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

Healing Brews at The Fix

https://www.thefixchirocoffee.com/

Directly in the heart of Young Harris, Georgia, The Fix is a unique and charming business that combines the best of both worlds - chiropractic care and delicious coffee. Owned by Dr. Stephen and Dana Dockery, originally from Ellijay, The Fix is truly a labor of love.

Upon entering The Fix, you are greeted with the delicious aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soothing sounds of gentle music playing in the background. The menu boasts an impressive array of coffee options catering to every caffeine lover's taste. From classic americanos and cappuccinos to indulgent lattes and macchiatos, there is something for everyone. One standout is the chai tea latte, made with black tea, spices, and organic cane sugar, it's rich, spicy, and absolutely delightful. For those looking for a sweet treat, the blueberry muffin is a must-try. Moist, soft, and perfectly sweet, it pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of joe. The menu also includes options for those with dietary restrictions, with gluten-free and dairy-free options available. For those looking for a bold kick the Shot In The Dark (Red Eye) is a must try. The French Press offers a rich and full body coffee experience, perfect for those who appreciate a strong cup. If coffee isn't your cup of tea, The Fix, also serves up delicious hot chocolate perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. Pair your beverage of choice with one of the many delectable pastries made with fresh-milled whole wheat flour and all natural ingredients by Dana for the perfect pick me up. One of the unique features of The Fix is the option to order your fix online. Whether you're in a rush or simply prefer the convenience of online ordering, you can easily place your order and have it ready for pickup when you arrive. This easy option allows for you to enjoy all the delicious offerings of The Fix without any hassle. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, with cozy couches and chairs indoors, and shaded tables on the covered porch. The owners hope to host local performers in the future, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere.

What sets The Fix apart is the combination of chiropractic care and coffee. The owners have thoughtfully curated a space that promotes healing and relaxation. Dr. Dockery uses system analysis and adjusting to provide the most specific and effective care possible. 

Whether you're in need of a caffeine fix or a chiropractic adjustment, The Fix has got you covered. The mission of The Fix is to provide a place in the community for people to come and heal, both physically and mentally. So next time you're in Young Harris, be sure to stop by and experience the magic of The Fix.

Sarah Crain

Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

C: 239-273-9089

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

Welcome folks. First, as always, a quick look at our local real estate market here in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains of Northeast Georgia and Western North Carolina, Union County, Georgia. There are currently 284 homes for sale in Union County. 317 homes have sold thus far this year compared to 343 last year.The average days on market, that is, the time it's taking to get those homes sold is 90 compared to 72 last year. The average sold price is just over $440,000 compared to just under 435,000 last year. The median sold price is 397,000 compared to 395,000 last year, so pretty close to last year.

Now over in Towns County, 195 homes are for sale. 154 homes have sold thus far this year compared to 172 last year. The average days on market is 91 days compared to 67 days last year. The average sold price in Towns County is just over 438,000 compared to just over 493,000 last year. The median sold prices $388,250 compared to 400,000 last year.

Crossing the state line over into Clay County, North Carolina. There are currently 126 homes for sale. 120 homes have sold thus far this year compared to 125 last year. The average days on market is 118 compared to 75 days last year, the average. So price is. Just over 483,000 compared to just over 422,000 last year. The median sold price is $397,200 compared to $340,000 last year.

So in quick summary. Union County, we're talking Blairsville, Georgia. 26, fewer home sales. 18 days longer to sell. Average sold price is up around $5,000. Towns County, Georgia, we're talking Young Harris and awa. 18 fewer home sales. 24 days longer to sell. Average sold price down by around $55,000. Finally, clay County, North Carolina, Haysville, Brasstown, and Warren. Five fewer sales this year. 43 days longer to sell. Average sold prices up by around $61,000. That is a quick look at our real estate market here.

The Perfect “Pic” for Foodies

Located in the heart of Hayesville, North Carolina, Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli is known for their scenic landscape with delectable cuisine. The deli that lives up to its tagline of "fresh food, fast."

Owned by Frank and Jacqueline Blackbun since 2019, Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli is more than just a deli. Their mission is to spread happiness, love, and peace by serving the local community. The owners are passionate about creating a picnic-like experience, allowing customers to enjoy their meals on picnic tables or picnic blankets, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Appalachian mountains. While Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli doesn't offer indoor seating, the experience of dining in your car or on the porch adds to its unique charm. You simply walk up to the counter, place your order, and your food is prepared with lightning speed. It's a cool and casual spot that exudes a laid-back atmosphere. 

The restaurant caters to all palates, offering options for kids and a delightful breakfast menu. Whether you're in the mood for avocado toast, a bagel sandwich with a fried egg, cheese, ham, sausage, and bacon, a breakfast burrito, or a breakfast bowl, they have it all. Their breakfast options are perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring the mountains.

One bite of the Gerta’s Ruben sandwich will transport your taste buds to flavor heaven. This saucy and creamy delight features corned beef and sauerkraut, topped with a house-made sauce, all nestled between two slices of grilled marble rye. The combination of flavors is simply divine. Another must try is the Cordon Bleu Wrap. This tantalizing creation boasts an enticing combination of chicken, ham, bacon, onions, mushrooms, lettuce swiss cheese, and ranch all wrapped in a tortilla. It's a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Not only does Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli excel in their sandwich offerings, but they also serve up refreshing shaved ice and mouth watering grilled burgers. Indulge in the irresistible Southwest burger, topped with bacon, avocado, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese. For an extra burst of flavor, add some bacon to your burger and prepare to be blown away.

Vegetarian options are available, including made-to-order salads with house-made dressings, as well as hot or cold veggie wraps. Live music, cornhole boards, and horseshoes are set up to entertain customers, creating a lively and enjoyable ambiance. Open year-round from Tuesday to Saturday, Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli also offers the convenience of ordering ahead and picking up your food to enjoy on a boat. In addition to their delectable food, they also sell firewood and bagged ice.

So, if you find yourself in Hayesville, North Carolina, make sure to visit Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli for a truly satisfying culinary experience. You won't be disappointed!

Sarah Crain, Your Mountain Foodie Realtor

M: 239-273-9089

E: scrain@c21blackbear.com

Hot Pressed Panini

Avocado Toast

Pic-A-Nick Basket Deli