Augusta, Georgia—famous for its lush gardens, rich history, and, of course, the prestigious Masters Golf Tournament—also boasts a burgeoning food scene that is as inviting as a warm Southern breeze. The city’s culinary offerings range from upscale fine dining to down-home Southern comfort food, and every meal here feels like a journey into the heart of Southern hospitality.
Imagine yourself walking into a bustling restaurant, where the aroma of sizzling steaks and freshly baked bread dances through the air, and every plate arriving at the table seems like a work of art. Dining in Augusta is not just about eating; it’s about immersing yourself in a sensory experience where every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and local flavor.
In this guide, we will take you on a tour of the top dining spots in Augusta. From elegant fine dining to more relaxed, yet equally flavorful spots, you’ll find everything you need to make your next culinary adventure unforgettable.
1. The Bee’s Knees: A Stylish Modern Eatery with Southern Charm
Location: 211 6th St, Augusta, GA
Price Range: $20 – $40 per person
Booking Platform: OpenTable
Restaurant Overview: A Blend of Contemporary and Classic Southern Flavors
If Augusta’s food scene were a symphony, The Bee’s Knees would be the crescendo. The restaurant stands out not just for its food but for the sheer personality it brings to the table. Modern, yet charmingly Southern, the interior combines sleek, contemporary design with rustic touches, making you feel like you’ve stepped into an upscale farmhouse where the food is as beautiful as the decor.
The Bee’s Knees is known for blending Southern classics with an inventive, modern twist. It feels like a celebration of Augusta itself—proud of its heritage, yet always moving forward. When you enter, the warmth of the place envelops you, and you immediately know this is where memories will be made.
Signature Dishes:
- Shrimp and Grits: Don’t just order this dish; savor it. The plump shrimp sit atop a mountain of creamy grits that melt in your mouth, with a touch of smoky bacon and a splash of buttery sauce that could make your grandmother’s cooking jealous.
- Southern Fried Chicken: Imagine a golden-brown crust that crackles with every bite, and inside—tender, juicy chicken that’s been marinated just long enough to absorb all the spices. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul.
- Peach Cobbler: What could be more Southern than a rich, buttery peach cobbler? Topped with vanilla ice cream that slowly melts like a summer afternoon, it’s the perfect end to your meal.
Why Visit:
The Bee’s Knees is the kind of place where you feel like you’re having a meal with old friends, even if you’ve never been here before. The restaurant’s focus on local ingredients ensures that everything is fresh and bursting with flavor. It’s modern, yet it doesn’t forget where it came from. The attentive staff ensures every guest feels like they’re the only one in the room. It’s an experience that tantalizes not just your taste buds, but your heart.
Reservation Tips:
- Best Time to Book: The Bee’s Knees can get busy, especially on weekends, so book at least two weeks in advance during peak seasons. Use OpenTable for instant booking, and keep an eye out for special promotions.
- Save on Wine: The wine list here is as impressive as the food, but if you’re looking to save, try visiting during happy hour when the wine and cocktails are discounted.
2. New Moon Café: Where the Flavors of the South Shine Bright
Location: 1157 Broad St, Augusta, GA
Price Range: $10 – $25 per person
Booking Platform: Yelp Reservations
Restaurant Overview: A Cozy Corner for Creative Southern Fare
Nestled in the heart of downtown Augusta, New Moon Café feels like a cozy secret. With its low lighting and intimate setting, this spot offers more than just a meal; it’s a retreat from the hustle and bustle. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and undeniably Southern, with mismatched chairs and rustic tables that make it feel like a friend’s home.
But it’s the food that steals the show. New Moon is not just about comfort; it’s about taking traditional Southern dishes and elevating them to new heights. The menu is a dance of bold flavors, local ingredients, and a splash of creativity. Whether you’re here for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, expect dishes that make you pause and savor every bite.
Signature Dishes:
- Smoked Gouda Grits: These aren’t your average grits. Smoked gouda adds a rich, creamy depth that elevates this Southern classic. It’s a side dish that demands your attention and quickly becomes the star of the plate.
- Blackened Catfish Tacos: The catfish is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned with a blend of spices that sing with every bite. Paired with tangy slaw and a dollop of creamy sauce, these tacos are perfection on a plate.
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Yes, you read that right. These pancakes come drizzled with a cinnamon sugar glaze that will transport you straight to heaven. It’s dessert and breakfast combined, and it’s a must-try.
Why Visit:
New Moon Café is for the foodie who appreciates both creativity and tradition. It’s a place where you can experiment with bold new flavors while still honoring the comfort of the South. The cozy atmosphere and personalized service ensure that your experience will be as delightful as the food itself.
Reservation Tips:
- Book Ahead for Weekends: Given its smaller size, New Moon Café can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Make sure to reserve your table on Yelp Reservations in advance to avoid long waits.
- Brunch Spot: If you’re a brunch lover, this spot is a local favorite. Aim to visit early, as it gets busy after 11 a.m.
3. The Wilcox: A Sophisticated Twist on Southern Classics
Location: 1006 Broad St, Augusta, GA
Price Range: $30 – $60 per person
Booking Platform: Resy
Restaurant Overview: Where Southern Elegance Meets Modern Flair
Step into The Wilcox, and you’re greeted by an ambiance of refined sophistication. The restaurant exudes elegance, with its polished wood floors, sleek lines, and impeccable service. But despite its upscale feel, The Wilcox never forgets its Southern roots, offering dishes that pay homage to classic Southern cooking, albeit with a contemporary twist.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The open kitchen lets you see the artistry that goes into each dish, and every bite feels like a celebration. The Wilcox is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious night out, and it’s a place where the food is as beautiful as the setting.
Signature Dishes:
- Seared Scallops with Lemon Risotto: The scallops are cooked to perfection, tender and golden on the outside. Paired with a creamy, zesty lemon risotto, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing at the same time.
- BBQ Shrimp & Grits: A Southern classic, The Wilcox gives this dish a gourmet makeover. Smoky, succulent shrimp are served on a bed of buttery, creamy grits that will make you question everything you thought you knew about Southern food.
- Buttermilk Fried Chicken: The Wilcox’s version of fried chicken is something special—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, with a secret blend of spices that make it utterly irresistible.
Why Visit:
The Wilcox is where luxury and Southern charm meet. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends, a romantic dinner, or a celebration. The food is innovative, but always grounded in tradition. The service is impeccable, and the cocktails are nothing short of divine.
Reservation Tips:
- Best Time to Book: The Wilcox gets especially busy on weekends, so make sure to book a week in advance using Resy.
- Try the Chef’s Tasting Menu: If you’re feeling adventurous, the chef’s tasting menu offers a curated selection of the best the restaurant has to offer. It’s an investment, but it’s worth every penny.
4. Fat Man’s Mill Café: A Hidden Gem of Southern Comfort
Location: 3035 Wrightsboro Rd, Augusta, GA
Price Range: $10 – $20 per person
Booking Platform: Call directly for reservations
Restaurant Overview: Comfort Food at Its Best
If The Bee’s Knees is an elegant symphony, Fat Man’s Mill Café is the warm embrace of Southern comfort food
at its finest. Located just a short drive from downtown, this family-owned café serves up generous portions of classic Southern dishes that will fill you up and make you feel right at home.
Don’t expect anything pretentious here—just good food, friendly faces, and a dining experience that’s all about flavor and hospitality. It’s the kind of place where you’re likely to bump into a local regular who will share their favorite dish with you, making you feel like part of the family.
Signature Dishes:
- Fried Catfish: Crispy, crunchy, and fried to golden perfection, this catfish is as authentic as it gets. Served with a side of tartar sauce, it’s a must-try dish.
- Chicken and Dumplings: Thick, hearty, and packed with flavor, the dumplings in this dish are soft, pillowy clouds of comfort that make you feel like you’re getting a hug from your grandma.
- Southern Biscuits and Gravy: No Southern meal is complete without a side of biscuits and gravy. These biscuits are light and fluffy, smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy that will make your taste buds sing.
Why Visit:
Fat Man’s Mill Café is for those who want to experience the true heart of Southern cuisine. The food is simple but packed with flavor, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It’s a local favorite that captures the essence of Augusta’s hospitality and charm.
Reservation Tips:
- Book for Special Occasions: While the café is small, it’s a popular spot for family gatherings and local events. Call ahead if you’re planning a visit on a holiday or during peak times to avoid a long wait.
Final Thoughts on Dining in Augusta
From elegant, refined experiences at The Wilcox to the humble comfort of Fat Man’s Mill Café, Augusta’s food scene offers something for everyone. Every restaurant tells a story—whether it’s the history of the South or the innovation of modern culinary trends—and every meal feels like a celebration of both tradition and progress. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, these restaurants will undoubtedly leave you with a sense of satisfaction and a hunger for your next Augusta dining adventure.
Remember, the key to dining in Augusta is planning ahead—especially when it comes to reservations. Make use of platforms like OpenTable, Resy, and Yelp Reservations to book early, especially during the busier seasons.
