Restaurant: The Lazy Goat

Critic: Meagan Hobbs

Food Review: The Anything-But-Lazy Goat  

Just above the Reedy River of Greenville, South Carolina, sits one of Table 301’s eight restaurants: The Lazy Goat. Table 301 is committed to creating transparent dining experiences between their patrons and their kitchen. The Lazy Goat experience was truly one that I still haven’t stopped drooling about a full week later, as it offered me not only the best brussel sprouts I have ever tasted, but also arguably the most beautiful view of Falls Park, the city’s popular outdoor scene. 

As we entered the restaurant, we were led down a large, enchanting spiral staircase and sat at a dark wooden table just below a wall dressed with antique clocks. Soon, we would all be hoping the clocks would stop ticking and that time could stand still so we could savor every last bite of the dishes that were to be quickly dropped off at our table. As soon as we sat down, we were greeted by a friendly and appetizing taste of heaven on the house. Grilled pita topped with juicy lamb and a sweet blueberry compote. Three flavors at once overwhelmed my senses, and as we grazed over our menus, our mouths were watering, waiting for another taste of paradise.

Next came the appetizers — another tease of the main event. Greek salads with Greek yogurt and Crispy Brussel Sprouts lined the long table. Oh, those brussels! 

Roasted, topped with “jamon serrano,” and manchego cheese. Not that it matters. It was just that good. I never wanted the brussels to leave my sight, and I definitely didn’t want to share. Every bite was luring me into a deep trance of hypnosis with it’s salty, crispy perfection. The ooh’s and ahh’s were seemingly endless. 

The main event of the night involved Herb Marinated Lamb Lollipops, pizzas and Toasted Garlic Shrimp. All of which left us satisfied and wishing we had room for more. The lollipops really put on a show for us, as we were starstruck by their tenderness and adorable nature. A bone for the stick and the lamb for the pop — how clever. 

The Honeycomb was the cherry on top of the night, except it was topped with a real honeycomb. It looked like it must have been made by Gucci or Prada with it’s devine gold delicacy. I felt guilty the entire time I shamelessly devoured its vanilla, white chocolate creaminess. 

The Lazy Goat needs a new name, because it’s anything but lazy. The service was attentive and quick, without being rushed or forceful. From the moment I met our waiter, I knew I trusted him with my life and definitely with my stomach. I will be heading back to Greenville as soon as possible and walking myself straight down that wooden spiral staircase to grab a few more servings of the brussel sprouts, and I will not forget to leave room for that precious honeycomb.