Dining at Candlelight South offers a culinary experience where tradition meets innovation, capturing the essence of Southern flavors with a contemporary twist. The menu is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a diverse range of tastes, blending classic comfort food with refined gourmet dishes.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal to satisfy your soul or a delicate dish to savor each bite, Candlelight South presents a menu rich in both variety and quality. The ambiance complements the food perfectly, with soft lighting and warm decor inviting guests to relax and indulge in their dining experience.
Every dish on the Candlelight South menu reflects a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each bite bursts with authentic flavor. From savory appetizers to decadent desserts, the offerings are designed to highlight the best of Southern cuisine while embracing modern culinary techniques.
The menu also caters to various dietary preferences, making it accessible and enjoyable for all guests.
Exploring the Candlelight South menu reveals a dedication to craftsmanship and creativity, encouraging diners to venture beyond the familiar and discover new favorites. The balance between tradition and contemporary flair makes this menu a standout in the Southern dining scene.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Candlelight South sets the tone for an exceptional meal, combining classic Southern starters with unique flavor profiles. These small plates are crafted to awaken the palate and prepare guests for the main courses ahead.
Each dish showcases fresh ingredients with a focus on bold, comforting tastes.
Popular choices include the Southern Fried Green Tomatoes, featuring hand-battered slices served with a tangy remoulade sauce. Another standout is the Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites, which offer a modern spin on the traditional favorite.
Vegetarians will appreciate options like the Smoked Pimento Cheese Spread, served alongside freshly baked crackers.
Signature Starters
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy, tangy, and served with remoulade
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders – Slow-cooked pork with house-made sauce
- Deviled Eggs Trio – Classic, spicy, and smoked variations
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – Creamy and smoky, with fresh vegetables
“Our appetizers are designed to honor Southern roots while inviting guests to explore new tastes.” – Executive Chef
These starters are perfect for sharing or enjoying individually, with each dish balancing textures and flavors to excite the senses. The use of seasonal ingredients ensures the menu evolves throughout the year, keeping the offerings fresh and appealing.
Soups and Salads
Fresh, vibrant, and nourishing, the soups and salads at Candlelight South provide a lighter yet satisfying option for diners. This section emphasizes seasonal produce and house-made dressings, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and freshness.
Soups range from hearty classics like Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo to the delicate Butternut Squash Bisque, rich with autumnal spices. Salads incorporate a mix of textures and flavors, often combining sweet, savory, and crunchy elements to create complexity in each bite.
Healthy and Hearty Options
- Classic Caesar Salad – Romaine, parmesan crisps, and house dressing
- Southern Cobb Salad – Mixed greens, bacon, egg, avocado, and blue cheese
- Seasonal Vegetable Soup – Made fresh daily with local produce
- She Crab Soup – Creamy and rich with a hint of sherry
| Soup | Calories | Spice Level |
| Chicken and Andouille Gumbo | 320 | Moderate |
| Butternut Squash Bisque | 280 | Mild |
| She Crab Soup | 350 | Mild |
Each salad and soup is thoughtfully prepared to balance nutrition with indulgence. By offering both rich and light options, Candlelight South meets the needs of diners looking for comfort or health-conscious choices.
Main Courses
The main course selection epitomizes Southern culinary excellence, featuring dishes that range from slow-cooked classics to innovative interpretations. The menu embraces bold spices, rich sauces, and expertly prepared proteins to satisfy a variety of palates.
Signature dishes like the Blackened Catfish and Smoked Brisket Plate highlight the restaurant’s dedication to authentic Southern flavors. Guests can also find vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.
Highlights from the Main Menu
- Blackened Catfish – Served with Cajun rice and sautéed greens
- Smoked Brisket Plate – Accompanied by mac and cheese and collard greens
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken – Crispy and juicy with mashed potatoes
- Vegetarian Jambalaya – A medley of vegetables and rice with Creole spices
“Our mains are crafted to deliver a true taste of the South, rich in history and flavor.” – Head Chef
The main courses emphasize slow-cooking techniques and fresh ingredients, allowing flavors to develop fully. Portions are generous, ensuring satisfaction without overwhelming the diner.
Seafood Selections
Candlelight South’s seafood offerings celebrate the bounty of the Southern coast, prepared with care and creativity. These dishes blend fresh catches with vibrant sauces and sides, delivering a satisfying and memorable experience.
From grilled shrimp to delicate crab cakes, the seafood menu provides both traditional and modern options. Sustainability is a priority, with the restaurant sourcing from responsible fisheries whenever possible.
Popular Seafood Dishes
- Grilled Gulf Shrimp – Served with lemon butter and seasonal vegetables
- Crab Cakes – Made with lump crab meat and served with remoulade
- Blackened Redfish – Accompanied by creamy grits and sautéed spinach
- Seafood Étouffée – A rich, spicy stew served over rice
| Dish | Preparation | Price |
| Grilled Gulf Shrimp | Grilled with lemon butter | $24 |
| Crab Cakes | Pan-seared with remoulade | $28 |
| Blackened Redfish | Blackened and sautéed | $26 |
| Seafood Étouffée | Slow-cooked stew | $22 |
These dishes illustrate the restaurant’s ability to honor Southern seafood traditions while adding fresh interpretations. The careful balance of seasoning and texture makes seafood a standout category at Candlelight South.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Candlelight South recognizes the growing demand for plant-based dining and offers a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These creations are as flavorful and satisfying as their meat-based counterparts, ensuring inclusivity without compromise.
Using fresh, seasonal produce and creative cooking techniques, the menu features dishes that appeal to both dedicated vegetarians and those exploring plant-based meals. The attention to detail in seasoning and presentation elevates these options.
Top Plant-Based Dishes
- Vegan Jambalaya – A hearty mix of vegetables, rice, and Creole spices
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Salad – Served with balsamic glaze and mixed greens
- Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos – Topped with avocado crema
- Collard Greens and Quinoa Bowl – Nutritious and filling with a spicy kick
“Our plant-based offerings prove that great Southern food can be both delicious and compassionate.” – Nutrition Consultant
These dishes demonstrate that vegetarian and vegan cuisine can be rich in flavor and satisfying in portion. The careful use of spices and textures ensures a memorable dining experience for all guests.
Desserts
The dessert menu at Candlelight South is a sweet conclusion to a flavorful meal, featuring a mix of traditional Southern sweets and inventive treats. Each dessert is crafted to provide comfort and indulgence, with an emphasis on quality ingredients.
From the classic Pecan Pie to the refreshing Lemon Basil Sorbet, there is something to delight every sweet tooth. The desserts often incorporate seasonal fruits and nuts, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Popular Sweets
- Classic Pecan Pie – Rich and buttery with a flaky crust
- Chocolate Bourbon Bread Pudding – Warm and decadent with a whiskey glaze
- Lemon Basil Sorbet – Light, refreshing, and palate-cleansing
- Peach Cobbler – Made with fresh peaches and a crumbly topping
| Dessert | Calories | Price |
| Pecan Pie | 450 | $9 |
| Chocolate Bourbon Bread Pudding | 520 | $10 |
| Lemon Basil Sorbet | 180 | $7 |
| Peach Cobbler | 400 | $8 |
Each dessert is designed to perfectly complement the meal, offering a balance of sweetness and texture. The use of traditional Southern ingredients like pecans, peaches, and bourbon ties the menu firmly to its roots.
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage selection at Candlelight South is curated to enhance the dining experience, featuring a diverse range of wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails. The menu pairs well with the food, offering options from light and refreshing to rich and robust.
Signature cocktails incorporate Southern flavors such as bourbon, mint, and citrus, providing unique and memorable drinks. Non-alcoholic options include house-made lemonades, iced teas, and seasonal mocktails.
Featured Drinks
- Mint Julep – Classic bourbon cocktail with fresh mint
- Peach Bourbon Smash – A sweet and tangy blend with fresh peaches
- Sweet Tea Lemonade – A refreshing non-alcoholic option
- Spicy Margarita – Tequila with a kick of jalapeño and lime
“Our cocktails are crafted to reflect the vibrant flavors of the South, elevating every meal.” – Bar Manager
The beverage menu balances tradition with innovation, ensuring there is something to suit every taste and occasion. Attention to detail in presentation and ingredient selection makes each drink a highlight of the dining experience.
Conclusion
The Candlelight South menu offers a compelling journey through Southern cuisine, skillfully balancing rich tradition with contemporary creativity. Each section of the menu is thoughtfully designed to provide both comfort and surprise, ensuring diners leave with a memorable experience.
The commitment to fresh, local ingredients and diverse options makes the restaurant welcoming to all, from meat lovers to vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.
By combining classic dishes with innovative preparations, Candlelight South honors the cultural heritage of the South while inviting guests to explore new culinary horizons. The warm atmosphere and attentive service complement the food, creating an inviting and satisfying environment.
Whether indulging in hearty mains, savoring fresh seafood, or enjoying a sweet finish, the menu promises quality and flavor in every bite.
Ultimately, Candlelight South stands as a beacon of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic and inspired dining. The menu’s depth and variety ensure that every meal is not just food, but an experience to cherish and revisit.
