Bites Nearby: RS Jones

Whether spring break is going to be an actual vacation to a faraway land or simply a mental retreat from work, school and obligations for your family, chances are everyone will return still craving bits of other cultures infused into daily life.

Head west – without packing bags and purchasing hefty round trip plane fares – to Zagat-rated southwestern cuisine and barbecue at Rattlesnake Jones, affectionately known as RS Jones by the locals.

Rolling in on the average day, zesty favorites from near the border await your palette. Keep it real with rattlesnake chicken chili that is indeed made with meat from one of those slithering critters. The less daring foodie can select from sweet potato pancakes, quesadillas, gumbo, vegetarian chili and other tantalizing favorites.

After indulging in one of these hearty starters, check the main menus for entrees including skirt steak marinated in teriyaki-style barbecue sauce, chicken fried steak, barbecue chicken, catfish, Rocky Mountain rainbow trout and a special meat of the day cooked on hickory wood and dazzled up in a special sauce.

Waist-watching western cuisine lovers will be happy to know that RS Jones serves several dishes designed to keep your diet in check. Select broiled large shrimp, grilled chicken breast or pan seared market cod served over a salad or fresh steamed vegetables. These options are all gluten free as well.

Specials are switched up on a daily basis, so go in frequently to get a full round of all of your favorites. Examples of cuisine from their specials menu include vidalia onion pie, cream of broccoli soup, ancho-rubbed and beer braised ribs, smoked duck salad and chicken or steak fajitas.

Your experience at the restaurant does not have to end at the door. The staff also offers catering services, in addition to off-site cooking, servers and bartenders for any size affair that you may be hosting. Consider ringing in the first barbecue of the season with some smoky, spicy, southwestern cuisine.

Pick up one of their 22 homemade pies as you depart to take back to your abode for later. The options range from the exotic banana fudge freeze and three cookie cake, to traditional homey favorites such as chocolate pecan, peanut butter, chocolate pudding and banana cream pie.

Live entertainment, psychic events, price fixe Tuesday night dinners and rib nights every Wednesday of the month are only some of the intriguing events that create a vibrant atmosphere for a scrumptious meal.