More Than a Meal: Finding Safety and Kindness at a Hancock Street Gem

By: Rhonda Nelson 

MILLEDGEVILLE, GA — When dining out with severe food allergies, a simple meal can quickly become stressful. As someone with major shellfish and seafood allergies, I’m always cautious about trying new restaurants. But during my recent visit to Shima on Hancock Street in Milledgeville, that anxiety was replaced with something far more comforting — genuine care.

From the moment I explained my allergies, my server, Chloe, took the concern seriously. She didn’t just nod and move on; she asked thoughtful questions, checked ingredients, and reassured me that she would personally confirm everything with the kitchen.

What stood out even more was the involvement of the owner, Ivan Manoylov. Instead of leaving the situation to chance, he came out to speak with me directly. He explained how they would prevent cross contamination, what items were safest, and how the kitchen would prepare my food separately. That level of transparency immediately built trust.

For someone with life-threatening allergies, those steps mean everything. Dining out can often feel like a gamble, but at Shima, it felt like a partnership — the staff working with me to make sure I could enjoy my meal safely.

And enjoy it I did. The food was thoughtfully prepared, the service attentive without being overwhelming, and the atmosphere welcoming. More than just a good meal, the experience reminded me how powerful it is when a restaurant prioritizes its customers’ wellbeing.

For anyone in Milledgeville who has dietary restrictions or allergies, my experience at Shima showed that dining out doesn’t have to mean compromising safety. Sometimes, it can mean finding a place that truly has your back.