Shirley's in Hampton, TN

Ever been to an old garage? This one is well worth the trip and one of the hidden treasures of the area. Grant and Shirley Sharp converted an old garage into a wonderful country cooking restaurant that stays packed whenever they are open. Be warned that they are only open from Spring to Fall and only of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but that is enough. Country plates are available but the best way to eat there is family style with a group. First and appetizer comes out, which for us was a great potato soup. The group then chooses 2 of the main dishes that are available, usually boneless fried chicken, roast beef, steak and gravy, meatloaf, and country ham, then every side that they have comes along. The dishes are placed on the table and are passed around to allow the group to eat like a family. The side that were there when I last ate there were mashed potatoes with gravy, soup beans, green beans, cabbage, slaw, mac and cheese, biscuits, apples, cornbread salad, corn, and probably some that I can't remember. Then everyone gets to choose a dessert which were on that evening, blueberry cobbler, apple cobbler, peach cobbler, fudge cake, and Carmel cake all of which were served with optional ice cream and coffee. Bring the family or friends, loosen your belt and dig in. Shirley's is located on Hwy 321 beside Watauga Lake a few miles past the town of Hampton.

Freiburgs in Johnson City

Hi everyone, its been a while since my last but I have been cooking at home and saving what I can and I don't have enough of an ego to review my own cooking. Let me make it up by reviewing an absolutely fantastic restaurant in Johnson City named Freiburgs. It is located downtown at fountain square. Their menu is a thrill ride of German comfort food. They feature bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerbrat. The atmosphere is like stepping back in time 60 years with hardwood floors and iron rail balconies. I met with several friends there and we all had the same complaint, more food than our stomachs could handle. I ordered the bratwurst sampler platter which came with 3 brats, 1 each traditional, smoked, and cheddar cheese. It came on a bed of sauerkraut and my sides were broccoli with beer cheese and potatoes fried with onions and bacon along with some really good German beer. The fresh bread came with regular butter and herb butter and the waitress kept the baskets coming. Everyone at the table were stuffed and very happy with the quality of food and service. Along with the food came some wonderful entertainment from a couple who were playing the accordion and singing German songs from the balcony. We were seated near them and the show was great. We had 2 young children with our group and they crawled under the table to sit and watch the show with great interest from a good viewpoint that only a child can get. The food was reasonably priced, excellent quality in vast amounts, and the atmosphere was the best. Get some friends together and go have a great evening soon. Happy Oktoberfest.