Never Blue is an avant-garde establishment redefining the connotations of conventional Southern fare. Walking into this whimsically decked out eatery, one is welcomed by a bizarre yet beguiling splash of vibrant cyanes and pinks, with a playful twist of floating windows, doors, and frames. It sparks an ambiance of eclectic and jubilant 80s nostalgia, immediately setting the stage for a culinary performance that is anything but bland.
The menu is an intriguing assemblage of southern delights, with stars like juicy burgers and tantalizing BBQ nachos shining bright. However, the culinary comet that blazed across my palate was the fiery Scorpian Rita. This cocktail, much like its namesake, delivers a potent sting. On first sip, it explodes with a tingly spice that awakens the senses, immediately followed by a captivating sweet relief of a sugar-rimmed glass. It is not a drink for the faint-hearted but serves as an adventure for those seeking a potent punch of flavors.
The food, overall, was an extraordinary symphony of flavors and textures. The burgers were juicy and succulent, with a perfect balance of meat and fresh toppings, all encased within a fluffy, warm bun. The BBQ nachos, on the other hand, were a textural delight - crisp tortilla chips generously laden with tangy BBQ pulled pork, smothered in a gooey blanket of melted cheese.
The presentation was as tantalizing as the taste, with each dish plated like a work of art. It was evident that a lot of thought and creativity went into not just the taste but also the appearance of each dish.
The only hitch in this culinary joyride was a discordant note struck by the staff. While the decor and food brimmed with a whimsical and retro verve, the staff felt incongruous to the scene. A tad more involvement and attunement to the effervescent vibe of Never Blue would have been the cherry on top.
In conclusion, Never Blue offers an invigorating journey down Southern cuisine lane with a delightful twist. It leaves a memorable imprint on your palate and invites you back for more, albeit with the minor caveat of mismatched service. Despite that, it remains a must-visit for those who yearn for a gastronomic adventure with a side of vibrant, eccentric aesthetics.