This Lowcountry dish has become a Southern staple, with regional recipes passed down for generations. From traditional recipes to versions with a twist, these shrimp and grits dishes are worth a trip to try them all.
J. Macklin´s Grill, Coppell, Texas
When J. Macklin’s owner Todd Kerr began to develop his recipe for Shrimp & Grits, a chance encounter gave him the perfect inspiration. While enjoying a plate of grits at a friend’s grandmother’s home, Todd realized that this woman, Granny Watts as she is now known around the restaurant, had developed the perfect addition to the traditional Southern dish—jalapeño cheese grits. Todd went home and worked tirelessly to perfect the recipe and give his own dish that great smoky flavor with a Texas kick. It’s this very recipe that is so well known and loved today on the menu.
Twisted Oak American Bar + Grill, Statesville, North Carolina
Customers can’t get enough of the Southern-inspired American fare at this cozy, welcoming restaurant. Twisted Oak’s Shrimp & Grits got so popular that a smaller version was added so patrons would try more of the other main dishes while still getting to enjoy the famous dish as an appetizer. The Mini Shrimp & Grits, half the size of the entrée, is made of tender shrimp sautéed with garlic, shallots, herbs, mushrooms, and bacon, while the larger portion includes andouille sausage. Rather than being served over a bowl of creamy grits, their dish incorporates savory grits cakes for a creative twist.
