Out of the 44 categories in this year’s Best of Rowan contest...
Voters were most enthusiastic about the food section – going so far as to give it the three most-voted categories. Across the board, the votes showed the strength of your loyalty and excitement for a few special eateries. In honor of that, I did a round at the winners’ tables. I ate, and here is my take on five of your most-loved restaurants in Rowan County. - Chassity Overcash
 Bangkok Garden (Best Asian)
With an abundance of Chinese restaurants in the area, it was nice to see Thai fare come out on top. Winner of the Best Asian category, this intimate, inviting restaurant features a sushi bar, Japanese grill and Thai cuisine.
Whether you’re dining with the family or planning a romantic date, Bangkok Garden is a good choice. The menu offers a lot to choose from, including food from other Asian cultures. Expect a leisurely meal with kind service and delicious food.
What to eat? Try the sesame chicken. I hate to steer you away from a more exotic meal, but it’s just so delicious. Served with white rice and small dessert pastry (or fortune cookie), it’s worth getting excited about.
Gary’s Bar-B-Cue (Best Barbecue)
 It’s hard to stand out in a category as competitive as this one, because if there’s one thing Rowan County has, it’s barbecue joints. But Gary’s fans pulled through in honor of service, humble management, hometown feel, and of course barbecue.
Decorated with antique advertising memorabilia, this decades-old eatery was opened with the idea that “good food and good service in a clean restaurant” would lead to success. And it certainly has. Over the years since 1971, the space has grown from a seating capacity of 50 to one of more than 200.
What to eat? Of course, try the chopped barbecue - on a sandwich, open-faced, or otherwise. Add half a dozen hushpuppies to finish things off right.
 The Farmhouse (Best Breakfast)
This restaurant won best breakfast because of its Southern comfort. With its warm wooden décor, polite service and country menu, The Farmhouse is ideal for breakfast - or any meal for that matter.
Join the family around a large table and take your pick from the menu of certifiable country cuisine. The kitchen cooks up all your favorites, everything from country-fried steak and chicken salad sandwiches to oysters and other seafood.
What to eat? If you’re there for breakfast, try the country-style biscuits with gravy. There any other time? Then try the fried chicken, one of the most popular menu items. Done the way Grandma would have, it’s a delicious reminder of the heritage and flavors of Southern cooking.
 Salty Caper (Best Pizza)
Inside this tiny restaurant is a wood-fired oven churning out the best pizzas in Rowan County. The menu is small, but it’s got more than enough to satisfy. Pizzas come in two sizes or by the slice when available. Eat them at the bar, at one of a few tables, or outside on the patio while enjoying good music, the sports on TV, or even the company of your dinnermates.
What to eat? Try any of their pizzas with Gouda. I promise it’s a whole new experience. Fresh tomatoes and Italian sausage make it even better. Our only warning: don’t order the spinach. That is, unless you want a salad to go with your pizza. Better yet, order the spinach and get a good laugh at what comes out.
 Blue Bay (Best Seafood)
With two locations in Salisbury – this family restaurant has something for everyone. Kids will enjoy the nautical theme, the waterfall; adults will appreciate the service; and everyone will find something delicious to eat.
Specializing in calabash-style seafood, Blue Bay welcomes groups of all sizes and offers private dining rooms for parties and meetings. And if you don’t have time to sit and eat, don’t worry. There is take-out.
What to eat? If you want the most popular dish, try the popcorn shrimp. But the staff will be disappointed if you do. What do they recommend? The grilled chicken with steamed rice and vegetables – a healthy, tasty menu option. It may seem odd to recommend the chicken at a seafood restaurant, but you won’t be disappointed.
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