By Wendy Nilsen Pollitzer

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[caption id="attachment_1044" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Blackstone&#39;s Owner, Roger Alley"]<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9737.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1044" title="DSCN9737" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9737-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>[/caption]

The Lunch Bunch dined on Scott Street in downtown Beaufort last week at the infamous Blackstone’s, named from owner Roger Alley’s middle name.<!--more-->

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[caption id="attachment_1045" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Jessica Hughes, Tariel Williams and Larry “Fritz” Hynson"]<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9738.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1045" title="DSCN9738" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9738-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>[/caption]

One of my favorites, Blackstone’s is the staple breakfast restaurant in town, but also known for its hearty lunches. You’re sure to see familiar faces at Blackstone’s, whether it be patrons or staff. Jessica Hughes, Tariel Williams and Larry “Fritz” Hynson are staff members you’re likely to see when you visit. They’ve been working at Blackstone’s for a combined 31 years. And, if you dine on the weekends, you’re  certain to be greeted by owner, Roger Alley who has owned Blackstone’s since 1991.

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Blackstone’s is celebrating its 20<sup>th</sup> Anniversary, making it the oldest single owner/operated restaurant in the Historic District. Congratulations Roger and staff for two decades of great food and fast, reliable service!

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This day was no different than most. We all were seated at the front corner table, reserved especially for the Lunch Bunch. And we were well treated by Jessica, our friendly and professional server.

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<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9747.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-1046" title="DSCN9747" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9747-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>Pamela took the breakfast route, not surprisingly. Did you read her column last week? About breakfast? She ordered the blueberry pancakes with a side of bacon and was flavorfully pleased.

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<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9742.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1047" title="DSCN9742" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9742-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>I opted for the brunch entrée and got Blackstone’s signature dish, the Shrimp ‘n’ Grits, which can be found on both the breakfast and lunch menus. Covered in cheeses and filled with tasty shrimp, it was definitely the favorite of the table.

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<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9739.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-1048" title="DSCN9739" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9739-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9743.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1049" title="DSCN9743" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9743-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>Barry, April and Elizabeth fancied the lunch menu. April ordered the BLT with a side of fries while Elizabeth chose the Shrimp Salad plate with a side of pasta salad. Barry asked for Blackstone’s other great seller and Thursday’s special, the Shrimp Burger.

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<a href="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9745.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-1050" title="DSCN9745" src="http://www.beaufortislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/DSCN9745-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>The generous portions are well prepared fresh foods delivered at a reasonable price. And the décor is tasteful and spirited.  Filled with posters of films made in Beaufort, banners of Prep Schools and letters of recognition from local, regional and national politicians, Blackstone’s gives the sense of community. When you dine there, you become part of the family.  Staff will remember you by name and likely to know what your favorite dish is as well.

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It’s the quiet spot off the beaten path that has become a second home for me since moving downtown.  And, it’s the spot I’ll recommend time and again to friends visiting from out of town. Once you go, you’ll remember it forever. And, when tourists come back, they definitely go back to Blackstone’s…just like the locals do!

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Thank you Roger for hosting the Lunch Bunch. You’re sure to see me soon!

Spotted by the Lunch Bunch:

Steve and Mary Anne Harrison

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