Unleash the Flavor at Wildcat BBQ

Calling all BBQ lovers: if you think you've tasted the best ribs, think again! WildCat BBQ & General Store in Suches, Georgia, redefines barbecue with a smoky flair that’s hard to beat. This local gem, run by the passionate duo of Bill Langford and Terry Billings from Cartersville, GA, offers a unique dining experience that embraces tradition while inviting you to savor every mouthful.

The charm of WildCat isn’t just in its food; it radiates from its historic setting. Housed in a building dating back to the mid-1800s, the restaurant resonates with character and warmth. Here, diners are treated to a delightful blend of home-cooked flavors and welcoming southern hospitality. While the main focus is definitely the BBQ, the menu also features an array of homemade goodies like pickles and jams, along with popular snacks from Stuckey’s, making it a true one-stop shop for local flavors.

Diving into the menu, you’ll find that the pulled pork is a crowd favorite, but the true star might just be the Texas Style Brisket. Made from premium meats and meticulously smoked using a combination of red oak and pecan wood, it’s a testament to the owners’ commitment to quality and flavor. The attention to detail ensures each bite is both juicy and rich, tantalizing your taste buds with every morsel. In addition to their legendary BBQ offerings, WildCat BBQ serves breakfast that is not to be missed! Start your day with their delightful breakfast burritos, hearty biscuits and gravy, fluffy pancakes, or freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Each breakfast dish adds a wholesome touch to the dining experience, ensuring that you’re fueled up for your adventures.

WildCat BBQ takes pride in its ability to cater to everyone, providing a family-friendly space that welcomes all ages. While gluten-free and dairy-free options aren’t advertised prominently, savvy diners will discover flavorful selections that suit a variety of dietary preferences. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while indulging in hearty BBQ fare.

Bill and Terry’s mission goes beyond serving delicious food; they aim to cultivate a community-oriented environment where every visitor feels like family. For motorcyclists and adventurous spirits, a ride through the scenic trails of Suches isn’t complete without stopping at WildCat BBQ & General Store. It's not just a destination for great ribs; it represents the spirit of Southern cooking and togetherness. So, the next time you're in the area, swing by and treat yourself to a BBQ experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. Your taste buds will thank you!

*Photos courtesy of Wildcat BBQ & General Store*

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

M: 239-273-9089

Experience Farm to Table and Farm to Glass at Nocturnal Brewing Company *(Now called NOC Social)*

Imagine finding a craft brewery that is also a full-service restaurant delivering an elevated cuisine in the small town of Hayesville, North Carolina. It exists and, if you haven’t already been there, you need to experience the difference at Nocturnal Brewing Company. Their chef, Sam Godfrey, was the sous chef for a James Beard Foundation Award Nominee, one of the highest honors in the culinary world. 

The owner of Nocturnal, Mike Plummer, owns a sister restaurant in Atlanta called Southbound and brought his success in the restaurant business to Hayesville in 2018. Mike is a Georgia native and intended Nocturnal to be the “neighborhood bar” where the community can come to relax and unwind. He has big plans for the restaurant which could put Hayesville on the map as a foodie destination. Sometime this year, they plan on expanding the kitchen and brewery. This expansion will allow them to diversify their menu to include pizza which will be cooked in an authentic Italian pizza oven. They also plan on opening a coffee shop with a small breakfast menu that transforms into a wine bar at night! 

Much of the food at Nocturnal is locally sourced. The menu includes items for vegetarians, vegans, and those who eat a gluten-free diet. The Buffalo Cauliflower and the Southern Pork Rolls are two of their most popular starters. The rolls have a crispy exterior and have an Asian-southern flare. They are stuffed with pork and collard greens and can be dipped in a sweet & spicy teriyaki sauce. One of their showstopper entrees is the Hayesville Hot Chicken. Picture a fried chicken breast with house hot sauce, slaw, and pickles on a brioche bun. You definitely eat this sandwich with your eyes first and it does not disappoint when you take your first bite! A personal favorite is the Kale Caesar Salad which also comes in a wrap. The kale is tender and the house-made Caesar dressing is divine. Adding chicken or salmon on top is a welcomed choice. 

Nocturnal's brewer, David Grace, likes to focus on tradition, but also look at trends. So, you will find a well-balanced variety of brews on tap. He uses many locally sourced and foraged ingredients and the taste of North Carolina is captured in the terroir of Nocturnal’s beer as much of it is regionally flavored. They like to call it a “Farm to Glass” style. The variety of beer, just like the menu, changes with the seasons. As the Nocturnal website states, “Our kitchen team has a knack for creating tasty and beautiful dishes for a diverse menu. There’s something for everyone, lunch and dinner!” Nocturnal is open year-round and is serving up some of the most creative dishes and delicious brews in the Appalachian Mountains!

NOC Social

Phone: (828) 371-6577

Click HERE for the website!

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

Heifer’s Crossing: A Feast To Moo About!

Swing open the colorful doors of Heifer’s Crossing, where the spirit of Southern hospitality and mouthwatering flavors collide in a delightful culinary experience! This vibrant restaurant, co-owned by the dynamic duo Tiffany Hoover and Brian Mitchell, is not just another eatery—it's a joyful celebration of home-cooked meals made with love. Since opening in March 2024, this charming spot has quickly become a treasured gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Dive into their iconic Smoked Reuben sandwich, a flavor-packed creation featuring expertly seasoned corned beef that practically melts in your mouth. Pair it with zesty sauerkraut and you're in for a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug. If you crave something with a little BBQ flair, the Barbecue Pulled Pork Burger topped with crispy bacon is calling your name, delivering a delightful explosion of savory goodness with every bite.

But don't rush past breakfast—the kitchen at Heifer’s Crossing truly shines during the breakfast rush! Picture this: waffle sandwiches, fluffy Belgian waffles, the unforgettable French toast, and the biscuits and gravy that will make your taste buds sing. For those living the keto life, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity on the menu. Check their Facebook page for daily lunch specials that keep the culinary adventure fresh and exciting!

As you savor your meal, leave room for dessert, because the sweet offerings are as irresistible as they are creative! Indulge in heavenly peanut butter banana bread, or treat yourself to a slice of autumn Fall cake topped with whipped cream. Their house-made cinnamon rolls are a must-try, and for a refreshing sip, their fun lemonades and frozen drinks are the perfect companions to your feast.

What makes Heifer’s Crossing truly stand out is Tiffany’s heartfelt approach to cooking. She whips up delicious recipes from scratch, blending treasured family traditions with new creations. This delightful experience doesn’t stop at just food—a charming retail area filled with gifts and pet supplies allows you to browse while your meal is being prepared.

With a mission to forge lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories through food, Heifer’s Crossing is a feast for the senses where every dish tells a story. So whether you're grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, prepare to leave with a joyful heart and the promise to return to this culinary gem that embraces you like family!

Heifer's Crossing

3921 US-76

Young Harris, GA

Click Here for their facebook page!

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

Discover the Main Charm

In the vibrant heart of Hiawassee, Georgia, Main St. Grill emerges as a local favorite where the love for great food and community spirit seamlessly intertwine. Opened in 2019 by the dynamic duo Shannon and Misty Garrison, this local gem radiates warmth and hospitality that envelops every guest like a comforting embrace. With deep roots in the area, the Garrisons are dedicated not only to providing delicious meals but also to giving back to their beloved community, making Main St. Grill a place where every patron feels like family.

Upon entering, you are immediately greeted by the friendly staff, many of whom know regulars by name, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels more like a gathering of friends than a typical restaurant outing. It’s not uncommon to see devoted customers arriving bright and early, patiently waiting for the doors to open, eager to dive into the mouthwatering offerings that have made their dining experience unforgettable.

One standout item is the breakfast that has locals buzzing. The biscuits and gravy, a true manifestation of Southern comfort food, are the pride of the menu. The Garrisons rise with the sun, starting their day at 3 a.m. to handcraft fresh biscuits that are light and flaky, generously smothered in rich, savory gravy. Each bite tells a story of tradition and care, making it a breakfast experience you simply cannot miss. 

But the delights don’t stop with breakfast. As lunchtime arrives, the Grill transforms into a bustling hub for those craving one of the most popular dishes: their burgers. Made from high-quality ingredients and offered in a variety of styles, the burgers attract both locals and visitors alike, each patty sizzling with flavor. 

Main St. Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a beacon of community spirit. The owners prioritize supporting local charities and engaging with the residents, ensuring their dedication resonates beyond the kitchen. Their mission is to reach out and care for the “least of these,” reflecting a deep commitment to helping those in need. This philosophy is woven into the fabric of the restaurant, making every meal served not just a dish but a part of a larger story of compassion and generosity.

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, patrons can enjoy their meals while soaking in the picturesque surroundings of Hiawassee. Whether it’s a sunny Saturday morning relishing the breakfast specials or a laid-back afternoon savoring a delicious burger, the ambiance at Main St. Grill enhances every moment.

In every aspect, from the quality of food to the commitment to service, Main St. Grill exemplifies a unique dining experience. It’s a place where culinary passion meets heartfelt community effort, ensuring that every meal is not just about food, but about the people and the stories that bring flavors to life. Come visit and experience this slice of Hiawassee – you might just find that you’ve discovered a second home.

Main Street Grill

197 S Main St, Hiawassee, GA 30546

(706) 896-4333

mainstreetgrilltogo.com

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

See the Beauty and Taste the Romance at Paris & Company

Once upon a time in Paris, France Chef Sid and Nina Kurrimbukus met and fell in love in the City of Lights! They married and started their life together in Naples, Florida. In 2005 the lovely family relocated to the Northeast Georgia Mountains where Chef Sid accepted the position of Executive Chef for Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa where he created beautiful dishes until 2014. 

Chef Sid and Nina decided that they wanted to serve the community in a different way and opened up their own restaurant on the grounds of Crane Creek Vineyards. In homage to the city that brought them together, they named their restaurant, Paris & Company. Food and family are very important to Chef Sid and Nina as some of their staff and cooks are members of the Kurrimbukus family. They do need a large staff as they are not only a restaurant but a catering business too. 

Not only is the food delightful but the environment at Paris & Company is so unique. Let me set the scene. You are sitting on a patio taking in the beauty of the vineyards while enjoying the company of friends and family and dining on the most scrumptious Blackened Shrimp over Pappardelle Carbonara. If shrimp isn’t your thing there are so many elevated and full bodied dishes at Paris & Company. Consider starting with their Artisan Charcuterie & Cheese Board or Escargot. Some of the favorite entrees include the Beef Bourguignon served with Risotto, Duck a L’Orange served with Teriyaki Stir Fried Asian Vegetables, or a Pistachio Crusted Atlantic Salmon finished with a Pistachio Cream served with Saffron Basmati Rice and Vegetables. Don’t forget to order dessert! Paris & Company serves some homemade desserts and cakes from Melissa’s Custom Cakes in Blairsville. Another must try is their Sunday Brunch where you can order Corned Beef Hash & Eggs, Maple Pecan French Toast, Steak & Eggs, Croque Monsieur, or one of their scrumptious Eggs Benedicts. Paris & Company does offer vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. Whether you want lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch Paris & Company have homemade, thoughtful dishes. 

As we have already discussed, the environment is so beautiful at Paris & Company. You may choose to dine indoors near a cozy fireplace or sit outside with a view of the vineyards. Speaking of the vineyards, you can order a glass or a bottle of Crane Creek's beautifully balanced wines. Whether you prefer a fruity or earthy flavor you can find the perfect wine to compliment your meal. Here’s a tip, be sure to make reservations. As you can imagine, Paris & Company, just like the City of Lights, is a very popular place to dine! 

Paris and Company

916 Crane Creek Rd.

Young Harris, GA 30582

(706) 379-4174

W: https://www.parisandcompany.info/

Pizza, Pizza, Read All About It!

Everyone loves pizza! It’s beloved by so many that it’s almost a food group! The options are endless, from styles of pizzas, to sizes, crusts, toppings, and sauces. There is something for everyone. Although pizza is a common commodity, they are not all created equal. There is one pizza pie that is topping all of the others in our area! Seven months ago, owners Kitt Hock and Kristen Grier from Baltimore, Maryland opened Tilted Pi Pizza Kitchen in homage to their Tilted Brand. Kitt and Kristen are not newcomers to the restaurant industry as they own Tilted Cafe and Titled Bottle in Hiawassee. 

You may ask, what makes this pizza cafe different from the others? Well, let’s start with freshness! Everything is made fresh every day from the dough, to the pizza sauce, to preparing the pizza toppings. Additionally, they use a brick oven to cook their pizzas and their food is locally sourced. For a delicious pie, every layer must be quality, from the crust, sauce, cheeses and toppings to the cooking process. The quality of this pizza is outstanding! The crust has just the right snap and crunch with a delightful flavor. The sauce is homemade and the cheese is just right! For those who need a gluten free pizza, look no further because Titled Pi offers up a gluten free pizza and vegan cheese for our vegan friends. 

Titled Pi offers a wide variety of flavor combinations. Their number one seller is the Godfather Pizza. Atop of this pie sits pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, salami, capicola ham, bacon, shaved parmesan cheese, and garlic oil. Another crowd favorite is the Tilted Cheesesteak which is adorned by garlic oil, white cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, onions, green peppers and philly steak. Tilted Pi is not just limited to pizza, they make homemade meatballs and have a meatball grinder served with chips. If meatballs are not your thing, they offer a Tilted Italian grinder or a Philly my Belly grinder. The garlic rolls are amazing but so is the cheesy bread which can come with bacon or jalapeno bacon. Check out their specials too. Some past specials include a Mushroom Provolone Burger Pie, a Shrimp Po Boy, Bruschetta, and Baked Spaghetti. 

The great news is, once you get hooked on this pizza you can have it year round as they do not close for winter! Bring the family as they have a lovely outdoor eating area with a projector screen for watching the game or just pick up a pie to go, but whatever you do, you must try Titled Pi Pizza Kitchen! 

Tilted Pi Pizza Kitchen

1460 US-76, Hiawassee, GA 30546

 (762) 294-9505

Click HERE to be connected to their website!

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor 🍔

Century 21 Black Bear Realty

M: 239-273-9089

Visit This Hidden Gem With The Copper Door

Nestled in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains is a restaurant inspired and influenced by classic French techniques combined with southern Louisiana flavors. A restaurant, might I add, that has been voted by Open Table diners as one of America's Top 100 Restaurants. 

So what makes The Copper Door so unique? Let’s start with their mission, “To offer an elegant, fine dining experience with exceptional food and service. We are proud to be the premier special event restaurant in the area and are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of many celebrations and memorable meals. We are happy to be known as a hidden gem and enjoy the chance to surprise and delight our guests”. The Copper Door offers its guests a four-course meal with a prix fixe menu. The menu changes once a month, although some of the fan favorites are on the menu year-round. Their top-selling entree is the filet mignon which was exceptional and perfectly cooked! The smoked gouda & scallion gnocchi were like little pillows of goodness that are unmatched. As a second course the jicama salad and farro, apple & bacon salad with grilled feta was out of this world! The jicama salad served up an unexpected burst of citrus and the farro salad combined with the sweetness of the apple and saltiness of the bacon was divine. The third course boasted a fresh catch, grilled secreto, or duck roulade. There are other supplemental items for the third course like bone-in veal rib chop, 8 oz. filet mignon, or a 16 oz cowgirl ribeye. The fourth course was the cherry on top with offerings such as strawberry almond cake, white chocolate bread pudding, cafe gourmand, and chocolate decadence.

The owner, Chef Dennis Barber, got his first taste of the restaurant business while attending college in Hammond, LA. A grand historic home in Hammond,LA was being renovated into a fine dining restaurant. It was a charming restaurant and offered an exceptional dining experience. The memory of this experience stayed with him and he decided that one day he might like to try his hand at something similar. After 10 years of service in the US Air Force as a B-52 radar navigator/bombardier, Dennis returned to his hometown of New Orleans and began culinary training at The Westin Canal Place. After 25 years of working for the Westin, and other fine establishments, Chef Dennis was presented with the perfect opportunity for realizing his dream of opening a fine dining restaurant in a quaint town. He began renovating a service station off Hayesville’s historic square in 2005 and opened The Copper Door in March 2007. Watch for Chef Dennis’ next restaurant venture in Hayesville, more to come…

CLICK HERE to visit The Copper Door's website.

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

Dine Like a King or Queen at The Crown

Brasstown, North Carolina is a rural farm community that is probably best known for their Annual New Year's Eve Possum Drop and their novel school, the John C. Campbell Folk School. Since September 2019, the community has been receiving attention for another distinctive locale, The Crown Restaurant. 

Robert and Donna Forsythe opened the restaurant to serve their community and create a space for patrons to gather, dine, and share experiences. Donna said, “Our mission is to build community, be sustainable, and provide living wages for our staff” and that is exactly what they are doing. One way that they help build community is through their spring music series on Thursday and Saturday nights. Diners gather on the outdoor patio to feast, sip their wine, and tap their feet to the sounds of beautiful music while gazing at the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Robert, a native of Murphy, and Donna, a Georgia native, believe in supporting local farms. So much of the food served at The Crown is locally sourced or grown in their own garden.

The Crown is a phenomenal restaurant that showcases many unique menu items. It is primarily a gluten free restaurant and serves traditional cuisine as well as dishes that meet the needs of vegans and vegetarians alike. One menu favorite is the “smf chicken & pan gravy” which is a seared chicken breast topped with sage pan sauce, country ham and a side of gratin potatoes. Another fan favorite is Tuesday Taco Night. They have four taco options including: chicken, al pastor, carne asada, and falafel. These tacos absolutely melt in your mouth and can be washed down by a prickly pear margarita or one of the many delicious drinks made at the bar. If wine is more of your thing, expect to see some fine wines from Spain, New Zealand, Napa Valley, Oregon, and France to name a few. The “berber salmon” is also a top choice. The salmon is paired with pistachio risotto, spiced carrots, and topped with chermoula. If you are in the mood for a brunch, come to The Crown on Saturday mornings to feast on bangers & hash, green curry, or buttermilk biscuits. If you're looking for a more family friendly experience and you are bringing the kids along, The Crown does offer a kids menu. 

If you want a unique and delicious dining experience, then drive out to the quaint town of Brasstown and dine like a king or queen at The Crown.

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

Margarita Magic in Hayesville

Picture yourself on a breezy coastal getaway without ever leaving the quaint town of Hayesville, NC. Enter Margarita Jacks Pub & Grub, a vibrant oasis where the flavors of the ocean meet the warmth of Southern hospitality. The brainchild of Meghan and Brian Earwood, this delightful spot channels the relaxing vibe of a seaside retreat, thanks to their roots in Portland, ME, and Volusia County, FL. Let’s not forget that the Earwood’s also own Lake Chatuge Seafood, a seafood market that is your go-to-source for the freshest seafood. 

As you walk into Margarita Jacks, the lively ambiance, reminiscent of a bustling beachside eatery, sets the scene for a culinary adventure. The menu is a treasure trove of seafood delights, with the Blackened Grouper Sliders stealing the show. Each bite transports you to the sun-drenched shores of the Florida Keys, with fish so fresh you can almost hear the waves crashing. Topped with a tangy margarita sauce and crisp slaw, these sliders are a refreshing escape from the ordinary. The giant scallops are another oceanic marvel, seared to perfection and as buttery as a tropical sunset. Their delicate texture and rich flavor offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s nothing short of divine. For those craving something heartier, the brisket chili is a robust concoction brimming with smoky, savory goodness that envelops you like a warm coastal breeze. Seafood aficionados will be delighted with the peel-and-eat shrimp and the crown jewel of the menu – the oysters. Margarita Jacks showcases a dazzling array of oyster preparations, each one a tribute to coastal creativity. Whether it’s the indulgent Chargrilled Garlic Parm or the fiery Jalapeño Mozzarella, each option is a passport to flavor paradise. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates on oyster specials and other inventive creations. In a harmonious blend of local and coastal, Margarita Jacks has teamed up with Nocturnal Brewing Company to offer Luna Life on tap, a crisp complement to the seafood feast. Don't miss one of their specials called the Scallop Roll, which combines seared scallops, pepper jack cheese, and crispy bacon bits for a bite that dances with coastal flair. 

Open year-round, Margarita Jacks currently offers inviting indoor seating with plans to introduce a deck for live music as the weather warms. The Earwoods’ dedication to crafting scratch-made dishes with fresh, Florida-sourced seafood ensures that every visit is a tropical escape, making Margarita Jacks a must-visit for anyone seeking a savory slice of the coast in Hayesville.

Website: Click here

Seared Scallop

Stew

Fish Sandwich

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

C: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com