A new year means a new chance at reflecting on what happened the previous year, while simultaneously planning your year ahead. In 2016, we discussed so many different unique, mouth-watering, soul-satisfying meals and restaurants in Georgia, it’s hard to keep track. But if we had to—if we were forced to—if we needed to pare down and come up with the ultimate 2017 restaurant bucket list in Georgia, then this would have to be it.
Reader Disclaimer: You’re about to be a whole lot hungrier than you were a minute ago.
- The Amazing Restaurant Along The Georgia Coast You Must Try Before You Die
Yelp Dive Bar Shirt Club Z Location—1213 US Hwy 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328. This no-frills restaurant along the Georgia coast features a wide variety of pretty ginormous slices of pizza. Huc-a-Poos is casual, friendly, and perfect for families who need a fulfilling bite in a laid back atmosphere.
- The Restaurant In Georgia That Serves Grilled Cheese To Die For
Facebook Jamwich Location—510 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161. These aren’t your average grilled cheese sandwiches at Jamwich in Rome, Georgia. Jamwich takes your basic grilled cheese sandwich and amplifies it by a thousand. Melty, ooey, gooey cheese, and delicious hand-crafted ingredients. What more could you want?
- The Quirkiest Restaurant In Georgia That’s Impossible Not To Love
Facebook The SOS Tiki Bar Location—340 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030. The SOS Tiki Bar in Decatur, Georgia is a one-of-a-kind spot that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped onto the beaches of Polynesia. Each of their drink selections are paired with tropical accoutrements while their food features a fun and tropical flare.
- The Bus Depot Turned Restaurant In Georgia Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience
Yelp Mike W. Location—109 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Savannah, GA 31401. This 1930s bus depot, was reconstructed to become one of the greatest restaurants in Historic Downtown Savannah: The Grey Restaurant. This refurbished Greyhound bus station has many of the same attributes today that the station once held back then plus a delectable food menu to boot.
- This Irresistible Restaurant Defines Georgia
Yelp Antawong T. Location—107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401. The line for Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room can sometimes extend around the block. Between being family-owned since the 1940s, insanely delicious family-style, Southern cooking, and the special communal dining, if you haven’t yet tried this hot spot, make 2017 the year you do.
- The Georgia Burger That Will Make You Feel Like You Can Take On Anything
Yelp Sheek T. Location—1615 Memorial Dr, Atlanta, GA 30317. The burger in Georgia that was deemed the “Best in America” by The Wall Street Journal is fondly dubbed The Ghetto Burger from Ann’s Snack Bar. This gargantuan burger is a one-of-a-kind meal that will satisfy you for days.
- This Under The Radar Restaurant In Georgia That Is Scrumdiddlyumptious
Yelp Joe C. Location—197 Oak St, Athens, GA 30601. Breakfast at its finest at Mama’s Boy. Besides the tried-and-true menu items which are truly scrumptious, Mama’s Boy always has specials too, which feature some unusual, but pleasantly enjoyable dishes.
- The Train-Themed Restaurant In Georgia That Will Make You Feel Like A Kid Again
Yelp Jo El S Location—1220 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401. This delectable Savannah-Style BBQ joint is set in an old Streamliner train car. The service is an experience in itself, the food is always top notch, and the setting of course, is worth checking out.
- The Most Unassuming Restaurant To Add To Your Georgia Dining Bucket List
Facebook Walden’s Location—3186 Washington St SW, Covington, GA 30014. If you’re not looking, you just might drive past Walden’s. But make sure you stop. This hidden gem features delicious comfort food to warm your belly and make your soul happy. It’s worth checking out, even just to try the catfish.
- There’s A Restaurant On This Remote Georgia Farm You’ll Want To Visit
Facebook The Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek Location—3093 Blue Ridge Gap Rd Clayton, GA 30525. It may be off-the-beaten bath in terms of location, but once you arrive at The Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek, you’ll be transported to another place, deep in the mountains of Northern Georgia. It’s an experience perfect for your next romantic meal out.
- This Restaurant In Georgia Used To Be A Family Home And You’ll Want To Visit
Facebook Revival Location—129 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030. Famed chef Kevin Gillespie wanted to create a restaurant which paid homage to his younger years in the South which is why he created Revival. Gillespie wanted people to gather in an old, refurbished home, in order to share a meal and enjoy time together.
- This Downright Delicious Restaurant That Proves Georgia Does Fried Chicken Right
Yelp Anthony C. Location—180 Northside Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Did you know that Paschal’s famed Atlanta restaurant was named the best fried chicken in the state by Paste magazine? The recipe has been around since the 1940s, and actually has been deemed delicious by celebrities like Dizzy Gillespie, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Aretha Franklin. It’s juicy and tender, with a thin, crispy skin.
- The Restaurant In Georgia That Is Often Overlooked But So Worth The Trip
Yelp Thinh N. Location—240 M.L.K. Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312. Nick’s Food to Go is the type of place that you may not consider trying just from the outside. But this hidden-gem serves up THE best Greek food in Georgia, and we dare you to try it before you knock it. Because you will end up loving it.
- This Restaurant In Georgia Is Located In The Most Unforgettable Setting
Yelp Emily N. Location—8055 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Nestled snugly in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find Toccoa Riverside Restaurant. It’s not just the food that’s amazing, but it’s the location—dining riverside, right next to the rushing Toccoa River waters.
- The Best Neighborhood Restaurant In Georgia With Food So Good You’ll Be Back For Seconds
Facebook Hot Rod’s Diner Location—208 Village Circle, Social Circle, GA 30025. Picture this: a 1950s atmosphere., jukeboxes on the tables, and old fashioned hamburgers. Heck, there are even Hot Rods outside in the parking lot. It’s a local dining experience you and your family will always enjoy.
- This Beachfront Restaurant In Georgia Is Out Of This World
Yelp Jose L. Location—1315 Chatham Ave, Tybee Island, GA 31328. You really can’t beat the views at AJ’s Dockside Restaurant. It’s unpretentious food, delicious drinks, and fresh seafood fried to perfection. If you have a boat or a kayak, pull on in!
- This ‘Hole In The Wall’ Restaurant In Georgia That Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away
Yelp Nicholas L. Location—21 W. Oglethorpe Lane, Savannah, GA 31401. Angel’s BBQ might not look like much from the outside, but on the inside this brilliant BBQ joint boasts some phenomenal flavors. Their sauces change so often, you’ll always have something new to try.
- Try This Georgia Restaurant For A Magical Outdoor Dining Experience
Yelp Anis Bistro Location—2974 Grandview Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305. When you think about ultimate outdoor dining, Anis Cafe and Bistro should come to mind. Not only is the food beautifully prepared and delicious, but the outdoor patio is wonderfully bohemian and full of culture.
- This Mom & Pop Restaurant In Georgia Serves Home Cooked Meals To Die For
Yelp Jean N. Location—199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601. If you haven’t yet given vegetarian or vegan cuisine a chance, then The Grit should be the place where you try. The hearty, flavorful, nutrient-rich dishes that are pleasing to the palate, are also nourishing to your soul.
- This Little Known Restaurant In Georgia Is Hard To Find But Worth The Search
Yelp Michael W. Location—2299 Main St, Tucker, GA 30084. From the outside, Matthew’s Cafeteria looks like any other regular dining establishment from the outside, but inside it’s a whole new world. Not only do the scents of fresh baked goods and fried chicken waft through the air, but this no-frills establishment is exactly what true Georgian food is about.
- This Tiny Shop In Georgia Serves A Slice of Pie To Die For
The Yesterday Cafe Location—114 N Main St, Greensboro, GA 30642. Have you ever had a slice of the Buttermilk Pie from The Yesterday Cafe in Greensboro, Georgia? Then what are you waiting for?! This delicious pie has been ranked as one of the best pies of the south by Southern Living Magazine. 2017 is the year of the pie.
- This Old Restaurant In Georgia Has Stood The Test Of Time
Facebook The Plaza Restaurant and Oyster Bar Location—217 Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792. It’s hard to say no to the oldest restaurant in the entire state. Especially when they have a delectable lunch buffet as stellar as The Plaza’s. It’s a must-visit whenever you’re in the area.
- This Restaurant Serves The Best Biscuits And Gravy In Georgia
Yelp Mick D. Location— 2756 S Main St NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144. Let me just say, there is nothing ugly about the biscuits at The Ugly Biscuit. You can jazz up your biscuits and gravy with items like fried chicken, egg, or bacon. Or if you’re feeling nostalgic, just get ’em served up the old fashioned way.
If you feel like you’re on a 2017 planning roll, then keep on planning this year with The 19 Places You Should Go In Georgia In 2017.
Yelp Dive Bar Shirt Club Z
Location—1213 US Hwy 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328. This no-frills restaurant along the Georgia coast features a wide variety of pretty ginormous slices of pizza. Huc-a-Poos is casual, friendly, and perfect for families who need a fulfilling bite in a laid back atmosphere.
Facebook Jamwich
Location—510 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161. These aren’t your average grilled cheese sandwiches at Jamwich in Rome, Georgia. Jamwich takes your basic grilled cheese sandwich and amplifies it by a thousand. Melty, ooey, gooey cheese, and delicious hand-crafted ingredients. What more could you want?
Facebook The SOS Tiki Bar
Location—340 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030. The SOS Tiki Bar in Decatur, Georgia is a one-of-a-kind spot that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped onto the beaches of Polynesia. Each of their drink selections are paired with tropical accoutrements while their food features a fun and tropical flare.
Yelp Mike W.
Location—109 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Savannah, GA 31401. This 1930s bus depot, was reconstructed to become one of the greatest restaurants in Historic Downtown Savannah: The Grey Restaurant. This refurbished Greyhound bus station has many of the same attributes today that the station once held back then plus a delectable food menu to boot.
Yelp Antawong T.
Location—107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401. The line for Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room can sometimes extend around the block. Between being family-owned since the 1940s, insanely delicious family-style, Southern cooking, and the special communal dining, if you haven’t yet tried this hot spot, make 2017 the year you do.
Yelp Sheek T.
Location—1615 Memorial Dr, Atlanta, GA 30317. The burger in Georgia that was deemed the “Best in America” by The Wall Street Journal is fondly dubbed The Ghetto Burger from Ann’s Snack Bar. This gargantuan burger is a one-of-a-kind meal that will satisfy you for days.
Yelp Joe C.
Location—197 Oak St, Athens, GA 30601. Breakfast at its finest at Mama’s Boy. Besides the tried-and-true menu items which are truly scrumptious, Mama’s Boy always has specials too, which feature some unusual, but pleasantly enjoyable dishes.
Yelp Jo El S
Location—1220 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401. This delectable Savannah-Style BBQ joint is set in an old Streamliner train car. The service is an experience in itself, the food is always top notch, and the setting of course, is worth checking out.
Facebook Walden’s
Location—3186 Washington St SW, Covington, GA 30014. If you’re not looking, you just might drive past Walden’s. But make sure you stop. This hidden gem features delicious comfort food to warm your belly and make your soul happy. It’s worth checking out, even just to try the catfish.
Facebook The Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek
Location—3093 Blue Ridge Gap Rd Clayton, GA 30525. It may be off-the-beaten bath in terms of location, but once you arrive at The Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek, you’ll be transported to another place, deep in the mountains of Northern Georgia. It’s an experience perfect for your next romantic meal out.
Facebook Revival
Location—129 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030. Famed chef Kevin Gillespie wanted to create a restaurant which paid homage to his younger years in the South which is why he created Revival. Gillespie wanted people to gather in an old, refurbished home, in order to share a meal and enjoy time together.
Yelp Anthony C.
Location—180 Northside Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Did you know that Paschal’s famed Atlanta restaurant was named the best fried chicken in the state by Paste magazine? The recipe has been around since the 1940s, and actually has been deemed delicious by celebrities like Dizzy Gillespie, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Aretha Franklin. It’s juicy and tender, with a thin, crispy skin.
Yelp Thinh N.
Location—240 M.L.K. Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312. Nick’s Food to Go is the type of place that you may not consider trying just from the outside. But this hidden-gem serves up THE best Greek food in Georgia, and we dare you to try it before you knock it. Because you will end up loving it.
Yelp Emily N.
Location—8055 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Nestled snugly in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find Toccoa Riverside Restaurant. It’s not just the food that’s amazing, but it’s the location—dining riverside, right next to the rushing Toccoa River waters.
Facebook Hot Rod’s Diner
Location—208 Village Circle, Social Circle, GA 30025. Picture this: a 1950s atmosphere., jukeboxes on the tables, and old fashioned hamburgers. Heck, there are even Hot Rods outside in the parking lot. It’s a local dining experience you and your family will always enjoy.
Yelp Jose L.
Location—1315 Chatham Ave, Tybee Island, GA 31328. You really can’t beat the views at AJ’s Dockside Restaurant. It’s unpretentious food, delicious drinks, and fresh seafood fried to perfection. If you have a boat or a kayak, pull on in!
Yelp Nicholas L.
Location—21 W. Oglethorpe Lane, Savannah, GA 31401. Angel’s BBQ might not look like much from the outside, but on the inside this brilliant BBQ joint boasts some phenomenal flavors. Their sauces change so often, you’ll always have something new to try.
Yelp Anis Bistro
Location—2974 Grandview Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305. When you think about ultimate outdoor dining, Anis Cafe and Bistro should come to mind. Not only is the food beautifully prepared and delicious, but the outdoor patio is wonderfully bohemian and full of culture.
Yelp Jean N.
Location—199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601. If you haven’t yet given vegetarian or vegan cuisine a chance, then The Grit should be the place where you try. The hearty, flavorful, nutrient-rich dishes that are pleasing to the palate, are also nourishing to your soul.
Yelp Michael W.
Location—2299 Main St, Tucker, GA 30084. From the outside, Matthew’s Cafeteria looks like any other regular dining establishment from the outside, but inside it’s a whole new world. Not only do the scents of fresh baked goods and fried chicken waft through the air, but this no-frills establishment is exactly what true Georgian food is about.
The Yesterday Cafe
Location—114 N Main St, Greensboro, GA 30642. Have you ever had a slice of the Buttermilk Pie from The Yesterday Cafe in Greensboro, Georgia? Then what are you waiting for?! This delicious pie has been ranked as one of the best pies of the south by Southern Living Magazine. 2017 is the year of the pie.
Facebook The Plaza Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Location—217 Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792. It’s hard to say no to the oldest restaurant in the entire state. Especially when they have a delectable lunch buffet as stellar as The Plaza’s. It’s a must-visit whenever you’re in the area.
Yelp Mick D.
Location— 2756 S Main St NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144. Let me just say, there is nothing ugly about the biscuits at The Ugly Biscuit. You can jazz up your biscuits and gravy with items like fried chicken, egg, or bacon. Or if you’re feeling nostalgic, just get ’em served up the old fashioned way.
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