Having grown up right here in LA (Lower Alabama) with a mama that knew a thing or two about good, old-fashioned southern cooking, I do have a true appreciation for it.

I ventured down to Polka Dots Café on E. Commerce St. for lunch this week to sample what is a classic southern-style buffet offering: the “meat and three.”

On the buffet menu were old-fashioned chicken and dumplings and barbecued pork chops, along with broccoli casserole, squash casserole, mac and cheese, sweet potato casserole, greens, and more.

Nutritionists tell us a colorful plate of food ensures a good mix of vitamins and minerals. If so, I got a healthy dose with my barbecued chop, squash, sweet potatoes and greens, topped off with a corn bread muffin and washed down with sweet tea.

Good food should be well seasoned, of course, and I appreciate it when I take that first bite and not a smidgen of salt is needed.

My plate of food was uniformly tasty. I especially enjoyed the sweet potatoes, which are a favorite of mine-sweet and lightly spiced, but not overbearingly so.

The “meat and three” buffet at Polka Dots is $6.50 plus your drink. I also couldn’t resist getting a cranberry and white chocolate scone for $2. But if you’re like me, you’ll get it to go. Lunch at Polka Dots won’t leave you hungry or break the bank. – Angie Long

POLKA DOTS CAFE
207 E. Commerce St. – Greenville, AL 36037

Need a java fix? The Polka Dots Cafe has a selection of coffees and drinks to warm the soul. The breakfast muffins are a tasty treat. Want a power breakfast or lunch? The Cafe also serves smoothies.