At the intersection of Fresh and Aesthetic, you’ll find an exciting addition to the restaurant scene in Downtown Aiken. It’s Neon Fig, where the decor + atmosphere synergize to offer a unique dining experience. But that’s only part of its charm. The sophisticated presentation of both food + drinks brands this establishment as a creative standout.
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That was part of the ultimate goal for Cecelia, who with co-owner Marvin, opened Neon Fig about six months ago. While Marvin works his magic in the kitchen, it is Cecelia whose smile greets you at the door and who is the mastermind behind the bar menu.
Cecelia knows when it comes to enjoying a great cocktail, there is so much more that goes into a drink besides the alcohol. Inspired by her travels + ideas from cocktail books, she has stocked the bar at Neon Fig with house infusions and spirits exotic + novel. Using fair trade liqueurs, Australian gin and Atlanta’s Blended Family products (among others), she enjoys giving classic cocktails an interesting spin. Her creations are meant to be sipped and savored. She hopes her guests are cognizant of the nuances her drinks offer, noticing the scents and subtle flavors that enhance their swilling experience.
🍹These sentiments were affirmed with one sip of the Midwest Bloody Mary. Its base is Tito’s Vodka, swirled into a tomato-based home mix, garnished with pickled okra, olives, skewered cheese + house jerky (locally sourced), and a beer back.
A what?
You heard me. If you’re not from the Midwest, this might sound like a dubious duo, but trust me when I say their flavors pair well. This Bloody Mary gets extra points for presentation and is an excellent preamble to its beer back. Do yourself a favor and give it a shot.
🍹The Lavender Bee’s Knees is light + floral yet punchy. It starts with a chamomile infused Beefeater Gin, which is complemented by the addition of lavender honey. Its aromatic + peppery finish is credited to the Green Chartreuse as it leaves a trace of its 130 secrets lingering on the tongue. It is an elegant coupe filled to its brim with complexity and veiled mystery.
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🍹If you venture into Neon Fig in the evening, you’ll have the fortune of trying the Rhubarb Cooler. The base of this sipper is vodka, but it gets its big personality from the spiced rhubarb liqueur. Add to that some citrus + mint and you have a potent + balanced amalgamation, not unlike the flair of a flamenco dancer.
As I apprised you, these aren’t rail drinks you’ll carelessly slam. Each of these drinks is artistically principled, to be delighted in and not underestimated.
Whether you’re looking for brunch or lunch, dinner or apps, or just some liquid pleasure, you’ll find what you need at Neon Fig. Sit inside amidst the mirrors + bright furnishings or in their street-side patio space to enjoy the rhythm of downtown. While you’re there, tell Marvin + Cecelia nakedepicurean sent you. 💋
Neon Fig
110 Park Ave SW
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 226-0424
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday
closed Tuesday
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday
Ann Beth Strelec is known around town as the Naked Epicurean, sampling the finest cocktails known to Augustans. Find out about adult beverages at The Augusta Press on the first and third Friday or on Instagram @NakedEpicurean
