Real Estate News, National

Southern Master Planned Communities with Culinary Experiences Second to None

Cliffs Culinary Experiences
Published on March 12, 2015

CUISINE EXCELLENCE IN THE SOUTH

When it comes to pleasing “the sophisticated palate” of Baby Boomers relocating at retirement, the best master planned communities in the south are taking note by promoting healthy eating, gourmet restaurants, community gardens and impressive culinary events to satisfy even the most discerning property owners. Wine tastings, cooking classes and high end dining experiences round out the formula for living that perfect retirement life. Smart real estate developers have taken heed by adding these luxury amenities to their developments. Catering to foodies has become the norm and events are planned annually to insure club members can partake in these impressive culinary happenings right within their own neighborhoods.

One such event is the 6th Annual Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival set for March 20 and 21 at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge located at Reynolds Plantation.  The food and wine festival begins at 7pm on Friday, March 20 and will feature some outstanding guests chefs from the region. General admission tickets are $85 and will allow guests to sample food creations from the area as well as participating restaurants offerings.  Attending this event will also benefit local children’s arts and education organizations including the Gatewood School, the Oconee Performing Arts Society’s Educational and Outreach program and the Eatonton-Putnam Arts Foundation.   

The event will also offer an exquisite "sponsors only" 5-course dinner at Linder Longer Steakhouse by acclaimed executive chef Andrew Litherland accompanied by superb wine selections; a live demonstration by Atlanta artist Thomas Arvid, renowned for his oversized, highly realistic paintings, and live farm-to-table cooking demos by Celebrity Chef Steven Satterfield of Atlanta’s Miller Union who will be offering VIP guests the chance to purchase signed copies of his “Root to Leaf” cookbook.  VIP tickets can be purchased for $250 and will offer all-night access to the VIP lounge hosted by The Local Palate.  The event will also feature a silent auction to benefit local schools and performing art throughout the evening of Saturday, March 21. 

“It is an honor to welcome such distinguished chefs and artists to our hotel for the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival,” said Ralph Vick, The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation’s general manager. “I am excited to highlight our resort and showcase all that we have to offer while celebrating fine food, wine and community.”

Edward Leonard, the new executive chef and director of culinary operations at Reynolds Plantation, who has served as Vice President of Culinary Education and Corporate Chef at Le Cordon Bleu College of North America and authored seven cookbooks, is part of the festival lineup.  In addition to the upcoming food and wine festival, Reynolds Plantation and other communities are adding “dining perks” for folks living at their properties.  Here are some of the amenities found at Reynolds Plantation in addition to other communities we found worth noting.

REYNOLDS PLANTATIONGreensboro, Georgia

Reynolds Plantation is an award winning lake community located in Greensboro and features five clubhouses with dining options that range from elegant dining to more casual venues located lake side.  Overlooking Lake Oconee, the gated community has 6 resort-style swimming pools, 16 tennis courts, 14 miles of walking trails and a 38,000 square foot health and wellness center.  Beautiful Lake Oconee spreads across 19,000 acres hugging 374 miles of shoreline. Many agree, it's one of the best places to buy a home.

Residents here can enjoy the newly opened Waterview Pub where the menu offerings range from morning bagels, eggs and cheese muffins to fish-n-chips and burgers for lunch or dinner.  The bar is well stocked and offers a unique array of local and national craft beers.  There are several restaurants available here.  Exceptional dining in a range of culinary styles greets residents, club members and guests at The Plantation Grille, Great Waters, The Landing, Kathy's Café at The Lake Club, and The Creek Club. The Landing, Great Waters and The Plantation Grille are open to the public, while Kathy's Café, Infinity Pool Bar, and the Creek Club are club member-only.  Along with spectacular cuisine, diners enjoy a selection of wines that helped Reynolds Plantation receive the "Award of Excellence" from WINE Spectator Magazine for four consecutive years.  

For health conscious residents, the concept of farm to table and a community garden where residents grow their own produce has rapidly caught on.  “We started with fifteen gardeners and eight raised beds in April as a ‘trial run,’” says Carolyn Taylor, full-time resident and chair of the landscape committee. “After just three short months, I have a list of twenty-five additional residents who are interested in starting their own beds or sharing with another member.” 

Living at Reynolds Plantation, residents also can enjoy the multitude of drinking and dining venues at the elegant and prestigious Ritz Carlton Lodge located nearby.  Folks will find Georgia’s Bistro, Linger Longer Steakhouse, Gaby’s by the Lake, Chiminea Dining, Lobby Lounge, The Coffee Shop, and the BBQ Butler located within the Lodge.  

THE CLIFFS - Western Carolinas

The Cliffs is comprised of seven private, luxury mountain and lake gated communities in the Carolinas which run along the southern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With one club membership, property owners have access to all 7 seven clubs with first class amenities found at the multiple The Cliffs locations.  With seven award winning golf courses, a full service marina and Beach Club on beautiful Lake Keowee, authentic equestrian center, expansive wellness centers and programming, a premier tennis program, a community garden and 23 total upscale and casual dining venues scattered throughout the properties, members have found that living at The Cliffs is seven of the best places to buy a home. From fine dining and wine experiences  to a casual lunch by the fireplace in the Tavern Bar, culinary choices found here are endless. No matter the food cravings, no day and no meal is the same at The Cliffs.

Known for its wine programming, The Cliffs has edged up in the ranks as “one of the country’s most exclusive private clubs.”  With sommeliers on board and an impressive wine and food festival for its members, true “foodies” looking for a sophisticated living experience should consider The Cliffs.  The luxurious mountain and lake communities are located in the Blue Ridge Mountains between the two award-winning cities of Greenville, South Carolina and Asheville, North Carolina and boasts 7 championship golf courses, five wellness centers, wine clubs, an organic farm and more than 1,000 social activities annually. The 2014 Cliffs Wine & Food Festival featured six sold out events and generated over $50,000 in wine sales.  For three days, The Cliffs Wine and Food Festival offered savvy members some fabulous dinners, exquisite wine as well as expert panel discussions. The event was enjoyed by all, and plans are under way to make this year’s event – planned for September 18-27 - even bigger.

For those seeking to grow their own organic food and flowers, The Cliffs Organic Farm spans over more than 5 acres and has two 100-foot greenhouses as well as a 30-foot Microgreen seed-starting greenhouse.  Over 155 varieties of 60 different vegetables, herbs and flowers are grown here and members are invited to workshops on how to grow, harvest and cook with seasonal food celebrations offered to residents.  There is also a farm staff on hand to assist property owners on farming techniques and conservation practices.   The Cliffs definitely provides a first class living environment for its members enabling them to enjoy the finer things in life while promoting healthy eating with this incredible resource. 

CURRAHEE CLUB – Toccoa, Georgia

Another fascinating and well managed real estate development to explore with a 'flavor' for life is the Currahee Club. Located on Lake Hartwell in Toccoa, the gated community is spread across 1,200 acres. Considered one of the best golf communities in the south, it was honored as the “Best Golf Community of the Year in 2014” by Community Finder.  In addition to golf, new amenities include a $2.5 million Sports Club and a community boat dock.  For food enthusiasts, Currahee Club features a “world class” Chef who oversees the Food and Beverage Operations.  Chef Anca Timmons who hails from Bucharest, Romania and a graduate from The Culinary Institute of America, has an impressive background in the culinary arena and joined the staff at the Currahee Club in 2012.  Through her leadership, the restaurant venues offered here are definitely worth noting.

For a formal dining experience, The Overlook Restaurant offers an impressive and sophisticated menu that reflects the region with offerings like “Pork Meatballs and Grits”, “Crab Hushpuppies” and “Prawns and Arugula Salad” as appetizers, the main course offerings range from “Catfish and Prawns Creole” to mouth-watering steak selections.  The Fazio Pub is known as the gathering spot for members for lunch or pre-dinner conversations where folks will find a fully stocked bar, a warm and welcoming fireplace and impressive views of this immaculate property.  Closed for the season but reopening on Labor Day, The Golf Snack Shop is open on Saturdays and Sundays for breakfast and lunch and features a stone terrace with mountain and lake views as well as an outdoor fireplace to “sit back and relax”.  The Canoe Bar and Grill is located in the Sports Club and is a perfect spot to enjoy lunch and a refreshing beverage after a mid-morning workout.

Neighbors here are very social and impromptu pot luck dinners and wine tastings are the norm.   Currahee Club exemplifies southern living and there are multiple foodie events planned annually.  They also host events open to the public including a Symphony Orchestra Patriot Pops Concern and as well as a Farmer’s Market.   There is also a community garden located at the Currahee Amenity Center for health enthusiasts to grow their own produce.  The Grand Lawn provides a picturesque backdrop for a family picnic or simply a place to fly a kite while enjoying the lifestyle the scenic property has to offer.  

LONESOME VALLEY – Cashiers, North Carolina

Lonesome Valley is a gated community in Cashiers, North Carolina, occupying nearly 800 acres just north of the Blue Ridge Escarpment.  Lonesome Valley is the largest box canyon in the East and is a rock climber’s paradise for active Boomers looking for a thrill seeking challenge. Two granite mountain walls, the Cow Rock and Lauren Knob, frame the canyon and provide an exceptional views for those residing here.

One of the region’s top rated restaurants can be found here (and is open to the public), The Canyon Kitchen, operated by renowned Chef John Fleer is open from mid-May through October and features simply elegant cuisine and “farm grown” ingredients harvested on one of the many gardens located on the property.  The “trout raceway” garden is located right outside the kitchen door and extends to the Jennings-Eason’s Sunburst Trout Farm where food selections mirror the region and offer daily fresh produce to compliment the menu. “Bourbon Barrel Brown Sugar Rubbed Lamb Ribs” and “Pomegranate Molasses & Five Spice Chickpeas” compliment main course offerings such as “Rosemary & Mustard Grilled Beeler’s Pork Tenderloin” or “Marcona Almond Crusted Sunburst Farms Trout” that are made fresh daily when in season.  Inspired by the Southern spirit, tradition is reflected deep in the food that makes this destination spot so popular that reservations are a must!

For active and health conscious residents, members are invited to plant their own vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs in this spectacular Southern Appalachian region.  There is also a hen house with farm fresh eggs available for Lonesome Valley home owners.  This is a great find in the Blue Ridge Mountains and will provide an pampering retirement experience for those seeking a more relaxed and simple lifestyle with a touch of class.

THE RESERVE AT LAKE KEOWEE – Western South Carolina

Set in the "Garden of Eden", another enticing location to consider for retirement living revolving around savory food is The Reserve at Lake Keowee. Celebrating more than 10 years, this established lakefront community spreads across 3,900 acres on a lake that has over 300 miles of shoreline. Lake Keowee has been nicknamed “the Garden of Eden” for its lush forestry, waterfalls and warm emerald green waters. The Village Market is the place to be on Tuesday's for the community's family style dining under the twinkle lights in the courtyard. We've attended one of these events like many others at southern master planned communities and was 'wowed' by the delicious food, attractive presentation and friendliness of the club members. The Village Market is an old fashioned European-style market providing convenience within the community to purchase box lunches, fine wine, groceries and one-of-a-kind gifts. 

An upcoming offsite “foodie” field trip planned for club members is slated for March 30. The Tastes of the South Culinary Tour will visit to some of Greenville’s renowned Southern-theme restaurants to sample some of their signature Southern regional preparations.  The tour will include four restaurants and folks can sample dishes like “fried green tomatoes”, BBQ and some fresh seafood as well as a Southern style dessert to complete the event.  The tour will visit Soby’s New South Cuisine (fine Southern cuisine), Tupelo Honey (NC/SC cuisine), Smoke on the Water (BBQ and more), Breakwater Restaurant & Bar (new Southern cuisine).

With over $100 million dollars of amenities completed, this well designed community features an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, the Lakefront Pool Complex & Grill, a Tennis & Fitness Center, 4 Har-Tu tennis courts and 5 ½ miles of manicured hiking trails with walking and bike paths that connect the neighborhoods. The Waterfront Park & Trail along the lake is popular with residents. The Reserve at Lake Keowee’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course has been selected, for the third year in a row, as one of the three host courses for the 15th Annual BMW Charity Pro-Am Tournament. The Tournament will take place May 14-17.  Since 2001, the BMW Charity Pro-Am Tournament has raised more than $10.8 million for 150+ charities—including The Reserve’s Charitable Foundation. For boating enthusiasts, the gated community on Lake Keowee has a private 200 boat slip marina with 19 community docks.

The Orchard House is an elegant 20,000 square foot clubhouse with picturesque lake and mountain views from the top of the hill and is another place where food lovers can enjoy a superb dinner. The delectable menu items such as “Brazilian Coconut Shrimp”, “Southern Fried Chicken”, “Seafood Ravioli” and “Certified Angus Filet “Oscar” keep palate refined members coming back for more.  The Great Lawn is the centerpiece of The Reserve at Lake Keowee and completes the package offering outdoor concerts and community events for centered around fine wine and food.

SPRING ISLAND – Okatie, South Carolina

Upstream from the Port Royal Sound and the Colleton River is an unspoiled 3,000 acre private island not much different than it was in the early 1800's.  Spring Island is a superb location for sophisticated living and resort-style amenities.  Only 400 homes are found here and residents can enjoy golfing on the Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay designed 18-hole golf course, a new 13,000 square foot Sports Complex, 6 Har-Tu tennis courts and a top rated Equestrian Club with 35 miles of horse trails on the property.  This best master planned community has been carefully preserved and is one of the top places to live in South Carolina. The island has designated 1,200 acres as the Colleton Nature Preserve and Chechessee Nature Preserve. Spring Island has received many awards for land stewardship which include “Winner of the Urban Land Institute's Award for Excellence”.  There are many social activities for folks living here and 2 excellent restaurants for residents to enjoy.  

For Continental breakfast and afternoon tea or perhaps a distinctive glass of imported wine, The Gathering Room found at The River House overlooks the pristine Chechessee Creek and is surrounded by adjoining decks, an outdoor fireplace and majestic views of this historically preserved region.   The River House is one of 2 clubhouses offered and contains a fine dining restaurant.   The inventive menu features regional specialties as well as a carefully selected premier wine list.  

For a more casual dining experience, The Old Tabby Grill, located in the Golf House has a menu influenced by seasonal changes with fresh local and regional provisions added.   Neighbors can meet for cocktails while enjoying the panoramic views offered with floor to ceiling windows that accent the exquisite European design.  It is the perfect place for a quick snack or leisurely afternoon luncheon with friends while enjoying the scenic views of the community croquet courses and the salt marshes below.

Another incredible offering here is The Waterfall Farm which is four acres of community-run farmland where members can grow their own produce.  Through the initiative of one ambitious resident’s goal to grow corn to share with neighbors, Waterfall Farm emerged. With the support of the Spring Island Trust, this incredible farmland feeds the entire community as well as staff and the local fire station and churches in the area.  

Free produce for all club members - Butternut squash, broccoli, spinach, arugula, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, radishes… Waterfall Farm provides a wide variety of delicious, health-conscious veggies that are “free” for the residents of Spring Island and any surplus is donated.  Even the island’s wildlife reaps the benefit of this amazing amenity offered here.  Living on the private South Carolina Sea Island with its impressive community garden helps promote healthy eating and encourages socialization amongst residents during those precious retirement years.

PALMETTO BLUFF – Bluffton, South Carolina

Another exquisite waterfront community in the south can be found at Palmetto Bluff.  With a rich history dating back to 10,000 B.C., this picturesque property located along the serene May River, connecting with Calibogue Sound and offers magnificent amenities for its residents.  Lowcountry living doesn’t get much better than this with first class golf, boating, tennis, equestrian sports and 15 miles of trails for hiking and biking. The Palmetto Bluff Inn & Spa is found here and provides residents the option of enjoying the many dining venues and events that make this location a “happening spot” for residents seeking the ultimate in retirement living. 

Not far from Hilton Head Island, Palmetto Bluff’s many eateries provide diverse regional and authentic Southern Cuisine.  One of the popular café destinations is Buffalo’s with amazing views of the May River with a diverse menu offering market fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, pastries and freshly spun ice cream. Fine wines, signature cocktails and local craft beers can be shared by neighbors at this hot spot.  On the first Friday of the month, the culinary team at Buffalo’s prepares a “not so typical” collection of appetizers paired with some delectable wine selections for attendees of the wine series held monthly. 

Wilson Village, Palmetto Bluff’s town village, makes it convenient to shop for dinner or dine at one of several restaurants found on the property.  RT’s Market is the neighborhood general store where residents can have coffee, fill up the gas tank or buy gourmet ingredients for a home cooked meal.  There is also a large wine selection, a seafood and meat counter as well as gift items available for shoppers.  

When looking for a more elegant dinner with farm fresh cuisine served with Southern hospitality, the River House Restaurant combines only the freshest local ingredients to prepare its exceptional menu.  Whether opting for "Crispy Skin Grass Roots Farms Duck Breast", “Seared Loin of Berkshire Pork" or “Crispy Skin Wild Striped Bass”, the culinary selections offered at Palmetto Bluff are some of the finest in the region.  

For a casual dining experience with coastal kitchen flair, try the local shrimp, oysters and seafood found at the Canoe Club.  Paired with area produce from local farms, fresh veggies, beef and poultry round out the menu with creative dishes that reflect the Southern charm and appeal this region has to offer.  

This community also has an annual Music to Your Mouth event. With 19 events in one week, food and wine are offered for residents and guests wanting to satisfy their taste buds with offerings from an impressive selection of chefs, winemakers, and brewers in the area.  Some of the more popular events include “The Stink & Drink, Block Party and Oyster Roast”.  The 9th Annual Music to Your Mouth is being planned and is a must for folks living here.  Last year over $23,000 was raised for Second Helpings which is a local organization the redistributes food surpluses from grocery stores and restaurants to over 60 agencies serving the needy in the Lowcountry.

MEDITERRA  – Naples, Florida

Mediterra located in Naples is considered one of the best master planned communities in this popular retirement destination in Florida.  With excellent weather year round, snow birds and residents alike have a lot to love about this incredible property.   Recognized as Collier County’s “Community of the Year” eight times, this 1,700 acre development offers resort style amenities including the 10,000 square foot Beach Club on the Gulf of Mexico, an elevated pool, casual dining with a full bar and valet service.  Other on-site perks include themed neighborhood parks, 8 miles of walking trails, a neighboring Sports Club with a full menu of private spa treatments as well as Mediterra’s Golf Learning Center.  The community is more than 90 percent sold out, with new homes available in only seven neighborhoods.

Food enthusiasts will feel right at home here with the recent renovations at The Club at Mediterra.  Expanded outdoor seating and a fire pit have been added at the popular Tavern on 18 and, members gather here to linger over cocktails with friends while watching sports on the flat-screen TV’s while enjoying the embers glowing in the fire pit located on the Terrace.  Casual food selections include gourmet brick-oven pizzas, seasonal salads and open-air grilled entrees.  On weekends this is the place to be seen with an average of 200 members enjoying this spectacular location.  Since it was unveiled in early 2011, The Tavern has twice been expanded. Al fresco seating and a summer kitchen debuted in early 2013, providing members with expansive outdoor gathering areas.  During the second phase of improvements, a chef table and exposition kitchen will be added expanding the clubhouse to 33,000 square feet.  There are also plans to add an indoor/outdoor dance floor, a bandstand and expand the current ballroom available to members.

The centerpiece restaurant complete with an al fresco terrace is the Club’s Grille Room where members can enjoy some spectacular menu items while gazing at the majestic fireplace that adorns the experience.  Maybe the “Potato Chip Crusted Black Grouper” or perhaps a “14 ounce Delmonico Steak” will entice folks to enjoy, imbibe and relax in this highly sought after dining experience.  The Chef’s Table is very popular and offers a fun way to enjoy this culinary adventure.  Plans to upgrade the facility are also in the works and will only improve dining at the Grille Room.  Searching for that perfect place to retire?  Mediterra truly exudes first class living. This weekend, visitors in the area can easily tour Mediterra during the Naples Parade of Homes. 

ORCHID ISLAND – Vero Beach, Florida

Another location in Florida worth visiting is Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club just north of the charming seaside town of Vero Beach.  This private, gated residential golf community offers luxurious properties on this exclusive barrier island.  Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the peaceful Indian River Lagoon home shoppers will be awestruck at the beauty found within the Town of Orchid near the Vero Beach beaches.  Recognized as a “Distinguished Emerald Club of the World”, this historic location is perfect for enjoying the finer things in life.  

The property features classic architecture, a reflecting pool and lush tropical foliage which enhances the understated elegance that defines the Orchid Island way of life.  With gentle ocean breezes, and spectacular sunrises no wonder Baby Boomers are flocking to this property when choosing that perfect place to retire. 

The West Indies-style Beach Club is a 25,000 square foot clubhouse offering a venue for exquisite fine dining and private parties.  An impressive menu is offered here and is proudly overseen by Executive Chef Chris Sozio.  With over 18 years of experience preparing spectacular dishes, Chef Sozio is proud to be a part of the Orchid Island team.

Relax in the sunshine at Orchid Island’s tropical poolside paradise.  The pool grill is a great way to unwind, go for a swim and also enjoy a diverse menu that boasts a wide range of delectable palate pleasers.  Whether it’s a tantalizing appetizer, a healthy exotic salad, or the local fresh catch of the day, diners will enjoy the overall experience found beneath the swaying palm trees that accent this South Florida property.  Plus, there is always time to sip on a frozen signature Orchid Island cocktail from the poolside bar after that exhilarating walk on the undisturbed beach found in this quaint and eclectic location. 

The third dining option for members is the newly re-designed 17,000 square foot golf clubhouse which provides the perfect setting to meet friends or unwind after a day of golf on the spectacular award winning Arnold Palmer golf course. Providing a casual and social atmosphere, members can enjoy a wonderful dining experience in either the main dining room, the fireplace room, at the bar, outside on the extended patio or around the fire pits overlooking a beautifully lit lake with grand views of the impressive fairways.  With delicious and creative menu selections created daily by Executive Chef Sozio to satisfy all palates, along with astounding views, the Clubhouse offers a delightful ambiance no matter what the occasion. Don’t miss out on the simple pleasures of Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, Florida’s best kept secret.

When shopping master planned communities throughout the south, be assured that culinary focused amenities are continually expanding. Whether it’s a 5-star restaurant, ingredients from the community garden or just a place to live known for promoting healthy eating, the options are becoming more plentiful to satisfy the ultimate dream, healthy retirement living.

If great food and wine experiences are important to you, ask about being our guest at one of these delicious master planned communities so you're certain you're seeing the best places to buy a home in the South.