Nestled in the heart of culinary innovation, 18 South has quickly become a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking more than just a meal. With its thoughtfully curated menu, this vibrant eatery blends the warmth of Southern hospitality with a contemporary twist, inviting patrons on a flavorful journey through comfort classics and creative fare.
The 18 South Menu is a testament to the chef’s commitment to quality, seasonality, and a celebration of local ingredients. Every dish, from the appetizers to the desserts, tells a story—one steeped in tradition yet always open to fresh interpretations.
Diners at 18 South are greeted with a welcoming atmosphere, where the ambiance is as carefully crafted as the food itself. The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around more than taste; it’s about connection, community, and the simple joy of sharing a great meal.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the menu offers something to delight every palate, including inventive vegetarian options and decadent desserts. Attention to detail shines through in every aspect, ensuring that each visit is memorable.
As you explore the 18 South Menu, prepare to embark on a delicious adventure that promises discovery with every bite.
Appetizers: Setting the Stage for Flavor
The appetizer selection at 18 South is designed to captivate your senses and set the tone for the meal ahead. Each starter balances classic Southern influences with modern culinary artistry, offering a diverse range of tastes and textures.
Guests are encouraged to share, fostering a communal dining experience from the very first bite.
Begin your culinary journey with signature starters like Fried Green Tomatoes or Pimento Cheese Croquettes, both of which pay homage to beloved Southern flavors. The kitchen’s creative flair shines through in dishes such as Smoked Trout Dip, served with house-made crackers, and the crowd-pleasing Buttermilk Biscuit Sliders—each one a miniature masterpiece.
Appetizer options rotate seasonally, ensuring the freshest ingredients and a sense of anticipation with each visit. Whether you crave something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, the menu’s variety caters to every preference.
The commitment to local sourcing further elevates each bite, supporting area farmers and producers.
- Fried Green Tomatoes with spicy remoulade
- Smoked Trout Dip with pickled onions and dill
- Pimento Cheese Croquettes served with jalapeño jelly
- Buttermilk Biscuit Sliders: pulled pork, fried chicken, or mushroom
“Every appetizer at 18 South is a perfect introduction to the meal, balancing tradition and innovation in every bite.”
Soups and Salads: Freshness on Every Plate
Soups and salads at 18 South are more than just sides—they are thoughtfully crafted dishes that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and flavor. Each offering is made with locally sourced produce, ensuring a vibrant and wholesome start to your meal.
The Heirloom Tomato Salad is a seasonal favorite, featuring farm-fresh tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of basil oil. For those craving warmth, the Roasted Corn Chowder delivers a comforting blend of sweet corn, diced potatoes, and smoky bacon, finished with a touch of cream.
The menu also caters to plant-based diets with the Southern Chopped Salad, a medley of greens, pickled okra, and cornbread croutons tossed in tangy buttermilk dressing.
Each soup and salad is designed to be both nourishing and satisfying, offering a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. The kitchen’s attention to detail is evident in the careful layering of flavors and the artful presentation of every dish.
- Heirloom Tomato Salad with burrata and basil oil
- Roasted Corn Chowder with bacon and potatoes
- Southern Chopped Salad with pickled okra and cornbread croutons
- Grilled Peach & Arugula Salad with candied pecans and goat cheese
| Soup/Salad | Main Ingredients | Flavor Notes |
| Heirloom Tomato Salad | Tomatoes, burrata, basil oil | Bright, creamy, herbal |
| Roasted Corn Chowder | Corn, bacon, potatoes | Sweet, smoky, hearty |
| Southern Chopped Salad | Greens, okra, croutons | Crisp, tangy, savory |
Main Courses: The Heart of 18 South
The main courses at 18 South are where the menu’s creativity and commitment to Southern tradition truly shine. Each entrée is meticulously crafted, highlighting high-quality proteins, fresh vegetables, and inventive flavor pairings.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty classic or something lighter, the variety ensures there’s something for everyone.
Signature dishes like Low Country Shrimp & Grits and Herb-Crusted Pork Chop transport diners to the heart of the South, while the Pan-Seared Catfish offers a delicate yet flavorful option. Every plate is a celebration of local heritage, thoughtfully reimagined for the modern palate.
The kitchen’s technique is evident in the precise execution of each dish, from perfectly cooked proteins to vibrant sauces.
Vegetarian diners will find plenty to love as well, with options like the Sweet Potato & Black Bean Cakes and Roasted Cauliflower Steak. These dishes go beyond mere substitutions, offering bold flavors and satisfying textures that stand on their own.
Each main course is accompanied by seasonal sides, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable meal.
- Low Country Shrimp & Grits with andouille sausage
- Herb-Crusted Pork Chop with apple chutney
- Pan-Seared Catfish with lemon butter sauce
- Sweet Potato & Black Bean Cakes with chipotle aioli
“Our main courses are a tribute to the South—comforting, inventive, and always prepared with heart.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Highlights
18 South is dedicated to providing a menu that welcomes all diners, including those seeking vegetarian and vegan options. These dishes are crafted with the same attention to detail and creativity as their meat-based counterparts, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience for everyone.
The Roasted Cauliflower Steak stands out as a hearty centerpiece, marinated in a blend of spices and served atop a bed of lentils and seasonal vegetables. For something lighter, the Grilled Vegetable Platter offers a colorful array of locally sourced produce, drizzled with herb-infused olive oil.
Vegan-friendly starters, like the Chickpea Fritters, deliver bold flavors and crisp textures, perfect for sharing.
Every vegetarian and vegan dish at 18 South is designed to be both nourishing and indulgent. The kitchen avoids processed substitutes, instead focusing on whole foods and inventive preparations.
This approach results in dishes that appeal to herbivores and omnivores alike, cementing the restaurant’s reputation for inclusivity and culinary excellence.
- Roasted Cauliflower Steak with lentils and vegetables
- Grilled Vegetable Platter with herb oil
- Chickpea Fritters with tahini drizzle
- Seasonal Vegan Soup crafted daily
| Dish | Dietary | Key Ingredients |
| Roasted Cauliflower Steak | Vegan | Cauliflower, lentils, vegetables |
| Chickpea Fritters | Vegetarian | Chickpeas, spices, tahini |
| Seasonal Vegan Soup | Vegan | Varies by day, always plant-based |
“At 18 South, we believe that plant-based dishes deserve the same care, creativity, and celebration as any other entrée.”
Signature Sides: The Perfect Complement
No meal at 18 South is complete without sampling the restaurant’s signature sides. These carefully crafted accompaniments are more than afterthoughts—they are essential elements that enhance and elevate every main course.
Each side showcases regional ingredients and time-honored techniques, adding dimension to your dining experience.
Classics like Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hock and Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes deliver comfort and nostalgia, while the Crispy Brussels Sprouts with balsamic glaze provide a modern twist. The sides menu also features rotating seasonal vegetables, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and sustainability.
Sharing is encouraged, and many diners choose to order several sides for the table. This communal approach not only allows for a wider sampling of flavors but also fosters a sense of connection and conviviality—a hallmark of Southern dining culture.
- Collard Greens with smoked ham hock
- Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts with balsamic glaze
- Grilled Corn on the Cob with spiced butter
| Side | Traditional or Modern |
| Collard Greens | Traditional |
| Crispy Brussels Sprouts | Modern |
| Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes | Traditional |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Modern |
“The right side dish can transform a meal, turning the familiar into something extraordinary.”
Desserts: Sweet Southern Endings
Desserts at 18 South are an irresistible finale, expertly balancing nostalgia and innovation. Each sweet treat is meticulously prepared, offering a fitting end to a memorable meal.
The pastry team draws inspiration from cherished Southern recipes while infusing modern flair, ensuring every dessert is both comforting and surprising.
The Peach Cobbler is a perennial favorite, featuring juicy local peaches beneath a crisp, buttery crust. For chocolate lovers, the Mississippi Mud Pie layers rich chocolate ganache and whipped cream atop a dense cookie base.
Seasonal specialties, such as Blackberry Lemon Icebox Cake, rotate throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new to savor.
No matter your preference, the dessert menu at 18 South offers the perfect blend of decadence and refinement. Many desserts can be paired with a selection of after-dinner drinks, from sweet wines to artisanal coffees, providing a truly indulgent conclusion to your dining experience.
- Peach Cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream
- Mississippi Mud Pie
- Blackberry Lemon Icebox Cake
- Pecan Praline Bread Pudding
“At 18 South, we believe dessert should be a celebration—one that leaves you smiling long after the last bite.”
Beverage Program: Toasting to 18 South
The beverage program at 18 South is designed to complement and elevate every aspect of the menu. Featuring a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and inventive cocktails, the drink offerings reflect the same dedication to quality and local sourcing as the food.
The knowledgeable staff is always available to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal.
Signature cocktails, such as the Southern Belle with bourbon, peach liqueur, and fresh lemon, are crafted with house-made mixers and seasonal ingredients. The wine list highlights both regional gems and international favorites, ensuring options for every palate and occasion.
Beer lovers will appreciate the rotating selection of local brews, many of which are exclusive to 18 South.
Non-alcoholic options are equally impressive, with homemade lemonades, sweet teas, and craft sodas available. Each beverage is thoughtfully chosen to enhance your dining experience, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out.
- Southern Belle Cocktail: bourbon, peach liqueur, lemon
- Local Craft Beer Selection
- Curated Wine List
- House-Made Lemonade and Sweet Tea
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Southern Belle Cocktail | Fruity, smooth | Shrimp & Grits, Peach Cobbler |
| Local Pilsner | Crisp, refreshing | Catfish, Vegetable Platter |
| Chardonnay | Buttery, bright | Pork Chop, Brussels Sprouts |
“Pairing the right drink with your meal is an art—one that brings out the best in every dish and creates lasting memories.”
Chef’s Specials and Seasonal Features
A defining aspect of the 18 South Menu is its dynamic selection of chef’s specials and seasonal features. These limited-time offerings allow the kitchen to showcase the freshest local ingredients and experiment with new flavors, keeping the menu exciting and relevant all year long.
Specials may include dishes like Seared Duck Breast with cherry-bourbon glaze in the fall, or a Heirloom Tomato Tart at the peak of summer. These plates highlight the chef’s creativity and the bounty of each season, encouraging guests to try something new with every visit.
The specials board is updated regularly, reflecting what’s at its best from area farms and markets.
In addition to entrees, seasonal appetizers, sides, and desserts make their appearance, providing diners with a truly evolving and immersive culinary experience. The chef’s commitment to innovation ensures that loyal guests always have a reason to return, eager to discover what’s next on the menu.
- Seared Duck Breast with cherry-bourbon glaze (Fall)
- Heirloom Tomato Tart (Summer)
- Sweet Potato Bisque (Winter)
- Spring Pea Risotto (Spring)
“Seasonal specials allow us to celebrate the unique flavors of each time of year, turning every meal into a new adventure.”
Conclusion: The Essence of 18 South’s Menu
The 18 South Menu is more than a list of dishes—it’s a heartfelt expression of culinary artistry, community, and a respect for tradition. Each plate is crafted with intention, blending the familiar comforts of Southern cuisine with bold, contemporary flavors.
The restaurant’s unwavering commitment to quality, seasonality, and local sourcing ensures that every visit is a fresh and memorable experience.
Diners are invited to savor the journey, from inventive appetizers and nourishing salads to show-stopping entrees and indulgent desserts. The inclusive approach, with thoughtful vegetarian and vegan options, means that everyone can find something to love.
Signature sides and a robust beverage program round out the experience, encouraging guests to linger, connect, and celebrate together.
As you explore the offerings at 18 South, you’ll discover a menu that evolves with the seasons and reflects the passion of its culinary team. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or seeking a solo escape, the flavors, hospitality, and creativity of 18 South promise an unforgettable dining adventure—one that will keep you coming back for more.