“Fill’er Up!”… Biscuits and BBQ at the Bonnie Blue
As an admirer of old buildings that are given a second chance, I frequent the historic and colorful town of Winchester, enjoying the mature and unique architecture. I find old gas stations — with their bay doors, high ceilings and open layouts — especially charming, which is what called me to Bonnie Blue Southern Market & Bakery this picture-perfect spring day.
Bonnie Blue breathes new life into a repurposed Esso station. Swaths of red, white and blue generously cover the exterior, while a small pig statue hints of things to come.
Just inside the main entrance, I’m greeted by a counter with limited seating and a direct view to the kitchen. The buzz of lively conversations, dishes rattling and an enticing aromatic mix of baking and BBQ hang in the air. It’s crowded — in an inviting way. The staff bustles about, dancing between burners, sinks and pots and pans. Instantly, I realized this area is the ‘soul’ of the restaurant, where the magic happens.
Back outside, picnic tables and umbrellas lead to a side entrance into the dining area full of vintage-diner-style booths, tables and perfectly mismatched chairs. Captivating art and concert posters adorn the walls.
I’m a booth person and am seated along the windows casting shadows from the early afternoon sun. My waiter, Dalton, shares the day’s specials, emphasizing ‘the best rib-eye steak’ in Winchester, which uses local beef. Noticing the golf course logo on my faded sweatshirt, Dalton shares that he was a golf pro in Florida and now plays Rock Harbor Golf Course. Just a few miles away from Bonnie’s, Rock Harbor is known for its unusual and creative features including large boulders and black sand, thanks to the owner also owning a rock quarry. Dalton and I decide we will go golfing together sometime.
Taking a break from golf talk, I order the pork bbq platter, collard greens and cornbread, departing from the burger, hand-cut fries and homemade biscuits I’ve enjoyed on earlier visits.
Dalton is a stellar server and conversationalist. He acknowledges neighborhood customers as they come and go, never missing a beat in our conversation. It turns out he’s played some of the best courses in the United States.
In a psychology class once, I learned that fully immersive experiences engage all the senses. Bonnie Blue nails it. The visuals, sounds, aromas and flavors merge to create an experience better lived than explained.
The menu offers a good variety while focusing on high-quality, traditional southern cooking. Parking can be strategic but it’s worth the effort. You won’t be disappointed. And if you have the time, play 18 at Rock
Harbor. Maybe you’ll run into Dalton there.
