Take a break at The Retreat Tapas Bar

Take a break from a long day at work, or maybe have a night out with some friends at The Retreat Tapas Bar. It's a great way to unwind and have a cold drink and some fabulous food. "It is a tapas bar with shared plates and everything is made fresh every day," said Pam Ashley, general manager of The Retreat Tapas Bar. There is not another restaurant like this one in Columbia County. The tapas bar is perfect for the intimate get together or date night. Candlelight fills the room to create a romantic ambiance and classy setting, but it's a casual dining experience. If it's a nice day, sit outside and enjoy your food or drink in the fresh air. Before you order, be sure to ask about the signature cocktails. The staff is courteous, classy and ready to answer any questions you may have about the menu. Don't forget to try the fresh watermelon martini! It also has its own house-made Sangria, Black Cherry Manhattan, and much more. The Retreat opened at the beginning of April at 4446 Washington Road. Founded by Pam Ashley, Ted Shultz and Chef Christopher Byrd, this tapas restaurant and bar is full of life. Ashley and Shultz met 21 years ago while working at a bar and have kept in touch over the years. They always talked about opening a business. When the The Retreat Tapas Bar first opened, the previous owners had a rocky start. Ashley and Shultz, with 20 years of restaurant ex­perience, pounced on the opportunity and bought the locally-owned establishment with Chef Byrd. "It just kind-of fell in our lap," Shultz said. Chef Byrd's unique style of classically prepared food is beautiful in its presentation. With training in culinary arts, Byrd will have your mouth full of flavor. "I normally get the burger melt and house-made fries," Shultz said. Byrd's blue cheese grits are absolutely delicious. They are the only grits Shultz will eat. The blue cheese grits are served usually with specials of either seafood or steak. "Everything we serve is different from Augusta," Shultz raved. Some of the more popular items on the menu include shrimp and grits, crab dip and collard green egg rolls. Don't judge the egg rolls until you try them. It's great for your parties and gatherings, too. Why? Because The Retreat Tapas Bar also does catering. Choose your food from crab cakes to duck quesadillas to baked brie. Byrd will not let your guests' taste buds go unsatisfied. The restaurant is described as an upscale, casual and friendly dining retreat. It's comfortable, yet you get quality food from a trained chef. Come by for dinner and drinks Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm 'until'. It's casual, so just walk-in, but to make sure you have a seat, they take reservations as well.