On Forty-One: A neighborhood bar worth the drive

On forty-one, a casual, classic eatery in Mt. Pleasant, serves all the Southern classics with fresh and local ingredients.  It’s aptly named since the restaurant is located in a quaint shopping center on Highway 41.

With ten solid entrée choices on the menu, diners have plenty of options without being overwhelmed. Rumor has it that the Smoked Pork Chop is very popular, and even though I haven’t tried it, it sure looks delicious. (note: see our instagram for proof this pork chop exists!)

My recent visit to this neighborhood bar was with the #TasteMakersCHS. We enjoyed a wide selection of appetizers and cocktails paired by Paul Zekus, general manager and head bartender.

The first pairing was a 41 Bellini – sparkling wine, bourbon, vanilla bean – and deviled eggs. Our deviled eggs were topped with a fried oyster and mustard seeds. The vanilla really stood out in the Bellini, and even though I’m not necessarily a bourbon drinker, I loved this drink. It was festive and delicious.

Next up, we tried the truffle fries. They were crispy and smothered in parmesan cheese. Truffle fries are my guilty pleasure, and these do not disappoint.

Our next drink and appetizer combo was the nachos and a smoky Paloma. The nachos were smothered in 12-hour smoked pulled pork, green tomato salsa, sour cream, pickled jalapenos, and cheese. They were drizzled in the sweetest bourbon BBQ sauce.

We all took a deep breath and made room in our stomachs for the next item from the menu – Brussels. Brussels sprouts are hands down my favorite vegetable. I loved the tanginess of the Brussels roasted by the team at On forty-one. They douse the crunchy buds with sherry and apple cider gastrique.

As if that wasn’t enough, our dear friend Paul brought us a platter of wings, smoked in a spicy ranch dry rub and served with pickled carrots and buttermilk dressing. He paired this with a Kentucky Mule, which is made with bourbon, lime, and housemade ginger beer.

To finish, we had a slice of strawberry toast and the Seasonal Cooler. This was my favorite drink of the evening. It was so light and refreshing. It’s absolutely perfect for summer.

The next time you’re driving north on Highway 17, stop in On forty-one – and make sure you’re hungry!