Connie Pearson

Connie is a native Alabamian with a veterinarian husband, 3 married children and 15 grandchildren. She has traveled extensively in the U.S. and around the world and lived in Ecuador for 4 years. She loves eating where the locals eat, interviewing chefs, photographing beautiful food presentations and learning new preparation methods, ingredients or flavor combinations. Connie's book "Telling It On The Mountain: 52 Days in the Life of an Unlikely Missionary" was published in 2016 and is available on Amazon. In addition to her blog, www.theregoesconnie.com, she is a regular contributor to The Yums, Trip101.com, The Alabama Baptist weekly newspaper, Senior Scene Magazine (Athens News-Courier) and other print and online travel publications.

Waffle topped with crispy fried chicken and a perfectly fried egg then topped with savory chicken gravy

Brunch at Whisk’D Cafe in Decatur, Alabama

Situated in the middle of a long-established residential neighborhood, Whisk’D Cafe is the perfect gathering place for friends to share an early breakfast or brunch in an informal setting with an intriguing menu. Location: Whisk’D Cafe, 1051 Grant Street SE, Decatur, Alabama Menu: Many of the usual breakfast items, such as eggs, waffles, bacon, biscuits …

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Warm, cheesy bread covered generously with fresh crawfish is a favorite among the appetizers at Luna Bar & Grill in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Cajun Dishes and Music: Luna Bar & Grill, Lake Charles, Louisiana

Chef/Owner Dave Evans dreamed of opening a 100% Cajun restaurant from his IT desk job, and the dream became a reality in October of 2013. His ideas and recipes have been so successful in Lake Charles that a second location will open soon in Lafayette. Location: Luna Bar & Grill, 719 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, …

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smoked brisket sandwich, a jaw-dropping creation of Chef Lyle Broussard at Jack Daniel's Bar and Grill in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill: Lake Charles, Louisiana Gem

Chef Lyle Broussard’s award-winning skill is showcased in this fabulous restaurant inside L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The flavors and dishes he learned from watching relatives during his childhood have been fine-tuned, and diners at Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill are eager to devour them. Location: 777 Ave L’Auberge, Lake Charles, Louisiana. Website …

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Malia’s in Aiken, South Carolina: Locally-Sourced Deliciousness

For 30 years, Malia’s has maintained a standard of excellence and support for local farmers while the chef/owner partners have created a loyal following. Location: 120 Laurens Street, Aiken, South Carolina Menu: The lunch menu at Malia’s changes daily to reflect seasonal availability and the best sources at the time. A recent lunch menu featured …

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Manuel’s Bread Cafe: French Bistro in North Augusta, South Carolina

A French-born chef blends the best of Southern culinary specialties with his European training and background at Manuel’s Bread Cafe at the main crossroads of Hammonds Ferry, a planned development in North Augusta, South Carolina. Location: 505 Railroad Avenue #100, North Augusta, South Carolina Menu: With its location near the state line between Georgia and …

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Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q: Famous Decatur, Alabama Eatery

Since 1952, Decatur, Alabama residents and visitors have filled the tables at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q anticipating Big Bob’s brand of smoked meats with his signature white sauce. Location: 1715 6th Avenue SE, Decatur, Alabama Menu: The menu at Big Bob’s is relatively simple and satisfyingly predictable. First, choose your favorite smoked meat: pork, chicken, …

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Simp McGhee’s in Decatur, Alabama: Upscale Cajun Dishes

The legend of Simp McGhee lures diners to his namesake restaurant on Bank Street, but the amazing Cajun-style food and lively atmosphere keep them coming back again and again. Location: 725 Bank Street Northwest, Decatur, Alabama Menu: At Simp McGhee’s, the heavy Cajun influence is seen in every menu category. Appetizers such as crawfish eggrolls …

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Maine Street Coastal Cuisine: Fresh Seafood in Cartersville, Georgia

Maine Street Coastal Cuisine is located on Main Street in Cartersville, Georgia, but the spelling of the first word hints at the decor you’ll find inside and the fresh seafood you’ll enjoy on your plate. Location: 24 West Main Street, Cartersville, Georgia Menu: Diners who prefer something other than seafood can find non-seafood selections at …

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Wes-Man’s Restaurant: Southern Classics Near Cartersville, Georgia

Look for the vintage truck weighted down by daily coats of paint, and you’ll know you’re about to taste Wes Wesley’s brand of downhome Southern cooking at Wes-Man’s Restaurant right outside Cartersville, Georgia. Location: 3167 US-411, White, Georgia Menu: At Wes-Man’s Restaurant, a meat-and-three plate can be ordered with meat only, with vegetables only, or …

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