Scenes From The Friends & Family Opening Of The Dogwood, Soft Opening Tonight

Last night was the friends and family opening celebration at The Dogwood (1021 Church Avenue between E 10th Street and Stratford Road), and Ashley Burke-Deming Weavil, Matt Weavil, and their chef, Chris Sterna, gave several lucky neighbors a preview of what’s in store.

On last night’s menu were incredible deviled eggs with pickled shallots and chives (above), cornbread with honey butter and cornbread with chipotle pimento cheese and hot pickled okra, sweet battered fried chicken, skillet-cooked macaroni and cheese, shrimp and grits (below), and gruyere biscuits with black pepper strawberry jam and 14-month aged country ham. They also served up some amazing sweet tea alongside beer and wine.

Daschel definitely approved, says his mom/personal photographer Caroline. We think his dad Steve liked it well enough, too.

The Dogwood will open to the public, with a limited menu, tonight from 5-11pm. Until the clock strikes 5, try to contain yourself with a look around and a glance at their proposed full menu.

Congrats, Matt and Ashley, and welcome again to Church Avenue! The space looks great, the food is fantastic, and we can’t wait to try all your offerings.