The Corner Table

Story by Gail Mihalik

Bryan County, Georgia, is a mecca of communities, shopping plazas, commercial businesses, and especially places to eat. I begin this journey with a few notable spots:

The Smokin’ Pig

3986 US-17, Richmond Hill, GA  |  (912) 756-7850

Remember the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover?” The Smokin’ Pig sits in a little strip mall connected to a gas station. You might hesitate when you first pull up, but trust me—step inside and check out the chalkboard menu filled with pork and chicken options.

The counter staff takes your order, and then you can grab a seat while they bring your food to the table. The BBQ here is pure and simple. Chicken and pork are served up bare-naked, and you get to dress up your plate to your liking. Sparky, the sauce mastermind, gives you plenty of options—vinegar-based, spicy, a sweet ketchup-based sauce, or a true Southern-style mustard sauce in both mild and spicy versions.

Being from the North, I’m hooked on spicy mustard sauce—it’s a welcome BBQ addition. Since discovering that BBQ in the South is a whole different game, I’ve become a regular. My go-to? The smoked brisket, packed with flavor and fall-apart tender. But let’s be honest—nothing beats smoked pork ribs, so I always order a side of ribs to go with my brisket.

The sides here are plentiful: green beans, corn on the cob, mac ‘n’ cheese, baked beans, turnip greens, potato salad, coleslaw, and Brunswick stew. Every platter comes with a slice of Texas toast.

I’m usually too full for dessert, but I always take something home. Their homemade brownies are unbeatable, and if you’re in the mood for something classic, the banana pudding is a solid second choice. Either way, the sweets always leave me smiling.

So next time you’re craving BBQ, don’t firing up the grill—just head to The Smokin’ Pig. They serve up hearty portions of great food, and best of all, they handle the cleanup!

Bella Mia

10747 Ford Ave, Suite 7, Richmond Hill  |  (912) 412-0837

Walking into Bella Mia, I was instantly transported back to my Nonna’s kitchen. The rich aroma of simmering sauces, slow-braised meats, and fragrant Italian seasonings filled the air—funny how a scent can trigger memories.

Bella Mia’s menu changes frequently, so don’t expect to find exactly what’s listed online. But don’t worry—whatever’s available will be amazing.

We started dinner with a bottle of Amarone, the perfect pairing for a tomato- and herb-heavy meal. The first course? Eggplant rollatini stuffed with homemade ricotta and topped with a beautiful basil and tomato sauce. Next came the pasta. Chef Michael makes fresh pasta daily, so choosing was the hardest part. Feeling adventurous, I went for the Sausage Arrabbiata—Italian sausage in a lightly spiced sauce over campanelle pasta, a beautiful spiral-shaped noodle. It was the perfect match for the bold Amarone.

Bella Mia is ideal for date night, with an intimate atmosphere, amazing food, and excellent service. Since they only serve dinner, reservations are a good idea.

Himalayan Curry Kitchen

10074 Ford Ave, Richmond Hill  |  (912) 459-1943

This little gem is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Indian cuisine. Himalayan Curry Kitchen takes pride in delivering a traditional taste of India, and their lunch buffet is perfect for those eager to explore a variety of flavors. It’s a go-to spot for locals looking for a quick but satisfying meal.

The menu is extensive, with plenty of vegetarian options. If you’re ready for a flavorful adventure, their curry dishes let you choose from proteins like paneer, goat, shrimp, and chicken.

I had a blast sampling their appetizers—there were so many choices that I could’ve made a meal out of them alone. But I had my heart set on Tandoori Chicken. Of course, no Indian meal is complete without naan, and with multiple varieties to choose from, the decision wasn’t easy. We went with garlic naan, finished with fresh cilantro—perfect for scooping up every last bit of the rich sauces.

Evenings, especially weekends, can get busy, but their efficient service keeps the wait times short.

The Way Station

10610 Ford Ave, Suite A, Richmond Hill |  (912) 445-5256

Let’s start with the warm smile you receive when you walk through the door. The staff here is friendly and attentive, making this cozy little Southern coffee shop a delightful stop.

With only about a dozen tables, there’s plenty of space during the week, but on weekends, it’s a bustling spot. While coffee is their specialty, I have to say their food menu is equally impressive. From fluffy croissant breakfast sandwiches to breakfast burritos, bagels with brie and fruit preserves, and even the South’s beloved pimento cheese, there’s something for everyone. For lunch, they offer club-style sandwiches and chicken salad—simple but satisfying.

Of course, we’re here for the coffee. Whether you prefer a classic drip brew, a hot latte, or a frozen blended coffee, The Way Station has something for every caffeine lover. Seasonal specials like peppermint mocha are definite must-tries in winter. They also serve a variety of chai tea drinks, which is a bonus for non-coffee drinkers.

And let’s not forget the sweet treats! Pair your coffee with a muffin, mini donut, or a chocolate croissant—trust me, once is never enough.