Bennie’s Red Barn is practically an institution on St. Simons Island. It looks like a restaurant out of an old movie. You know, one of those from the late 40’s or early 50’s with Fred Astaire and one of his many partners spinning through the aisles, between the tables while Bing Crosby croons one of his famous old tunes. This is how I felt the first time Mr. T took me to Bennie’s shortly after our marriage.
This wonderful restaurant, patterned after supper clubs in the 1950’s is famous throughout Coastal Georgia and points beyond for their outstanding steaks, grilled over an open fire in the enormous kitchen. Fresh caught fish and seafood is also offered up, cooked any way you like it. Then there’s that salad. So completely Italian with the marinated lettuce tossed with plump ripe tomatoes and just the right blend of oil and vinegar.
Bennie Gentile making his famous salad
Bennie Gentile built this restaurant after serving in World War II. Bennie took cover in a barn in Germany while fighting and vowed that he would build a duplicate once he returned home. Build it he did, an exact replica of the barn that sheltered him from harm.
Bennie’s has now served three generations of valued customers and they just keep coming back to celebrate engagements, weddings, special events and Christmas. The wood used to build the barn was locally milled, the bricks brought in from Baxley, Georgia and those pillars you see holding up the covered drive at the entrance came from the original causeway bridge. History is in every inch of Bennie’s.
When I met with Bennie’s granddaughter, Ali Paolini, she shared her family’s story. The fact that her grandparents lived right next door to the red barn all of their lives and family continues to own and run the business the way Bennie would have wanted. They keep it simple, fresh and delicious. Judging by the crowd when we ate there a couple of weeks ago they continue to be a huge success. This is truly a destination for local patrons and tourists.
Interesting to note is the fact that you’ll find some of the best Southern fried chicken and homemade spaghetti at Bennie’s. Ali let me in on the secret in their meatballs….that’s their top grade tenderloin, ground to make them.
Table side singers, simple food with no frills. In the winter, that amazing roaring fireplace, where I’m told many a proposal has taken place at the table for two that sits just across from it.
In this world of chain restaurants that are owned by huge conglomerates, it’s comforting to know a place like Bennie’s Red Barn still exists and thrives, treating us all to a bit of the past.
Reservations Suggested
Bennie’s Red Barn – 5514 Frederica Road – St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – 912-638-2844
2 Responses
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Kathy L. Patrick Says:
Okay, you mention a restaurant that is like something out of an old movie, I so want to go there!
Truly, Tiara Wearing and Book Sharing,
Queen Kat -
Melissa Says:
Come to St. Simons Island….bring your best tiara and we’ll go!
