Pat Starnes' Snippets

Today I was treated to a superb lunch at the Parker House Restaurant in Olde Towne Ridgeland. The Parker House has an interesting history that you can read about on their website, but suffice it to say that it is fine dining in a old English style residence-turned-restaurant in the heart of Olde Towne.

The food was exquisitely prepared and served in a timely fashion. Our meal began with a serving of fried green tomatoes, some of the best I've ever had. It was difficult deciding what to order--everything looked so GOOD! Although I strongly considered the shrimp and grits, ultimately I selected the fried catfish topped with sauteed mushrooms and lump crab-meat. Delicious! And the side of garlic smashed potatoes were just as yummy.

They have a daily luncheon special at The Parker House. Fried quail with (I think) the smashed potatoes was today's choice. I'm sure it was good, but my dinner companion and I chose to order off the menu. And we were very pleased with our meal. We skipped dessert and instead munched on dinner rolls topped with sweet honey butter.

The atmosphere of The Parker House is something to experience. We sat in one of the private booths, complete with curtains that can be closed for a more intimate setting. The booth was private enough to carry on a conversation with few distractions.

There is a bar and lounge in the back of the restaurant, which overlooks their pool and three-tired fountain. There is outdoor seating, too, if you care to dine in their courtyard. At night it is lit with soft accent lighting, making it a truly enticing place to dine.

The Parker House has dining rooms that can accommodate groups, so keep that in mind when planning holiday parties.

The Parker House is located just off Highway 51 and West Jackson Street on SE Madison Drive in "Olde Towne" Ridgeland.