The Purple Onion was conceived in 1998. Susan envisioned a gathering place, which would reflect the gracious casual pace that has characterized Saluda for years; a third place, a neutral place, away from home or work, for friends and family to come together for great food, good conversation, and live music. With help from Stoney Lamar, her husband, a dedicated staff and many good friends the Purple Onion flourished with that vision as its guide. In 2020 Susan passed the torch to Chambli Stuber and Emily Lamar, who continue the legacy that Susan built over the last 21 years.

Located in Historic Saluda, with outdoor dining available and live music on Thursday and Saturday night, The Purple Onion features a variety of ethnically inspired dishes with an emphasis on the Mediterranean’s simple and healthful cuisine. The menu offers pizzas, pastas, seafood, vegetarian and meat dishes using locally raised trout and organic locally grown produce when available, antibiotic and hormone free meats and poultry. Fresh locally roasted coffee and espresso are available as well as a selection of fine wines and beers including biodynamic and organic selections.