On sick days, you sniffle and watch Steel Magnolias (poor Shelby). But you’ll never replay senior spring break (poor KA boy).

You have a love/hate relationship with Southern comfort.

Let Rathbun’s Blue Plate Kitchen tip the scales. Texas restaurateur and Iron Chef America winner Kent Rathbun just opened the contemporary Preston Center outpost, which serves classic Southern fare (and some long-standing family recipes) with a twist.

Expect a cheaper tab and more laid-back atmosphere than you’ll get at Abacus or Jasper’s. Also prepare for loads of regionally grown products — Latte Da Dairy, CKC cheese, Round Rock Honey — some of which are harvested specifically for the restaurant (lavender-infused goat cheese, for starters).

The chicken fried Texas quail, heirloom corn-chipotle spoon bread, and hearty meatloaf are so good, they’ll make your eyes roll back.

Which, after all, is your signature move.

Rathbun’s Blue Plate Kitchen, 6130 Luther Lane, Preston Center (214- 890-1103 or kentrathbun.com).