Ga Mountains Guide

Waterfront Dining in the Georgia Mountains

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While visiting the scenic Georgia mountains, visit the best restaurants in North Georgia with scenic water and mountain views. Whether you want a fine dining experience, a casual meal, or a place you can boat into, you can find exactly what you like at these North GA waterfront restaurants.

North Georgia Waterfront Dining at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

North Georgia Waterfront Dining at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

The waterfront restaurants below are organized by the town that they are near. A few go through town, while others are in more remote locations.

 

Map of North Georgia Waterfront Restaurants

Use the interactive map and the detailed restaurant guide to find the great restaurants in North Georgia where you can enjoy scenic views of the water with a great meal!

 

North Georgia Waterfront Dining

North GA Waterfront Dining at The Troll Tavern in Helen

North GA Waterfront Dining at The Troll Tavern in Helen

Many of these restaurants are only open during the busier Summer months when lake or river traffic is at its peak. Phone numbers have been provided so you can call ahead to ensure the restaurant is open when you want to visit.

 

Blue Ridge Waterfront Restaurants

These waterfront restaurants near the mountain town of Blue Ridge offer a great way to enjoy the water while you dine. Choose a spot on the Toccoa River or a lively marina bar & grill on Lake Blue Ridge.

 

Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

Toccoa Riverside Restaurant North GA

Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in North GA

The Toccoa Riverside Restaurant is near Blue Ridge in the Aska Adventure Area. This restaurant on the Toccoa River is a great option whether driving in or paddling a canoe down the river. Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and salads at this tucked-away spot in the North Georgia mountains.

The outside deck and bar areas are dog-friendly—they even have a menu for “canine cuisine.”

Open Wednesday – Sunday for lunch and dinner.

 

Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina

Lake Blue Ridge Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill Waterfront Dining in Ga Mountains

Lake Blue Ridge Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill Waterfront Dining in Ga Mountains

This casual spot on Lake Blue Ridge offers appetizers, salads, entrees, beer, wine, and cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. (closes 9 p.m. Sun – Thu & 10 p.m. Fri – Sat). Closed during off-season.

 

Clayton Waterfront Restaurants

These waterfront restaurants on Lake Burton in Clarkesville serve great food and the option to drive in or boat to the restaurant!

 

Milton Park at Lake Burton

Milton Park at Lake Burton

Milton Park at Lake Burton

Open Thursday through Monday, Milton Park features Neapolitan-inspired plus salads and appetizers. Enjoy craft beer, wine, and a cellar list with something for everyone. Located at Laprades Marina on Lake Burton.

 

Lake Burton Grill

Experience upscale casual dining at Lake Burton Grill, nestled in LaPrades Marina. Open seasonally, the restaurant offers a choice between a stylishly renovated indoor space and a scenic covered deck overlooking Lake Burton. Savor expertly crafted dishes and refreshing drinks while taking in panoramic waterfront views.

For even more options during the summer season, pick up food and drinks to-go from the sister restaurant, Bowline Takeaway and Bar. Find seating throughout the dog-friendly marina patio that overlooks Lake Burton. Indulge in a refreshing ice cream treat from Lakeside Scoops for a classic summer treat!

 

NOTE –> After 12 years on Lake Burton, The Chophouse at La Prade’s Marina moved to Franklin, NC, in April 2023 to a space with a year-round business model.

 

Cleveland Waterfront Restaurants

 

Creekside Deli

Creekside Deli Cleveland GA

Creekside Deli Cleveland GA

The Creekside Deli has been serving the town of Cleveland for over 30 years. This quaint spot isn’t on a river or lake but does have an outdoor patio that overlooks the creek and is open 7 days a week (11:00 am – 8:00 pm).

 

Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner

Riverside Tavern at Turner's Corner Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

This casual restaurant is located on a quiet stretch of the Chestatee River between Cleveland and Dahlonega. Enjoy indoor or outdoor dining. Outdoor decks on 2 levels allow you to spend time downstairs (closer to the water) with a drink, or dine upstairs in the dining room or on the screened-in deck.

 

Dahlonega Waterfront Restaurants

In addition to these restaurants on the water, you may also enjoy a meal at Montaluce Winery and Estates or Frogtown Cellars. Both of these Dahlonega Plateau vineyards have seating with scenic views of the irrigation ponds that are next to their mountain vineyards.

 

Helen Waterfront Restaurants

You have your choice of a handful of waterfront restaurants on the Chattahoochee River in Helen. Choose your preferred style of dining and enjoy a nice meal along the river bank.

 

Alpine Brew Deck

Alpine Brew Deck in Helen GA on Chattahoochee River

Alpine Brew Deck in Helen GA on Chattahoochee River

This waterfront restaurant on the Chattahoochee River is great for casual dining and cold drinks at tables that are almost directly over the river. Enjoy live music and a lively bar scene. Outdoor dog-friendly seating is available on the covered deck by the water.

 

Cafe International

Cafe International Helen on the Chattahoochee River

Cafe International Helen on the Chattahoochee River

This restaurant is right in the middle of downtown Helen and is located directly on the Chattahoochee River! It features a covered deck to enjoy the nice weather on the riverfront with your drinks and American and German food. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. (closes at 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).

 

Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub

Hofbrauhaus Restaurant Helen GA

Chattahoochee River flows next to the patio at Hofbrauhaus Restaurant in Helen GA

Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub is located at the northwest end of the Helen main street on the Chattahoochee River and is open daily from 11 am – 9 pm. Enjoy this restaurant modeled after the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany. The Hofbrauhaus menu boasts German favorites and American standards, so there is something for everyone. Dog-friendly outdoor patio and live music on the weekends.

 

The Troll Tavern

Helen Georgia The Troll Tavern

Helen Georgia The Troll Tavern

This location is named for its location “under the bridge” on the river right in the heart of downtown Helen. You’ll find a menu with German and American favorites, as well as a beverage menu with beer, wine, and cocktails. Souvenir mugs are also available.

 

Paul’s Steakhouse (and Paul’s Margarita Deck)

Paul Restaurant Helen Georgia

Paul Restaurant in Helen, Georgia

These restaurants include a Steakhouse located at the intersection of the Chattahoochee River and Main Street, with an adjacent lively margarita deck located just upstream (also on the river).

Paul's Margarita Deck Helen GA

Paul’s Margarita Deck Helen GA

The steakhouse is indoor fine dining (with windows big enough to take in the water views) and primarily serves steaks and seafood. The margarita deck is open to enjoy the weather on a nice day and serves drinks with a food menu of mostly casual sandwich “baskets”. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

 

Hiawassee Waterfront Restaurants

The town of Hiawassee sits on Lake Chatuge and has many places along the lake (or just across a 2-lane road) that provide beautiful views of the lake and the mountains. For the finest dining experience, you must try The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen for a gourmet meal and an extensive wine menu. For something more casual, there are many other options all listed below. Please note that some of these are not waterfront, but they are across the street and provide water views.

 

The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen

The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen Young Harris

The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen Young Harris

Located on the water at Lake Chatuge, this is where to go for a memorable fine dining experience for breakfast, dinner, or Sunday brunch (not open for lunch). Located within The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge, there are plenty of manicured pathways to stroll around to enjoy the scenery after your meal.

 

Marina Station Lake Chatuge

Marina Station Lake Chatuge Lakefront Dining in the Georgia Mountains

Marina Station Lake Chatuge Lakefront Dining in the Georgia Mountains

Marina Station is located on the water at Lake Chatuge and is a comfortable, relaxing, newly renovated space with over 40 feet of bar service and plenty of TVs to watch your favorite team. There are four garage doors that open onto the deck, to allow unimpeded views of the surrounding natural beauty of the lake and mountains. The downstairs patio offers a walk-up bar, yard games, and plenty of space to stretch your legs and enjoy the band. Arrive via bike, car, or by boat! Open Wed – Sun at 11:00 a.m.

 

Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House

Hawg Wild BBQ Lakefront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

Hawg Wild BBQ Lakefront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

This barbecue joint is located directly on the lake, but it is surrounded by parking and landscaping which obstructs the lake views a bit. The best views of the lake and mountains are available on the patio when the weather is agreeable.

 

The Happy Hawg

The Happy Hawg Restaurant on Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

The Happy Hawg Restaurant on Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

This property has a narrow view of Lake Chatuge and the Blue Ridge Mountains from its patio. Multiple types of barbecue sauce on the table to please those who want spicy, vinegary (is that a word??), or sweet barbecue sauces. Enjoy the sandwiches and platters with generous portions of side items. Only open select days of the week. Call for hours.

  • Phone: +1 (706) 896-0012
  • Address: 1586 U.S. 76 W, Hiawassee, GA
  • Website: thehappyhawg.shop
  • Facebook: The Happy Hawg has 2,700+ followers
  • TripAdvisor: The Happy Hawg is rated 4.5 with 425+ reviews
    • Ranked #1 for Restaurants in Hiawassee

 

El Cancun

El Cancun Restaurant by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

El Cancun Restaurant by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

This casual Mexican restaurant is across the street from Lake Chatuge, but close enough to enjoy the scenic lake views. Outdoor seating is available to take advantage of great weather and the beautiful views.

  • Phone: +1 (706) 896-7677
  • Address: 3360 Highway 76, Hiawassee, GA
  • Facebook: El Cancun has 400+ followers
  • TripAdvisor: El Cancun is rated 3.5 with 125+ reviews

 

Sand Bar & Grille

Sand Bar and Grille by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

Sand Bar and Grille by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains

This spot is across the street from Lake Chatuge but still offers plenty of lake and mountain views. The menu is mainly typical bar food with wings, pizza, and sandwiches. The sand “beach” out front is a lively spot with live music every Friday and Saturday night.

 

Lakeview Tavern

This restaurant is adjacent to the Sand Bar & Grill and offers “exceptional food and a welcoming social atmosphere.”

 

NOTE that the Moondance Grill and Eclipse Fine Dining in Hiawassee have closed.

 

McCaysville Waterfront Restaurants

Burra Burra on the River in McCaysville GA

Crossing bridge into McCaysville, GA, with a view of closed restaurants on the riverfront

Located on the state line of Georgia and Tennessee, these three restaurants share their entrances and provide a fantastic view of where the Toccoa River becomes the Ocoee River. Enjoy a meal on the outside riverside decks for the most scenic views at the historic @RiverwalkShops.

 

Burra Burra on the River

Burra Burra on the River Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

Burra Burra on the River Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains

Located in McCaysville with a dog-friendly deck overlooking the Toccoa River, this casual spot is a great place to enjoy a meal. Burra Burra on the River celebrates the #CopperBasin with classic American food, beer, & wine.

 

Happy Bear Cafe

Happy Bear Cafe on the Toccoa River in the Georgia Mountains

Happy Bear Cafe on the Toccoa River in the Georgia Mountains

This riverfront cafe serves breakfast, bakery goods, and ice cream all day long! In addition to breakfast, after 11:00 am, they offer gourmet hot dogs, beer, and wine! Open 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (no alcohol sales on Sunday).

 

Twisted Tomato

Twisted Tomato McCaysville GA

Shared entrance by bridge for Burra Burra, Happy Bear, and Twisted Tomato in McCaysville GA

Stop by this waterfront North Georgia restaurant for wood-fired pizza, pasta, and freshly baked Italian sandwiches, and enjoy them on the outdoor riverfront deck.

  • Phone: +1 (706) 400-6675
  • Address: 100 Blue Ridge Drive, Suite 101, McCaysville, GA
  • Website: twistedtomatoga.com
  • Facebook: Twisted Tomato is rated 4.6 with 300+ ratings and 3,100+ likes
  • TripAdvisor: Twisted Tomato is rated 4.0 with 25+ ratings

 

Other North GA Waterfront Restaurants

In addition, these lakefront restaurants are great options when in Chatsworth or Toccoa!

 

Carter’s Lake Marina and Resort Restaurant

Carter's Lake Marina & Resort Waterfront Restaurant in the Ga Mountains

Carter’s Lake Marina & Resort Waterfront Restaurant in the Ga Mountains

Enjoy a casual lakefront meal at this marina restaurant on Carter’s Lake, about 20 miles from both Ellijay and Chatsworth.

This casual lakefront restaurant is open daily during the peak Summer season, and on weekends only during other times of year (it’s unlikely to be open during the coldest months). Featuring a kid-friendly menu of pizza, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sides, this restaurant will prepare your food in advance for call-in orders. Beer and wine sales are available in the restaurant. If you’d like to sit in the restaurant, allow 15 minutes for food prep while you enjoy the scenery of Carter’s Lake.

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Be sure to confirm open hours and availability before making a trip. Some waterfront restaurants operate seasonally and are not open daily or year-round.

Remember to take a selfie stick to capture the moment at these scenic restaurants in North Georgia and share it with your friends!

SelfieShow Selfie Stick, Extendable Selfie Stick Tripod with Wireless Remote and Tripod Stand, Portable, Lightweight, Compatible with iPhone 15 14 13 12 Pro Xs Max X 8Plus, Samsung Smartphone and More

 

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North Georgia Waterfront Restaurants - photo at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

North Georgia Waterfront Restaurants (Toccoa Riverside Restaurant)

Which of these waterfront North Georgia restaurants are you planning to try first? Do you prefer the soothing movement of the rivers or the peaceful tranquility of the lakes?

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66 Responses

  1. DorcasW says:
    October 30, 2019 at 2:23 pm

    Hello; Wow! I always find the Georgia Mountains Resorts interesting, but the collection of Waterfront Restaurants and bars come to me now as a bonus. Although it is hard for me to make a choice I finally decide on making it to Milton Park at Lake Burton. The scenery at this specific waterfront caught my interest greatly. I hope I can make it before Winter.

    DorcasW

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      October 30, 2019 at 4:38 pm

      It’s great that there are so many different restaurants on the water to choose from in the Georgia mountains! I’d recommend that you try the ones that are closest to you first, then venture out for a scenic drive if you have enough time to keep exploring.

      Reply
  2. Mikhail says:
    October 30, 2019 at 2:06 pm

    Growing up on the west coast, the east coast is quite foreign to me. Now, if I ever want to visit the east coast, a waterfront restaurant could definitely be a place I could visit. Thanks to your post, I now know about a few more places of interest I didn’t even know existed. I should bookmark your post so in case I’m ever in Georgia, I know where to go. The pictures are amazing by the way.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      October 30, 2019 at 4:36 pm

      It’s true that the East and West coasts are quite different, but they both offer natural beauty, rich history, and tons of wonderful places to explore. I’m glad you enjoy the photos and hopefully you’ll be able to experience the scenery yourself one day!

      Reply
  3. Wilson says:
    October 30, 2019 at 2:03 pm

    Great list! I’m from Alabama and travel to Georgia all the time! Next time I’m going to be around one of these spots I’ll have to check them out! I actually think that I will be around Helen and go try out the International Cafe!

    I love the rest of your site too! I’ve hike several times on the AT and have been zip lining Amicoala! 

     

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      October 30, 2019 at 4:34 pm

      Thanks Wilson! I’m so happy to hear that you enjoy the Georgia mountains so much and that you keep returning to the area!! It’s a beautiful area and these waterfront restaurants are the perfect spot to enjoy scenery with a great meal.

      Reply
  4. Stella says:
    August 22, 2019 at 1:37 am

    My cousin had given me news about the wonderful enjoyment he had in the Georgia mountains last year at Chophouse of la Prade. I would love to witness it myself. It won’t be anytime than this year, but God’s willing it will be soon. I love exploring nature and it has been so helpful for my mental relief. I came across details about Georgia mountains from this website before I heard from my cousin too. All the Riverside restaurant in here are eye catching and am very sure they will be a superb place to explore.

    Reply
  5. chrisJ says:
    August 21, 2019 at 10:19 pm

    Well, I’m just about ready to book a trip to the Georgia Mountains today. The Villa Della Luna looks enchanting. You’ve compiled such a great list. Have you personally been to any particular resort that you recommend first? Georgia has always been one of my go to places for time away from my daily life. I did not realize that there were tree house rentals, how awesome?! I find the idea to be stellar, it must be very peaceful. 

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      August 22, 2019 at 12:14 pm

      Hi Chris, My recommendation would depend on what you are most looking for during your trip to the Georgia mountains. 

      Personally, I really enjoy the cabins between Blue Ridge and Blairsville for their sunset and mountain views. Staying in Dahlonega at Park Place Hotel is great because you can walk around to so many things. Staying at a vineyard is gorgeous and provides a place to taste some great local flavors. The treehouses are so unique, and they are a great option for when you really want to feel like you are “getting away” from life’s busy bustle. It’s hard to choose a single favorite… it all depends on the setting you prefer!

      Reply
  6. Kat says:
    August 21, 2019 at 10:14 pm

    What an awesome collection of dining options for anyone researching into their next holiday in the Georgia Mountains. I also love that you’ve mentioned you need to call ahead to make sure the restaurant will be open. It makes sense though when some of these places run during peak holiday season. Seeing the wide range of options while also showing what’s available in each area gives travellers and diners options they would not have thought of going. There’s some gorgeous places listed here. I’ll be sure to bookmark this post and check this list out when I plan my next holiday to Georgia Mountains. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  7. Jim says:
    August 21, 2019 at 10:13 pm

    Hi Alyce. Hopefully I’ll be able to visit some of the magnificent restaurants and site you mention in your article. I have never been to the USA let alone Georgia. But I am planning a lengthy trip there in 2020. My wife and I intend to visit as many areas of the states as we can and the Georgia region is one of them. I will definitely being taking notes from your website and planning the trip around as many of the food venues mentioned as we are able to. The cool mountain streams you have shown us look very inviting. Thank you for this great blog. Jim

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      August 22, 2019 at 12:18 pm

      Thanks for the compliments Jim! I have been to all 50 states and I admire your goal of seeing as many as you can. All 50 states have something beautiful to offer and each area of the country can have it’s own character. I hope you and your wife have a fantastic trip to the USA and if you need more info on the Georgia mountains area, be sure to reach out!

      Reply
  8. Alblue says:
    August 21, 2019 at 10:10 pm

    Oh there are sure a lot of unique dining places in Georgia. I can’t go there this year due to my plan in other country, but I will check it again for next year. From the above restaurants, is there anything that you can recommend for vegetarian? Half of my family is vegetarian (and picky eaters). Thank you in advance for your answer

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      August 22, 2019 at 12:21 pm

      Hi, that is a great question. Vegetarians should be able to find many options at most of the nicer restaurants above (vegetarians wouldn’t enjoy the BBQ places), but know that vegans may find it much more challenging in these small towns. 

      Reply
  9. Eric says:
    August 21, 2019 at 10:08 pm

    While they all sound great, I actually love Mexican and seafood. I see two that have already caught my attention. Hopefully one day I will visit Georgia and get to try out these different restaurants. This is a fantastic and extensive list of different places to dine. 

    Thanks for heads up for foreign travelers.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      August 22, 2019 at 12:23 pm

      There are some great seafood places in the mountains that are able to get local fresh fish (freshwater), so you’ll definitely enjoy some great meals on your trip!

      Reply

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