The Restoration Hotel | Cultural Almanac | Issue 19

Whatever

Letter from The Restoration

Cool weather, warm drinks, and colorful decorations abound. The traditions behind our favorite holidays have remained largely the same. But what has changed is where and who we celebrate them with.

In this Holiday issue of the Cultural Almanac, we’ve charted a course for tried and true festivities and activities in and around Charleston and Asheville, honoring their origins while giving you the space to make them your own.

We also get to hear from our very own team members on how they embrace the idea of Friendsgiving in lieu of a more traditional gathering, making the case that the holidays happen wherever people come together to celebrate the kinship they have with one another.

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays with us or simply making an adventure out of the everyday, we can’t wait to share our traditions with you, this season.

Happy Holidays, Your Team at The Restoration

Mountain to Table Taste

Take a seat at nature’s table for a culinary journey through the Appalachian region. Made with fresh ingredients and familiar flavors, savor comfort food classics with an artisanal twist.

Myth Lore

Ghost Stories from the New South

By light, centuries-old cities charm visitors with cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture, and the romance of a bygone era. But when night falls, the past can reveal itself in more sinister ways. For years, both Charleston and Asheville have attracted those with a taste for the supernatural, and a look into their macabre histories will explain why.

Charleston, South Carolina

With over 300 years of history, it’s not surprising that the Holy City has more than a few skeletons in its closet. Wrought with stories of pirates and civil war prisoners, these historic landmarks are regular haunts for paranormal activity.

THE BATTERY CARRIAGE INN

While The Restoration prides itself on bringing our guests and the community together, The Battery Carriage Inn harbors a different kind of crowd. A stay at this B&B might come with its very own ghost host, including “The Headless Torso,” who haunts Room 8, and the “Gentleman Ghost,” who appears in Room 10.

UNITARIAN CHURCH GRAVEYARD

Here lies the body of Annabel Lee, the very subject of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous love poem. In real life, the star-crossed lovers were forbidden from being together by Annabel’s father—even in death. When she passed from yellow fever, he dug up all the graves around hers, so Poe wouldn’t know where she was buried. Many claim to see Annabel’s ghost roaming the cemetery today, still searching for her lost love.

WHITE POINT GARDEN

During the day, this oak-lined park is perfect for romantic strolls overlooking Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor. But in the evening, the spirits of 50 pirates who were hanged here in the 1700s, have been seen roaming the park looking for their executioners.

Asheville, North Carolina

Long before Asheville was even incorporated as a city, its past life as an outpost for frontiersmen, artists, and dignitaries, paved the way for a haunted history laden with ghost tales you can relive today.

HIGHLAND HOSPITAL

Founded in 1904 as a mental institution, Highland Hospital had a reputation for hosting wealthy clientele, including Zelda Fitzgerald who perished in a massive fire along with eight other women. While the old asylum is no longer standing, the shopping center built in its place has reported sightings of ghostly apparitions and the sounds of screaming from the women still trapped inside.

BASILICA OF ST. LAWRENCE

Many come to the Basilica of St. Lawrence hoping to be filled with the holy spirit, when in fact, another kind of spirit may be in their presence. The Basilica’s architect. Rafael Guastavino, died before the building was completed and buried in its walls. Attendees have reported cold spots in the building and have even alleged to see the architect himself, along with the specter of a priest wandering the grounds.

HELEN’S BRIDGE

Don’t be surprised if your car begins acting up when you pass under Helen’s Bridge. According to local legend, a woman named Helen hung herself here after the death of her daughter in a house fire. Many have reported having car trouble near the bridge, and some say they’ve seen a woman asking if they’ve seen her child, only to disappear shortly afterward.

MYTH & LORE: GHOST STORIES FROM THE NEW SOUTH

Photo Credit Karen Schanely Photography

A Case for Friendsgiving

We’ve always believed in discovering new ways to do old things. And while our team works hard to create new traditions for our guests, it can mean that they celebrate a less-than-traditional holiday season themselves. Fortunately, the rise of new celebrations like Friendsgiving offers a chance to reconnect with friends and chosen family, perhaps even in a more meaningful way. In that spirit we’ve asked two of our team members to share their own experiences with this new holiday and make a case for Friendsgiving.

Thanksgiving: that quintessential American holiday that, up until six years ago, I knew very little about. I watched countless American movies growing up that featured Thanksgiving scenes filled with images of turkey, cranberry sauce, and football. As someone who grew up in England, raised on roast dinners and mince pies, it was a holiday that held little significance to me. That is until I discovered the heartwarming tradition of Friendsgiving.

Friendsgiving, a fusion of “friends” and “Thanksgiving,” is an American invention that celebrates the bonds of friendship rather than family ties. As someone who didn’t grow up in the States, and with no blood relatives over here, Friendsgiving quickly became an endearing and inclusive way to experience this uniquely American holiday.

after arriving in the States that I felt truly at home. The Friendsgiving gathering was a delightful blend of cultures and backgrounds. The table was adorned with an array of dishes I had never tried before: mashed sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, green bean casserole, and Pecan pie. My friends patiently explained the history and significance behind each dish, turning the meal into a captivating lesson on American culture. Friendsgiving has since become a cherished part of my life in America. I’ve learned to appreciate the flavors and traditions that define Thanksgiving, and I’ve even tried my hand at preparing some of the dishes. But what I value most is the sense of unity and gratitude that Friendsgiving fosters.

I didn’t inherit Thanksgiving as a childhood tradition, but Friendsgiving has shown me that traditions can be embraced and adapted. It has even given me the opportunity to introduce some English traditions to my American family. It has reminded me that gratitude is universal, and friendship knows no boundaries. I’m grateful for the opportunity to celebrate Friendsgiving in America, a holiday that has taught me the true essence of Thanksgiving— coming together, giving thanks, and embracing the warmth of friendship.

My introduction to Friendsgiving was a warm invitation from my American friends during my first year in the United States. I moved to North Carolina two months before Thanksgiving 2017 and the people I spent my first ever Friendsgiving with have now become more like family to me.

At this time, I was still navigating the cultural differences and traditions, feeling like a newcomer in a foreign land. However, the idea of Friendsgiving immediately struck a chord with me—a holiday focused on gratitude and friendship. This was the first time

“ Friendsgiving, a fusion of friends and Thanksgiving , is an American invention that celebrates the bonds of friendship rather than family ties.”

Charlotte Rookley, Front Office Manager

Photo Credit Ben Joyner

The formal Thanksgiving: Turkey and gravy (make sure there’s dark meat for Aunt Lisa who refuses to eat the white meat due to its dryness), stuffing and cranberry sauce on the side, mashed potatoes, maybe a green bean casserole. My family always prepares a baked yam dish with marshmallows melted and crisped on top.

Besides the food, you’ll hit all the other beats in a formal Thanksgiving down the line. There’s the parade, there’s the Cowboys losing to whoever they may be playing that year, and

event to schedule around, it fits snugly in each attendee’s timetable acting as a true moment of respite instead of a lurking presence far off in the future that forces you to take time off of work. The menu? Whatever you want to bring! You can bring the typical Thanksgiving fare, or you may flex your culinary muscle and bring that pork dish you’ve been wanting to make but never found the right time to make it. Finally, the attendees. No longer will you sit next to your Uncle Frank who’ll ask you without fail why you’re still not dating every year. Long gone are the days when Grandma Mary uses a word that was once acceptable but is now highly inappropriate. Friendsgiving is about just that, friends. It’s a time for your personal community to all sit, eat, and have fun.

there’s the snide comment from a relative at the dinner table that blankets the table in an awkward hush.

But this year, why not try a little informality? Friendsgiving offers a retreat from that formal, stuffy Thanksgiving stuffing, a hiatus from the hypocritical uncle, a vacation from the family vacation. The term Friendsgiving has been in the American vernacular for decades now, but according to Merriam-Webster, the earliest print of the word was in 2007 when blogs and Twitter users made public their tradition of gathering their friends all together for one giant potluck-style meal.

There’s a beautiful fluidity that comes with the new tradition. Firstly, throw out the annual fourth Thursday of November date and make it whatever day works for everyone! Friendsgiving is not an

My first Friendsgiving was my senior year of college. It came a few months before my graduation and even fewer months before the chaos of 2020. That Friendsgiving was a shining moment of community I grasped onto throughout the lockdown and the further social restrictions. It was a moment of community unlike anything I’d experienced, a dish prepared by each individual that represents their personal preference, not a traditional menu. There were brussels sprouts soaked in maple syrup and wrapped in bacon, a goat cheese and cranberry salad, pork chops with pineapple skewers, banana pudding, and fried green tomatoes. I made mac and cheese, but that was just because it was easy and I’m no chef. Still, the meal was incredible and the company was even better.

reconnect with them. Friendsgiving is similar

maybe this year is your year! Invite your

This whole piece wasn’t written just to bash Thanksgiving, a staple family tradition in America. Thanksgiving offers a unique time to get together with the family you have not seen all year and reconnect with them. Friendsgiving is similar in that sense, but with the special meaning behind what it means to be a friend in a strong community. If you haven’t in the past, maybe this year is your year! Invite your closest friends and loved ones over for a smorgasbord of whatever they’d like to prepare and create new memories, together.

“ There’s a beautiful fluidity that comes with the new tradition. Firstly, throw out the annual fourth Thursday of November date and make it whatever day works for everyone!”

Martin Phillips, Front Desk not

Photo Credit Ben Joyner

Biltmore for the Holidays

If you ever find yourself in Asheville during the holiday season, one experience you can’t afford to miss is the Biltmore Estate. America’s Largest Home shines its brightest between November and January with a breathtaking yuletide tradition that dates back to 1895—when George Vanderbilt first invited his family to a grand holiday housewarming party on Christmas Eve. Today, you can experience all the enchantment of that night for yourself, and perhaps start a few new traditions of your own.

O Christmas Tree

By far, the main attraction of the Biltmore House is the Banquet Hall Christmas Tree. Arriving by horse-drawn carriage, the 35-foot Fraser fir is hoisted into place by 50 staff members, signifying the beginning of the holiday season. While the ceremony is no longer open to the public, you watch the raising virtually in early November or see the tree dressed to the nines during a tour of the estate.

Deck The Halls

With dazzling decor bedecking 8,000 acres of the estate, it’s hard to know where to start. We suggest beginning at The Biltmore House for a self-guided tour through its 250 rooms. Along the way, you’ll marvel at over 60 Christmas trees and tens of thousands of dazzling lights and handpainted ornaments. Be sure to stop by the Main Kitchen to see a full gingerbread replica of the grounds!

Season’s Eatings

Step outside the grandeur of the Biltmore’s larger-than-life French Chateaux and into the English countryside of Antler Hill Village. During the holidays, the village abounds with twinkling light displays and plenty of shops and restaurants for festive eating. Among the most popular is a complimentary wine tasting at The Winery and a 3-course Candlelight Christmas Dinner at The Stable. For dessert, stop into The Creamery for nostalgic sundaes, pastries, and more.

Buon Natale

The Italian Renaissance may not seem the most obvious choice for a holiday exhibit, but the Biltmore’s newest exhibit feels all the

more magical with a cup of apple cider or mulled wine in hand. Italian Renaissance Alive is a multisensory experience across the masterworks of Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. Set to a powerful operatic score, the exhibit is a fitting tribute to George Vanderbilt’s lifelong passion for fine art and the foundation of inspiration for the architectural marvel that is Biltmore Estate.

O Holy Night

Ask any local and they’ll tell you that the best way to experience a Biltmore Christmas is by night.

The Candlelight Christmas Evenings Tour invites you to discover the Biltmore House, illuminated only by the glow of tens of thousands of candles. Meanwhile, live musicians throughout the 250 rooms, perform seasonal favorites as you explore.

A Blue Ridge Christmas

No visit to the Biltmore Estate would be complete without exploring the surrounding grounds. Away from the lights of the house and village, experience the grounds at your own pace with nearly 22 miles of hiking trails through open meadows, lush forests, and along the French Broad River. As night falls, a winter sunset illuminates the sky with vibrant purples, oranges, and hot pinks, as bright as any Christmas tree.

The Biltmore Estate offers two holiday-themed experiences that run from November 3rd, 2023 to January 7th, 2024. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit biltmore.com.

Holiday Gift Guide

As the holidays approach, the season of gift giving is upon us, and there’s no shortage of inspiration throughout the region. With a deep appreciation of the local artisans and makers in The Restoration’s respective hometowns, we’ve rounded up a gift guide for everyone on your list.

Charleston, SC

FOR OLDER MILLENNIALS

The Don’t Sass Me Soy candles are hand poured in small batches right here in Charleston by Courtney McCarthy. They’re 100% soy wax, vegan and non-toxic and their fun names like “Day Drunk” are the perfect gift for that one friend you love, but can’t take to bottomless brunch. Available at dontsassmesoy.com for $25.

FOR FOODIES

Coined as a “a set of Southern pantry essentials for the creative cook,” The Whole Shebang from Red Clay Hot Sauce is the local’s way to spice up a stocking stuffer. This groovy gift set includes all their greatest hits: Original, Carolina, Peach Hot Sauce, Hot Honey and Spicy Peach Honey. Available at redclayhotsauce.com for $45.

FOR MOM

Wear it alone or in layers, the Dainty Heart MAMA Necklace by HART is specially designed for your favorite mom by seventh-generation Charlestonian, Hart Hagerty whose mindful line is inspired by the philosophy of soulful adornment. Available at shophart.com for $110.

FOR LITTLE READERS

In Black Music Is written by Charleston’s first Poet Laureate, Marcus Amaker, kids follow the adventures of Bebop the Cat while learning about musical genres including blues, hip-hop, rock, bluegrass, and jazz. Whimsical illustrations provided by local artist, Nathan Durfee. Get your signed copy at marcusamakerstore.com for $20.

FOR YOUR SWEETIE

Local to Asheville by way of Costa Rica, the chocolatiers at French Broad “roast, winnow, refine, grind, conche, and temper direct-sourced cacao” in their Asheivlle chocolate factory. You can keep the sweets coming with their 3 Month Bon Bon Subscription, containing 12 handcrafted deliciosities each month. They’re almost too pretty to eat…almost. Available at frenchbroadchocolates.com for $108.

FOR THE ADVENTURER

Give an Asheville-made DoubleNest Hammock that’s spacious enough for snuggling (fits 2 people!), and gives back with every purchase. This sociallyconscious brand partners with Trees for the Future and donates 1% from every sale to non-profits focused on saving the environment. Available at eaglesnestoutfitters.com for $75.

Asheville, NC

FOR THE NEW YORKER

Discover the world of Jeffrey Burrough’s, one of Asheville River Art District’s newest tenants. With an eye for craftsmanship and quality, Burrough’s aims to bring awareness to the cause of slow fashion with each handmade piece. Featured here: Turquoise with Ancient Stylus Pendant. Available at jeffreyburoughs.com for $340.

FOR THE HOSTESS

Elevate your charcuterie game with a trio of Lusty Monk old-style, coarse ground mustards, made right here in Asheville. Their Lusty Monk Gift Box includes their 3 signature flavors: Original Sin, Chipotle, and Honey Mustard. Available at lustymonk.com for $35.

FOR YOUR FOUR LEGGED FRIEND

Stop into Patton Avenue Pet to browse their seasonal fall apparel and outfit your pet for a hike, or leisurely stroll. FabDog’s Chevron Jacket keeps your pup cozy throughout the season. instore at Patton Avenue Pet for $60.

Available online or

Sunsets and the City

What Are We Drinking New Year’s Eve?

Made with spiced apple syrup and apple brandy, Apples of Eve captures all the sweetness and glamor of the roaring twenties. The perfect complement to any lavish New Year’s Eve soiree. Try this aromatic spin on a prohibition-era cocktail, created by our Director of Beverage, Darren Fallon, handcrafted for the stroke of midnight.

Apples of the Eve

INGREDIENTS

1.5 oz Cathead Vodka

.75 oz Spiced Apple Syrup

.75 oz Lemon

.5 oz Apple Brandy

.5 oz Dry Curacao

PREPARATION

Add all ingredients to your shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a coupe or martini glass rimmed in cinnamon sugar.

NOTES FOR HOST

Make your own spiced apple syrup at home. Take two apples cut into cubes, 2 cups of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, a dash of clove and nutmeg. Toss and let sit overnight. Puree and strain the next day with 1.5 cups of water.

When the bells all ring and the horns all blow… this is the cocktail we’ll be drinking.