Country Cottage

For the weary traveler, I definitely recommend this place. I am traveling with a friend to Virginia and just happened to stumble up this restaurant.

It's a perfect lunch stop if you're leaving from Dallas! The food was traditional southern fare; nothing spectacular but hearty! It's not the food that makes this restaurant stand out but rather the incredible staff. Everyone was so friendly and engaging that it felt like I was coming home to a perfect family meal without all of the bickering and quarreling. If you want to experience genuine southern hospitality, this is the spot.

A large facility with down-home decorations, the place was as you would expect with a name like Country Cottage.

Cafeteria line had usual meat & veggie suspects - Southern standards. Food was tepid in temperature, but tasted good.

The hot water cornbread was the big win.

Sure beats fast food!

Sugar Bear and I dined here under rather dire circumstances. We were on our way to Jackson, MS to deal with a family member's medical emergency. This trip was unplanned and unbelievably stressful. On the way there, we were starving but I didn't want to stop at a chain restaurant, a pricey place, or fast food. We drove through Shreveport and Bossier City without a bite. It was approaching 9pm and I was getting low blood sugar...meaning beyond grumpy.

We finally pulled off at 151 to see if Country Cottage was still open. Their sign indicated that they closed at 9pm, but two other cars pulled up when we did. We went in.

Have you ever been in a place where you were instantly relaxed by those who worked there and the homey environment? With the exception of a yoga retreat, I haven't had that experience until Country Cottage. The folks here serve their food with lots of love. It sounds cliche, but it is true. I felt like I'd had a year of successful therapy when I left this restaurant. From the expressions and interactions the staff/owners had with their regular clientele, I'm sure lots of folks have similar experiences here.

When we cracked open the menu, Sugar Bear immediately noticed the hot water corn bread...his favorite and something I have not been able to master in my own kitchen. However, it was only on the lunch menu. The waitress checked to see if the chef could whip up a batch especially for Sugar Bear (remember, they are technically closed at this point), and he did. A whole basket (a dozen pieces) for $1. Sugar Bear almost wept with joy he was so happy!

Sugar Bear and I both ordered the hamburger steak with salad, veggies, and baked potato. The food really hit the spot...especially since I was so hungry. The chef/owner came around to visit with customers after everyone was served. Even though he'd put in a full day, he spent time talking to each table and didn't seem annoyed that we were all keeping him late on a Friday evening. He even chatted with us...even though we were just traveling through.

His wife came by and talked to us as well. These were some of the most genuine people I've ever met. Their positive attitudes rubbed off on us when we needed it most. I can't even begin to tell you how meaningful and touching our visit to this restaurant was...these folks are golden.

Is it the most beautiful restaurant in the world? No, but country charm goes a long way in my book. Is the cuisine going to appear in a gourmet magazine? No, but the cooking is done with more love than any 5 star meal I've ever had...you will leave satisfied in many ways. The service? Top notch from waitress to chef.

If you find yourself in Arcadia, Country Cottage is highly recommended.