Unearth The Voyage
Georgia is a haven for soul food lovers, with restaurants offering comforting, flavorful dishes steeped in tradition. From historic eateries to hidden gems, these 11 establishments are beloved by locals who keep returning for more. Each spot tells a story through its food, reflecting the vibrant culture and history of the region.
Busy Bee Café
Since 1947, Busy Bee Café in Atlanta has been a cornerstone of soul food, drawing locals and visitors alike. Known for its legendary fried chicken, this café offers a taste of history with every bite. The walls echo past conversations of civil rights leaders who once gathered here.
The menu is a celebration of classic Southern cooking, featuring collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread. Each dish is prepared with love and tradition, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic flavors.
Busy Bee’s commitment to quality and community is palpable. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a sense of nostalgia permeating every corner. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that keeps patrons coming back.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
Mary Mac’s Tea Room in Atlanta is more than a restaurant; it’s a cherished institution. Since 1945, locals have flocked here for its unique pencil-and-order system and vintage charm. The walls are lined with history, hosting countless notable figures over the decades.
Famous for its comforting Southern cuisine, Mary Mac’s serves pot likker with cornbread, pork chops, and fried chicken. Each dish is crafted with care, embodying the essence of home-cooked meals.
The ambiance transports diners back in time, offering a living museum experience filled with warmth and hospitality. Known for its legendary tomato pie, this tea room remains a beloved staple in the heart of Georgia.
Paschal’s Restaurant
Paschal’s Restaurant in Atlanta is steeped in rich history and Southern tradition. Established in 1947, it was a pivotal meeting place for civil rights leaders, adding a deep sense of heritage to its culinary offerings.
Locals adore the smothered pork chops and fried chicken, served alongside classic sides like macaroni and cheese. The flavors are a testament to the enduring legacy of soul food in the community.
With a welcoming atmosphere and elegant decor, Paschal’s offers more than a meal—it’s a journey into the past. Every visit is a celebration of both culture and cuisine, drawing patrons to return time and again.
H&H Restaurant
H&H Restaurant in Macon stands as a beacon of soulful cooking in the heart of Georgia. It’s a place where generations have gathered around hearty plates since its opening in 1959.
Known for its signature meat & three menu, H&H delivers a comforting selection of fried chicken, greens, and biscuits. The atmosphere is lively and filled with the aroma of Southern hospitality.
This beloved eatery holds a special place in Macon’s community. The Allman Brothers Band famously dined here, cementing its place in local lore. H&H continues to serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic soul food.
Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods
Located in Athens, Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods is a charming spot known for its slogan, “Automatic for the People,” which inspired an R.E.M. album title. This eatery is a must-visit for those seeking genuine Southern flavors.
The menu features soul food staples such as fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. Each dish is crafted with a touch of Athens’ unique culture and flair.
Weaver D’s offers a laid-back vibe that invites patrons to unwind and enjoy. Its friendly atmosphere and dedication to quality make it a cherished destination for both locals and visitors.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
In Savannah, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room offers a unique dining experience that locals cherish. Here, meals are served family-style, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Plates of fried chicken, greens, beans, and cornbread circulate around long tables, encouraging shared enjoyment and conversation. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, like a family gathering.
This beloved establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tradition. The communal dining experience keeps patrons returning, eager to savor both the flavors and the camaraderie that define Mrs. Wilkes’ charm.
Sisters of the New South
Sisters of the New South in Savannah is a no-frills gem loved for its authentic, homestyle cooking. It’s a place where flavor and tradition come together in perfect harmony.
The menu features beloved dishes like smothered pork chops, mac & cheese, and classic sides that evoke memories of grandmother’s kitchen. Each bite is a nod to traditional Southern hospitality.
Patrons are drawn to the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and genuine charm. Sisters of the New South is a testament to the power of simple, heartfelt cooking that resonates deeply with its community.
Shirley’s Soul Food Café
In Toccoa, Shirley’s Soul Food Café serves up genuine Southern comfort in a cozy setting. Known for its meat-and-three plates, it’s a local favorite where recipes are passed down through generations.
The café exudes a homespun charm, with dishes like fried chicken, greens, and cornbread prepared with love and tradition. Each meal feels like a warm embrace, inviting diners to relax and enjoy.
Local writeups often highlight Shirley’s dedication to authentic flavors and friendly service. It’s a place where patrons feel at home, returning time and again for a taste of nostalgia and community.
Chuckwagon Restaurant
Chuckwagon Restaurant in Calhoun has been a staple of Southern cooking since 1966. It’s known for its daily meat-and-three specials, offering hearty, satisfying meals that locals adore.
Fried chicken days are a particular favorite, drawing crowds eager for their fix of classic comfort food. The sides are always consistent, adding to the restaurant’s enduring appeal.
With its retro vibe and friendly service, Chuckwagon offers a dining experience filled with warmth and nostalgia. It’s a place where tradition meets community, making it a beloved spot for generations.
Sweet Potatoes Kitchen
Sweet Potatoes Kitchen in Savannah is a cozy spot that reimagines soul food with a creative twist. Known for its emphasis on sweet potatoes, this restaurant offers a unique take on traditional dishes.
From entrees to desserts, sweet potatoes play a starring role, adding a delightful flavor to the menu. Locals rave about the inventive recipes and the comforting vibe that greets them at each visit.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a favorite for those seeking both innovation and comfort. Sweet Potatoes Kitchen is a testament to the endless possibilities of soul food evolution.
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
In Atlanta, Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours stands out for its blend of tradition and innovation. Chef Deborah VanTrece crafts a menu that pushes soul food boundaries while honoring its roots.
The oxtails and cast-iron fried chicken are favorites among locals, who appreciate the creative seasonal sides that accompany these dishes. The restaurant’s vibe is vibrant and contemporary, yet deeply connected to heritage.
Patrons are drawn to the unique twist on classic flavors, making each visit an adventure. Twisted Soul is celebrated for its culinary boldness and commitment to redefining Southern cuisine.
