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About
The Gift Horse Restaurant and Antiques
Welcome to The Gift Horse Restaurant and Antiques, a culinary gem tucked away in the heart of Foley, Alabama. Located at 209 W Laurel Ave, this unique establishment seamlessly blends the charm of Southern hospitality with a delightful dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of genuine Southern comfort food.
As you step through the doors, you're greeted by an ambiance that reflects both elegance and warmth. The historical decor, embellished with exquisite antiques dating back to 1913, sets the stage for a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and inviting. The soft glow of wood and the playful shadows of the antique pieces serve as a backdrop for what is truly the main attraction here: the food.
The buffet is a celebration of traditional Southern recipes, crafted with care and steeped in heritage. Diners can indulge in a range of mouthwatering dishes, from golden fried chicken and pork roast to spinach soufflé and gumbo. Each bite is a reminder of home, made with ingredients that evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Don't miss out on the chocolate icebox pie or the German chocolate cake—they're simply divine!
Customer reviews shine a light on the unparalleled hospitality that the restaurant embodies. Katharyn Calvert described it as “Southern comfort luxury,” emphasizing the connection the staff share with the local community. Each server not only knows the menu inside and out but is also a repository of the rich local history, adding a personal touch that enhances each visit.
Whether you're dining with family, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply seeking a quiet meal away from the hustle of everyday life, The Gift Horse accommodates all, showcasing a layout designed for privacy and comfort. The atmosphere remains lively yet serene, striking a perfect balance that charms every patron who walks through their doors.
In essence, The Gift Horse Restaurant and Antiques is more than just a place to dine; it’s an experience. With their commitment to quality food, exquisite decor, and warm hospitality, you’ll leave feeling not just satisfied, but cherished. Make sure to plan your visit—you won't want to pass this treasure by!
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“ Southern comfort luxury. Some people like upscale everything. This is more. This is heritage, grace, welcome, and generosity. Upscale places still do not have this natural connection to hospitality that rolls out at every picture and recipe here! The buffet is not at all what you find on the strip of tourist attractions. This is southern gracefully elegant comfort food. Traditional homemade recipes take the high notes. To sample a few; turkey dressing, apple cheese, boiled potatoes & green beans, fried chicken, baked chicken, pork roast, spinach souffle, sweet potato casserole, shrimp bisque, gumbo, fried shrimp, fried whitefish, chocolate icebox pie, cherry trifle, pecan shortbread, snickerdoodles, fudge cake, coconut cake, German chocolate cake, this just 1/3 of what's on the table! The building has historical antiques and the servers know many of the locals and history of everything in the space! The walls and ceilings are so beautiful, the warmth of the wood is like a hug. The natural attitude of kindness and helpful manners of all the staff shows. We came while a huge event was taking place in the private space available next to the main cafe, the sound barrier was amazing, privacy and quiet for both sides of the dining spaces! Mardi gras crowning for the local parade crewes. While the main cafe was filled with people and there was music, it was not overly loud or overwhelming. Quiet enough for anyone who dislikes loud spaces. Also plenty of space. Handicap accessible. Two entrances, plenty of parking. Family friendly, also wonderful for a date. I'm so sad we don't have anything like this in most places we go. Unique and elegant, directly part of the Gulf Coast Gems of places to go. Do not pass this by. Great oaks with benches are 2 blocks away. You might need to sit and thank your stars after a visit, because life is short and you might eat more then one peice of pie. ”
“ A very tasteful restaurant. The food was quite good and unique. It tends to have an older crowd. I sat next to a couple in there early 20s. They complained about what they were eating so I tried it myself. I'm not sure what it was they were actually complaining about, to me it was quite good. I also saw some people leave because of the price, for witch I was fine with as they were not people I wanted to be in company with. Think of the price like how some beaches charge 5 dollars to enter. It keeps a certain crowed out . ”
“ Absolutely gorgeous interior, I was awed. Buffet style, a bit pricey, but worth it! So many selections to choose from and the best Down Home Southern cooking we had here yet! ”
“ The Gift Horse Restaurant was an adventure all it's own. It's southern style buffet offers some of the best food in the area. It was truly a wonderful experience for the taste buds. ”
“ Excellent service and food. Buffet had ample selections to choose from. Fish, shrimp, country fried steak, chicken and dumplings, lots of vegetables. Staff kept hot food on the bar at all times. Also had shrimp bisque and gumbo that was crazy delicious. Atmosphere was excellent as well. Built in 1913 and still has stained wood slat walls. Decorated for a cozy atmosphere. Good for couples or entire families. Price was very reasonable. Parking was easy as well. ”
“ Oh My God! This was the best meal that we've had in YEARS. Perfect seasoning and very nice staff. ”
“ I love this place! From the very threshold you are immersed in a fairy tale. Big thanks to the owners for not only feeding people, but also lifting their spirit ”
“ NEAT BUILDING ! Lots of history since being built in 1912 .They have a huge lunch buffet . I wasn't that hungry , so I had soup and salad bar for 9 . Shrimp Bisque & Swamp Soup were very good . House dressing was awesome, and the fried biscuits were delicious . My friendly , helpful waitress informed me that dessert was only included in the lunch buffet . I asked about the pudding cake & she told me to go get some on the house . Southern hospitality at its finest ! I hope I tipped her enough ! ”