Lakeside Restaurant

For appetizers, Merrill brought us a plate of Sweet Chili Calamari, adorned with toasted sesame, shaved cucumber, and all-important crispy wonton; Florentine Tomato Soup with its not-too-subtle notes of spinach and parmesan; and the Lakeside Wedge, a serving of iceberg lettuce. (Some of you are shaking your heads in disbelief overlaid with a touch of pity. Why would someone (me) select something like the Lakeside Wedge? How does a serving of iceberg lettuce, the most humble product of the Salinas Valley, earn a place amongst Lakeside’s lineup of extraordinary dishes? Well, I’m already pushing the word count limit, so just ask me the next time you see me out and about. I can defend my choice and the integrity of Lakeside’s menu. Really.)

The three of us consumed our appetizers with unseemly abandon, which I’m going to chalk up to post-Covid exuberence.

Next, Merrill delivered Cast Iron Seared Scallops proudly arrayed upon a bed of lemon risotto and enrobed with spinach, basil pesto, roasted red pepper; Chicken Francese, served with capellini, asparagus, creamy lemon butter and white wine sauce; and Soy Demi-Glace Grilled Salmon joined by asparagus aux orange, and jasmine rice pilaf, and drizzled with coconut cream sauce.

All three were showstoppers, and all put a sudden stop to our animated conversation, which eventually resumed. Finally, we sat back, vaguely stupid and deeply satisfied.

But Stuart and I mustered enough fortitude to order dessert. He raved over his rum-drenched Bread Pudding, but in honesty, how could it possibly compare to my Budino di Cioccolato?

The cynical among you are saying, “Luke, you started your meal with a hunk of iceberg lettuce, and you ended it with chocolate pudding? Whatever happened to your critical faculties?”

Well, let me summon a healthy serving of umbrage at your surprise outburst and answer that this wasn’t “chocolate pudding.”

This Budino di Cioccolato is the logical and final elevation of chocolate as a holy food first conceptualized by the Mayans in approximately 940 AD. It’s easy to understand why those architects of the first great New World civilization would incorporate this magnificent fruit of the cacao tree into their holiest of rituals. Just try the Budino.

I’m not saying I’d cut out someone’s heart for Budino di Cioccolato, but I might push down an old lady.

Fortunately, as long as Lakeside maintains its current menu, I won’t have to face that awful choice.

by Luke Osteen

Food and Camaraderie

Zookeeper Bistro has a spruced up look just in time for the Busy Season, yet it maintains its warm, friendly atmosphere and its extraordinary menu. It’s located at 45 Slabtown Road in Cashiers.

Zookeeper Bistro, for reasons that are obvious to everyone who spends time there, is an inviting spot where folks come to dine and socialize.

Here, loyal regulars routinely gather for good food and camaraderie – the habitués know everybody there, staff and customers alike.

Occupying a spot in the row of buildings that make up the shopping center along the Slabtown Road, Zookeeper is owned by Tanya and John Saporito. Veterans of the restaurant business from Central Florida, they purchased the restaurant in 2009. John, a long time and experienced chef runs the kitchen and Tanya oversees the operations at the front of the house.

Last year, despite regulations dictating reduced capacity, and growing concerns created by the pandemic, the couple decided it was time to renovate. So, at the start of this year, they shuttered the restaurant for two-and-a-half months to refresh the Dining Room and reinvigorate the Kitchen.

Since their re-opening in March, they’ve been welcoming guests back, showcasing their new interiors.

Inside, the Dining Room has been refreshed with wood flooring, cream-colored walls and shiny new tables and chairs. With the pandemic generating increased demands for outdoor dining, an exterior patio has been added alongside the building with seating for 20 guests.

At the time of this writing, Tanya was working on adding flowering plants outside, and still on the agenda is a planned enclosure of the area. New equipment has been added to the Kitchen to ensure the continued efficient delivery of food.

The menu is comforting and contemporary. And whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a hurried weekday, diners crowd in during all opening hours – Tuesday through Saturday from 7:30 A.M to 2:00 P.M., and on Sunday from 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. for the deeply “breakfasty” items. A little indulgent and yet still somehow appropriate at any time of the day, there are savory omelets with luxurious fillings, fluffy stacks of pancakes, that star of the brunch table Eggs Benedict, and a decadent version of the dish – Crab Benedict. Also served up are wrapped breakfast sandwiches and a creamy daily quiche reminiscent of those served in French cafés of yore. Lunch, no less beloved, is served beginning at 11:00 each day. Typically, the lunch menu offers great salads, and burgers and fries along with a sensational Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich and a classic BLT – made the real way.

Recapping her incentives for the renovation she recounts that, “Some of our customers are like family; we wanted to make this place as good as it could be.”

by Marlene Osteen

Her Hot & Haut History

Chip Wilson’s Sour Cream Pancakes are a delicious testament to a life lived with passion and joy.

Chip Wilson

photo by Susan Renfro

Through any lens, Chip Wilson has led a storied life.

She grew up in the suburbs of Detroit. Married at 19, she had two children, divorced 15 years later, and in the 70’s landed in Atlanta, proprietor of Truffles Cooking School and store.

Celebrities – including Julia Child and Jacques Pepin – regularly passed through her doors there.

If anyone was equipped to own one of Atlanta’s “hot” and haut restaurants, surely it was Chip. She married again – this time in Switzerland – and she and her Swiss husband opened Atlanta’s fine dining stalwart of the era, Hedgerose Heights Inn.

In 1986 she bought an old farmhouse in Valle Crucis, North Carolina, renovated it and took over as innkeeper.

Anecdotes of her years at the Inn at The Taylor House now fill the pages of the memoir she published in 2015 – Inn and Out. (Copies can be purchased at Rosewood Market, the Business Spot in Highlands, and Shakespeare & Company).

It was during those years that she met her third husband – Jim.

Now living in Highlands, she spends her time packing the pickles she sells at the Farmers’ Market here.

Here, her recipe for Sour Cream Pancakes, long ago served to one of her inn guests, a British Lord. So taken was he with the dish he saw to its publication in Britain’s very chichi publication, Tatler.

Chip Wilson’s Sour Cream Pancakes Ingredients

½ cup sour cream ½ cup milk 2 eggs, separated ¾ cup flour 2 tablespoons sugar 1-teaspoon baking powder Pinch of salt 1 stick butter, melted

Directions

1. In a bowl, stir together the egg yolks, sour cream and milk until well blended. 2. In another bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add to egg mixture, along with the melted butter. 3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks. With large spoon, fold whites into batter, stirring gently until there are no yellow or white streaks. 4. Heat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease lightly and spoon about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Flip pancakes after bubbles rise to surface and bottom brown, after 2 to 4 minutes Variations: Spread lemon curd between pancakes and top with fresh warmed berries. Or add sliced strawberries sweetened with simple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream.

Barbeque Disco Party

The Pig Reigns Supreme when the Fox Brothers stage a Barbecue Disco Party – Saturday, June 12, at The Farm at Old Edwards on Saturday, June 12. Make your reservations right now at OldEdwardsHospitality. com/FoxBrothers.

Jonathan and Justin Fox

Barbecue, that voluptuous gastronomical favorite of every Southerner, lies somewhere in the culture between cult fetish and religious experience.

And when the barbecue is from the wood-fired pits of Atlanta’s Fox Brothers and combined with a Disco Party – as happens at The Farm at Old Edwards on Saturday, June 12 – then it is to be expected that a singular, scrumptious evening is in the offering.

Jonathan and Justin Fox – the team presiding over the wood-fired pits – are originally from Fort Worth, Texas, where barbecue is cooked by hot smoke from a wood fire with minimal spices and without basting. Settling in Atlanta, they developed their own “southernstyle” barbecue; melding it with the distinct cooking techniques and flavors they ate growing up in Texas.

They brought slow-smoked brisket and a whole lot more to Atlanta – stand-out hickory-smoked chicken wings and “foxy” creations that span regional styles like chopped brisket-laced fries and chickenfried ribs with Alabama white sauce. They brought with them as well Frito Pie – the portable Lone Star treat, made by ladling beanless chili directly into single-serving bags of corn chips. Rarely seen beyond the Midwest, Frito Pie is now one of the most popular dishes on their menu – a legacy of their birthplace, San Antonio, where the deep-fried masa chips known as Fritos originated in the early 1930s.

Their dazzling recipes have earned them accolades and praise from food critics and barbecue aficionados – one of Southern Living’s “Top 10 Barbecue Joints,” glowing reviews from Travel & Leisure, Forbes, Atlanta Magazine, and TV appearances that include The Today Show, The Travel Channel, and Food Network.

The success of their restaurants and legion of devotees that followed from around the country has spawned a line of barbecue and wing sauces sold at Whole Foods and other stores, and a partnership with the Atlanta Falcons,

As the Fox Brothers like to tell their guests “loosen your belt.” The evening promises a chance to indulge in the succulent and the juicy, beginning at 6:30 P.M. with passed appetizers of Pork Belly Burnt End, Tomato Pie Tart, Shishito Peppers with Cheeto Dust, and Pimento Cheese Croquettes. Serious eating continues with Whole Hog with Spicy Vinegar Sauce and Cracklings, served with sides of Slaw and Frito Pie. An ending of certain exponential joy is a dessert of Banana Pudding Ice Cream Sandwich.

Cost is $155 per person, plus tax and gratuity. You can book online today at OldEdwardsHospitality.com/FoxBrothers.

by Marlene Osteen

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Delicious

Memories

Executive Chef Andrew Figel

On the Verandah has earned its share of delicious memories over the course of 40 years. For menus and reservations, visit ontheverandah.com.

The 40th anniversary of On the Verandah offers an occasion to revisit one of Highlands’ most revered restaurants.

OTV, as it is known, is rich in history. Joe Webb – the legendary builder known for the log cabins he built without the help of power tools or architectural plans – worked on the building towards the end of his career in the late 1930s. When it was erected in 1937, it was a speakeasy. Later it housed a roller-skating rink and then a coin shop.

The structure stood empty for more than a few years before Alan and Marta Figel purchased it in 1981 and turned it into a restaurant. Set on the river, shaded by oaks and pine trees, it was doubtless the ideal spot for the couple’s new venture.

Figel, a graduate of the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, had started out as a stockbroker. But he loved to travel and that affection, in a roundabout way, led him to the restaurant business. Trips worldwide broadened his culinary horizons and inspired the cross-cultural menus he installed from his first restaurant – in 1970 in Florida – and later in Highlands.

Alan Figel’s son, Andrew, was 14 when his Dad started the restaurant, and he started working there during summer vacations. Like his father before him, Andrew cultivated his expertise and was drawn to the business by his travels. He had fallen in love with the flavors, perfumes, and textures of dishes and ingredients he tasted in places from Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize to cities across Western Europe.

In 1999, following the retirement of his family members, Andrew became the sole proprietor and Executive Chef. He continues to have a pulse on what Highlanders want to eat, ensuring that the restaurant retains its place in the pantheon of local dining even as it ushers in a new era.

And while much has changed since those early days 40 years ago, some dishes remain the same. Comforting, familiar, and still delicious dishes like seared Scallops on Angel Hair Pasta, NC Trout with Sweet Pecan Praline, and Pomegranate Lamb Ribs date

Pomegranate Lamb Rib

Angel Hair Pasta

back to earlier menus.

Celebrations for the anniversary are still being defined. In the meantime, what is certain is that there will be memorabilia on display in the restaurant – early menus, stories, and photographs. Participation in the November Highlands Food and Wine is on the schedule as is a June 17 Truchard Winemaker dinner.

The restaurant continues to be a place of delight where regulars have congregated for generations, and allegiance remains high.

Reflecting on the long history of the restaurant, Andrew commented, “It’s hard to imagine now, but when we first opened in 1981, we were the only restaurant to do fine dining off Main Street.”

For updated information, menus, and reservations, visit ontheverandah.com.

by Marlene Osteen / photos by Susan Renfro

Beer Tasting Workshops

The myriad flavor sensations of local brews are explored in delicious detail when The Greystone Inn offers its exclusive Private Beer Tasting Workshops. For more information or to sign up, visit greystoneinn.com or call (828) 966-4700.

Christian Schaumann

As I’ve written about so many times over the years, North Carolina beers that deserve to be showcased,” he Lake Toxaway has always enjoyed a unique pull says. “We’re going to be offering so many extraordinary over the imaginations and the emotional well- beers that I’ve come across and will introduce to being of those who’ve made their way to its shores. discriminating participants.”

Don’t believe me? Just read Carol Bryson’s history of the Schaumann’s unusually deep pool of knowledge about lake and its visitors on Page 148. brews and their magic is the product of years submerged

See? There’s always been a siren call to this lake, in the arcane world of Suds. and those who answer have That’s 25 years of experience, invariably been granted including 17 years of running tranquility and a touch of …there are so many North his own brewery. Enlightenment. Carolina beers that deserve His workshops are open to

Well, the good people of to be showcased… couples and groups of up to 10, Greystone Inn have raised the and cost is $100 per couple, and stakes on their all-out seduction $50 for each additional person. of those who’ve been wrung-out by the wearying demands They’re open to inn guests and those looking to broaden of this second decade of a confusing and anxious century. their knowledge of brews.

They’ve just unveiled their exquisite Mansion Bar, If you’d like to share a journey with Shaumann and replete with all the right vintages, brews, and distillations, discover the intricacies of local beers (with some standouts and a bar crew to bring it all together. culled from other parts of the state), call (828) 966-4700

And at the heart of this new facet is Beer Cicerone or visit greystoneinn.com. It’s Toxaway’s latest promise of Christian Schaumann, and his Private Beer Tasting rejuvenation and enlightenment. Workshops, available for all weary travelers, whether guests of Greystone Inn or not. by Luke Osteen

“I’m really excited about this, and there are so many

A Perfect Accompaniment

There’s magic aplenty when the glories of Laurent-Perrier Champagne are celebrated at The Farm at Old Edwards. For information on this event and to reserve a place at the Laurent-Perrier Champagne Dinner, visit oldedwardshospitality.com/ ChampagneDinner.

For many of us, Champagne sustains a certain mystique. It has its own provenance in France, requires a specific vessel from which one must sip, and maintains a special place in our personal annals of drink.

But what if Champagne were treated more like other wines? What if we considered it not just for a toast but as a perfect accompaniment to an entire meal?

That, in fact, is the theme of the Laurent-Perrier Champagne Dinner at The Farm at Old Edwards.

On Thursday, July 29, Champagne Laurent-Perrier’s Executive Vice President of Sales, Camille Cox, returns to the mountains for a summertime soiree, entitled Midsummer’s Night Dream.

Founded in 1812, Laurent-Perrier is a family and female-owned winery with a long tradition of innovation and a style that boasts freshness, elegance, and purity. Over the years, it has become one of the most successful houses in the Champagne industry, with a long and star-studded history of Champagne production. The star of the houses’ portfolio is the distinctively packaged Cuvee Rose Brut – the largest selling Rose Champagne in the world.

Lucky guests at the pink and white-themed evening will enjoy an array of the winery’s exquisite Champagnes, poured from special large format bottles.

To complement and illustrate the versatility of the wines, Executive Chef Chris Huerta has crafted an indulgent, five-course menu. Sumptuous dishes will include an array of local ingredients and peak summer produce sourced from the Garden at Old Edwards.

Lively discussion with the dazzling and delightful Camille is sure to follow as she helps guests understand the different flavors and styles of champagnes.

Festivities begin at 6:30 P.M. with hors d’oeuvres and lawn games in The Orchard before moving into The Pavilion for a seated dinner.

Giveaways and treats, including bottles of Champagne, will surprise guests throughout the evening. And live music and dancing will round out the night. Guests are encouraged to don their finest pink and white attire!

Camille will also be on hand during the weekend hosting a series of events for Old Edwards guests: To include a social hour and tasting on Friday and Saturday nights and a special daytime event on Saturday.

For specifics on these events and to reserve the Laurent Perrier Champagne Dinner, book online at oldedwardshospitality.com/ ChampagneDinner. Cost is $185 per person including Champagne throughout the evening, plus tax and gratuity. Seating is limited. by Marlene Osteen

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thelaurelmagazine.com/cuisine

To see the most up-to-date information about dining on the plateau visit thelaurelmagazine.com/restaurants

Plateau Dining Guide

The Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Meals Wine Full Bar Children’s Menu Vegetarian Selections Reservations Recommended Dress Code Live Entertainment Outdoor Dining Take Out Ad On Page

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4118 Kitchen + Bar 64 Highlands Plaza (828) 526-5002 L, D, SB n n n C n 110 Bella’s Junction Cafe 20 Old Mud Creek Road, Scaly (828) 526-0803 B, L, D n C n n 32 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807 D n n n n NC n n 5 Calder’s Cafe 384 Main Street (828) 200-9308 B, L n C n n 111 Fire + Water Restaurant Reservations Required (828) 526-4446 B, L n n C n 15 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 465 Main Street (828) 787-2990 L ,D n n n C n n 118 Fressers Courtyard Cafe Village Square, 470 Oak Street (828) 526-4188 L ,D n n n C n n 109 Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road (828) 526-3554 L ,D n n n C n n 121 Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525 L n n n NC n 53 *The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110 L, D n n 108 Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue (828) 526-9419 D n n n n n NC n n n 108 Meritage Bistro 490 Carolina Way (828) 526-1019 L, D, SB n n n n C n n n 4 Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd OPENING SOON 104 On the Verandah Highway 64 (Franklin Road) (828) 526-2338 D, SB n n n n C n n 119 Paoletti’s 440 Main Street (828) 526-4906 D n n n n NC n 113 *Rosewood Market Main Street (828) 526-0383 L, D n n NC n 115 The Ugly Dog Pub 298 South 4th Street (828) 526-8364 L, D, SB n n n n C n n n 117 Wolfgang’s Restaurant 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807 D n n n n NC n n 5 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Cashiers Valley Smokehouse US 64 West (828) 547-2096 L, D C n n n 116 The Greystone Inn 220 Greystone Lane (828) 966-4700 B, L, D, SB n n n NC n n 4 The Orchard Highway 107 South (828) 743-7614 D, n n n n n C n n 113 Town & Country General Store Deli 14 Raggedy Lane (828) 547-1300 L n n 123 The Ugly Dog Pub 25 Frank Allen Road (828) 743-3000 L, D, SB n n n n C n n n 117 Zookeeper 45 Slabtown Road (828) 743-7711 B, L, SB n C n n 109

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner SB Sunday Brunch * Takeout Only Dress Code: C Casual NC Nice Casual J Jacket

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4th Street Market - (828) 526-4191 Asia House - (828) 787-1680 The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922 Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775 The Cake Bar - (828) 421-2042 Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762 El Azteca - (828) 526-2244 El Manzanillo - (828) 526-0608 Highlands Burritos - (828) 526-9313 Highlands Deli/SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632 Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525 Midpoint (828) 526-2277 Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400 Pizza Place - (828) 526-5660 Ruffed Grouse (828) 526-2590 Subway - (828) 526-1706 Tug’s Proper - (828) 526-3555 Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 Cashiers Farmers Market - (828) 743-4334 Cashiers Village Tavern (828) 482-8743 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750 Cork & Barrel Lounge - (828) 743-7477 El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen - (828) 743-7778 Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740 Mountain Cafe - (828) 577-0469 Panthertown Cafe LLC (828) 862-366 Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220 Subway - (828) 743-1300 The Falls Cafe and Grill - 828-877-3322 The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512 Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655 Table 64 - (828) 743-4135 Villa Amato (828) 885-7700 Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777 Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000 Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226

thelaurelmagazine.com/lodging CALL TO CONFIRM BEFORE YOUR VISIT.

Plateau Lodging

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

HOTELS / MOTELS / BED & BREAKFASTS

On Site Restaurant On Site Bar/Lounge Pool Whirlpool Rooms Exercise Facility In Room Microwave/Fridge Cable/Satellite TV Banquet Facilities Wireless Internet Pet Policy Ad On Page

Black Bear Lodge of Sapphire 19386 Rosman Hwy | Sapphire blackbearlodgeofsapphire.com | (828) 553-6535 n n n n 142

Earthshine Lodge 1600 Golden Road | Lake Toxaway, NC earthshinenc.com | (828) 862-4207 n n n n n 141

Fire Mountain 700 Happy Hill Rd | Scaly Mountain firemt.com | (800) 775-4446 n n n n n n 15

Greystone Inn 220 Greystone Ln | Lake Toxaway thegreystoneinn.com | (828) 966-4700 n n n n n n 4

Old Edwards Inn and Spa 445 Main St | Highlands oldedwardsinn.com | (866) 526-8008 n n n n n n n n n 53

Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd | Highlands skyline-lodge.com OPENING THIS SUMMER 104

VACATION RENTALS

The Vineyard at 37 High Holly 37 High Holly Road | Scaly Mountain thevineyardat37highholly.com | (828) 505-6190

VACATION RENTAL AGENCIES n n n n n 40

Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals 488 Main Street | Highlands meadowsmountainrealty.com | (828) 526-1717

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals 401 N 5th St | Highlands highlandsiscalling.com | (828) 526-3717

Landmark Vacation Rentals 17 US Hwy 64 E | Cashiers landmarkvacations.com | (877) 926-1780

Rent in Highlands - CCP 507 Main Street | Highlands rentinhighlands.com | (800) 684-2171 x 302

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals 341 Hwy 64 W, Ste 102 | Cashiers ncliving.com | (828) 743-1999 24

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CASHIERS, NC: High Hampton Resort - (800) 334-255 Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706 The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247 Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780 Laurelwood Inn - (828) 743-9939 Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258 The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614 Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623 Reid Resort Rentals - (828) 743-5955 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999

GLENVILLE, NC: Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946 Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875 Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482

HIGHLANDS, NC 200 Main - (855) 271-2809 Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717 Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-3717 The Chateau - (561) 613-1496 Fairview House - (866) 526-8008 Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246 Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590 Highlands House Bed and Breakfast - (828) 787-1186 Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380 Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899 Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839 The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999 The Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560 Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799 Mitchell’s Lodge & Cottages - (828) 526-2267 Old Edwards Inn and Spa - (866) 526-8008 Park on Main - (800) 221-5078 Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870 Rent in Highlands - CCP - (800) 684-2171 x 302 Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919 The Wells Hotel - (828) 482-7736 Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222 SAPPHIRE, NC Black Bear Lodge of Sapphire - (828) 553-6535 Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-3441 Foxhunt At Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667 Hampton Inn & Suites - Cashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545 Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582 Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734 Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085 Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC: Fire Mountain - (800) 775-4446 The Vineyard at 3 High Holly - (828) 505-6190

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333 Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700 Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

DILLARD, GA: Julep Farms - (706) 960-9600

SHOPPING

Pages 128-132

SPACIOUS STYLE

This bag is so roomy - and even more stylish! Woven from recycled vegan leather - and offered in a rainbow of colors! Over the shoulder, arm or hand held makes this the most versatile bag for everyday life.

Market Bag | $165 C. Orrico | Highlands

STUNNING SIDE Picks a few of our favorite finds Plateau

This hand crafted side chair is sure to turn heads! Beautifully designed in solid Walnut, it is sure to be passed down from generation to generation.

Hand Crafted Walnut Chair | $425

Blue Elephant Consignment | Highlands

PORCELAIN PERFECTION

This finely crafted table lamp will cozy up any space with its white glazed ceramic body and exquisitely detailed floral design. 15” Porcelain Lamp | $110

J. Gabriel | Cashiers

FIT & FLARE

Ring in summer with this pretty floral print fit and flare dress. The beautiful shades of coral, pink, blue, green and peach compliment the figure-flattering pleated skirt. Tahari Dress size 10 | $68

Victoria’s Closet | Cashiers

UNWIND IN COMFORT

Unwind in colorful designs and fresh style of these ultra-soft lounge wear. The stretch fabric and relaxed fit enhances any day spent inside - or out. Hello Mello Lounge Sweater | $29.99 Hello Mello Lounge Pants | $22.99

Dry Sink | Highlands

POPS OF COLORS

Add a pop of color to your day with this playful, color blocked sweater in attention-getting brights! Multi-Colored Necklace | $44 Vneck Pullover | $105 Sashay Around | Cashiers

DAZZLING ELEGANCE

Set in enduring platinum, 7 ct. brilliant side diamonds draw your eyes to the dazzling 1.15 ct. center diamond in this wearable story of pure elegance. Platinum and Diamond Bracelet | $17,000 Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Highlands

DOUBLE TROUBLE

Colorful and fun, this reversable jacket is made for cool evenings. The stylish notched collar and convenient side pockets make this the perfect addition to your mountain wardrobe. Gretchen Scott Reversable Jacket | $109

Bella Cotn | Cashiers

When It’s Time for Rings and Bling

The main streets and byways of both Cashiers and Highlands are lined with jewelry treasures.

Let’s go shopping for jewelry and let’s do it locally!

Dozens of boutiques in the Highlands and Cashiers area offer jewelry for your every need and look. From casual pieces to precious stones and everything in between, you can find it here.

The Highlands-Cashiers Plateau has had a symbiotic relationship with fine jewelry for over 150 years. The first white settlers here were quick to notice the flecks of gold that were found in local streams, and the rubies and sapphires that washed down from hillsides after heavy rains. Later, there was the gold and gemstones that adorned the wardrobes of the seasonal residents who created their own social whirl here in the mountains. Fine jewelry is now as much a part of the local landscape as the gold nuggets still panned on the Cullasaja.

The gleaming front window display of Highlands Fine Art and Estate Jewelry at 388 Main Street in Highlands beckon you inside, where owners Joe and Claudia Lazow and their sweet shop dogs will welcome you into their world of handpicked estate and modern jewelry. Whether you’re looking for modern and edgy or classic and elegant, you’ll find something here. Diamonds are abundant but there are also other precious and semi-precious stones and pearls, set in silver, platinum or gold. They also have an extensive selection of time pieces, including preowned from brands such as Rolex.

Jannie Bean Designs at 152 S 2nd Street in Highlands should be your first stop for fine jewelry featuring precious and semi-precious stones. Diamonds are their trademark but you’ll also find pieces incorporating aquamarine, pink tourmaline, amethyst, opals, sapphires, citrine, tanzanite and pearls. Jannie can also help you design your perfect piece so that you’ll truly have a one-of-a-kind heirloom. If you’d rather re-imagine a piece in your collection that is too special to part with but needs modernization, she can help you that too.

Mirror Lake Antiques on the hill, South 4th street, has a wide variety of jewelry. Find your perfect piece from their collections of carat gold, sterling silver and fashion jewelry. Owners Stan and Donna Cochran say they offer pieces that are “old, new, and middle aged – just like the rest of us.” It’s true you can find something for everyone here. Come discover how to make vintage jewelry selections work for you.

Jannie Bean Designs

Mirror Lake Antiques framework upon which you can display your treasured everyday jewelry. Just look around you – the stunning pair of studs enhancing a perfect coif; the necklace that mirrors the natural forms and spirits of the landscape; the bracelet of bold colors; and the ring that’s an irresistible blend of playfulness and elegance.

Acorns, located at 212 South 4th Street, naturally offers an elegant array of jewelry, both classic and contemporary, and all dazzling. Since jewelry is the purchase that’s most personal (well, along with shoes), this is a collection that demands a careful browse.

A Jones Company at 3 Chestnut Square carries several lines of jewelry from classic styles such as Enewton and Colby Davis to bohemian Scout and handcrafted fun and funky Leslie Curtis. We have many oneof-a-kind handcrafted sterling silver and turquoise pieces. Marianna and Firefly, handcrafted with Swarovski crystals, will add a pop of color to any outfit.

Allison Diane at 114 N 4th Street is the place to go for classic but on-trend

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Highlands Fine Art and Estate Jewelry

The Mountain Casual Look is the perfect

A Jones Company