Fickle Pickle050

It's hard to believe that this charming house with the counter service and vinyl tablecloths was once a fine-dining venue, but it was. It's also hard to believe that the ladies who lunch and the toddlers who throw it could be comfortable in this same setting, but they are.

Essentially a supercharged, super-Southern sandwich spot, the Fickle Pickle serves the kind of comfort food that everybody can agree on. The kids menu (for little gherkins, natch) has grilled cheese, PB&J, hot dogs, hamburgers (dinner only), and turkey and cheese sandwiches. At $3.95 including a pickle spear, milk, juice or soda, and a gourmet cookie, it's a reasonably priced kids' meal.

Adult sandwich selections include the fabulous chicken salad (dried cherries and hazelnuts), fried green tomato, a creole cuban, and sides including an out-of-this-world Caribbean clam chowder with coconut milk and cilantro. And don't forget the fried pickles. They sound strange, but try them. Trust us. At night, the grown-up menu includes killer burgers and a grouper sandwich, as well as a changing roster of specials.

Desserts are all in the cookie family, with chewy chocolate ginger, carrot cake, and oatmeal-dried cherry leading the pack. And, in true Southern style, sweet peach tea is available, along with bottled brews and wine.

Outdoor seating is great for kids of all ages, and toddlers enjoy space to walk around in the mini-gardens.

The Barn, located directly behind the restaurant, is a charming place for kids' birthday parties or more sophisticated celebrations for grads. Basic menus are provided for catered affairs, or work with the chef to create your own.