2024 Good Taste

GOOD

TASTE

Palate

By Griffin Nelson

Photo courtesy of Bistro

55

VIVE LA France

The well-loved and quaint square situated at the center of Hammond’s Ferry has fully embraced classic French cuisine with Bistro 55. Maurice Cohen, one of three owners, notes that the traditional bistro concept has grown in popularity in Paris, with patrons looking for filling favorites at reasonable prices.

Cohen, a Parisian, spent 40 years in the restaurant industry before moving to the Savannah River Region to be near his wife’s family and retire after a successful career in Los Angeles.

Paulette Edery, a good friend of Cohen and a native of France, is jokingly referred to as “the boss” but is seriously praised for her good business sense.

Bistro 55’s third partner, Lee Benz, Cohen’s brother-in-law, has a background in construction and an eye for good design. The synergistic trio drew on their heritage, experiences and strengths to create the well-rounded restaurant.

Already, the soupe à l’oignon gratinée (French Onion Soup) and escargots de bourgogne (Burgundy Snails in Garlic Butter) have proven to be popular starters. Some highlight main dishes include Châtel Farms pavé de bœuf (Grilled Filet with Black Pepper Cognac Sauce) with asparagus and potato gratin, and the canard á l’orange (Roast Duck in Orange Sauce) with wild rice and green beans.

The team has curated a wine list featuring imports from France and has

Photos courtesy of Bistro 55

managed to keep most bottle prices below $50. A fully stocked bar caters to those looking for a specific drink and is managed by a charismatic bartender who is referred to as “a maestro behind the bar!”

The decadent dessert menu insists you save room for tarte tatin, crème brûlée, or the house specialty, chocolate soufflé, which takes about 20 minutes to properly prepare but is absolutely worth the wait.

However, do not wait to reserve a table for Bistro 55’s special events. Holidays and Masters week feature limited, but unique menus showcasing the best of French cuisine. Brunch at Bistro 55 has already become a big hit with locals on Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with favorites like croque madame and croque monsieur.

Though the menu may vary seasonally, Bistro 55 will always focus on bringing Parisian pièces de resistance to the heart of Hammond’s Ferry.

HOPPIN’ TO IT

Did you know there are three breweries in Augusta? Tapped 33 is not only local but also Black and veteran-owned and, most importantly, makes really good beer.

Owner Robert Young III started out like many other brewers, experimenting in his kitchen. He skipped the kit and jumped right in with an all-grain beer. “It didn’t turn out great,” he reminisces. “But that started my obsession with brewing. Being a brewer caters to my personality — it’s part engineer, part chemist, part artist and part chef.”

Over the years, he has honed his craft and eventually teamed up with Savannah River Brewing Company, working as a brewer while being allowed the use of fermentation space for his large batches. Their mutual support is a prime example of the cornerstone that is integral to the success of so many craft breweries.

Tapped 33’s first beer to market has been met with resounding success. Good Googly Moogly is a Juicy Hazy IPA coming in at 7.5% alcohol by volume. The smooth beer uses fruity notes of pineapple, mango and citrus to balance out the hops.

Available on draft at places like World of Beer, it goes great with a burger or as a six-pack for a treat at home. “There are great juicy-hazies coming out of Atlanta and Athens, and I wanted to create something that would put Augusta on the map,” says Young.

The up-and-coming brewer has big plans for Tapped 33 as a recipient of a Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling (The MJF) scholarship. The MJF is a grant-making organization that funds technical education scholarship awards for

Photos by Jane Kortright Photography

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals in the industry. Young is headed into five months of training at some of the world’s most elite brewing schools. After attending both Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago, Ill., and Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany, Young will hold a World Brewing Academy certification and the title of Master Brewer.

Once the intense and arduous training is complete, he plans to come back to Augusta and his family, ready to expand Tapped 33 even further by adding ales, other craft beers and eventually opening his own brewpub.

The brewery is located in the 33rd parallel, home of James Brown who was born in 1933 — coincidentally the same year as the repeal of prohibition — and it has already earned the stamp of approval from Augusta. We can’t wait to see what Young and Tapped 33 will do next!

UPROOTED

The energetic personality of Jenn Kraus is infectious. Despite an auto-immune disease that targeted her kidneys, she decided that she would do what was needed to keep her body healthy and moving — and off dialysis as long as possible.

Kraus went full vegan in the summer of 2010 — no meat, no dairy, no fish — and shopped hyper-local, mostly at their local farmers market. Incredulous at first, her doctor eventually admitted the lifestyle change had clearly been the most helpful adjustment for her health. As her numbers improved and the progress of the disease slowed dramatically, Kraus got another eight years before needing dialysis.

This new outlook meant that the talented speech therapist would refuse to sit still when the pandemic started. Despite only being eight months after a kidney transplant, Kraus started Uprooted Vegan Cuisine in 2020. “I figured everyone wanted to eat,” she says.

non-vegans alike with her creative recipes. Kraus has several pickup locations throughout the Savannah River Region and regularly works with regional farms to get specialty ingredients and produce that often aren’t available at grocery stores.

The weekly menu is available on Monday evenings at eatuprootedvegan.com, and lists each meal with the ingredients.

So, she posted on social media one day what she was making for the coming week, and asked if anyone was interested in purchasing that same meal. “[I thought], ‘Let’s see what happens and here we are four years later.’”

The vegan meal-prep service and food truck has grown almost entirely by word-of-mouth, reaching vegans and

Online purchases are available Saturday at 7 p.m. through easy order forms with pickup locations for the following Monday.

The food truck and Uprooted tents pop up all over the city and even in other areas through Georgia and South Carolina. Kraus works out of OPP Kitchen on Furys Ferry Road where she also offers grab-and-go options in the cooler.

Along with weekly meals, Uprooted Vegan Cuisine takes custom orders for catering events, holiday menus, cakes and desserts and there are gluten-free options for most of the weekly meals.

Kraus’ ethos is that “everyone should be able to celebrate anything despite allergies or limits.” What started as an endeavor to take care of her own body while continuing to make good food has grown into a successful business now available to the city of Augusta and beyond.

Photos courtesy of Uprooted Vegan Cuisine

This listing of select area restaurants is compiled for the benefit and convenience of our readers. It is not, however, intended to be a recommendation by Augusta magazine®. Restaurants in this listing include the 2023 Best of Augusta winners as voted by our readers. We encourage calling the restaurant before visiting. Recommended restaurants from readers are welcome via email to hailea.boykin@morris.com.

PRICES

Average price of a dinner entree (lunch, if dinner isn’t served)

$ = Under $10

$$ = $10-$15

$$$ = $16-$25

SYMBOLS

B = Breakfast

L = Lunch

D = Dinner

T = Take Out

k = Best of Augusta Winner for 2023

k ABEL BROWN SOUTHERN KITCHEN & OYSTER BAR

Modern Southern cuisine offering a seasonal menu that features locally sourced seafood, pork and beef.

491 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 738-6491

D$$$ abelbrownaugusta.com

AIKEN FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

Southern seafood menu including shrimp, oysters, chicken and catfish.

1376 Whiskey Rd., Aiken (803) 266-0260

T LD$$$ aikenfishhouse.com

ARSENAL TAP ROOM + KITCHEN

Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, 100+ craft beers, cocktails and a beer garden.

1419 Monte Sano Ave. (706) 925-2960

D$ arsenaltaproom.com

k AUGUSTINO’S ITALIAN EATERY & PRIME STEAKS

Breakfast and lunch buffets. Private dining for up to 30. Award-winning wine list. Marriott Augusta at the Convention Center.

2 10th St. (706) 823-6521

BLD$$ augustinos.net

BACK PADDLE BREWING

This small batch brewery offers farm-to-table dining.

3472 Bethany Church Rd., Lincolnton (706) 359-8057

TLD$$

BBQ BARN

Class barbecue from ribs to pork sandwiches. 10298 Atomic Rd., North Augusta (803) 278-7202

LD$ bbqbarnna.com

BEAMIE’S AT THE RIVER

A spot for fried seafood in a lively and comfortable atmosphere. 865 Reynolds St. (706) 724-6593

LD$$ beamiesattheriver.com

BECK’S

Oyster bar with a fun, lively atmosphere that offers quality food and good beverages. 2111 Kings Way (706) 922-1501

D$$ becksaugusta.com

BELAIR DONUTS

Delicious small breakfast items, donuts, pastries and coffee.

4045 Jimmie Dyess Pkwy., Augusta (706) 364-6522

720 E. Robinson Ave., Grovetown (706) 869-5091

T B$ belairdonuts.com

BISTRO 55

A spot for French cuisine where brunch and dinner are served.

456 Railroad Ave. Ste. 100, North Augusta (803) 599-5449

BD$$$ thebistro55.com

BODEGA ULTIMA

A spot for breakfast and lunch, served inside an international food market.

353 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 426-6661

BL$$ bodegaultima.com

Photo courtesy of Aresenal Tap Room + Kitchen/facebook ARSENAL TAP ROOM + KITCHEN

GOOD TASTE

k THE BOLL WEEVIL CAFE AND SWEETERY

Light menu of soups, salads and sandwiches.

Extensive dessert selection.

10 James Brown Blvd. (706) 722-7772

T LD$$ thebollweevil.com

BONEFISH GRILL

Market-fresh fish and quality meat cuts.

Distinct wine and cocktail lists.

2911 Washington Rd. (706) 737-2929

T LD$$$ locations.bonefishgrill.com

k BRINKLEY’S CHOP HOUSE

Succulent steaks, chops and seafood, with a long list of tempting sides.

1033 Center St., North Augusta (803) 599-5097

LD$$ brinkleyschophouse.com

k THE BRUNCH HOUSE OF AUGUSTA

Offers a varitey of Southern fare for breakfast and lunch. Biscuits, chicken and waffles, burgers, pasta and seafood.

573 Greene St. (706) 305-1508

T BL$$ brunchhouseofaug.com

BUONA CAFFE

Coffee bar offering artisan roasted blends

1858 Central Ave. (706) 869-4074

520 Reynolds St. (706) 955-8766

T BL$ buonacaffe.com

CADWALLADER’S CAFÉ

American cuisine with fresh ingredients and old world wines

106-A Davis Rd. (706) 860-7444

D$$$ cadwalladerscafe.com

CAFÉ ON EIGHTH

Enter the world of deluxe waffles, energy smoothies and downtown vibes. Gluten-free options available.

226 8th St. (706) 250-0442

T BL$$

k CALIFORNIA DREAMING

Serving a mix of hearty American classics in a welcoming atmosphere.

3241 Washington Rd. (706) 860-6206

T LD$$ californiadreaming.rest

CALVERT’S RESTAURANT

Continental cuisine with nice wine list. Tablecloth, candlelight atmosphere. Business casual attire. (Coat and tie not required.)

475 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 738-4515

D$$$ calverts.restaurant

CANTINA LOCALE

Mexican with a twist.

2803 Wrightsboro Rd., Ste. 20B (762) 333-8320

LD$$ cantinalocale.com

CASA BELLA

Quality Italian cuisine.

120 Chesterfield St. S, Aiken (803) 641-3107

D$$$ facebook.com/casabellaaiken

THE CHOP HOUSE

An award-winning steakhouse with nine locations nationwide.

3450 Wrightsboro Rd. (706) 733-2244

T LD$$$ thechophouse.com

COLEMAN’S LUNCH BOX

Burgers, pasta, wings, salads and more, all cooked to order.

1022 Walton Way, Ste. A (762) 333-3688

T LD$$

CORK & FLAME

Photo by Jane Kortright

CAFÉ ON 8TH

k CORK & FLAME

Fine dining with tapas and a wine market.

4414 Evans to Locks Rd. (706) 922-9463

LD$$$ corkandflame.com

k CRAFT & VINE

Upscale cocktail offering old-timey drinks, tapas menu, brick-oven pizza, charcuterie platters and more in a metro-atmosphere.

1204 Broad St., B (706) 496-8442

D$$ craftandvine.com

CUCINA 503

Authentic Italian food with made-from-scratch pasta, flatbreads and risotto

502 Furys Ferry Rd., Ste. 503 (762) 994-0142

D$$$

CURRY HUT

Regional Indian dishes with a lunch buffet. 2810 Washington Rd. (706) 922-4616

T LD$$ curryhutaugusta.com

DAVE & BUSTER’S

Hearty burgers, sandwiches, salads and entrees. Great happy hour drink specials. 807 Cabela Drive (706) 849-8950

T LD$$ daveandbusters.com

k DOC’S PORCHSIDE

Wings, wings and more wings. Live music. Lots of TVs for sports viewing. 3035 Washington Rd., Augusta (762) 257-6760

5147 Bluegrass Trail, Grovetown (762) 257-6770

LD$$ docsporchside.com

DOLCE DARLIN’

A rotating menu of gourmet cupcakes, cheesecake slices, macarons and scones. 404 Telfair St. (706) 364-0203

T BL$$ dolcedarlin.com

EDGAR’S ABOVE BROAD

Rooftop dining with American cuisine in an entertaining atmosphere, including a bocce ball court and putting green.

699 Broad St., Ste. 300 (762) 320-4320

BLD$$ edgarsabovebroad.com

EDGAR’S BAKEHOUSE

Bakery offering savory pastries, breads, desserts, sandwiches, coffee and espresso.

3179 Washington Rd., Ste. B (706) 863-3669

T BL$ edgarsbakehouse.com

EDGAR’S GRILLE

New American cuisine with a Southern flair, prepared from fresh local and organic ingredients. Menu offers appetizers, tapas, pizza, entrees and desserts.

3165 Washington Rd., Ste. E (706) 854-4700

LD$$ edgarsgrille.com

ELECTRIC EATS

Classic pub comfort food. 140 Laurens St. SW, Aiken (803) 226-0037

LD$$ electric-eats.com

EPHESUS GREEK & TURKISH KABOB PLACE

Greek and Turkish cuisine. 3102 Washington Rd. (762) 994-0180

LD$$$ ephesusgreekturkishga.com

k FARMHAUS BURGER

Local burger joint featuring a custom grind of beef from local farmers, boozy “milk” shakes and a full bar.

1204 Broad St., Augusta (706) 496-8771

466 Flowing Wells Rd., Martinez (706) 496-2846

LD$$ farmhausburger.com

Photo courtesy of Edgar’s Grille/facebook

EDGAR’S GRILLE

GOOD TASTE

FAT MAN’S CAFE & CATERING

Weekday option with a lunch menu featuring fried chicken, sandwiches & other Southerninspired eats.

1450 Greene St. Ste. 600 (706) 733-1740

T L$$ fatmans.com

THE FEED SACK

Snacks, salads, burgers, chops and marketfresh fish.

1593 Whiskey Rd., Aiken (803) 226-0459

1069 Edgefield Rd., Ste. 103/105 North Augusta (803) 341-9437

LD$$ thefeedsackrestaurants.com

FINCH & FIFTH

Housemade patés, specialty cheeses, small plates, salads, sandwiches and entrees, fine wine and craft cocktails.

379 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 364-5300

LD$$ finchandfifth.com

FIRST WATCH

Health-minded café chain for breakfast, brunch and lunch options.

630 Crane Creek Dr., Ste. 405 (762) 224-0022

BL$$ firstwatch.com

FORMOSA’S II CHINESE RESTAURANT

Chinese restaurant with authentic cuisine for dine-in or takeout.

3830 Washington Rd. (706) 855-8998

T LD$$ formosas2.com

FRENCH MARKET GRILLE

Cajun and Creole cuisine in New Orleans-style atmosphere.

425 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 737-4865

LD$$ thefrenchmarketgrille.com

FRENCH MARKET GRILLE WEST

Cajun and Creole cuisine in New Orleans-style atmosphere.

360 Furys Ferry Rd. (706) 855-5111

LD$$ frenchmarketgrillewest.com

FROG & THE HEN MARKET & EATERY

Farm-to-table menu with many local and regionally-grown ingredients.

Contemporary American cuisine.

466 Flowing Wells Rd., Ste. 4 (706) 755-2767

T LD$$-$$$ frogandthehen.com

k FROG HOLLOW TAVERN

Farm-to-table menu with many local and regionally-grown ingredients.

Contemporary American cuisine.

1282 Broad St. (706) 364-6906

D$$$ froghollowtavern.com

GARY’S HAMBURGERS

Fresh, juicy handmade hamburgers.

410 Georgia Ave., North Augusta (803) 278-1314

3909 Washington Rd., Augusta (706) 210-7575

T BLD$

FINCH & FIFTH

k GOAT KICK COFFEE CO.

Coffee shop offering small breakfast and lunch items, pastries, coffee, smoothies and more. 935 Ronald Reagan Dr. Ste. 101

BL$ goatkickcoffee.com

k GOOLSBY’S

Known for their Low-n-Slow Bar-B-Q such as brisket and pulled pork with classic sides.

4460 Washington Rd. (706) 651-7345

LD$$ goolsbys.com

GUISEPPE’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN SPECIALTIES

Traditional Italian favorites with weekday lunch specials.

3690 Wheeler Rd. (706) 855-0527

LD$$ gpizza.net

HILDEBRANDT’S

Augusta’s oldest continually-operating downtown business offers deli sandwiches and all the sides for lunch in a nostalgic grocery store setting.

226 6th St., Ste. 1416 (706) 722-7756

L$ hildebrandtsaugusta.com

IKONZ SPORTS BAR AND GRILL

Bar and grill; weekly specials. 1515 N. Leg Rd. (706) 922-7920

D$

Photo courtesy of Finch & Fifth/facebook

GOOD TASTE

k THE INDIAN QUEEN

A bar with a cozy cabin feel; artisan craft cocktails and beer.

2502 Wrightsboro Rd. (706) 303-8723

D$ theindianqueen.com

INICIO BY CHEF JUSTIN HAYES

By Chef Justin Hayes, this immerisive culinary experience presents food in the highest form. Reservations required; seating limited.

4414 Evans to Locks Road (706) 922-9463

D (Call restaurant for pricing) iniciorestaurant.com

k IRONWOOD TAVERN

A laid-back atmosphere with happy hour food and cocktails.

5117 Washington Rd. Ste. 1 (706) 814-6789

T LD$$ ironwoodtavern.com

IZUMI JAPANESE BUFFET

Offers everyday Japanese food including hibachi and a multitude of sushi rolls.

4368 Washington Rd. (706) 922-7280

T LD$$ izumitogo.com

JIM ‘N NICK’S BAR-B-Q

A barbecue chain with one-of-a-kind pitmaster recipes and slow-smoked flavor. 275 Robert C Daniel Jr. Pkwy. (803) 906-9906

LD$$ jimnnicks.com

THE JUICY CRAB

Features seafood with unique seasonings and sides as well as Low Country boils and bar beverages.

2834 Washington Rd., Ste. G/H (706) 922-8088

LD$$ juicycrabaugusta.com

k KNUCKLE SANDWICHES

Home of the famous PBR-B-Q Sandwich! Serving mouth watering wings and hot sandwiches.

1149 Broad St. (706) 828-4700

LD$$

k KOI JAPANESE HIBACHI & SUSHI

Informal Japanese eatery with an insanely large menu of sushi rolls and popular hibachi stations.

3847 Washington Rd. (706) 364-4992

LD$$ koiaugusta.com

LA PARISIENNE

French favorites such as quiche, crêpes, macarons and Croque Monsieurs, plus numerous selections from the pâtisserie.

223 Chesterfield St. South, Aiken (803) 226-0899

T BLD$ laparisiennecafe.com

k LAZIZA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

Marvelous Mediterranean cuisine in the form of wraps, bowls and platters.

901 Broad St. (706) 814-7710

4272 Washington Rd., Ste 8A (706) 504-4303

LD$$ lazizagrill.com

k LIL’ DUTCH BAKERY

Small, local bakery offering pies, cookies and other sweet treats along with breads and rolls.

3830 Washington Rd., #5 (706) 228-5336

T B$$

LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE

Casual dining steakhouse serving up perfectly cooked cuts of meat and delicious side dishes. 3241 Washington Rd. (706) 650-6600

LD$$$ longhornsteakhouse.com

Photo courtesy of Wier / Stewart LAZIZA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

GOOD TASTE

LUIGI’S

Greek and Italian selections plus pizza and sandwiches.

590 Broad St. (706) 722-4056

LD$$ luigisinc.com

MANUEL’S BREAD CAFÉ

Seasonal menu features farm-to-table ingredients prepared with a nod to timehonored French methods.

505 Railroad Ave., Ste. 100, North Augusta (803) 380-1323

BLD$$ manuelsbreadcafe.com

k MANNY’S SPORTS OFF BROAD

An elevated twist on classic pub-grub cuisine. Locally-brewed craft beers on tap.

215 10th St.

(404) 216-2264

T LD$$ mannyssportsoffbroad.com

MARYLAND FRIED CHICKEN

Fried chicken, seafood and Southern sides offered daily.

12 Broad St. (706) 722-2501

LD$$ mfcofaugusta.com

MARCO’S

Pizza, the Italian way. Multiple locations.

T LD$$ marcos.com

k MELLOW MUSHROOM

Speciality pizzas, subs and Parmesan garlic dough pretzels.

1102 Broad St. (706) 828-5578

4348 Washington Rd. (706) 364-6756

151 Bee Ln., Aiken (803) 474-8454

LD$ mellowmushroom.com

METRO COFFEEHOUSE AND PUB

A coffeehouse and bar offering coffee, cocktails and desserts.

1054 Broad St. (706) 722-6468

$

MIRIN FUSION KITCHEN

Boba teas, hibachi, ramen and more in a family friendly atmosphere.

630 Crane Creek Dr. Ste. 402 (706) 922-3888

LD$$

MUNCHIE’S SNACKS

A fusion of casual and creative items from a variety of cuisines.

3830 Washington Rd. Ste. 7

LD$$

k NACHO MAMA’S

Burritos, tacos, nachos and more served in a historic downtown venue.

976 Broad St. (706) 724-0501

LD$ nachomamasaugusta.com

KOI JAPANESE HIBACHI AND SUSHI

NAMASTE INDIAN STREET FOOD

Serving fun, authentic Indian food in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4272 Washington Rd., Ste. 5A (706) 755-2082

LD $$ namastestreetfood.com

NEON FIG

Imaginative and handcrafted dishes with new twists on old favorites.

110 Park Ave. SW, Aiken (803) 226-0424

LD$$ neon-fig.com

NEW MOON CAFE

Craft roasted coffees, fresh bakery goods soups, sandwiches and salads made from locally-sourced ingredients.

936 Broad St. (706) 823-2008

116 Laurens St. NW, Aiken (803) 643-7088

BL$$ newmoondowntown.com

NOBLE JONES

Everything from a variety of salads, sandwiches, soups to seafood. Nojo also mixes some of the area’s best cocktails.

816 Cotton Ln. (706) 305-3344

LD$$ noblejonesaug.com

Photo courtesy of Neon Fig/facebook NEON FIG

k OLD MCDONALD FISH CAMP

Local restaurant with seafood and all-you-caneat options in a down-home atmosphere.

355 Currytown Rd., North Augusta (803) 279-3305

T D$$ oldmcdonaldfishcamp.com

k OLIVIANA PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & BAR

Italian menu features antipasti, salads, pasta, risotto, baked dishes and pizza. Also features full bar and happy hour.

399 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 723-1242

LD $$ olivianaitaliano.com

PALMETTO BOWLS

Location offering different mixes of Acai Bowls.

126 Dominion Dr, Aiken (803) 221-2408

BL$ facebook.com/palmettobowls

PARK AVENUE OYSTER BAR & GRILL

This neighborhood seafood bistro is in downtown Aiken. Raw bar, shrimp, shellfish, tartare and more.

224 Park Ave., Aiken (803) 962-7848

LD$$$ parkaveoysterbar.com

PARTRIDGE INN BAR AND GRILL

Southern contemporary cuisine in the newly renovated Augusta icon.

2110 Walton Way (706) 737-8888

LD$$ partridgeinn.com

PHO RAMEN’L

Delicious Ramen and Pho options, small plates and Bahn Mi, plus Bao Buns. Don’t forget the Ph’rog Bar.

990 Broad St. (706) 842-7800

D$$ phoramenl.com

PINK DIPPER

An old-fashioned ice cream parlor.

501 Georgia Ave. (803) 279-4100

$ pinkdipper.com

PINEAPPLE INK TAVERN

Offering handcrafted food and drink inspired by the owner’s Cuban heritage.

1002 Broad St. (706) 842-4401

LD$$$ pineappleinktavern.com

PIZZA CENTRAL

A great place for pizza, wings, calzones, salads and more.

526 N Belair Rd. Ste. 103

LD$$ pizzacentralusa.com

PIZZA JOINT

Known for their specialty slices and stromboli. Extensive beer selection. Outdoor dining available.

1245 Broad St. (706) 774-0037

4301 Washington Rd. (706) 447-4992

LD$ thepizzajoint.com

THE POT SMOKER BBQ

The Pot Smoker has some of the area’s best barbecue.

340 Edgefield Rd., North Augusta (803) 279-2271

651 Silver Bluff Rd., Aiken (803) 226-0941

LD$$ thepotsmokerbbq.com

THE PROPER PLATE

Fresh meats and vegetables prepared daily for eat in or take out.

119 Laurens St. NW., Aiken LD$$

RACK & GRILL

Enjoy a game of pool and casual eats like Big Boy Chili Dog, French Dip, Rack ‘Em Up Bacon Cheeseburger and Chicken Club. Multiple locations.

LD$ rackngrill.com

k RAES COASTAL CAFE

Coastal Caribbean dining. Jerk chicken and Low Country boil.

3208 W. Wimbledon Dr. (706) 738-1313

LD$$ raescoastalcafe.com

Photo by Jane Kortright PARK AVENUE OYSTER BAR & GRILL

A LOCAL FISH HOUSE

BUILT BY A LOCAL FAMILY

MON: TUES, WED, THURS: FRI, SAT: SUN:

HOURS

TELEPHONE: (803) 226-0260

4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Dinner Menu Only)

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

OUR STORY

A SEAFOOD TRADITION UNLIKE ANY OTHER

Welcome to the Aiken Fish House and Oyster Bar. South Carolina natives, Damian and Rachael Blevins, have spent a combined thirty years in the restaurant business and are proud to bring a local Fish House to Aiken. Since opening in the Spring of 2019, the response from the community has been truly amazing and we are grateful for all your support. We are confident the Aiken Fish House will continue to serve as a local landmark, not only for the freshest seafood experience around, but as a true meeting spot for friends and families alike. We look forward to serving you for many years to come. Thank you for supporting a locally owned and operated business.

SMOKESHOW

RALLY POINT GRILL

Welcoming all guests, but honoring veterans, first responders and active duty military, the family-style restaurant serves American fare at reasonable prices.

4446 Washington Rd. (706) 364-0481

LD$$ evans.rallypointgrille.com

k RHINEHART’S OYSTER BAR

Fresh seafood, burgers and appetizers served in a beyond casual atmosphere.

3051 Washington Rd. (706) 860-2337

305 N. Belair Rd. (706) 868-6850

LD$$ rhineharts.com

RHUMBA RUM & CIGAR LOUNGE

Rum and cigar lounge offering Latin bites.

321 Richland Ave. W, Aiken (803) 226-0014

$$ rhineharts.com

RIO CANTINA

Taqueria offering delicious Mexican food. 1049 Center St., North Augusta (803) 349-8376

LD$$

ROOTED COFFEEHOUSE

A mission-driven community destination with organic and seasonal selections.

3116 William Few Parkway, #1 (706) 426-8083

2025 Evans Towne Center Blvd., Ste. 213 (706) 755-2282

T B$ rootedcoffeehouse.com

RUTH’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

Delicious breakfast joint serving homestyle breakfast entrees.

3843 Washington Rd. (706) 863-5616

B$

SALT + MARROW

Wood-fired cuisine in inviting surroundings inside the Crowne Plaza hotel.

1060 Center St., North Augusta (803) 349-8400

LD$$$

crownenorthaugusta.com/salt-and-marrow

SALTY TOMATOES CAFE

Small plates, pasta, sandwiches, sweets and baked goods.

1493 Wrightsboro Rd. (706) 955-9400

BLD$$ saltytom.com

SAVANNAH RIVER BREWING CO.

Taproom with local craft beer on tap. 813 5th St. 706) 426-8212

$$ savannahriverbrew.com

k SCONYERS BAR-B-QUE

Barbecue served in a country log cabin atmosphere. Smoked turkey breast, beef and chicken.

2250 Sconyers Way (706) 790-5411

LD$$ sconyersbar-b-que.com

SHANE’S RIB SHACK

BBQ pork, ribs and chicken. A selection of sides, including Brunswick stew, baked beans and collard greens.

4446 Washington Rd., Ste. 1 (706) 855-8227

9606 Bentley Dr., Grovetown (706) 550-0860

2645 Whiskey Rd., Aiken (803) 226-0192

LD$ shanesribshack.com

SHEILA’S BAKING COMPANY

Delectable, from-scratch baked goods, pastries and coffee.

434 Georgia Ave., North Augusta (803) 646-0668

B$ sheilasbakingco.com

SHEEHAN’S IRISH PUB

A traditional Irish menu plus seafood and steaks. 2324 Central Ave. (706) 364-1234

D$$ sheehansaugusta.com

k SMOKESHOW SOUTHERN STYLE BARBECUE

Food trucks with authentic, lip-smacking, barbecued chicken, pork, beef and sausage with traditional sides.

(706) 445-0049

LD$$ smokeshowsouthernbbq.com

SOCA VEGAN KITCHEN

Uses recipes and cooking techniques native to Trinidad. Owned and operated by a mother-anddaughter team.

630 Crane Creek Dr., Ste. 103 (706) 432-9327

T LD$ socavegankitchen.com

Photo courtesy of Smokeshow Southern Style Barbecue/facebook

SOUTHERN STYLE BARBECUE

GOOD TASTE

k SNO-CAP DRIVE IN

American eats at a ‘60s style restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.

618 West Ave., North Augusta (803) 279-4004

T LD$ snocapdrivein.com

THE SOLFOOD KITCHEN

This wellness cafe strives to create a colorful mosiac of global comfort foods.

471 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (762) 333-8832

LD$ thesolfoodkitchen.com

SOLÉ GRILL & SUSHI BAR

Sushi bar, sports bar, contemporary American eatery with a menu of everything from salads and burgers to tacos and steaks. Nightly specials and a full bar menu.

1033 Broad St. (706) 432-9898

D$ soleaugusta.com

SOUTHBOUND SMOKEHOUSE

Pit-cooked barbecue, sides, appetizers and more served in a friendly casual atmosphere. Live local music.

1009 Center St., North Augusta (803) 349-9306

LD$ southboundsmokehouse.com

THE SOUTHERN SALAD

Menu offers gourmet and custom bowls and smoothies from farm-fresh, local ingredients.

1008 Broad St. (706) 504-4476

LD$$ thesouthernsalad.com

SOY NOODLE HOUSE

Offering an eclectic variety of Asian fare. Noodles, rice dishes, soups and sushi.

1032 Broad St. (706) 364-3116

LD$$ soynoodlehouse.com

THE SPORTS CENTER

Bar and grill featuring burgers, hot dogs, chicken and salad options.

594 Broad St. (706) 724-9307

LD$

STILLWATER TAPROOM

Live music, a large bar and an outdoor patio makes this a mellow spot to wind down the night.

974 Broad St. (706) 826-9857

D$$

k SUNRISE GRILL

Diner-style breakfast and lunch offerings. 3830 Washington Rd., #10, Augusta (706) 228-4883

404 E. Martintown Rd., #4, North Augusta (803) 202-9898

BL$ thesunrisegrill.com

SURCHEROS FRESH MEX

Build-your-own Tex-Mex creations. Choose from burritos, tacos, nachos, quesedillas, salads and bowls.

2907 Washington Rd., Ste. 402 (706) 305-9889

T LD$ surcheros.com

TACOCAT

Tacos, tortas, salads and nachos, with brunch on Sundays.

208 10th St. (706) 842-7800

LD$

k TAKOSUSHI

Eclectic menu of sushi and Southwest food. 437 Highland Ave., Surrey Center (706) 736-9191

1202 Town Park Ln.,#111 (706) 863-0606

210 The Alley SW, Aiken (803) 642-8899

LD$$ tako-sushi.com

k TAJ OF INDIA

Authentic Indian cuisine. 502-7 Furys Ferry Rd. (706) 860-6665

LD$$ thetajofindia.com

k TAQUERIA EL REY

Speciality pizzas, subs and authentic Mexican food.

3830 Washington Rd., Ste. 25 (762) 994-0483

LD$

k TBONZ STEAKHOUSE OF AUGUSTA

Famous steaks. An Augusta institution since 1986. 2856 Washington Rd., Augusta (706) 737-8325

601 N. Belair Square (706) 814-7083

LD$$ tbonzofaugusta.com

Photo courtesy of Tacocat/facebook TACOCAT

GOOD TASTE

THE TENTH INNING BAR AND GRILL

Good food in a relaxed atmosphere with a full bar.

732 E. Buena Vista Ave., North Augusta (803) 599-7439

LD$

THAI KITCHEN

Authentic Thai cuisine.

4357 Washington Rd. (706) 210-4110

LD$

TLC CONFECTIONS & GIFTS

A variety of coffees, teas, lattes and madefrom-scratch cookies, bars and cakes.

109 Courthouse Square, Edgefield (803) 859-5486

T BL$$ tlcconfectionssc.com

TOKI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI BAR

Japanese hibachi cuisine.

362 Furys Ferry Rd. #4 (706) 868-2323

LD$$ tokijapanesesteakhouse.com

TRELLIS COFFEE BAR

Delicious coffee and pastries.

1902 Walton Way (706) 496-7035

$ trelliscoffeebar.com

TRATTORIA POLIPO

Authentic Italian dining featuring homemade pastas, cheese and breads.

3629 Walton Way Ext. (706) 305-9677

D$$$ polipoaugusta.com

TWIN PEAKS

Generous portions of comfort food are served up in a mountain lodge setting. The beer is kept at a frosty 29 degrees.

277 Robert C. Daniels Jr. Pkwy. (706) 426-4934

LD$$ twinpeaksrestaurant.com

TWO MOMS KITCHEN

Quaint bakeshop famous for delicious customiced sugar cookies in any shape and design. 2830 Central Ave. (706) 755-2664

T L$ twomoms.kitchen

UBORA COFFEE ROASTERS

Veteran-owned and operated coffee bar and roaster.

1128 Jones St. (706) 432-8571

T BL$ uboracoffee.com

TRELLIS COFFEE BAR

VANCE’S BAKERY BAR

Mid-century modern cocktail lounge and dessert bar specializing in signature drinks and luxe desserts.

123 James Brown Blvd. (706) 250-3936

$$ vancesbakerybar.com

VILLA EUROPA

German, American and Italian dining including Jaegerschnitzel, prime rib, lasagna. (706) 798-6211

T LD$$ villaeuropa.com

k VILLAGE DELI SUB & PUB

Sandwiches, soups, burgers, salads, daily specials, bar. 2803 Wrightsboro Rd., Ste. 28 Daniel Village (706) 736-3691

LD$ villagedeliaugusta.com

k WIFESAVER

Fried chicken and all your Southern favorites. Multiple locations. (706) 738-6628

T LD$ wifesaverrestaurants.com

Photo courtesy of Trellis Coffee Bar/facebook

Palmetto

GOOD TASTE

k WHIPPED CREAMERY

Hand-dipped and soft serve ice cream, frozen desserts and baked goods delight at this locals favorite.

353 Furys Ferry Rd., Martinez (706) 305-9195

514 Oxbow Dr., Grovetown (706) 993-9403

LD$$ whippedcreamerytreats.com

WHISKEY BAR KITCHEN

Upscale bar food including small plates, burger plates, salads, appetizers, a few Asian entrees and an extensive selection of speciality whiskeys.

1048 Broad St. (706) 814-6159

LD$$ whiskeybarkitchen.com

THE WILLCOX

An American fine dining restaurant inside The Willcox Hotel.

100 Colleton Ave. SW, Aiken (803) 648-1898

BLD$$$ thewillcox.com

WILDEMOUNT

A fine dining restaurant wtih a culinary menu inspired from variety of locales.

200 Park Ave. SW, Aiken (803) 262-5269

LD$$$ thewildemount.com

WILLIE JEWELL’S OLD SCHOOL BAR-B-Q

The legendary recipes of Willie Jewell are captured with slow-cooked pork, chicken, beef brisket and smoked turkey offerings in the family-style dine-in restaurant.

3512 River Watch Pkwy. (762) 222-8587

T LD$$ williejewells.com

k WINGSTOP

Classic wings, boneless wings and crispy tenders can be tossed in your choice of a dozen flavors, from mild to atomic. Multiple locations.

T LD$$ wingstop.com

k WORLD OF BEER BAR & KITCHEN

Gastropub featuring 500+ beers, drafts and tavern style food.

2819 Washington Rd. (706) 922-0146

MC LD$$ worldofbeer.com

YOUR PIE PIZZA

Fast and casual customizable pizzas, sandwiches and salad, along with gelato and a selection of beer and wine.

Multiple locations.

MCT LD$$ yourpie.com

ZAXBY’S

Specialty chicken entrees, including sandwiches, fingers, wings and salads. Multiple locations.

MC T LD$ zaxbys.com

GRAB-N-GO

CLEAN EATZ

Fresh, seasonal ingredients with gluten-free, keto and high protein options. Meals include buffalo chicken loaded tots, garden herb steak bowl, gnocchi with meatballs and premium brisket mac & cheese.

630 Crane Creek Dr., Suite 504 (706) 364-8100

T $$ cleaneatz.com

Photo courtesy of Vance’s Bakery Bar/Facebook

VANCE’S BAKERY BAR

GOOD TASTE

SWEET AZALEA GOURMET SHOP AND CATERING

Salads, casseroles, sweets & cheese straws. 2569 Central Ave., Ste. B (706) 364-5059

T $$ sweetazalea.com

k TASTEFULLY YOURS

Owned and operated by Jennifer Shuford, this caterer and marketplace shows off food that’s not only pleasing to taste, but pleasing to the eye.

2204 Ellis St. (706) 481-0038

T $$ tastefullyyourscatering.net

TWO MOMS KITCHEN

A variety of casseroles for takeout. 2830 Central Ave. (706) 755-2664

T L$ twomoms.kitchen

UPROOTED VEGAN CUISINE

Vegan dishes, locally-sourced ingredients and dynamic weekly takeout menues. Some favorites include lemon herb orzo bowl, asian peanut slaw, sunflower kale salad and Irish cream cupcakes.

359 Furys Ferry Road (803) 514-4367

T $ eatuprootedvegan.com

SPIRITS

2ND CITY DISTILLING CO.

Located in downtown Augusta, 2nd City is Augusta’s only distillery featuring bourbon, whiskey, vodka, gin and rum.

4 8th St. (706) 214-2288

2ndcitydistilling.com

AUGUSTA LIQUORS

Wine, spirits and beer at wholesale prices. No membership required.

823 Cabela Dr. (706) 736-6232 augustaliquors.com

AUGUSTA WINE COMPANY

A place for wine lovers to select and curate their perfect collection of wines.

1918 Central Ave. (706) 814-7780 augustawinecompany.com

BEVERAGE OUTLET

The area’s largest discount beverage superstore, with more than 12,000 square feet of wine, beer and spirits.

248 Bobby Jones Expressway (706) 723-1671 beverageoutlet.net

Photo courtesy of Toast Wine and Beverage/Facebook

TOAST WINE AND BEVERAGE

GOOD TASTE

BILL’S PLACE

Serving Augusta for more than 80 years. Wine, beer, a variety of whiskey — imported and domestic.

209 5th St. (706) 722-6429

CHEERS WINE & SPIRITS

Offering an extensive collection of fine wines, spirits and beer.

3901 Tanner Ct. (706) 432-6321

CORK & CAP

Bottle shop offering a selection of wine, beer and fine provisions.

146 Laurens St. NW, Aiken (803) 761-0768

HARVARD WINE & BEVERAGE

Two locations to serve you.

110 Old Evans Rd. (706) 855-0060

145 Kings Grant Dr., Aiken (803) 502-1909

LIQUOR LAND

Three locations to serve you.

2980 Whiskey Rd., Aiken (803) 226-0608

4408 Evans to Lock Rd. (706) 955-9832

959 Branch Court, Grovetown (706) 305-9552

NORTH AUGUSTA WINE & BEVERAGE

Offering a large selection of wine, beer and spirits.

1135 Knox Ave., North Augusta (803) 279-1115

northaugustawine.com

SUMMERVILLE ACE

Let their experienced staff help you select the finest spirits, wine and beer.

Located across from the Partridge Inn. 2065 Walton Way (706) 733-7787

summervilleace.com

TIP TOP TAPS

Growler store featuring a wide selection of craft and tap beers.

936 Broad St. (706) 414-6050

tiptoptaps.com

k TOAST WINE AND BEVERAGE

Voted by Augustans as the best wine merchant and best beer selection. Toast carries an extensive inventory of wine, beer and spirits.

417 Furys Ferry Rd. (706) 922-8627

toastbev.com

THE WHITE HORSE WINE & SPIRITS

Located in Surrey Center, The White Horse has been keeping you in good spirits since 1949.

497 Highland Ave. (706) 733-2262

whitehorseaugusta.com