Secluded Dining Delight
- Lorna Jones
- Mar 25, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 14, 2019
A new day. After happy hours of visiting and relaxing in the warm hospitality of the Grandy family, Shauna, Noel, and their two girls suggested we go for a drive and eat in a restaurant at Grates Cove Studios. I was curious what kind of restaurant could exist in this remote location. As we drove further and further into the Newfoundland barrens, my mind wandered, imagining how hardy the folks must be to live here. They not only survive the harsh conditions but thrive and create rich, supportive communities. The scenery was breathtaking, formidable and awe-inspiring. When we arrived at Grates Cove, the sea blasted us with gusts of biting cold air. We all rushed from the car to the restaurant door, propelled in part by the powerful winds coming off the ocean.
Inside the restaurant was an amazing array of original creativity. The walls were lined with examples of woodwork, knitting, art, sculpture, pottery and seaweed beauty products. On the stage, at one end of the hall, stood the most glorious bejeweled mannequin, wearing a sparkling cape. If only I could have squeezed her into the Mini, I would have tried to abduct her!
We sat at a spacious gingham draped table and perused the menu posted on a large green chalkboard close to the kitchen.
You only live once, so I picked the most expensive item on the menu (very unlike me but what the heck). When would I ever have the chance to eat "Seafood Cajun Boil" again? What a surprise when the dish arrived! I never expected such a glorious feast, cooked to perfection, presented in such a skillful manner, in this secluded, no frills restaurant. It was well worth the drive and if I ever make it back to Newfoundland, The Open Studio Restaurant is on my list of "to does".
The next question I had was why all the Cajun food here in Newfoundland? I went to the kitchen and chatted with Courtney Howell (one of the owners and the cook). She is from South Louisiana and her husband from Grates Cove. After meeting each other in South Korea they continued their travels eventually settling in Grates Cove. Check out their website for more information.
On our way back to Lower Island Cove, Noel took a detour into Bay de Verde, a small fishing village that was first settled in 1662. Once again he repeatedly stopped for me to grab images of this picturesque area. There is a wonderful Heritage Property there but unfortunately it was closed that day.
We headed back to the bright yellow house. It was time for me to be setting out for my next stop, Clarenville. I took one last picture looking up the hill from their "home away from home" before forcing myself to say goodbye.
What a generous gift this family had bestowed upon me the past couple of days. They will always have a place in my heart for the kindness they showered on me. Thank you Grandy Family.
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