Aunt B’s American Kitchen is a relatively laid back restaurant. Located on Milligan Highway, it’s a business that doesn’t shout for attention. But, as those who have visited the restaurant will tell you, it’s one of the best local eateries around.
Before taking the plunge and finally trying it for myself, I had driven by Aunt B’s almost every single day. Wonder if that place is any good, I’d always think. I’ll have to try it sometime. Alas, that day never really came along, and it became a subconscious ritual: I’d see it, remind myself that I needed to give it a chance at some point, and move along. For locals who haven’t had the pleasure of eating at Aunt B’s, the feeling is probably mutual. However, I had heard nothing but good things from those who had visited there.
Everyone’s curiosity about Aunt B’s palpably increased in recent months, when the restaurant seemingly went out of business. The place looked vacant. Then, a sign let everyone know what was going on: they were going to be back. A remodeling of sorts began and, before long, Aunt B’s was operational again. As someone who had never been to the “original” Aunt B’s, I was curious to see exactly what they had to offer. Not knowing what was different, if anything, about the inside of the restaurant gave me an interesting outsider’s view of what can only be described as a restaurant with a devoted cult following. The aforementioned positive comments I had heard about Aunt B’s had been delivered in enthusiastic manners, as if the food there was something to die for. It also seemed that the few detractors who shrugged off Aunt B’s had never actually eaten there – they just doubted they would like what Aunt B’s had to offer. But, fortunately, I decided to go and see for myself.
The interior of the building is well lit and clean. It’s like entering a coffee shop. The space is spread out yet inviting at the same time. There are nice little booths, for lack of a better word, against the window, fit for one person on either side. Those that were visiting the restaurant looked to be in deep conversation with whomever they were with, as if they were in their own living rooms having a chat. Their menu was more extensive than I thought it would be, and they had some great options for college students. For instance, for a few dollars, one could enjoy a bottomless supply of coffee. They had $5 lunches and a wide variety of options.
I decided to go with chicken and dumplings, with a side of macaroni and cheese, and banana pudding for dessert. The chicken and dumplings almost resembled a soup. One thing I noticed when eating was that I, quite frankly, devoured everything in front of me, something I’m not ashamed to say – it was just great, honestly. The macaroni and cheese was probably the best I’ve ever had from a restaurant – it was dry but not too dry, a perfect texture and taste – and the banana pudding was the best I’ve ever had, period. Layered at the top and bottom with vanilla wafers, with cream and bananas in the middle, it was clearly made – and constructed – with the diner in mind.
If you ever want a great meal at a reasonable price, go to Aunt B’s American Kitchen. This isn’t some plug trying to give a local business a pat on the back – if I didn’t like it, you’d know. Rather, this restaurant is made for those who eat there, and it clearly shows in just how good of quality the food is. Give it a shot, and you won’t be disappointed.
Aunt B’s American Kitchen is located at 1436 Milligan Highway in Johnson City, Tennessee. You can also visit auntbsrestaurant.com to find out more, though it should be noted that their online menu differs from their current one, so call for more information at 423-928-8120.