Feast on 17 South

Enjoy an Upscale dining experience without breaking the bank

By LISA CARLISLE | Photos courtesy of 17 SOUTH and RAE ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Prepare to fall head over heels for the latest sensation in town — 17 South! Imagine this: a tantalizing blend of upscale flavors, all perfectly seasoned to bring an explosion of bright tastes to your palate. This new culinary gem is led by the talented trio of Isen Ismaili, Eric Seidel and Keith Bynum.

Bynum, not only a co-owner but the ingenious chef at the helm, knows where love meets cuisine. This Temple location has transformed into a feast for the senses as 17 South and the reviews since opening have been exemplary.

“The game is all about confidence,” Bynum said. “With each good review, it builds your confidence and makes you want to do better.”

At 17 South, the air is charged with romance and elegance. A cozy and relaxing ambiance, carefully crafted with just the right balance of lighting and soft music, sets the scene for an unforgettable dining experience that’s equally welcoming for families, romantic dates or even corporate gatherings. What sets 17 South apart is its multifaceted space — an upper level offers live music to enhance your dining pleasure or the flexibility to rent it for private soirées.

“We wanted to offer an elevated experience for people to both get what they were used to moving here from larger cities but also for locals to get back what they may have lost from COVID hitting,” Bynum said.

Now, let’s talk about the menu — a culinary love story penned by Bynum. Each dish is a masterpiece, an expression of love for food. The offerings aren’t just savory, they’re meticulously curated flavor pairings that are not only beautiful but also deserving of your camera’s attention.

Adhering to the “you eat with your eyes first” theory, the contrasting colors combined with textual variations entice the visual allure.

Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, with artisanal bread set on your table from Megg’s Cafe and Hamilton Bread Co. For dessert, indulge in heavenly creations from Morgan Pearl Bakery, handcrafted and delivered daily. Tres leches, raspberry mousse, or brown butter cheesecake with pecans — the choice is a difficult one!

Favorite dishes include beautifully balanced citrus salmon to lamb chops to the “by demand, not request” revitalized diablo ravioli to hanger steak. Collaboration being key to 17 South, the entrees pair with PFG, Westphailia Meat Market, as well as Braveheart Beef.

“It is so hard now to have a successful small business, so the more we support others small businesses to tie in, the better,” Bynum said.

The food may not even be the most impressive part of 17 South, the respect and love for the staff may shine even brighter.

“We want to tell them every day that we appreciate them,” Seidel said, with Ismaili adding, “Everyone is treated with enormous respect.”

The trio knows very well the work it takes to ensure regulars keep coming through their doors. 17 South is more than just a dining spot; it’s a love letter to your taste buds. With its blend of modernity and tradition, this establishment exudes class and elegance, promising a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.

“We wanted to deliver an experience you can afford multiple times over and to target all demographics,” Bynum said.

So, gather your loved ones, come for the flavors, stay for the love, and let 17 South be the stage for your next unforgettable culinary exploration.

17 South
Phone: 254-727-4132
Website: 17-south.com
Address: 17 S. Main St., Temple