Just one hour from the heart of Atlanta, Barnsley Gardens Resort offers exceptional accommodations and dining options. I recently visited the resort and stayed in a renovated one bedroom cottage. Upon entering through the cottage’s front French doors, visitors are greeted with spacious guest quarters complete with comfortable furniture, a wood burning fireplace and widescreen TV. The bedroom is equally impressive as well as the bathroom featuring a walk-in shower and classic tub. Since Barnsley Gardens loves to spoil its guests, you may request someone to pick you up in a golf cart to take you to your destination. When we were ready for dinner, we were promptly picked up to go to the Rice House for our multi-course evening meal.
Chock full of history, employees make a point to show guests the Civil War bullet holes located on the front of the Rice House. Once inside, guests are treated to a collection of artwork and beautifully appointed dining rooms. While perusing the menu, we indulged in glasses of Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc wine, a delicious fruity variety which hails from New Zealand. As I sipped the wine and recalled my shooting adventure, I became inspired to order the quail, a grilled teriyaki-spiced bird served over a bed of risotto. My wife indulged in the well-spiced hearty scallops.
Perfectly-spiced quail at the Rice House
Even though our entrees filled us up, we noticed an offering at the next table: the Oyster Trio, a sampling of oysters served as shooters. The first shooter is the Bloody Mary with Capped Gemolata, an herbed compliment with garlic, parsley and lemon zest. Grilled Oyster Pancetta with Balsamic Mignonette is the second shooter followed up by a Fried Oyster Pernod with Sautéed Spinach and Hollandaise Sauce. I’m a bit disappointed that we passed up on the oyster shooters; we chose the Butternut Squash Soup instead – which is out of this world.
Much-needed R&R
The décor, service and overall atmosphere at the Rice House is first-rate in addition to being relaxing, which is what Barnsley Gardens is all about. The 1,400-acre property is a true respite filled with cozy cottages, an amazing workout facility and world-class spa.
Phone: 770-773-7480 or 1-877-773-2447
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