Bring water to a boil. Stir in a teaspoon of salt.. Add grits and cook until water is absorbed, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheese. Season with salt & pepper to taste.
Rinse shrimp and pat dry. Fry the bacon in a large skillet until browned; drain well. In grease, add shrimp. Cook until shrimp turn pink. Add lemon juice, chopped bacon, parsley, scallions and garlic. Saute for 3 more minutes.
Spoon grits into a serving bowl. Add shrimp mixture. Serve immediately.