It’s too bad that the owner’s rumored coke habit shuttered Trattoria Strada Nova, what used to be one of Columbia’s best upscale restaurants. Trat’s rustic Italian theme mimicked bistros in bigger cities, and although the prices were hardly affordable on a college-student budget, they were certainly in the bring-your-parents-here range.

Luckily, Abigail’s in Rocheport fits the same bill: gourmet food at reasonable prices in a dress-up-or-down atmosphere.  Opened by a former chef from Les Bourgeouis (who doesn’t love the winery?), Abigail’s caters to a mixed crowd – Katy Trail hikers, couples on dates, families enjoying a nice dinner.  The menu, displayed on a dry-erase easel and moved from table to table, changes daily, and the dessert menu boasts a rotating staple of freshly baked pies. This is a good choice for graduation weekend.  It’s open for lunch and dinner; reservations required for dinner.