Hog Heaven: Sizzling Delights at The Happy Hawg
The Happy Hawg in Hiawassee is a restaurant that truly stands out with its unique blend of flavors and warm Southern hospitality. Owned by Kelly Robider, a native of West Georgia, the restaurant has been serving delicious smoked meats for over 12 years. Kelly takes pride in using local Hickory wood and apple to infuse a distinctive taste into their meats, which are prepared fresh daily.
Kelly’s journey from the corporate world to opening The Happy Hawg was a courageous leap of faith. As Kelly says, “From briefcase to brisket”. The decision to trade the confines of the office for the allure of slow-smoked meats was driven by a passion for creating an exceptional culinary haven in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. The restaurant embodies Kelly's personal touch, with a welcoming atmosphere, commitment to quality, and genuine love for the sizzling meats.
The Happy Hawg provides a unique dining experience. The restaurant is adorned with funny signs that add a touch of humor to the atmosphere. The covered deck seating allows diners to enjoy their barbecue while taking in the scenic views of the lake and mountains. It's a culinary adventure where the taste of the barbecue intertwines with the breathtaking scenery, creating memories that last long after the meal is finished.
One of the standout dishes at The Happy Hawg is the Brunswick stew. It has a sweetness to it that perfectly complements the tender meat and vegetables, making it the ideal choice for a cold winter day. The turkey sandwich with baked beans is also a crowd favorite, with the turkey being incredibly tender and the baked beans adding a delicious touch of flavor. The potato salad is a standout side dish, being described as one of the best around.
A new menu item is the baked potato with cheese and pulled pork on top, known as the Hickory potato. The baked potato is cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. The pulled pork is tender and flavorful, and when combined with the cheese and toppings, creates a truly outstanding combination. The option to add ranch and barbecue sauce adds even more flavor to this already delicious dish. For those watching their carbs, try a Hickory Salad! You can choose pork, chicken, turkey, or brisket to adorn the romaine, orange peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese.
The mission of The Happy Hawg is one of compromise. Kelly upholds integrity and perseverance through the art of barbecue, with a deep sense of gratitude for the loyal community that has supported the restaurant. The journey from the corporate world to creating a beloved barbecue haven has shaped not only a successful restaurant but also become an emblem of the vibrant spirit of the Northeast Georgia Mountains.
Overall, The Happy Hawg is a must-visit restaurant in Hiawassee. From the unique flavors of their smoked meats to the warm Southern hospitality, it offers a dining experience that is truly unforgettable. Whether you're indulging in their famous Brunswick stew, enjoying a delicious turkey sandwich, or trying one of their new menu items like the Hickory potato, you're sure to be impressed by the quality and taste of the food.
Sarah Crain
Your Mountain Foodie Realtor
C: 239-273-9089
E: scrain@c21blackbear.com