The official start of summer may be several weeks away but it seems my favorite time of year is already underway at 1885 Southern Coastal Grill. I recently stopped by on a sunny afternoon. The roll-top door was fully open and a warm breeze drifted through the dining area. A general air of excitement flittered about the staff.
"Is that crushed mint I smell?" I asked, the cozy aroma suddenly flooding my senses. Bar chef Heather Wilson grinned widely.
"You know it, girl," she said. "There's all sorts of new things happening back here," she added, nodding toward several medium- sized barrels behind the bar.
1885 has recently taken its already impeccable bar reputation to a whole new level by aging its own cocktails. This provides for a bigger bodied, much richer flavor. Some of the current options include spiced rum made with blood-orange liqueur and an old fashioned with an 1885 twist. The fresh mint, I learned, is for the new summery cucumber cooler drink made with gin, mint and lime. 1885 partner Miguel De Jesus calls it "absolutely delicious." And he's "not even a gin guy."
In addition to the new seasonal bar menu, 1885 is also bringing back patio food favorites like shrimp cocktail and adding new oyster dishes. There are new spring-inspired salads like the Rogue wedge made with crisp romaine hearts, bacon and fried tobacco onions, as well as new fish specials like decadent grilled swordfish seasoned with basil micro greens, cherry barbecue sauce and served atop a bed of creamy corn.
Fish and protein specials are updated throughout the week. To stay abreast of the rotating specials, the live music now scheduled for the patio throughout the week, or the restaurant's always evolving menu, you can follow 1885 on Facebook. There is always something abuzz at the Southern Coastal grill which lends to its popularity. Recently, the restaurant increased its seating both inside and out to accommodate the community's growing patronage.
Although 1885 does not take reservations, it does accept call-ahead seating which can help decrease wait time. However, there will be an exception made on Mother's Day. The restaurant is also expanding its Sunday hours from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. that day. The day will feature 1885's wildly popular brunch dishes, including mimosas and a bloody mary bar, as well as the full menu including specials that evening.
Yes, the summer has come early at 1885 and there is much to celebrate - from the open patio to the outdoor concerts to the barrel-made craft cocktails which, much like your mother, I'm sure, just keep getting better with age.
1885 SOUTHERN COASTAL GRILL
ADDRESS: 3914 St. Elmo Ave.
HOURS: Monday-Friday from 4-10 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (expanded hours on Mother's Day)
PHONE: 485-3050