51 To Go

Food With A Twist of Soul
Welcome to one of Flint’s newest eateries with soul. A departure from the traditional chain restaurant, here you can find cuisines that will satisfy any taste. The menu wasn’t overwhelming, yet offered a decent variety of entrees and dishes not offered at traditional mom and pop restaurants such as their signature side dish «cheesy grits.» After browsing the sandwiches, burgers, rib tips and tacos, and receiving suggestions from the cashier, I decided to try their fresh seafood and ordered a shrimp platter (with macaroni and cheese and collard greens with smoked turkey) and a large Cherry Coke. Not Coke and Grenadine, but the real thing. What a treat! They even had Mellow Yellow. I was in soda pop heaven.
The restaurant had homemade dessert samples of turtle cheesecake and banana pudding for customers to try on the counter. Both items were tasty, however I was won over by the soft and chewy wafers and the light and fluffy texture of the banana pudding. Not to mention I received a nice sized piece of banana pudding for only $ 3.50.
As I took a seat in the small and empty dining area and waited for my meal, I observed several flint athletic artifacts. It is clear that the management has a nostalgic connection to the Flint Area.
My food arrived. The seven shrimp were far from jumbo shrimp, but beyond popcorn status. The cocktail sauce would have been a good pair if it didn’t turn into a stiff gel. My side dishes reminded me of thanksgiving at my grandmothers house with the extra cheesy macaroni and cheese and plump pieces of turkey peaking through the collard greens.
The cashier supplied my first drink refill, but after that I was on my own, downgrading my dining experience from «dining in» to «fast casual». The head chef/​owner came out and welcomed me and inquired about my meal. He also asked if I would sample his new vegan pasta creation. I graciously accepted. After tasting his pesto sauce made from fresh collard greens and zucchini noodle substitution (making it gluten free), I wish I would have known about this option upon ordering.
Although I didn’t leave with any leftovers, the food and hospitality was well worth its price. I hoped to try the house’s highly acclaimed pineapple pudding (not featured on the menu), but my stomach capacity wasn’t permitting. I would definitely come back and bring a friend… or two!

I have had southern food before, but this «To Go» place is AMAZING! Everything is made from scratch, most is locally purchased and the staff is one of the friendliest that I’ve encountered. I’ve never tasted food this good from a «to go» spot! Kudo’s! This is a must stop kind of location. It has a 40’s and 50’s vibe, very clean and they are opening the other side as a sit down area.