The Gatehouse - Pickens

I don't think this Pickens restaurant near the famous water tower is open anymore. I used to really enjoy their shrimp dinners.

This restaurant is permanently closed. Pickens is in need of a quality family dining establishment.

We ordered two takeout dinners, each with a serving of meat and two vegetables. The macaroni was overcooked and dry, while the rice was tasty but lacked sufficient white gravy. The chicken was well-cooked, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The fried fish was good as well. However, we were disappointed overall as we found the price to be a bit high for a meat and two sides, especially considering we didn't receive a dinner roll with our order. This visit left us unimpressed. Type of meal: Other.

If you enjoy homestyle buffet food, this restaurant is perfect for you! The fried chicken and ribs were delicious. The service was friendly and attentive. Be sure to save room for dessert!

First and foremost, I want to clarify that this is not a buffet or an all-you-can-eat establishment. It operates cafeteria style, where you purchase meat and veggies as a plate and then pay for sides separately. For $12.50, you get a meat, 2 veggies, and a drink. You select your choices and pay at the end of the meal. The lady serving the food was friendly, as was our server. The food was warm and adequately seasoned. The fried chicken was a standout, moist with crispy skin. The mashed potatoes and brown gravy were good, though the gravy was a bit thin. The okra was delicious, but could have been crispier. However, the fried potatoes lacked seasoning and were undercooked. The mixed veggies were cooked well with melted butter. My husband enjoyed the fish, which was a generous portion. The cornbread was sweet and crumbly, while the steakhouse roll was soft and warm. The sweet tea was just right, not overly sweet, and served with crushed ice. Our total bill for two people, including tax, came to $27. Outside, there is a BBQ smoker that smells amazing, with BBQ sandwiches available as well. Overall, the restaurant offers good options for vegetarians, with a variety of home-cooked veggies and the option to order a veggie plate.