Chocolate Truffles, Quadrupel & Growlers

Yesterday we splurged on a late lunch in our town of Blairsville to celebrate our 30 year wedding anniversary. We ate at Michael Lee's Italian Life Caffe on the town square. The restaurant was formerly located in Hiawassee and had quite a following in that location.

Gary had the daily special Panini which he said was cooked perfect since most times the bread is overcooked. I had the Greco salad with fruits and candied nuts and a special dressing. I took home a doggie bag as the salad was too large to finish. I confess the salad was better when I got home because it was mixed up. The restaurant served it separated on the plate which made for a nice presentation but not as delectable as it could have been. The portions were generous but we were glad we went for lunch because the prices are higher than we expected.

Their homemade gourmet desserts are considered top notch so I took home a chocolate truffle for dessert. The truffle was good but not the very best I've ever had. The best truffle I've ever had came from Just Desserts in Berkeley, CA but I understand they are now closed. Once you've had the very best I guess nothing else can compare. I did have quite a good truffle at a chocolate shop in Appalachicola, FL.

As we left we were directed downstairs to Illy Espresso Bar which specializes in their desserts and espresso a boutique cafe with various condiments including an olive tasting bar. We didn't partake but if we return would go to the cafe first and then to lunch.

As we left we passed by another new venue for our town, the Bearding Bottle Shop with gourmet beers on tap in a beer garden. Gary had a tasting and since I am gluten free I kept him company. But I learned they have homemade rootbeer on tap and also sell gluten free beers, ginger (true) cider and more. Gary declared all the beers delicious and smooth. Can't recall the name of the best one he had but it was a trappist monastery beer. I think it must be the Quadrupel of Belgium.

Jeff Brown

You can take the gourmet beers home or to local restaurants in glass growlers made in Germany but as a potter I ccouldn't help but think the Bearding Bottle Shop could have partnered with a potter and had ceramic growlers to purchase. They also have a keg service. All in all we had a delightful time yesterday afternoon. All images borrowed from the net. Thanks for reading and for all your comments.