The Cottage Restaurant and Gallery combines the work of local artists with the art of familiar food. The restaurant, located on 22 acres, was originally a 1940s cottage. The garage is now the Gallery, and the barn, a sculpture studio. Surrounded by large oak, linden trees and rock out-croppings, the compound is hidden from the road. An antique picket fence connects the Gallery and Restaurant, forming an outdoor dining room. Customers have the feeling of being deep in the country though only minutes from town.

Connie Keith and Sidney Miller, co-owners of the Cottage, both came from small towns, migrated to cities, and returned to a small town. . . Hermann. They envisioned their Cottage as a destination for visitors. Art, antiques, luncheon workshops, craft demonstrations in a lush woodland environment, and fresh food are all reasons to visit the Cottage. "It's what I wish I could find if I visit a small town," says Sidney. "And, the food is something I'd hope to find."

The Cottage features a Farmer's Market menu, changing often to take advantage of fresh local produce. Herbs for the dishes come from the Cottage herb garden. According to Sidney and Connie, favorite menu items include Pan Fried Chicken, Meatloaf with Green Tomato Gravy, Fried Green Tomatoes, Basil Chicken, Cilantro Pesto, Apricot Salsa, and Katie's Caramel Cake. Prime Rib is served every Friday and Saturday night.

Restaurant hours are: Lunch  Thursday-Saturday 11-2, dinner Friday-Saturday 5-8. The Cottage is located on Hwy. H one-half mile from the intersection of Hwy. 19.

For information about The Cottage Restaurant and Gallery, visit www.goodfoodfineart.com. Reservations may be made by calling 573-486-4300.