The greatest part about spring in the South is time spent outside. From patios to porches, al fresco dining spots become coveted when the April temperatures begin to rise. Of course, Splinter Creek boasts some exceptional outdoor spaces, but when we’re not sitting by the lake, here are a few other places around Oxford and Taylor to enjoy.
1. Splinter Creek
We might be biased, but we think the screened porches and lakeside patios at Splinter Creek are some of the best in the region. They offer everything from a place to gather with friends over a cocktail or meal to simply a place to get outside and relax. The Splinter Creek home boasts a lakeside outdoor kitchen, and the Community Porch offers a fire pit for residents to gather around.
2. Grit
Taylor’s Grit restaurant is charming, with a patio tucked into the side of the restaurant and enclosed by plants on three sides. It has a working fireplace and a pile of blankets for those chilly North Mississippi spring nights. In the summer, ceiling fans keep the warm breeze moving.
3. Taylor Grocery
Just up the road from Grit, and not far from Splinter Creek, is Taylor Grocery. We’ve mentioned them here before, but you can’t highlight the Grocery too much. Diners flock there for catfish, but before the meal comes the anticipation. There’s always a wait at Taylor Grocery and no one ever seems to mind. That’s because of the restaurant’s great front porch. Sip a drink with friends while you wait. Make small talk the folks sitting on the bench next to you. Just don’t miss your name being called when your table is ready.
4. Oxford Canteen
One of the cleverest uses of space is the conversion of an old gas station into the Oxford Canteen. Bordering the old car bays, with the original roll up doors, is a modern and sleek patio. Surrounded by tall flower beds and strung with charming cafe lights, you can easily forget that you are right on the busy North Lamar thoroughfare.
5. The Ravine
Just on the outskirts of Oxford, off of Highway 7, sitting back in the woods, is an old house converted into a restaurant. The farm-to-table style of Ravine is a nice complement to its outdoor seating areas, in the front and back of the building. Overlooking the woods that surround the property, it’s lovely for Sunday brunch or a romantic dinner date.
