Places to Eat in Ellijay, Georgia

The Falls at Blue Ridge

20 minutes from Ellijay in Blue Ridge

An elegant fine-dining destination featuring chef-inspired cuisine, artisanal cocktails, and breathtaking waterfall views. The sophisticated menu showcases locally sourced ingredients with dishes like dry-aged steaks, citrus butter sea bass, bone marrow tartare, and creative small plates. Enjoy refined weekend brunch with everything from freshly baked pastries to succulent meats. The Conservatory Bar offers an immersive cocktail experience surrounded by mountain panoramas.

Dress Code: Smart casual (no shorts or athletic wear)

Perfect For: Anniversaries, special celebrations, romantic dinners, gourmet brunch

✨ Guest Favorite: "Simply amazing! The filet mignon was fantastic, the waterfall view is gorgeous, and service was very attentive."

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The Roof Ellijay

Downtown Ellijay - Rooftop

Panoramic views of downtown and the North Georgia mountains from this popular rooftop gathering spot. Start with standout small plates like Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes with house-made buttermilk dressing. Mains include Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese, Shrimp Cakes, and the famous Roof Burger. During Cocktail Hour, don't miss creative drinks like the Sprig and Berry or Mountain Margarita. Perfect for sunset dining!

🌟 Signature Dish: Fried Green Tomatoes and the Roof Burger with mountain views

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The Butcher and Bottle

Downtown Ellijay

A restaurant and bar offering a homey atmosphere with exposed brick walls, handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and hearty meals. Popular dishes include Dry-Aged Steaks, Salmon, Diablo Shrimp, and Southern-style entrées. Pair your meal with artisan cocktails or local craft beer, enjoy exceptional service, and catch live music on select nights. The inviting patio is perfect for relaxed outdoor dining.

🎵 Bonus: Live music some evenings - check their schedule!

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Colonel Poole's Bar-B-Q (Pig Hill of Fame)

East Ellijay on Highway 52

An internationally famous BBQ joint serving Southern-style barbecue for over 3 decades! The red-roofed building has earned affectionate nicknames including "Pig Hill of Fame," "Taj-Ma-Hog," and "Hog Rock Cafe." Feast on smoked pork, beef, or chicken with sides like Brunswick stew, hickory fries, onion rings, and homemade coleslaw. Don't miss their fried apple pie for dessert! Weekend favorite with generous portions.

🔥 Must-Try: Brisket sandwich, hickory fries & fried apple pie

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Bigun's BBQ

362 Carnes Mill Road, Talking Rock (10 minutes south of Ellijay on Hwy 515)

Many locals call this the best burgers and barbecue in the area! A former best-kept secret now worth the short drive south on Highway 515. Generous portions of slow-cooked BBQ, juicy burgers, and all the classic sides. Check their website for the full menu before you visit. Perfect stop if you're heading to or from Atlanta.

🌟 Local Secret: Worth the 10-minute drive for authentic BBQ

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Mike's Ellijay Restaurant

Downtown Ellijay

For down-home Southern comfort food, Mike's is a local treasure. Classic country cooking with all your favorites - fried chicken, meatloaf, country fried steak, vegetables, cornbread, and homemade desserts. The kind of place where locals gather for hearty meals and friendly conversation. Generous portions at reasonable prices!

🍗 Comfort Food Heaven: Classic Southern cooking done right

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Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza (Cartecay River Pizza Company)

Downtown Ellijay - Historic Building

Housed in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building once tied to the timber industry, this beloved local treasure serves deliciously smoky, crisp wood-fired pizzas. Try unique pies like the earthy shiitake-truffle special, smoky "Black Goat," or classic Margherita. The Pomodoro (elevated Margherita) is a fan favorite. Pair your pizza with craft beers on tap. Don't miss the wood-fired French onion soup or fresh Caesar salad!

Signature Pizzas: Pomodoro, Black Goat, shiitake-truffle, classic Margherita

🔥 Guest Rave: "100/10 Stars! The burrata bomb is so cheesy, so delicious. This place is not a want, it is a MUST!"

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Ellijay Tapz

Downtown Ellijay

A favorite local spot serving fresh-made pizzas with homemade dough and loaded topping options. Build your own pizza or try house specials like bacon buffalo chicken. Beyond great pizza, Ellijay Tapz serves hot dogs, soft pretzels, cheese sticks, meatballs, wings, and burgers. Fun, casual environment perfect for families or groups. Good selection of beers on tap!

🍻 Perfect For: Casual dining, groups, sports watching

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La Catrina Tacos & Margaritas

Downtown Ellijay

Family-owned and fully authentic! La Catrina brings vibrant Mexican flavors to Ellijay. Start with crunchy sopecitos, empanadas, or their famous house-made guacamole. The taco lineup is impressive: savory steak street tacos, famous birria, fresh fish tacos (mahi mahi & shrimp), and more. Popular "Catrina Bowl" layers meat or vegetarian options over rice, beans, queso, crema, and pico de gallo. Pair with handcrafted margaritas like the hibiscus-infused Black Diamond or zingy Cucumber Jalapeño.

Special: Kids eat free on Wednesdays!

🍹 Signature Drinks: Black Diamond & Cucumber Jalapeño margaritas

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El Rey Mexican Grill

Ellijay

Authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions and friendly service! El Rey serves all the favorites: tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, and combination platters. Fresh ingredients, flavorful dishes, and reasonable prices make this a local go-to for Mexican food. Full bar with margaritas and Mexican beers. Family-friendly atmosphere!

🌮 Local Favorite: Consistent quality and generous portions

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Mucho Kaliente

Ellijay

Delicious Mexican food with a fun, lively atmosphere! Mucho Kaliente offers classic Mexican dishes with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Known for their sizzling fajitas, loaded nachos, and tasty margaritas. Great spot for groups or family dinners. The portions are generous and the service is friendly!

🔥 Must-Try: Sizzling fajitas & house margaritas

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Back Porch Bistro

Downtown Ellijay

Authentic Cuban sandwiches and healthy options in a clean, welcoming, dog-friendly environment! The menu includes delicious salads, wraps, vegetarian options, and even a house-made bean burger. Perfect for quick, tasty meals when you want something fresh and flavorful. Outdoor seating available for you and your furry friend!

🐕 Dog-Friendly: Enjoy your meal on the patio with your pup!

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Cajun Grill (Old Train Depot)

Historic downtown Ellijay in the Old Train Depot building

Authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine in a historic setting! Generous portions of spicy gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, po' boys, crawfish, and more. Bold Louisiana flavors transported to the North Georgia mountains. The historic train depot location adds extra charm to your dining experience.

🌶️ Spice Level: Authentic Louisiana heat - ask if you prefer mild!

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The Shack of Ellijay

Downtown Ellijay

Fun Asian fusion dining with a casual local vibe! The spicy tuna poke bowl is a crowd favorite. Don't miss spring rolls, potstickers, Vietnamese pho, bao buns, ramen, noodle bowls, and Boba Tea in multiple flavors. Each dish is beautifully presented (very Instagrammable!). Perfect quick-meal stop after hiking or driving through town. Vegan options available!

🧋 Must-Try: Spicy tuna poke bowl & peach-olada bubble tea

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Kasei Sushi & Sake

Near downtown Ellijay

Fresh fish and Japanese cuisine by a master sushi chef! Extensive menu includes seaweed salad, pork gyoza, miso soup, curry, rice bowls, and sushi (sashimi, nigiri, and rolls). The sake list is extensive. Vegetarian, pescetarian, and vegan options available. Popular rolls include the Fuji Mountain roll. Quality ingredients and expert preparation make this a standout!

Hours: Wed-Sat 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM & 5:00 – 9:00 PM | Closed Sun-Tue

🍱 Favorites: Fuji Mountain roll, steamed shumai & banzai bunny sake

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Cornerstone Cafe

Downtown Ellijay on Main Street

Family-owned local favorite for classic Southern breakfasts and late weekend brunch! Known for filling breakfasts including the popular spinach feta omelet. The menu has all the hearty specials expected for the ultimate country breakfast: fresh eggs, grits, hash brown potatoes, bacon, ham, sausage, and homemade biscuits. Friendly service and locals chatting over coffee create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

🍳 Breakfast Favorite: Country fried steak, home fries & homemade biscuit

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Cantaberry Restaurant

Two locations: Historic Downtown Ellijay and Blue Ridge

"Simple, Homemade…Good." Specializing in homemade soups, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and delicious desserts at reasonable prices. Crowd pleasers include their signature Tomato Basil soup, Chicken and Wild Rice soup, Chicken Salad, Missile Meaty Sandwich, and Fried Chicken Sandwich. Don't skip the sweet potato fries or seasonal salad! Dog-friendly outdoor patio. Very friendly employees!

🥣 Signature Soups: Tomato-Basil & Chicken-and-Wild-Rice

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Bev's Diner

Downtown Ellijay area

Old-fashioned 1950s-themed diner with some of the best burgers and fries you'll ever taste! High-quality ingredients make all the difference. Classic smash burgers, home-style onion rings, and amazing flavored milkshakes with authentic 50s ambiance. Generous portions and friendly service. If you're craving a delicious throwback burger experience, Bev's delivers!

🍔 Guest Rave: "Some of the best burgers and fries we've had anywhere!"

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The Country Corner Kitchen

Near downtown

Southern American cafe serving breakfast and lunch with generous portions and friendly service. Try the Cuban sandwich, pork platter, Cuban tacos, Gyro with Potato Salad, or Fiesta Wrap with Apple Slaw. Quick, filling meals in a casual atmosphere. Great for grabbing breakfast before heading out on adventures!

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River Street Tavern

Downtown Ellijay near the river

Relaxed tavern atmosphere with good food and drinks. Popular for lunch and dinner with a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and pub fare. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the mountain air. Great spot to unwind after exploring downtown!

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Hemlock Bazaar (formerly Ellijay Coffeehouse)

Downtown Ellijay on Main Street

A new kind of Appalachian Marketplace! This beloved local coffee shop has evolved into a multi-faceted space selling coffee, books, records, art, kitsch, local goods, and more. They now roast their own coffee! Cozy atmosphere with quirky seating perfect for lingering over lattes. Try signature drinks like the Bigfoot Latte or Toasted Coconut Latte. Paninis and pastries available. There's even a room with old records, antique action figures, board games, and retro toys!

Hours: 7 AM - 7 PM, 7 days a week

☕ Local Favorite: "Warm, friendly vibe with great coffee and quirky charm!"

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Das Kaffee Haus

Downtown Square Ellijay

European-inspired coffee shop and bakery right in the heart of downtown! Professional European-style espresso drinks (hot or cold), fresh tea, frappes, and baked goods. Don't miss the iconic painted Coca-Cola mural on the side of the building - a perfect selfie spot! Charming atmosphere and friendly baristas make this a downtown favorite.

📸 Instagram Spot: Famous Coca-Cola mural!

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Mountain Town Coffee

Historic building in Ellijay

A true hidden gem with fantastic coffee, breakfast items, atmosphere, and staff! Housed in an old historic building that surprises you with wonderful smells of fresh coffee and cappuccinos when you open the door. The exterior isn't remarkable, but inside is special. Friendly service and quality brews make this worth seeking out!

🌟 Hidden Gem: Don't judge by the exterior - inside is amazing!

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Arlowe's Bakehouse

Downtown area

Adorable boutique cottage bakery specializing in artisanal bread and hand-crafted pastries! Savory breads include country sourdough loaves and scrumptious rosemary, garlic, and parmesan focaccia. For something sweet, try delectable French Madeleines, scones, or house rice krispie treats. Gluten-free and vegan baked goods available for those with dietary restrictions. Everything is freshly made!

🥖 Artisan Favorite: Country sourdough loaf & house rice krispie

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A Little Baked Bakery

Downtown Ellijay

Family bakery offering delicious bars, cakes & tortes, cookies, pies, loaves, and many seasonal goodies! Everything is made fresh with care. Perfect for grabbing sweet treats to enjoy at your cabin or picking up dessert for special occasions.

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Cartecay River Brewing Company

Downtown Ellijay

10-barrel craft brewery offering excellent food, top-quality craft beer, and cocktails! Enjoy house-brewed beers on tap paired with elevated pub fare. Relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for sampling local brews. Great spot to unwind after a day of exploring!

🍻 Local Brews: Rotating taps of house-crafted beers

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Fudge and Company

Downtown Ellijay

Ellijay's very own Bavarian Chocolatier and Fudge shop! Handmade truffles, rich fudge, chocolate-covered marshmallows, and outstanding taffy selection - all freshly made daily. Perfect for indulging yourself or finding the perfect gift. Every sweet treat ensures you're getting nothing but the best!

🍫 All Fresh: Made daily for maximum deliciousness!

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Abby's Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt

Downtown Ellijay

Ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, and nitro coffee! Many varieties with lots of toppings. Delicious treats in a welcoming environment. Perfect for cooling off on hot summer days or enjoying a sweet treat after dinner!

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The Chili Dog

Downtown area

Fun casual spot for hot dogs, ice cream, and candy with a touch of childhood nostalgia! Enjoy a delicious scoop of ice cream after your hot dog or snag some candies to snack on. Dog-friendly with outdoor and covered seating. Perfect for families and a quick, tasty bite!

🐕 Furry Friends Welcome: Dog-friendly outdoor seating

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Dairy Queen

Ellijay

Classic DQ treats including Blizzards, ice cream cakes, burgers, chicken strips, and hot dogs. Perfect for a quick meal or sweet treat after apple picking!

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Burger King

Ellijay

Flame-grilled burgers, Whoppers, chicken sandwiches, and fries. Fast, convenient, and consistently familiar.

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Waffle House

Ellijay

Open 24/7 for breakfast anytime! Hash browns scattered, smothered, and covered; waffles; eggs; bacon; and classic diner fare. A Southern road trip staple!

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McDonald's

Ellijay

Golden arches serving burgers, fries, McNuggets, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee. Quick and convenient with a drive-thru.

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Subway

Ellijay

Build-your-own subs and sandwiches with fresh vegetables and various protein options. Healthier fast-food alternative.

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Arby's

Ellijay

They have the meats! Roast beef sandwiches, curly fries, and Market Fresh sandwiches. Drive-thru available.

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Zaxby's

Ellijay

Southern chicken chain specializing in chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches, and signature Zax sauce. Perfect for a quick chicken fix!

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Hardee's

Ellijay

Charbroiled burgers, hand-breaded chicken tenders, and breakfast biscuits. Known for their Thickburgers and Made from Scratch biscuits.

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Taco Bell

Ellijay

Quick Tex-Mex with tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and Crunchwrap Supremes. Late-night cravings covered!

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KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)

Ellijay

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy fried chicken, biscuits, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw. Classic comfort food, fast.

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Long John Silver's

Ellijay (may share location with other chains)

Fried fish, shrimp, chicken, and hushpuppies. Quick seafood option when you're craving fish and chips!

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Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA (15 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge)

The only riverside restaurant of its kind in the North Georgia Mountains! Serving since 1992, Toccoa Riverside is nestled on the banks of the scenic Toccoa River in the middle of the Chattahoochee National Forest on the Benton MacKaye Trail. Fresh North Georgia Rainbow Trout is the specialty - prepared broiled, fried, lemon tarragon, trout almandine, lemon pepper, cajun style, pecan crusted, or crab stuffed. The menu also features finest steaks, Wagyu beef, seafood, ribs, and signature pasta dishes.

Dog-Friendly: The Pooch Patio and River Rest outdoor bar area welcome dogs! They even have a canine menu with hot dogs, burger patties, and chicken.

Dining Options: Indoor dining room with river views, two outdoor decks, grass seating by river's edge, and "Toasted Bear" lounge. Perfect for paddlers - you can canoe down the river and stop for lunch!

Hours: Wed-Sat 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM & 4:30 - 8:30/9:00 PM | Closed Sun-Tue

🎣 Signature Dish: Pecan-crusted trout with beautiful river views

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The Black Sheep Restaurant

224 W. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA

"Come check out the best dining in Blue Ridge – seriously, ask around." Refined Southern comfort food in a historic residence once visited by Margaret Mitchell (author of "Gone with the Wind"). Under a 200-year-old Oak tree in historic downtown, The Black Sheep offers chef-driven dishes with fresh, local ingredients. The menu is "comfortably unfamiliar" - creative takes on Southern classics. Enjoy craft cocktails, an extensive bourbon collection, live New Orleans jazz ambiance, and an expansive outdoor patio with over 150 seats.

Ambiance: Upscale yet welcoming with classic jazz, sleek bar, and sophisticated atmosphere at 1800' altitude in the mountains.

🎷 Vibe: New Orleans jazz meets Southern hospitality - perfect date night spot!

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Grace Prime Steakhouse

Downtown Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge's newest upscale steakhouse - unlike anything else in North Georgia! Grace features an in-house butcher shop where they dry-age their own steaks. The showstopper is the Tomahawk steak: Executive Chef Daniel Barron ages it for two weeks, then wraps it in cheesecloth soaked in Four Roses bourbon for another 45 days. The steak is served hanging from a swinging hook, lit on fire, and carved tableside - a jaw-dropping experience! The atmosphere blends modern, industrial, and rustic elements. Even the cocktails are a show - try the Smokeshow Old Fashioned, double-smoked right in front of you!

Dress Code: Upscale - special occasion dining

🔥 Must-See: Tomahawk steak tableside presentation is unforgettable!

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Chester Brunnenmeyers Bar and Grill

Downtown Blue Ridge in the old Gartrell Hotel

Legendary wings, deep-fried sticky ribs, and scratch-made shrimp & grits have earned this lively restaurant a devoted following! Classic American cuisine reimagined with a modern, elevated twist. The expansive bar features craft beers, signature cocktails, and an extensive bourbon collection - home to "the finest old-fashioned in Blue Ridge" with your choice of bourbon. Multiple HD TVs for sports action. Cozy, rustic atmosphere in a historic building across from the depot.

Famous For: Legendary wings, sticky ribs, four-cheese grilled cheese with tomato bisque

🍗 Can't Miss: Legendary wings & sticky ribs!

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Southern Charm Restaurant

224 W. Main St., Blue Ridge, GA

Authentic Southern cooking in the heart of beautiful downtown Blue Ridge! Celebrating family, traditions, and great Southern food in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Fresh-made biscuits and apple butter come to every table (the apple butter is amazing!). Try the Apple Pecan Grilled Chicken Salad or the Pimento Fried Green BLT. Popular Specials: Chicken and Dumplings on Mondays and Thursdays; all-you-can-eat popcorn shrimp or catfish on Fridays at 4:30 PM.

🍞 Signature: Fresh biscuits & house-made apple butter on every table

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The Rum Cake Lady Cuban Cafe

205 West 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA

Traditional Cuban cuisine in a fast-casual atmosphere! Launched by Liz Correa in 2014, this family-run restaurant serves authentic Cuban comfort food: Guava & Cheese Pastelitos, Empanadas, Pork and Spicy Chicken Tamales, Cuban Sandwiches, and the killer Papa Rellena (fried mashed potato ball stuffed with savory spiced beef). The welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality have made it a local favorite!

🇨🇺 Authentic: Traditional Cuban flavors done right

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Harvest on Main

Downtown Blue Ridge

Farm-to-table dining using seasonal, locally-sourced products whenever possible! This chef-driven restaurant was listed as one of 11 best restaurants outside Atlanta and featured in "Blue Ridge Country" magazine. Supporting local farmers and artisans while serving creative, fresh cuisine. Perfect for those who appreciate knowing where their food comes from!

🌾 Farm-to-Table: Seasonal menu, local ingredients

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61 Main Restaurant

61 Main Street, Jasper, GA

One of the most popular restaurants in Jasper! This farm-to-table establishment serves fresh cuisine from locally sourced products whenever possible. Owners Jenna and Tadd Schreiber have created a local establishment where diners feel like they're stepping into a personal home to be served a meal. The menu features fresh salads, creative sandwiches, delicious entrées, craft cocktails, and sustainable wines. Warm, inviting atmosphere with exceptional food quality and service!

🌟 Top-Rated: Consistently praised for excellent food and service

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The Old Mulehouse

Jasper, GA

A modern twist on the neighborhood tavern with a creative chef-driven menu! Full bar featuring signature Moscow mules, craft cocktails, and local Georgia wine and beer. Menu highlights include filet mignon, fish and chips, pecan-crusted trout, kale pesto pasta, and chicken parmesan. This is a big step above your typical tavern - impressive dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Also serves buffalo shrimp, flounder sandwiches, fried oysters, and clam strips.

🍸 Signature: Known for their Moscow mule variations!

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Woodbridge Tavern

Bent Tree community, Jasper, GA

Casual dining restaurant and bar in the beautiful Bent Tree community offering great food and wonderful mountain views! Steaks that rival Longhorns, and the firecracker sticks are a MUST have according to locals. Friendly atmosphere with quality food at reasonable prices. Perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in scenic mountain vistas.

🏔️ Bonus: Mountain views with your meal!

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Best Times to Dine

Peak Season (September-October): Restaurants get busy during Apple Festival weekends. Make reservations when possible or arrive early for breakfast and lunch. Expect waits at popular spots on festival weekends!

Summer (June-August): Moderate crowds. Most restaurants operate normal hours. Great time to enjoy outdoor dining patios.

Winter & Spring: Quieter with shorter wait times. Some restaurants have reduced hours - call ahead to confirm. Perfect for peaceful dining experiences!

Local Specialties to Try

• Apple Everything: Fried apple pies, apple cider donuts, apple butter - embrace the Apple Capital!
• Southern BBQ: Slow-smoked meats are a regional specialty
• Wood-Fired Pizza: Unique pies in historic buildings
• Farm-to-Table: Many restaurants use locally sourced ingredients
• Mountain Trout: Fresh from local streams

Dining Logistics

Reservations: Recommended for upscale restaurants (The Falls, The Roof). Most casual spots are walk-in only.

Hours: Many restaurants close by 9 PM. Some are closed Sunday-Tuesday. Always check hours before heading out!

Parking: Downtown has street parking and public lots. Can be tight during festivals and weekends.

Takeout Options: Ridge Runner Takeout service will pick up from your favorite restaurant and deliver to your cabin! Perfect for cozy nights in.

Dietary Accommodations

Many Ellijay restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The Shack has extensive vegan offerings. Arlowe's Bakehouse makes gluten-free and vegan baked goods. Back Porch Bistro has healthy wraps and salads. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions - just ask!