Johnny Reb's
Johnny Reb's - Orange
2940 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, CA 92869
johnnyrebs.com
Hidden down in the OC is a little known establishment that takes Southern hospitality and cooking seriously... and we're not talking about no Chick-Fil-A fast food joint. Johnny Reb's is legit. Don't let the peanut shells on the floor and kitschy decor fool ya. If you want a little taste of the South without the sweltering heat and mosquitos, stop by Johnny Reb's and try out some of their fare. And of course, you can't have the true Southern experience without some bourbon <insert your moonshine reference>. So I had to try their Bourbon Berry Smash.
Made with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Chambord raspberry liqueur, boysenberry preserves, mint and lemonade, it packs a lot a flavor in a drink that's pretty light and refreshing. Now I'm not saying I'd pound a few of these and hit the road, but it does go well with a hearty lunch, particularly with the heavy comfort food Johnny Reb's is known for.
And you can't come to Johnny Reb's without taking in the Southern ambiance. I mean hell, it's everywhere. From the leaking rusted out water tank on the roof, to the swampy farm house soundtrack playing in the restroom to the birdcage chandelier, they really make you feel like you're at a Disneyland attraction. Hey, it's in the OC after all. But it sort of works, and lets you forget where you are for a little while at least. So the next time you're down in Orange and looking for a casual meal, be sure to give Johnny Reb's a try. <insert Southern farewell here>
