Revival and Communion: Southern Food is Resurrected in Decatur

It doesn’t get more southern that Kevin Gillespie’s Revival in the heart of Decatur. Establishing roots in a refurbished elegant southern home, great care was taken to keep elements the same like the original windows and hardwood flooring. Artwork on the walls and above the fireplace mantle were created by chef / owner, Kevin Gillespie’s grandmother.

Light, refreshing cocktails are a great way to kick off a lazy Saturday lunch, R: Chef Darryl Boyd

I believe in cocktails with weekend meals, be that brunch, lunch or dinner and the Last Word, a gin cocktail with lemonade was light and refreshing, just the kind you want during a leisurely luncheon. However, the small wine list has been curated with fantastic choices and I enjoyed the Pinot Noir that followed my cocktail.

The Southern Chowder at Revival has a lighter broth than the northern version

Though portions are relatively the same, lunch is more affordable than dinner with blue plate specials offering a main and two sides for $16. However, if the southern chowder is available, go for it as it is rarely available at lunch. While the batter on the country fried steak was fabulous, the steak was mediocre. If I were to return, I’d get what my dining companion got, the fried catfish. Lemon icebox pie was a sweet finish.

Country Fried Steak at Revival

Communion, the back yard beer garden, is open just in time for spring and serving an entirely different menu (think german sausages) out of a food truck parked in the back. There’s a convivial atmosphere complete with darts and more for a fun afternoon. If you are lucky, you may even run into owner, Kevin Gillespie’s family (see pic with his mother below) when you visit Communion.

Communion, the Beer Garden in Revival’s back yard

Although our seater was a bit of a sourpuss, everyone else we encountered during lunch was extremely pleasant including our fabulous server and sous chef, Darryl Boyd.
Note: They have valet parking, so you can forgo the pay lot up the street.