A Visit to the Village at Pinehurst

A couple of weekends ago, I had the priviledge of hanging out with some of my favorite people--my sister Peg and her zany husband Eddie, my mom, and of course my hubby doing some shopping, sightseeing, and just enjoying the laid back atmosphere of the "Village" at Pinehurst, NC. As anyone who has ever raised a golf club knows, Pinehurst is one of the golf meccas of the South and is also quite well known for it's tennis events, training camps, and tournaments.

It was a glorius day weatherwise and we were able to explore the shopping, dining, and other options in our shirt sleeves. One of the brochures I picked up while strolling mentioned that the Village personified quaint New England charm--but with the abundance of pine and magnolia trees scattered about, this Southern girl may have to differ on that point.

Since it was lunch time, finding a place to eat was first on our agenda. My brother in law had heard good things about Dugan's Pub while playing golf the day before, but on investigation found it pretty crowded and reported back and our hungry little horde decided to keep looking. The next spot we found was Theo's Taverna, reported by the signage to be an authentic Mediterrean/Greek restaurant. Since Greek cuisine is not my favorite thing, Eddie asked for a menu and brought it out so we could all see it. Directly beside Theo's was another establishment, The Darling House Pub and Grill that looked good and I wanted to compare the menu offerings. The Darling House stated they were a Celtic experience and they had a charming outside eating area that looked inviting on such a pleasant day. No sooner had we gathered around the two menus to see what was available than the owner/manager of Theo's came out into the doorway and started to chastise us for taking his menu. He didn't smile and make a joke of it, he growled, frowned, and rolled his eyes at us. After returning the menu (no gold gilt or buried treasure map-- just a laminated piece of cardboard--not even in multi-color), we of course ate at the Darling House. I had the special--a huge, tasty 1/2 of a chicken sandwich with a salad that my mom described as "cheerful". The service was excellent, the food was good--a perfect luncheon treat.

Our stroll then took us to several shops with interesting and unique merchandise. I particularly liked Cameron & Co, Le Faux Chateau, and a little jewelry, purse and accessories shop called Teramsu where I received excellent, personal service like we received years ago in any retail establishment. The items were cute, funky, and not too pricey. I purchased a watch that I really love with a flip over band for less than $50.

Probably the worst part of the day was that the visit was so short. We have already made plans to come back and visit in January. Check back then when I review the fabulous Pinehurst Resort--just looking at the huge spa facility makes me smile; and well, yes, the golf course looks pretty good too!

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler. Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser and on her web site http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/. Sandy is an Independent Agent for Connie George Travel Assocites. Email me for help in planning your next trip!