It isn't everyday that a new restaurant opens in our local area, and it is a rare event indeed when a new restaurant opens that isn't a corporate chain. However, one local eatery that has hung out it's shingle is that wonderful combination of both good food and local culture. It is a place where you can go and immediately feel right at home while you enjoy some of the best food in the area. The name of this restaurant is Jabo's State of Mine located in Hazard, Kentucky.

My wife and I were out on a date night last Friday night when we decided on a whim to try out this new restaurant. We eat out a lot! In fact, several people might say that we eat out too much. But we say...if we don't have to cook it or wash the dishes then it is perfect! So, on our way to Hazard, we were going over our usual favorites. Nothing seemed to peak our interest until I suddenly remembered that some of my Facebook friends had been going on about a new place called Jabo's State of Mine. My wife agreed that she would like to try it out and so off we went.

Entering the place, I was very impressed with the atmosphere. I love restaurants that have low lighting because it gives the place a cozy atmosphere. Jabo's did not disappoint in this. The lighting was low enough to be cozy and to bring attention to the wonderful fireplace in the back. The combination of the low light and the fire made me feel right at home. I also appreciated the sign posted at the front that stated "In God We Trust." You just don't see enough of that in today's world.

After being seated very quickly, we scanned that menu. I loved the fact that everything on the menu is named after something in Kentucky. For example, instead of a Kentucky hot brown, my wife ordered an Eastern Kentucky Hot Brown. There were other examples on the menu that I could tell you about, but believe me....you have to go and experience this place for yourself.

While we were enjoying a hearty appetizer of cheese fries, I took some time to look around at the decor. For those of you who are into supporting coal and coal miners, you will truly appreciate the pictures that are placed around the restaurant. There are several pictures of coal miners, mines, and other pictures related to the coal industry.

After enjoying the appetizer and a great meal, I decided that I just had to write about Jabo's State of Mine. I asked some questions to our wonderful waitress who called herself Amazing Grace....and she was truly amazing! If you go, I hope you get to experience her cheery disposition and wonderful service! Grace informed me that the owner was in the place, and she immediately introduced him to me.

The owner, Jabo Clemons, is a man who knows the restaurant business. He has been in the business for over 4 years. After being successful in other areas in the business, he knew that he wanted to bring a nice restaurant back to Perry County where he has lived his entire life. Originally, the place was going to be a Tony Romas. However, he decided that he wanted to do something a little bit different....and in my opinion, better....here in our local area.

Mr. Clemons stated, "If I had opened a Tony Romas, I would have to put stuff on the menu that doesn't sell. But with a local business, I can put things on the menu that people want." So instead of op