Think for a moment: How do you feel about food? 

We love food. You might call us foodies. Chances are, if you are reading these words, you are a foodie too! Food is important, isn’t it? We connect over food, commune over food, share love and laughter over food…and countless other beautiful things that make every day worth living. Food is at the heart of our culture and our community, and so we would like to share some of our favorite dining and even nibbling establishments in one of our most cherished of locales. 

Braselton, Georgia, is a charming place that offers not only picturesque scenery and rich history but it delights the taste buds with its vibrant culinary scene. We will take you on a delectable journey, highlighting some of the best local places to eat. From Southern comfort food to international flavors, this town has something to satisfy every palate…even yours. 

Buckle up! We begin our adventure to discover the sweet and savory flavors of this classy yet culinary sassy gem known as Braselton, Georgia! 

I scream…You scream…

We are starting our tour of Braselton fare at an ice creamery? When the Juke N Jive Creamery is as popular as it is around town, you bet we are! Ladies and gentlemen, this is not a chain. You get real ice cream scooped to heaping perfection atop kaleidoscopic cones that will make your day with their colored assortment. Who knew such a small thing could make such a BIG difference? 

They DO serve more than just ice cream, as they have expanded to selling fresh fudge and desserts of all kinds. After all, if you are a seller of sweets, it’s not really fair to just let ice cream shine. If we all scream for ice cream, who screams for cheesecake? Folks in Wisconsin? Well, Juke N Jive thought about the Cheeseheads and didn’t want to leave out any other sweet seekers; instead, they brought their A-game and welcomed all the best! Stop in and get your very tasty just desserts. And don’t forget to tell them Large Marge sent you!

Fast Food

Maybe that’s a misnomer? It’s not the food that is fast, it’s more the spirit of the food that’s fast. Meet Jack Ansley, owner of the restaurant aptly named Jack’s. Born out of a near-death experience, Jack’s is inextricably intertwined with the racing world, one that appreciates great food with fantastic feeling. Jack’s is everyone’s favorite place. It really is. It’s a neighborhood bar with excellent food. Jack’s is just ever so slightly in Hoschton rather than Braselton, but it’s so close we felt it should get an honorary mention…and so it did!

Jack’s offers nothing less than carefully crafted meals with a focus on the details. If you are a fan of cheese grits, you have found Shangri la. They take their food seriously, but the cheese grits alongside the steak and seafood are a significant point of pride. Enjoy!

Southern Comfort and Local Fare

To truly experience the essence of Braselton, continue your gastronomic exploration with its authentic Southern comfort food. The Braselton area boasts several renowned eateries that serve up delightful dishes steeped in local flavor. For a taste of traditional Southern cuisine, head over to Pat’s Eatery. This beloved establishment offers classic dishes like fried chicken, sweet potato mash with streusel, sweet chili broccoli, and pie that will totally transport you to a world of comfort and nostalgia.

If you’re seeking a more modern take on Southern fare, Jack’s Local Station is a must-visit. This trendy eatery takes familiar Southern ingredients and transforms them into innovative culinary creations. For something fresh, try their summer sunflower salad, heavenly artichoke chicken, or indulge in their bacon-wrapped beef medallions for a taste sensation. If you want to try something that is truly a cut above, order the Cajun-fried pork cutlet served with white pepper gravy, sour cream, chive mashed potatoes, and zucchini vegetable sauté. It blew our minds legit-Southern style. 

International Delights

Braselton’s culinary scene extends well beyond the South, with a diverse range of international flavors waiting to be discovered. If you’re in the mood for Italian, hop on your Vespa and pop over to The Roman Oven. Ciao! Their New York-style pizzas, handmade pasta, and flavorful sauces will transport you to the streets of, well, New York…but only by way of Italy; It’s a round-trip meal. 

For a taste of fine French fare, The Galloping Galette offers an exquisite selection of crêpes, quiches, and vegetables in that gorgeous French way that makes them seem like something your mom won’t have to chide you to eat. With their attention to detail, creative twists, daily updates, and fresh ingredients, this restaurant promises a delightful culinary dalliance, the likes of which we had only seen on the streets of Paris. Voila!

Quaint Cafés and Bakeries

When you’re in need of a quick pick-me-up or a cozy spot to relax, Braselton’s quaint cafés and bakeries have you covered. Le Petit Café is a charming French-inspired café located at The Inn at Château Élan. Le Petit Café serves specialty coffees, pastries, and an assortment of small dishes (they put food on the small dishes as well). Sit back, savor a croissant, and enjoy the fine ambiance of this beautifully crafted establishment that will make your coffee or tea time a most sacred retreat.

If you have a sweet tooth, Sugar n’ Proof is a haven of delectable delights. From decadent cupcakes to perfectly flaky pastries, this bakery will fulfill your dessert dreams as they make good on their offer of sugar-coated happiness. You’re welcome. 

Farm-to-Table Experiences and Local Producers

Braselton has not failed to notice that sustainability and, moreover, responsibly sourcing products and ingredients is en vogue, and, in a gallant gesture toward righting the previous wrongs of the restauranteurs who came before them, mindful management has come to light in many an eaterie across the town. We’re a fan.

If the culinary indulgence you desire comes in the form of steak, the Cotton Calf Kitchen has got you covered. Renowned for its farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the Cotton Calf Kitchen brings you only the best. You can order your steak a dozen ways and even get it black and blue (no restraining order necessary). While this Cotton Calf prides itself on its dry-aged steaks, they are a vegetarian-friendly establishment as well, so there’s room for everyone at this table. 

If you want to bring Braselton’s flavors home, explore the local farmers’ markets and food producers. The Braselton Farmers Market is a vibrant gathering of local vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal bread, and homemade preserves. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local farmers and discover the vibrant and prolific agricultural community of the region.

You will also find below a number of eateries within the forward-thinking community of Château Élan. With attention to every detail, these establishments curate a full dining experience that is sustainable and locally sourced. 

Château Élan’s Fine Dining and Culinary Excellence 

Braselton effortlessly caters to those seeking a sophisticated dining experience. For an exquisite encounter, look no further than our own Château Élan Winery & Resort.

This world-class resort boasts multiple dining options, including the highly acclaimed Versailles Restaurant. With its elegant ambiance and gourmet cuisine, this restaurant showcases culinary excellence with dishes inspired by French flavors. Pair your meal with award-winning wines produced on-site, and you have a truly incomparable indulgence. This flawless pairing will have you shouting “Oui oui oui!” all the way home. 

“X” Marcs the spot at Marc Restaurant, an upscale chophouse offering a rotating menu that demonstrates its commitment to local ingredients and sustainably sourced meats. Marc’s dedication to excellence is apparent within each and every cut. Tender cuts sliced to perfection grace each plate that comes out of the kitchen. Whether you want magnificent marbling or a lean line, Marc gets it done. You’ll see, they are truly a cut above. 

If you are looking for something rather luxurious to wet your whistle, Louis’ House of Bourbon offers a variety of adult beverages, all served in the style of an old-world speakeasy. Who doesn’t want to spend an evening with the likes of F. Scott or Hemingway while you sip your pristine selection? From their bucket-list bourbons to bourbon cocktails, Louis’ is a one-of-a-kind pub that brings that certain je ne sais quoi to the resort…except…je sais que c’est…it’s the bodacious bourbon that makes it beyond compare…obviously.  

Adding to the list of Château Élan’s finest is the Fleur de Lis. One of our favorite clean culinary escapes, this relaxing and mindful dining experience overlooks the lake at the Château Élan Spa. Healthy ingredients compose only the best breakfast and lunch combinations that make the Fleur de Lis a perfect choice to punctuate an otherwise healing and relaxing day. 

Spend an afternoon dining while overlooking the 18th green at Sarazen’s Bar and Grille; it’s the place to be…actually, it’s the 18th place, but you know what we mean. This all-American menu featuring grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads is at your fingertips while you relax on the open-air covered porch and contemplate the lives and achievements of one of golf’s greats, Mr. Gene Sarazen. 

At Château Élan, it’s all about ambiance, and you won’t find more of that anywhere other than Paddy’s Irish Pub. Built in Dublin, Ireland, and reassembled on the property in 1997, Paddy’s Irish Pub offers a taste of the real Irish deal. Let the lively music and smell of authentic ale bring you sauntering through the doors. You’ll be announcing “Sláinte” and dancing a jig before you know it!

Last but certainly not least, Château Élan’s Le Soleil poolside bar offers a light selection of refreshing sandwiches, salads, and snacks to accompany delicious poolside cocktails. You can grab a drink or a chic snack between laps but don’t forget to wait an hour before going in the water. Momma’s rules!

Casual and Family-Friendly Eateries

Braselton is also home to a variety of casual and family-friendly eateries that offer delicious meals in a laid-back atmosphere. Jack’s Public House has an absolutely astounding mastery of burgerology and wingery (we recommend the Carolina Twang sauce…you’ll see). Their burgers are creatively crafted tasty towers of art. In addition to being a brewery and sportery as well, Jack’s is the perfect place to pull up a stool, order a pint, dig in, and watch the Braves hammer out another win!

You want family-friendly in a causal yet elegant setting, you say? Well, Braselton heard you and answers your call with the Houndstooth Grill and Bar. This “classy casual” restaurant features simple classic cuisine, an elegant yet casual atmosphere, and friendly, attentive service. We checked, and that is exactly what we got. The menu varies from classic American and Southern to under the sea and beyond; they have something for everyone! You can find Houndstooth near the Château Élan Winery & Resort.

Hit’s Tap Room is another Braselton staple that offers not only good food but good fun too. With craft beers and American fare, you can come to join the Hits community for any of their social evenings, including (you guessed it) Harry Potter Trivia! We aren’t sure what you win exactly…we won the flying broomstick last time, so we don’t know what treasures any victor would get, but may your wisdom be as potent as potions and your heart be as pure as a Patronus charm, and you’ll probably pick up a cool prize or two!

We have one more family-friendly stop to mention that is a cut above the ordinary…by a long shot. Rebar, a casually hip eatery, offers a taste of the Mediterranean. If you are in trouble, you need only shout, and they will bring your Gyro straight to your aid…and your table. Order a snack, sandwich, salad, or side, or simply get a signature spirit to smooth out your day. 

In case you forgot, the Juke N Jive Creamery was first on our list. Now, don’t tell your dentist, but we wanted to circle back and make sure our favorite creamery received an honorable mention once more, just when you are ready for dessert. So, hit them up, and remember that you get to choose your cone color! “Free Will” never tasted so sweet…literally. 

Wrap It Up To Go

While we never enjoy leaving a fry behind, it is that time again to bid you adieu and look forward to our next blog about another Georgian jewel and its eateries. In the meantime, we feel we can accurately say that we are full from trying everything, and we are ready for a nap.

But…

No matter your culinary desires, Braselton invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave an indelible impression. Unearth the hidden gems tucked away in this charming town and allow the vast flavors to captivate your senses, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Let your taste buds guide you through this delightful journey, and discover the culinary treasures that await you in Braselton, Georgia!