Elizabeth described it as “fabulous,” and we all agreed it was a
must-have dessert. It comes in its own pie tin, so you can get one anytime. The restaurant also makes from scratch chocolate banana pudding, key lime pie and a chocolate mousse pie.
General Manager Fran Tuttle encourages locals to stop by on their way home from work and pick up a steak or one of their prepared items for dinner. Or you could unwind with a glass of wine and perhaps a cheese board in a casual, low-key setting.
However you choose to experience Lowcountry Produce — breakfast or lunch, dining in or taking out, for a full dinner or just for happy hour — you won’t be disappointed in all that this market and eatery has to offer.
Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe is located at 302 Carteret Street, Beaufort. Open for breakfast and lunch, dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. For more information, call 843-322-1900.
