The Francis Southern Table Menu offers an authentic journey into the heart of Southern cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the rich heritage and diverse ingredients that define Southern cooking.
This menu is more than just a list of options; it’s an invitation to savor the warmth, comfort, and bold tastes that have been passed down through generations.
From hearty starters to decadent desserts, the Francis Southern Table embraces the essence of Southern hospitality. The chefs prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite bursts with genuine flavor and care.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Southern fare or exploring it for the first time, the menu presents an exciting palette of dishes designed to delight and satisfy.
What sets the Francis Southern Table apart is its ability to honor tradition while infusing contemporary twists that elevate each plate. The menu reflects a deep respect for time-honored recipes, balanced by innovative techniques that highlight the best of both worlds.
It’s a culinary experience that invites guests to connect with the South’s storied past through exceptional food and impeccable service.
Appetizers: Southern Flavors to Start Your Meal
The appetizer selection at Francis Southern Table offers a perfect balance of bold tastes and comforting familiarity. These starters are designed to awaken the palate and set the tone for the meal ahead with classic Southern ingredients presented in new and exciting ways.
Each dish emphasizes fresh, seasonal produce and authentic spices, capturing the essence of Southern cooking. From crispy fried green tomatoes to savory pimento cheese plates, the appetizers showcase the region’s love for vibrant, rich flavors.
Guests will find a variety of options that cater to different preferences, whether craving a light bite or something more indulgent. The appetizers are perfectly paired with house-made sauces and accompaniments, ensuring every bite is a memorable introduction.
Signature Starters
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Hand-battered and fried to golden perfection, served with a spicy remoulade sauce.
- Pimento Cheese Plate – Creamy homemade pimento cheese accompanied by pickled vegetables and toasted crackers.
- Deviled Eggs Trio – Classic Southern deviled eggs with three unique toppings: smoked paprika, candied bacon, and jalapeño relish.
“The appetizers at Francis Southern Table truly capture the spirit of Southern hospitality—warm, inviting, and full of flavor.” – Food Critic, Southern Gourmet Magazine
Main Courses: Hearty Dishes Rooted in Tradition
The main course offerings reflect the depth and diversity of Southern cuisine. These dishes are robust, satisfying, and crafted with an emphasis on time-honored cooking techniques that bring out the very best in every ingredient.
Careful attention is given to preparation methods like slow braising, smoking, and frying, which are essential to authentic Southern flavors. The menu highlights both meat-centric and vegetarian options to accommodate a wide range of tastes.
Each plate arrives generously portioned, inviting diners to indulge in the rich, comforting flavors that define Southern cooking. The main courses are balanced with fresh sides and house-made sauces to enhance the overall experience.
Classic Entrées with a Twist
- Smoked Brisket with Bourbon Glaze – Tender brisket slow-smoked and finished with a rich bourbon glaze, served with collard greens and cornbread.
- Shrimp and Grits – Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp, Andouille sausage, and a smoky tomato gravy.
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken – Crispy fried chicken marinated in buttermilk and spices, paired with mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.
| Dish | Cooking Style | Key Ingredients | Accompaniments |
| Smoked Brisket | Slow-Smoked | Beef, Bourbon Glaze | Collard Greens, Cornbread |
| Shrimp and Grits | Sautéed | Shrimp, Andouille, Tomato Gravy | Stone-ground Grits |
| Buttermilk Fried Chicken | Fried | Chicken, Buttermilk, Spices | Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans |
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Southern Comfort without Compromise
Understanding the growing demand for plant-based cuisine, the Francis Southern Table offers a thoughtfully curated selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options maintain the heartiness and warmth of Southern cooking without relying on animal products.
The kitchen uses fresh, seasonal vegetables, legumes, and grains to create dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful. Innovative recipes ensure that these plates are anything but an afterthought—they are integral to the menu’s diversity and appeal.
Whether you follow a strict vegan diet or simply want to enjoy lighter fare, these offerings provide a delicious and wholesome alternative that honors Southern culinary traditions.
Plant-Based Delights
- Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Cakes – Crispy cakes made from black-eyed peas and spices, served with a tangy tomato chutney.
- Collard Green Wraps – Fresh collard greens filled with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing.
- Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew – Slow-cooked stew with tender sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a blend of warming spices.
“The vegetarian options at Francis Southern Table prove that Southern comfort food isn’t just about meat; it’s about bold flavors, rich textures, and heartfelt cooking.”
Sides: Complementing Every Dish Perfectly
The side dishes at Francis Southern Table are designed to complement main courses and add layers of flavor and texture. These sides showcase the Southern tradition of pairing hearty mains with fresh, flavorful accompaniments.
From creamy mashed potatoes to tangy slaws, the sides are crafted from scratch daily using quality ingredients. They offer a perfect balance, enhancing without overpowering the main dishes.
Many sides are inspired by classic Southern recipes but feature slight variations to keep the menu fresh and engaging. These small plates play a vital role in rounding out the overall dining experience.
Popular Side Selections
- Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
- Collard Greens – Slow-simmered with smoked ham hocks and a hint of vinegar for a tangy finish.
- Fried Okra – Lightly battered and fried until crisp, served with a side of ranch dipping sauce.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – Mashed sweet potatoes mixed with brown sugar and spices, topped with toasted pecans.
| Side Dish | Main Flavor Profile | Texture | Ideal Pairings |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Rich, Cheesy | Creamy, Crunchy Topping | Fried Chicken, Smoked Brisket |
| Collard Greens | Smoky, Tangy | Soft, Leafy | Shrimp and Grits, Pork Chops |
| Fried Okra | Lightly Salty, Crunchy | Crisp Exterior | Barbecue, Burgers |
Desserts: Sweet Southern Indulgences
The dessert offerings at Francis Southern Table provide a delightful conclusion to the meal. These sweets celebrate classic Southern flavors with luscious textures and carefully balanced sweetness.
Each dessert is made from scratch, using recipes that have been lovingly preserved and updated for modern tastes. From pies to puddings, the dessert menu captures the comforting essence of Southern hospitality.
Diners can expect a variety of options, including seasonal fruit-based desserts and rich, creamy treats that offer the perfect finale to any dining experience.
Signature Desserts
- Pecan Pie – Traditional Southern pecan pie with a flaky crust and a rich, gooey filling.
- Banana Pudding – Layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and Nilla wafers topped with whipped cream.
- Peach Cobbler – Warm peaches baked with a cinnamon biscuit topping, served with vanilla ice cream.
“Desserts at Francis Southern Table are the perfect harmony of nostalgia and refinement, leaving guests with a sweet memory to savor.” – Chef Emily Harrison
Beverages: Complementing Flavors from South to Sip
The beverage selection at Francis Southern Table is thoughtfully curated to complement the robust flavors of the menu. From classic Southern cocktails to refreshing non-alcoholic options, the drinks enhance the overall dining experience.
Many beverages are crafted with local ingredients and house-made infusions, reflecting the same commitment to quality that defines the food. The bar offers expert pairings to help guests find the perfect match for their meal.
The menu includes a variety of spirits, wines, and specialty drinks that highlight Southern traditions while incorporating modern mixology techniques.
Beverage Highlights
- Mint Julep – A refreshing classic cocktail made with bourbon, fresh mint, and simple syrup.
- Sweet Tea Lemonade – A perfect blend of sweet tea and tart lemonade, served over ice.
- Local Craft Beers – Rotating selection of beers brewed in the Southern region.
- Peach Bourbon Smash – Bourbon mixed with fresh peaches, lemon juice, and a hint of honey.
| Drink | Type | Main Ingredients | Best Paired With |
| Mint Julep | Cocktail | Bourbon, Mint, Simple Syrup | Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Smoked Brisket |
| Sweet Tea Lemonade | Non-Alcoholic | Black Tea, Lemonade | Fried Green Tomatoes, Pimento Cheese |
| Peach Bourbon Smash | Cocktail | Bourbon, Peaches, Honey, Lemon | Shrimp and Grits, Collard Greens |
Seasonal Specials: Celebrating Southern Harvests
Francis Southern Table takes pride in celebrating the changing seasons by offering specials that highlight the freshest ingredients available. These limited-time dishes provide an opportunity to enjoy unique flavors inspired by local harvests and regional bounty.
The specials menu evolves throughout the year, reflecting the vibrant agricultural diversity of the South. This commitment to seasonality ensures that every visit offers something new and exciting.
These dishes often combine traditional Southern techniques with innovative flavor profiles, creating memorable meals that emphasize freshness and sustainability.
Examples of Seasonal Specials
- Spring Asparagus and Morel Mushroom Risotto – Creamy risotto featuring tender asparagus tips and earthy morel mushrooms.
- Summer Tomato and Burrata Salad – Juicy heirloom tomatoes paired with fresh burrata, basil, and a balsamic reduction.
- Fall Butternut Squash Soup – Velvety soup made with roasted butternut squash, sage, and a touch of cream.
- Winter Braised Short Ribs – Rich short ribs slow-braised with root vegetables and red wine.
“Seasonal specials at Francis Southern Table not only celebrate the land but also invite diners to experience the true rhythm of Southern life.”
Conclusion
The Francis Southern Table Menu stands as a vibrant tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the American South. Each dish, from the first bite of an appetizer to the last spoonful of dessert, tells a story of heritage, community, and exceptional craftsmanship.
By skillfully blending time-honored recipes with contemporary flair, the menu offers a dynamic yet comforting experience that resonates with all who visit.
With a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and thoughtful preparation, every element of the menu reflects a dedication to quality and authenticity. Whether indulging in a smoky brisket, savoring a refreshing Mint Julep, or delighting in sweet pecan pie, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the warm, welcoming spirit that defines Southern hospitality.
Ultimately, the Francis Southern Table is more than a restaurant menu—it is a culinary journey that honors tradition while embracing innovation, creating an unforgettable celebration of Southern cuisine that leaves diners eager to return time and again.
