Highland Inn

     Just when it seems like we have tried every new chain restaurant in Columbia the urge to try something different comes along.   A Groupon coupon was just what was needed to try the Highland Inn.  Self described as "casual fine dining" and "using the freshest ingredients available and utilizing sustainable foods from local farmers whenever possible."  Most of the patrons the evening we were there seemed to be 50+. Even thought Highland is just around the corner from Maple Lawn and River Hill it still seems like a taste of Howard County past.

     I had thought that the restaurant was right at the intersection of Route 108 and 216 but it is located a little way North of Route 108 on Highland Road.  The renovated home offers a number of different styled rooms.  The room we were in had a horse country theme.

     Food wise it is hard to get out without a $100+ tab for 2 people.  This probably makes it a choice for an occasional splurge.   The lobster bacon mac and cheese appetizer shown above was definitely the hit of the night.

   The seafood chowder shown above was disappointing as it was overwhelmed with beans and little seafood flavor.

   My choice shown above was the Murrays Farm Chicken with asparagus, Chicken Fried Soft Boiled Egg, Roasted Potatoes and Chicken Jus.  Very good with the chicken flavorful and moist.

   My dining partner chose the Crispy Skin Ocean Trout, Spring Vegetable Ragout, Baby Carrots, English Pea Emulsion and 60 Degree Egg.   The egg was hard to describe as it was not exactly like a poached egg but not hard boiled.
    Overall an enjoyable evening in a relaxed atmosphere, attentive wait staff and good food.

#hocofood