Welcoming The Gretsch Family to Dillard’s Cupboard Cafe

by Tracy McCoy

Having made a reputation for themselves in Crawford, Georgia, just outside of Athens on Highway 78, the Gretsch family is known for their barbecue. Having been called “a haven for meat lovers seeking top-notch flavors” by Athens Magazine, owner Fred Gretsch accepts nothing short of excellence when it comes to his famous Southern barbecue. Having been a connoisseur of great barbecue, Fred knows that it all starts with exceptional cuts of meat. Serving brisket, pulled pork, and chicken at G Brand BBQ of course accompanied by all of the traditional sides, Fred welcomes people from near and far to experience his specialty.

With a background in farming and having worked on farms and ranches most of his life, Fred prioritizes sourcing local beef, chicken and pork. Some of their beef comes from the Gretsch Brothers Angus cattle-farming operation. Wherever possible he will support the community by purchasing local chicken and pork as well. The G Brand company produces an impressive line of sauces to accompany their mouthwatering meats, available for purchase by his restaurants’ guests.

When Fred Gretsch met Charlene Johnson of Cupboard Cafe fame, the two agree that God’s hand was at work. Charlene having opened the restaurant in 1987, was looking to slow down a bit and enjoy herself and Fred felt God was opening a door for him to serve the mountain community in northeast Georgia and western North Carolina. Fred, the new owner of Cupboard Cafe, is excited about the future, impressed with the restaurant that Charlene has built and has enjoyed getting to know the community.

On June 1st Fred fell right into step as the new owner of the Cupboard Cafe. Within weeks Fred opened the Cafe back up to serve breakfast to his loyal customers. The majority of the staff at the Cupboard have been serving up deliciously Southern food here for well over 15 years. As a member of the kitchen staff himself, Fred acknowledges the outstanding employees he inherited with the purchase of the cafe. Serving excellent food and hospitality are just one of the amazing qualities of the family of employees at the Cupboard Cafe. The relationships between the customers and employees were apparent from day one.

One goal that Fred has for the restaurant is to bring back three meals each day, Wednesday–Sunday. Currently they are open from 7 AM – 4 PM but plans are in place to add dinner hours in the coming months. How will the menu change? Well fortunately G Brand BBQ will be added to the Cupboard Cafe’s menu and as the new owners settle in there may be other additions or changes but they are expected to be minimal. Southern hospitality is at the core of both G Brand BBQ and our Cupboard Cafe and that will remain the same. Every dish will continue to be crafted with the finest ingredients and dedication to excellence. So join me in welcoming the Gretsch family to Dillard, Georgia.

The Cupboard Cafe and Gifts is located at 7388 US Hwy 441 in Dillard. For additional information call 706-746-5700 or follow them on Facebook.