Discover the best local flavors with our guide to restaurants in Ellijay, Georgia. While a retreat to the North Georgia Mountains is the ultimate way to relax, nothing tops off a vacation quite like a world-class meal, minus the dishes.
Whether you are looking for a cozy spot after a day of hiking or a refined dining experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ellijay offers a vibrant culinary scene that captures the spirit of Appalachia.
Below are our top picks for the best places to eat in Ellijay, where the atmosphere is just as incredible as the food:
Why Dine in Ellijay, GA?
Ellijay isn’t just the “Apple Capital of Georgia”; it’s a burgeoning foodie destination. From farm-to-table Southern comfort food to riverside dining, these local favorites offer “that something special” you won’t find in the city.
Top-Rated Restaurants in the North Georgia Mountains
The Butcher and the Bottle
(706) 889-7937
24 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540
Upscale food with a casual, relaxed atmosphere
River Street Tavern
(706) 635-6166
40 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540
A small, intimate tavern that offers a family-friendly atmosphere
Cantaberry
(706) 636-4663
51 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540
Our restaurant specializes in Homemade Soups, Gourmet Sandwiches, and Fresh Salads, and features delicious desserts
The Shack
(706) 635-3663
118 N Main St, Ellijay, GA 30540
Counter-serve eatery offering poke and noodle bowls, along with pot stickers, spring rolls, and bubble tea
The Cajun Depot
(706) 276-1676
Depot Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
Authentic Cajun cuisine in the beautiful North Georgia mountains!
Jolly Roger Market and Grill
716 Industrial Blvd, Ellijay, GA 30540
Fresh seafood cooked a variety of ways- Casual motif and atmosphere
The Roof
(706) 635-766916 River Street, Ellijay, GA 30540
It is our goal to provide amazing food—supporting local farmers and businesses when possible. We value quality, creativity, and fun approaches to the food we serve
Back Porch Bistro
(706) 636-111110 North Side Square, Ellijay, GA 30540
Hand-made sandwiches, paninis, homemade soups, vegetarian options and gluten free as well
Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza
2 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540
Artisan-crafted handmade pizza
(706) 707-4992
Charlie’s Italian Restaurant
(706) 635-2205
15 West Cross St, East Ellijay, GA 30540
Wonderful Italian menu with a broad selection of family recipes with quality ingredients
White Columns Restaurant
(706) 273-7135200 Industrial Blvd #109, Ellijay, GA 30540
Southern country cooking at its finest
Big Bear Bar and Grill
(706)-276-2327
29 Highland Drive, Ellijay, GA
Chick-fil-A
(706) 636-0475
475 Howard Simmons Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540
Longhorn Steakhouse
(706) 515-0050
30 Highland Xing South, East Ellijay, GA 30540
Okinawa Sushi
(706) 698-2222
Old Orchard Rd, East Ellijay, GA 30540
Ruby Tuesday
(706) 515-3301
47 Highland Crossing, East Ellijay, GA
Starbucks
(706) 515-1520
60 Highland Crossing South, Ellijay, GA 30540
Copperhill, TN & McCaysville, GA:
All Aboard Cafe
(706) 492-5000
47 Toccoa Avenue, McCaysville, GA 30559
Home of the smoked burger-people drive from miles around to enjoy the taste of our very own hickory-smoked burger. All items on the menu are made from scratch. Even the BBQ sauce! Pork, ribs, chicken, and burgers are smoked on-site daily.
Cider House Cafe & Mountain View Orchard
(706) 492-7753
2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, GA 30555
Their store offers jams, jellies, and marmalades, fresh baked goods, hot fried apple pies, and fresh apple cider. They serve lunch and dinner with some of the best home-cooked food in the area! Call to schedule a romantic private Orchard dinner.
Brother’s Copper Kettle
(423) 496-5001
Hwy 64, Ducktown, TN (beside Piggly Wiggly shopping center)
El Rio Mexican Restaurant
(423) 496-1826
113 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317
A local favorite! Tasty south-of-the-border menu and a very friendly staff.
Nifty 50’s Cafe
(706) 964-6378
100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA 30555
Awesome malts, shakes, and burgers served in a diner setting with riverside seating available.
Papa’s Pizza To Go
(706) 492-3622
305 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA 30555
Fresh-baked pizza, spaghetti, hoagies, & lasagna available for pick up. Blue Ridge location features a buffet!
Pat’s Kountry Kitchen
(706) 492-5477
1212 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA 30555
Famous fried chicken and down-home cookin’
Roger & Carol’s Quick Burger
(423) 496-3714
205 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317
Breakfast, lunch, & dinner serving homemade cold slaw, biscuits and gravy, & hot Fudge cake. Try a Quick Burger!
Village Express
(706) 492-7508
264 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, GA 30555
A hometown take on fast food, plenty of portions, and excellent BLT’s!
Hiawassee, GA/Young Harris, GA
Brasstown Valley Resort
(706) 379-9900
6321 US Hwy 76, Young Harris, GA 30582
A famous golf course and a beautiful resort, only about a half hour’s drive from Blue Ridge. Wonderful buffet with fresh seafood, steaks, and numerous desserts.
The Oaks
(706) 896-4141
3493 Hwy 76 West, Young Harris, GA 30582
Signature mountain trout, pasta, sandwiches, soups & salads.
Private Chefs
For those who choose to dine at home, we have some wonderful “in-house” chefs who will whip up a gourmet feast at your personal cabin:
Chef Trey Griffith 850-502-7253 https://cheftreygourmet.com/
Chef Vedam (678) 754-2438 https://www.chefvedam.com/
Larry’s Catering Service (470) 514-8653
Local Favorites & Hidden Gems in Ellijay
- Farm-to-Table Excellence: Experience the freshest seasonal produce from local Gilmer County orchards.
- Mountain Views: Many of our favorite spots feature outdoor seating to soak in the Blue Ridge vistas.
- Craft Spirits & Brews: Don’t miss out on local cideries and vineyards that pair perfectly with Ellijay’s best dishes.
Traveler’s Tip: Many of the best restaurants in downtown Ellijay fill up fast on weekends. We recommend checking for reservations or arriving early to enjoy a stroll through the historic square!
