Who doesn’t enjoy dining out with friends and family? Having a good time strolling down memory lane or laughing and creating new ones while enjoying the signature meals of some top-rated local restaurants. As we all know, sometimes picking the perfect dining spot can be a difficult task. Thankfully, Hiawassee is rich with several great options such as the open-air dining at Young Harris Wing House, a Mediterranean-Infused experience at HR Gastro Lounge, a savory down-home meal at Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House, a relaxing retreat at The Oaks, delicious casual dining at Mary’s Southern Grill, or enjoying extended barbecue options at The Happy Hawg.
Local Tantalizers in Towns County
Your stomach is sure to be growling as we dive into these mouthwatering local Hiawassee restaurants, their ambiance, and bestselling dishes to help prepare you for your perfect dining adventure.
Young Harris Wing House
First up on our list is Young Harris Wing House. Located at 1149 Main Street, Young Harris, this saucy spot offers a wide assortment of menu options, and indoor or outdoor seating, in case you want to enjoy your dining experience under the gorgeous Georgia sky.
At Young Harris Wing House you can enjoy sandwiches, wraps, burgers, beverages, and of course all the chicken wings you need to feed your hunger. This lively locale boasts over 30 different sauce flavors to dress your favorite flats and drums in to cure your most intricate cravings, whether they be mild, medium, or hot.
Enjoy a refreshing libation while soaking up the fresh Georgia air at this local hotspot.
HIR Gastro Lounge
If you are craving a new spin on Mediterranean while relaxing over a glass of wine, then HIR Gastro Lounge is the place for you. Pronounced “here”, HIR Gastro Lounge’s Mediterranean Infusion menu has a wide assortment of award-winning dishes to tickle your tastebuds. Located at 757 Bell Creek Road Building #4, Hiawassee, HIR Gastro Lounge is the winning recipient of this year’s Best Restaurant in Hiawassee award by Restaurant Guru 2024. With a menu featuring tantalizing plates such as fresh Coconut Shrimp, Sesame Seared Ahi, crispy Fried Brussel sprouts, succulent Crunch Chicken, and indulgent Zeppole, along with a regular schedule of live music that begins at 6 pm., you can be sure that your outing will be a memorable one. Although this cozy spot makes for an intimate dining affair, make sure to reserve your table ahead as seating is limited.
Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House
Are you craving some southern barbecue? Then how about you make your way to Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House, located at 625 Hwy 76 Hiawassee. Owned by the nationally recognized Chef James Reaux, who has impressed foodies with his Carolina BBQ, Lexington BBQ, BBQ Ribs, BBQ Brisket, BBQ Chicken, and of course BBQ Pork. Apart from their barbecue specialties, you can enjoy golden fried catfish with hushpuppies for a more traditional southern fare. If you’re still on the fence, try their Great Garden Salad with Fried Chicken, House Smoked Chicken Wings, Brunswick Stew, or an assortment of homemade sides. When your main course comes to an end, be sure to save room for their homemade desserts! Enjoy inside dining or al fresco style on their open patio. We know one thing for certain, you won’t leave hungry!
The Oaks
Are you searching for a temporary escape from your hectic schedule? Then enjoy Ridges Resort’s farm-to-table experience The Oaks for elevated dining with a lakeside view. Your dining experience will blow your mind as the chefs prepare dishes such as Honey Dijon Pork Belly Bites, Whiskey Braised Short Ribs, Skillet-Seared Salmon, and of course, a mouth-watering Filet. Soak in the lakeside atmosphere while enjoying a libation off their signature cocktail menu featuring an extensive selection of handcrafted specialty drinks or choose from a wide selection of draft beers. Enjoy an atmosphere of true ambiance and relaxation as you escape to The Oaks.
Mary’s Southern Grill
In search of something a bit more casual? Mary’s Southern Grill located at 1615 State Highway 17, #104 is the perfect stop for you with a menu serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that will be sure to blow your mind. This down-home diner has something for everybody and tops it all off with an incredible selection of your favorite pies!
The Happy Hawg
Still feeling a little saucy? Then the 2023 Best of Georgia Barbecue Joints regional winner The Happy Hawg situated at 1586 Hwy 76 West, Hiawassee is more than ready to take you on a wild barbecue adventure. Featuring all your favorites like beef brisket, chopped pork, juicy ribs, and plump burgers and sandwiches, you’re sure to cure your barbecue cravings. Stop in and see for yourself why this award-winning barbecue joint is ready to serve you!
Now that we’ve explored some of the best restaurants in Hiawassee, Georgia, we hope that deciding where to dine will be a much easier decision and leave more time to spend in the great company around you.