The 12 Best Restaurants in Blue Ridge GA

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[Updated April 3, 2024] During our 2009 visit to Blue Ridge, Georgia, restaurants were not really among the small town’s major selling points.

Sure, there were a few decent places to eat in Blue Ridge back then, but none were especially worthy of note. The only one I remember fondly– a New Orleans eatery on West Main St– went the way of the dodo just a few years later.

After long days of hiking in Vogel State Park, horseback riding, and browsing the shops in Downtown Blue Ridge, we usually just opted to go back and make dinner in our cabin.

Fortunately, with the arrival of James Beard Award-nominated chef Danny Mellman, the Blue Ridge restaurant scene began earning the town regional and even national acclaim.

Now, ten years later, there are tons of great places to dine. Blue Ridge, Georgia restaurants run the gamut from traditional and contemporary Southern cuisine to upscale Mediterranean and Asian and Mexican street food fare.

Here’s a look at our picks for the the 10 best restaurants in Blue Ridge GA, including Harvest On Main, Masseria Kitchen & Bar, Black Sheep, Southern Charm, and more!

The Best Restaurants in Blue Ridge GA

(Listed Alphabetically)

  1. Black Sheep Restaurant  (New American)
  2. Danielle’s Cafe  (French)
  3. Harvest On Main  (Upscale Southern)
  4. Las 2 Huastecas  (Mexican)
  5. Masseria Kitchen & Bar  (Mediterranean)
  6. Mercier Orchards Cafe  (Southern)
  7. Mona Lisa’s Dessert House  (Dessert/Wine Bar)
  8. The Rum Cake Lady (Cuban)
  9. South of North  (Asian Fusion)
  10. Southern Charm Restaurant  (Southern)
  11. The Sweet Shoppe of the South  (Bakery)
  12. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant (American)
Dinner at Black Sheep, one of the best restaurants in Blue Ridge GA
Photo courtesy Black Sheep Restaurant

1. Black Sheep Restaurant (New American)

480 W Main St • 706-946-3663 • $$$

One of our favorite places to eat in Blue Ridge GA, Black Sheep Restaurant is located inside the historic home of Colonel William Butt, a former Blue Ridge mayor and Georgia State legislator.

Colonel Butt and his wife, Fanny, were early 20th century socialites who frequently hosted gatherings attended by their friend, Gone With the Wind author Margaret Mitchell.

Their home, built circa 1914, has been lovingly restored into the most romantic of the Blue Ridge restaurants we’ve visited. The interior decor is stylish and tasteful, the lighting moody and serene, with the small rooms lending an intimate air to every alcove.

There’s also an expansive covered patio under a 200-year-old oak tree, replete with fire pits, on outdoor raw bar, and craft cocktails, with classic New Orleans jazz providing the soundtrack. It’s a great place to savor what’s widely regarded as the Best Brunch in Blue Ridge.

As for the menu, every dish (and cocktail) we sampled was exquisite. Start with the decadent Pork Belly with maple bourbon glaze, or perhaps the Lamb Lollipop Chops, or savory Brussels Sprouts with Applewood Bacon. You literally can’t go wrong with any of their appetizers.

Our favorite entrees include Jumbo Lump Crab Cake with remoulade and pepper jelly; the sumptuous Black Sheep Meatloaf (two meats, four cheeses); and Rack of Lamb with red wine demiglaze and gorgonzola cream. They also have desserts, but we were too stuffed to try them!

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Blue Ridge, GA

Crepes at Danielle's Cafe in Blue Ridge, GA
Caramel Crepe topped with homemade Ice Cream

2. Danielle’s Cafe (French)

611 E Main St • 706-632-3094  • $$

(NOTE: Temporarily Closed due to a 2023 fire. We’ll update this page when they reopen.)

In the heart of downtown, you’ll find one of the oldest Blue Ridge GA restaurants, Danielle’s Cafe.

Opened by Paris-trained chef Danielle Coste in 2005, this popular Blue Ridge brunch spot also boasts a big outdoor patio. You’ll want to get there early on weekends in peak season if you want to avoid a lengthy wait.

Inside, the colorful decor and menu are provincial French, with a variety of different quiches and crepes to choose from. The Ham and Spinach Quiche and both gooey with gruyere, and served with your choice of soup or salad.

They offer an extrensive array of sandwiches, from Bratwurst and Italian Heros to Pressed Cubans and Tuna Salad. But we recommend the Croque-Monsieur, grilled to perfection with ham and gruyere, or Danielle’s Roast Beef Sandwich on fresh sourdough.

Whatever you do, DO NOT LEAVE without trying one of Danielle’s decadent dessert crepes. They’re available in 7 flavors, all topped with whipped cream. Our favorite are the Caramel Crepes topped with homemade French Toast ice cream.

The restaurant, best known for its brunch and luch menu, introduced a new dinner menu earlier this year. It features French classics such as Escargots and Coq Au Vin, but we haven’t had a chance to sample the new items yet.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Blue Ridge Georgia Cabins to Rent

Shrimp & Grits at Harvest on Main Restaurant in Blue Ridge, GA
Shrimp & Grits topped with Grilled Cornbread

3. Harvest on Main (Upscale Southern)

576 E Main St • 706-946-6164  • $$$

Topping our list of best restaurants in Blue Ridge GA, Harvest On Main offers upscale Southern cuisine that was originally created by James Beard Award-nominated chef Danny Mellman.

Under their Lit’l Pond Hospitality Group umbrella, Mellman and partner Michelle Moran launched some of the best restaurants in North GA after relocating to Blue Ridge from Florida in 2009.

With its river stone steps, massive wooden beams, Elk and Deer antlers, and fishing/hunting decor, the restaurant’s interior feels like a classy, cozy Blue Ridge mountain lodge. Natural wood and nature art provide tasteful accents, and the huge stone heart fireplace sets a romantic mood.

But it’s the food that makes Harvest On Main our favorite Blue Ridge restaurant. The seasonal Farm to Table menu features many local ingredients, including fresh eggs, honey, produce, wild game, and more.

Every dish we tried here was exquisite. But we’d definitely recommend the remarkably fluffy and peppery Wild Caught Gulf Shrimp & Grits, the Locally Farmed Rainbow Trout, “3 Pork” Collard Greens (sweetened with molasses!), and Blueberry Bread Pudding.

READ MORE: The 13 Best Restaurants in Blue Ridge GA

Tacos at Las Huastecas in Blue Ridge, Georgia

4. Las 2 Huastecas (Mexican)

4114 E 1st St • 706-632-2121 • $

If you want to find the best places to eat in any town, just ask a great server for their favorite local restaurant recommendations.

It was through our Harvest On Main server that we discovered Las 2 Huastecas, a Mexican store in a strip shopping center just outside Downtown Blue Ridge.

You wouldn’t recognize it as one of the best restaurants in Blue Ridge from the nondescript outside. But the street-style tacos and “Especial” delights you’ll find inside tell a different story.

Owner Angelina Hernandez and her family build every delectable dish on a simple platform of perfectly prepared meats. From Azada (steak) and Carnitas (exquisitely seasoned pork) to Chorizo (pork sausage) and Lengua (beef tongue, our favorite), all are equally delightful.

On the advice of our HOM server we went straight for the Tacos– two with a side of rice and beans are just $4.50! It was easily our best lunch in Blue Ridge, and convinced us this is a place we will frequent EVERY time we come to town.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Waterfalls Near Blue Ridge GA

Bianco Pizza at Masseria Kitchen & Bar in Blue Ridge, GA
Bianco Pizza

5. Masseria Kitchen & Bar (Mediterranean)

67 Roberts Way • 706-946-1511 • $$

(NOTE: Temporarily Closed due to plumbing issues. We’ll update this page when they reopen.)

Masseria Kitchen & Bar is a swanky Blue Ridge restaurant founded by Danny Mellman and Michelle Moran (the partners behind Harvest on Main, Cucina Rustica, and Blue Smoke BBQ). But it recently came under new ownership. 

As a pizza snob who paid my way through college working as a chef/manager of various Italian restaurants in Atlanta, Masseria’s chic Mediterranean vibe really impressed me.

Striking a stark contrast from the Southern cuisine and decor that dominates the Blue Ridge Mountains foodie scene, the stylish interior includes a gorgeous bar, refined tile, and a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes you to kick back, relax, and chill for a while.

The food easily rivals Harvest On Main in terms of quality. Hearty starters such as Hummus with harissa oil and focaccia and Zucchini Feta Bruschetta were bursting with flavor, providing a zing perfectly complemented by their mixed citrus Sangria.

Their pastas– from a vegetarian-friendly Baked Lasagna to the Pasta of the Day special– are scrumptious. But the Bianco Pizza, with a garlic oil base topped with confit garlic, homemade sausage, ricotta, and roasted kale, was a knockout that ensured we’ll be back for more soon.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Wineries in the North Georgia Mountains

Lunch at Mercier Orchards Cafe in Downtown Blue Ridge, GA
Apple Brie Panini & Salad Samples

6. Mercier Orchards Cafe (Southern)

 8660 Blue Ridge Dr • 706-946-3411 • $$

Founded by Bill & Adele Mercier is 1943, Mercier Orchards has long been one of the most popular Blue Ridge attractions.

Though best known for their Southern-style breakfast, we really enjoyed our lunch there. The menu focuses on somewhat standard soups, salads, and sandwiches, but there are a few standouts that are certainly worthy of note.

Their Pecan Chicken Salad mixes GA pecans with a dash of curry, and their Jalapeño Pimento Cheese boasts corn relish and a spicy kick.

In terms of sandwiches, the Apple Brie Panini is a must-try, with thin apple slices, creamy brie, and apple butter on cranberry walnut bread.

Other standouts include an insanely decadent Apple Cinammon Bread (with Crimson Crisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady apples), numerous Hard Ciders, and the addictive Apple Cider Donut holes that they bring to every table. We ended up buying a dozen donuts to take home!

READ MORE: Apple Picking in Georgia: The 10 Best North GA Apple Orchards to Visit

Key Lime Pie Dessert at Mona Lisa's in Blue Ridge, GA
Mona Lisa’s Key Lime Pie

7. Mona Lisa’s Dessert House (Dessert/Wine Bar)

116 W Main St #1A • 706-946-4040 • $$

If you’re looking for a place to chill after a long day of exploring all the hiking trails, waterfalls, and other outdoor attractions Blue Ridge has to offer, look no further than Mona Lisa’s Dessert House.

The family-run restaurant’s sleek, sophisticated interior design (by the owner’s uncle) is so upscale, ATL residents might think they’re in Buckhead or Johns Creek.

From the muted color palette and impressive art to hip music, it sets a mellow mood that makes you want to linger.

Of all the restaurants in Blue Ridge, Georgia, this one has the most decadent desserts. From tangy Key Lime Pie and rich Bourbon Caramel Spice Cake to 6 flavors of “Royal Jacqueline Shakes” (named after the family matriarch), this is THE place to indulge your sweet tooth.

But this family-friendly dessert house pulls double duty as a swanky wine bar, with an array of sweet “Rimmed Wines” to choose from.

We tried “The Orchard,” a delightful Moscato rimmed with artfully dripped caramel, and found it a great way to get the blood sugar going after a long day on the trail.

READ MORE: Lake Blue Ridge Boat Rentals, Cabin Rentals, Camping & Fishing

The Cuban Sandwich at Rum Cake Lady Cuban Cafe
Rum Cake Lady’s Cuban Sandwich

8. Rum Cake Lady Cuban Cafe (Cuban)

205 W. First Street • 706-946-4525

The thing we love most about the Blue Ridge restaurant scene is its sheer diversity, which really separates it from most North Georgia mountain towns we’ve visited.

The Rum Cake Lady, launched by Liz Correa in 2014, is a perfect example, offering up traditional Cuban cuisine in a fast casual atmosphere just outside downtown Blue Ridge.

Correa isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel here: Her take on classic Cuban comfort food such as Guava & Cheese Pastelitos, Empanadas, Pork and Spicy Chicken Tamales, and Cuban Sandwiches is as traditional as it gets.

But the family-run restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere, congenial staff, and consistency of quality and flavor makes it an excellent lunch spot.

Make sure you try Correa’s killer Papa Rellena, a fried ball of mashed potato stuffed with savory beef spiced with cumin, oregano, pepper, and other seasonings. And you simply MUST try her range of Rum Cakes, one of the best desserts in Blue Ridge GA!

READ MORE: Review of the Rum Cake Lady Cuban Cafe 

Pork Belly Bun Bowl at South of North Restaurant in Blue Ridge, Georgia
Pork Belly Bun Bowl

9. South of North (Asian Fusion)

257 E Main St, Suite A • 706-946-5560 • $$

If you’re looking for Blue Ridge food that avoids the Southern stereotypes completely, check out the refreshingly inventive Asian fusion of South of North.

Located in the Downtown Blue Ridge Art District, the restaurant offers a chef-driven take on traditional Vietnamese dishes, including Banh Mi, Bun Bowls, Pho, and more.

In our experience, you literally can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. But for starters we’d  recommend the Blistered Edamame, the Vietnamese Meatball Lettuce Wraps, and Pot Stickers filled with filet mignon, pork belly, and herbs.

In terms of entrees, the Vietnamese Noodle Soup had a fine bone broth, but really needed some spicy red pepper sauce for flavor.

But their Sticky Pork Belly “Naan Mi” (Banh Mi on Indian bread) was bursting with flavors, including cilantro, jalapeño, and pickled veggies. And their Bún Bowl with Tandoori Chicken, herbs, roasted cashews, etc was one of the best Asian dishes we’ve tasted. We’ll be back!

READ MORE: Where to See Fall Colors in the Mountains of North Georgia

Fried Chicken at Southern Charm Restaurant in Blue Ridge GA
Fried Chicken Plate, photo courtesy Southern Charm

10. Southern Charm Restaurant (Southern)

224 W Main St • 706-632-9090 • $$

It doesn’t take a genius to surmise what you can expect from the aptly-named Southern Charm Restaurant, whose sunny yellow exterior and screened-in patios provide additional clues.

From the good old-fashioned smells of fried food wafting out from the kitchen to the sweeter-than-Georgia-tea disposition with which you’re greeted at the door, entering this place is sure to feel like a warm-welcomed homecoming for anyone who grew up in the Deep South.

Though some of the newer Blue Ridge restaurants may lure city-folk with their fanciful flair, this family-owned place is all about Southern hospitality. And it’s served up with heaping plates of fresh Buttermilk Biscuits with apple butter and lots of Fried Green Tomato dishes.

Vegetarians will find numerous dishes to choose from, including 4 salads and a classic veggie plate. Those trying to avoid fried foods may have a tougher time, especially when Fried Chicken, Country Fried Steak, and Fried Catfish and Shrimp are their most beloved dishes.

My advice? Spend a day hiking in the North Georgia mountains, have a light lunch, and loosen your belt a notch before you visit. And make sure you save some room for dessert, because their Caramel Bread Pudding is absolutely to die for!

READ MORE: How to Get to Helton Creek Falls in Blairsville GA

Oreo Cupcakes at Sweet Shoppe Bakery in Blue Ridge GA
Oreo Cupcakes at the Sweet Shoppe of the South

11. The Sweet Shoppe of the South

721 E Main St • 706-632-6886

Widely regarded as the best bakery in Blue Ridge, the Sweet Shoppe of the South has been a beloved staple for 10 years now.

But the shop’s profile was elevated to national level in 2015, when co-owners Susan Catron and Nikki Kaylor won Season 6 of the Food Network reality show, Cupcake Wars.

Entering their relatively new location feels like exploring a mini-Willy Wonka factory for grown-ups. Sweet treats are everywhere, from Apple Fritters and Caramel Apples to Blondies, Brownies, Cheese Danish, Cookies and more.

Of course the cupcakes are the most famous attraction here. Their rotating lineup features fantastic flavors such as French Toast & Bacon, Boston Cream Pie, and Miss Scarlett alongside more traditional types like Oreo and Triple Chocolate.

If you get a chance, try their Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting. It’s the scrumptious recipe that sealed their win on Cupcake Wars!

READ MORE: The 10 Best North Georgia State Parks

Pecan Crusted Trout at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in Blue Ridge GA
Pecan Crusted Trout, photo courtesy Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

12. Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

8055 Aska Rd • 706-632-7891

A read of Yelp reviews reveals the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant as a love-it-or-hate-it kinda place. Complaints range from a raging manager and indifferent staff to long waits and cold food.

During our recent visit (which was anonymous), we didn’t experience any of the above. But we went during lunch on a slow weekday, so maybe timing is everything here?

Whereas other Blue Ridge restaurants on this list are all about culinary quality and ambiance, this one is all about location. The mountain lodge building sits on a gorgeous stretch of the Toccoa River, with loads of indoor and outdoor seating taking full advantage of the incredible views.

We focused on their “Award-Winning Seafood,” including a delicious Smoked Fish Dip and delicately Fried Calamari with marinara for starters. My Smoked Trout Pasta with linguini and veggies was good, but Mary’s Pecan-Crusted Trout with sweet butter was the standout dish.

My advice? Visit during off hours, or call in a pickup order and have a picnic in their amazing lounge area, at a table mere steps from the river!  –by Bret Love; photos by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett unless otherwise noted

 

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BLUE RIDGE, GA

Blue Ridge Inn Bed and Breakfast  – Historic boutique inn w/ fantastic breakfast in downtown.
The Orchard Cabin – 8.1 miles from center, pet-friendly, hot tub, 2 bdrms/2 bths • 1335 ft²
Lazy Bear Den Cabin – 4.3 miles from center, pet-friendly, hot tub, 2 bdrms/1 bth • 1055 ft²
Cozy View Cabin  – 3.1 miles from center, sunset view from hot tub, 1 king bed/1 bth • sleeps 3
Red Apple Cabin – 4.9 miles from center, mountain views, hot tub, 3 bdrms/3 bths • 2099 ft²

Leave No Trace logo

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the Leave No Trace principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

The BRMTG was created by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, the award-winning team behind the world-renowned responsible travel website Green Global Travel. Born and raised in North Georgia, Editor-In-Chief Bret Love grew up hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains with his family. A professional writer/editor since 1995, he's covered travel and culture for 100+ publications, including American Way, Destination Marriott, Georgia Travel Guide, National Geographic, and Southbound. In 2010 he co-founded the award-winning website, Green Global Travel, which is ranked among the world's top travel blogs. Since launching BRMTG in 2020, he and Mary Gabbett have visited 50+ Blue Ridge Mountain towns together. Though she lived in NYC for 14 years, photographer/Business Manager Mary Gabbett's family has Georgia roots dating back 200+ years. Her great-grandfather was President of the Western Railroad of Alabama. Before moving to Atlanta in 1989, she fell in love with the North GA mountains, where her aunt owned a cabin. In 2010 she co-founded Green Global Travel, and has since traveled to more than 40 countries on six continents. Her photos have appeared in numerous travel publications (including National Geographic and Southbound) and various textbooks.

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