Georgia is a state known for its history, music, and charming towns. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is its amazing culinary scene. From the hearty and comforting Southern cuisine to the refreshing coastal dishes, Georgia offers a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences. Here are some of the not-to-be-missed culinary destinations that you can explore on your trip to Georgia:
Atlanta: The Hub of Southern Cuisine
Atlanta is the cultural, economic, and culinary hub of Georgia. A city with a thriving food scene, it is home to several award-winning restaurants that have put Southern cuisine on the global map. Here are some of the places you should check out in Atlanta:
The Busy Bee Cafe
The Busy Bee Cafe is one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Atlanta. Known for its soul food, the restaurant has been serving locals and travelers since 1947. Some of the must-try dishes include fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and peach cobbler. If you want to taste a piece of Southern culinary history, then this is the place to be!
Bacchanalia
Bacchanalia is a fine dining restaurant that takes Southern cuisine to the next level. The restaurant serves a combination of European and Southern influences and features a seasonal menu that changes regularly. Some of the standout dishes include the smoked pork belly, rabbit loin, and black truffle gnocchi. A meal at Bacchanalia is a culinary experience that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
If you’re looking for a quintessentially Southern experience, then head to Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Known for its Southern hospitality and comfort food, the restaurant has been a local favorite since 1945. Some of the popular dishes include fried chicken, meatloaf, and fried green tomatoes. The restaurant also has an extensive list of sides and desserts, so make sure you come hungry!
Savannah: Coastal Cuisine at Its Best
Savannah is a city that’s steeped in history and charm. It’s also a city that’s known for its seafood and coastal cuisine. Here are some of the places you should visit if you find yourself in Savannah:
The Olde Pink House
The Olde Pink House is one of Savannah’s most famous restaurants and for a good reason. Located in an 18th-century mansion that’s painted pink, the restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere that transports you back in time. The menu features a mix of Southern and coastal cuisine, and some of the standout dishes include the shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fried green tomatoes.
The Crab Shack
If you’re in the mood for some seafood, then head to The Crab Shack. Located on Tybee Island, the restaurant has a laid-back vibe and features a dockside patio where you can enjoy the view of the surrounding water. The menu features a variety of seafood options, but the crab dishes are the restaurant’s claim to fame. Some of the must-try dishes include the Tybee steampot, the crab stew, and the crab legs.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is a Southern institution and has been serving home-style Southern food since 1943. The restaurant has a communal dining system where you share tables with other diners, which adds to the charm and warmth of the place. The menu changes every day, but some of the dishes that you can expect to find include fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens.
Athens: A Southern Foodie’s Paradise
Athens is a college town that’s known for its music, art, and food scene. If you’re a foodie, then Athens is a town that you should definitely check out. Here are some of the places you should visit if you find yourself in Athens:
Mama’s Boy
Mama’s Boy is a breakfast and brunch spot that’s known for its Southern classics with a twist. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farmers and features a menu that’s both creative and wholesome. Some of the must-try dishes include the biscuits and gravy, the fried catfish benedict, and the pimento cheese burger.
The Last Resort Grill
The Last Resort Grill is a restaurant that’s located in a historic building and is known for its inventive Southern cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes that are prepared using locally sourced and organic ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the fried green tomato stack, the shrimp and grits, and the peanut butter pie.
The National
The National is a fine dining restaurant that combines Southern cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant has a modern and chic atmosphere and features a menu that changes frequently. Some of the standout dishes include the lamb shank, the octopus, and the duck fat fries.
Conclusion
Georgia is a state that offers a culinary experience that’s truly unique. From the comforting and hearty Southern cuisine to the fresh and savory coastal dishes, Georgia has something for everyone. The destinations mentioned above are just a few of the places that you can explore on your trip to Georgia. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to eat your way through Georgia!