I live in Woodstock and had driven by the Magnolia Thomas several times and thought it would be a boring, Southern restaurant w/ antiques on the walls. Shows what I know, because I had dinner there this past Saturday night and was impressed to find it was nothing like I thought it would be. The layout was exactly as you would expect a house-turned restaurant to be, with smaller private rooms off of a main walkway. There were 2 rooms w/ fireplaces, one of which we were seated in & were able to enjoy the privacy while we caught up with friends. Our dinner was excellent - we started out w/ the fried green tomatoes w/ blackeyed pea salsa, which were so delicious I could have eaten a dozen. For our entrees, I had a portabella mushroom topped spinach salad (one downfall, very few vegetarian options) but even better was my boyfriend's spinach ravioli. It was the best I have ever had! I usually don't even like sun-dried tomatoes, but the chef prepared the dish in such a way that made them taste fantastic. The best part is that we were able to bring our own bottle of wine & pay a $10 corking fee. I have heard they are doing away with this after the first of the year, though. Our bill for the corking fee, appetizer & 3 entrees & a salad was get this - only $64!! As good as the food tasted & as warm as the ambience, I was expecting much more. Our friends said the desserts were very good, but we were too full to try them and said we would save room next time. This is THE best restaurnt in Woodstock, hands down, but it may soon have some competition since they are revamping downtown Woodstock and doing a good job of it. This restaurnt is perfect for everything - a date, taking parents, out-of-towners, baby/bridal showers (a friend & I will be holding one there in Feb), graduation party, birthday - seriously, anything. Ok, I've said enough, just try it & you'll like it.
Pros: Delicious Food, Cheap Bill, Warm Ambience, Friendly Staff
Cons: Slow Service (2 hour dinner)
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