Let’s be honest for a minute. When most folks think about Augusta, their minds go straight to two things: the Masters Tournament and that iconic green jacket. And sure, when April rolls around, the whole world has its eyes on this town.
But here’s the secret that locals have known forever—Augusta is a food city through and through, twelve months a year.
Sitting pretty on the banks of the Savannah River, this place has cooked up a dining scene that blends deep Southern roots with global flavors in a way that’ll make your head spin.
And the best part? The best restaurants in Augusta, Georgia aren’t just clustered in one fancy neighborhood. They’re everywhere. Down historic Broad Street, tucked away in charming Surrey Center, scattered along Washington Road, and hiding in plain sight on Gordon Highway.
You’ve got century-old BBQ joints that have been perfecting their craft since the 1950s. You’ve got James Beard-honored chefs doing incredible things with locally sourced ingredients.
You’ve got Caribbean spots serving oxtail that’ll transport you straight to the islands. So grab your keys and bring your appetite. We’re about to hit 13 spots that prove Augusta is absolutely killing it right now.
1. Frog Hollow Tavern
If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to Augusta’s dining scene, Frog Hollow Tavern on Broad Street is where you need to be. This place has built a reputation that stretches far beyond the city limits, and for good reason.
Chef/owner Hugh Connell has created something special here—a restaurant that feels both sophisticated and completely comfortable at the same time . The vibe is warm and inviting, with exposed brick and an open kitchen where you can watch the magic happen.
What sets Frog Hollow apart is their commitment to local ingredients. We’re talking about a menu that changes constantly based on what’s fresh from regional farms.
The seasonal tasting menu is an absolute journey, but if you’re popping in for the first time, you can’t go wrong with their wood-grilled dishes. The steak is always cooked to perfection, and they have a way with vegetables that’ll make even the biggest carnivore take notice.
The service staff knows their stuff inside and out, happy to guide you through the menu or help with dietary restrictions . For a special date night or a business dinner where you need to impress, Frog Hollow stands tall among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
2. Sconyers Bar-B-Que
You haven’t really done Augusta until you’ve been to Sconyers Bar-B-Que. This place has been smoking meats since 1956, and walking onto their property feels like stepping into another world . It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a destination.
There’s a covered bridge at the entrance, nature paths winding through the grounds, and plenty of outdoor porch seating where you can soak in the atmosphere. The interior is decked out in wood logs that perfectly complement those hickory-smoked aromas coming from the pits.
Now let’s talk about the food. Sconyers is famous for a few things: pulled pork that’s tender and juicy, ribs that fall off the bone, and pork tenderloin that’s smoked to perfection.
But the real star? It’s the smoked hash, which comes with all their BBQ plates . This isn’t your average hash—it’s a rich, savory concoction that locals go crazy for. You can get it over rice or as a side, but just get it. Trust me.
The restaurant has been featured by travel writers and food bloggers from all over, and once you taste their Q, you’ll understand why. For authentic, time-honored barbecue, Sconyers is essential among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
3. Kitchen Kings x Natta’s Sweet Treats
Okay, we need to talk about Kitchen Kings x Natta’s Sweet Treats on Gordon Highway. This place is something special, and I mean that in every sense.
It’s a combination restaurant and bakery that has absolutely taken the local food scene by storm. The concept is brilliant—you get savory, perfectly seasoned soul food from Kitchen Kings, and you finish with award-winning desserts from Natta’s Sweet Treats. All in one spot .
Walking in, you’re hit with that old-school R&B vibe. The decor is cool and community-focused, with a playlist that sets the perfect mood. But the food? Man, let me tell you. The low country boil is legendary—we’re talking clusters of crab, shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, and boiled eggs, all seasoned to perfection and enough food for two meals easily .
The oxtails are fall-off-the-bone tender. The fried ribs are a must-try. And the honey lemon pepper wings? Some of the best in the city. Reviewers consistently rave about the service too—folks like Shurell and Angie who make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in .
Then you get to dessert, and it’s game over. The blue velvet cake, the strawberry velvet, the banana pudding cupcakes—all made fresh and all incredible. For a true taste of Augusta’s soul, this is a non-negotiable stop among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
4. Nacho Mama’s
Nacho Mama’s on Broad Street is exactly the kind of place you hope to find when you’re exploring a new city. It’s fun, it’s colorful, and the food is absolutely legit .
The name tells you what you need to know—this is Mexican food with personality. The walls are covered in cool art and posters, creating a cozy, energetic vibe that’s perfect for a casual meal with friends.
The menu is packed with all the classics, but they put their own spin on things. You have to try the Step Daddy nachos, loaded with pinto beans, pico de gallo, Monterey Jack cheese, and mango salsa . It’s a flavor explosion.
The Godfather burrito is another fan favorite, stuffed with shredded beef, guacamole, black beans, and mango habanero sauce .
Portions are generous, so come hungry. They’ve got plenty of options for vegetarians too—those black beans and fresh salsas mean you can build a meal that’s totally plant-based and totally satisfying.
The staff is friendly and the margaritas are famous (though we’re not talking drinks here). For a laid-back meal with big flavors, Nacho Mama’s is a winner among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
5. The Bee’s Knees Tapas
Tapas in Augusta? Absolutely. The Bee’s Knees on 10th Street takes the Spanish tradition of small plates and runs with it in the most creative way possible .
But here’s the twist—they don’t stop at Spanish food. The menu roams all over the world, offering bites inspired by Japanese, Mexican, and other cuisines alongside the classic Spanish offerings. It’s a global food adventure on a single menu.
Locals absolutely love the Avocado Chop Chop. It’s a half avocado, lightly fried, and topped with shrimp and Japanese aioli . Sounds simple, right? It’s transcendent. The tempura is light and crispy. The quesadillas are packed with flavor.
And the whole point of tapas is sharing, so bring a group and order a bunch of stuff. The atmosphere is cool and contemporary, perfect for a date night or a fun evening out with friends.
They’re accommodating for different dietary needs too—just ask your server for recommendations. For something different and delicious, The Bee’s Knees is a standout among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
6. 5 O’Clock Bistro
Want a little taste of Paris right in the heart of Augusta? 5 O’Clock Bistro on Kings Way delivers that in spades . This charming spot is decorated to feel like a French bistro, with all the cozy, intimate atmosphere that implies.
But here’s the brilliant part—the menu blends classic French dishes with Southern favorites, creating something that’s truly unique.
Chefs David Ross and Barbara Howard know what they’re doing . The bouillabaisse is a thing of beauty, rich with seafood and authentic French flavors. But then you’ve also got their signature shellfish and grits, which takes a Southern classic and elevates it with French technique.
Everything is made with the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the menu changes to reflect what’s available. The service is attentive and professional without being stuffy. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger over dinner and maybe stay for dessert.
For a special occasion or just a Tuesday night when you want to feel fancy, 5 O’Clock Bistro is a gem among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
7. Boll Weevil Café & Bakery
Here’s a story for you. Boll Weevil is named after a cotton-eating bug because the building it’s in used to be a cotton warehouse back in the day.
Pretty cool, right? It’s located in the Riverfront area, and it’s become one of the most beloved spots in the city. They serve lunch and dinner, but let’s be real—most people come for the desserts.
And what desserts they are. Everything is baked fresh in-house, from scratch, with love. The cakes, the cheesecakes, the pies—all of it. The Red Velvet is a Southern classic done right.
But the showstopper is the 7th Heaven, a decadent cake with layers of dark chocolate and buttercream icing that’s just sinful . They also serve great coffee, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon pick-me-up or an after-dinner treat.
The atmosphere is historic and charming, with exposed brick and that old warehouse feel. For a sweet break during your Augusta adventures, Boll Weevil is essential among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
8. 876 Island Cuisine
Augusta might be hours from the nearest beach, but 876 Island Cuisine brings the Caribbean straight to Martinez. This spot serves up Jamaican and Caribbean favorites that have earned a devoted following .
The oxtail is the star of the show—tender, fall-off-the-bone meat in a rich, savory gravy that you’ll want to soak up with every bite. Reviewers from Florida (who know their Caribbean food) have called it the best they’ve found since moving to Augusta .
The jerk chicken has that perfect grilled flavor and just the right amount of heat. The rice and peas are flavorful enough to be a meal on their own. And the plantains? Sweet, caramelized perfection.
Customers rave about the care that goes into the food, with one reviewer noting you can tell it’s “cooked with love” . The service is friendly, and they pay attention to details like safety seals on takeout orders.
If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons, 876 Island Cuisine is a must-visit among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
9. The Brunch House of Augusta
Weekends were made for brunch, and The Brunch House of Augusta was made for weekends. This cozy, family-friendly diner serves up Southern breakfast favorites that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished eating .
The aroma of bacon and coffee hits you the second you walk in, and the friendly vibe makes you feel right at home.
The grits are creamy and perfect. The hand-patted turkey sausage is a healthier twist that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The candied bacon? Absolutely ridiculous in the best way. And the stuffed French toast is the stuff of legend—thick, fluffy, and stuffed with deliciousness .
Portions are generous, so come hungry. The service is warm and welcoming, the kind of place where the staff might remember your order if you come back. Featured by Visit Augusta as a local favorite, The Brunch House is a breakfast champion among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia .
10. Fifth & Fire
One of Augusta’s newer additions, Fifth & Fire is bringing upscale BBQ to downtown in a big way . Located right in the heart of the city, this spot combines seriously good smoked meats with a cool, modern vibe.
The outdoor patio is a huge draw—perfect for enjoying brisket and bourbon cocktails (though we’re not talking drinks) while soaking in that downtown energy.
But let’s talk about the food. The brisket is smoky, tender, and perfectly seasoned. The pulled pork is juicy and flavorful. And the pimento cheese chicken eggrolls? The staff absolutely raves about them, and once you try them, you’ll understand why .
It’s comfort food meets cool vibes, and it works beautifully. The service is friendly and knowledgeable. For a fresh take on Southern BBQ, Fifth & Fire is a standout among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
11. Tacocat
With a name like Tacocat, you know this place doesn’t take itself too seriously—and that’s exactly the point. Located downtown, this colorful spot serves creative tacos in a fun, relaxed setting .
The patio is particularly great, bright and welcoming with plenty of seating for sunny afternoons.
The menu is full of creative taco combinations that go way beyond basic ground beef and lettuce. The chipotle cauliflower taco is a vegetarian dream, packed with flavor and texture . The fish tacos are fresh and bright. And the margaritas are famous (though again, we’re not talking drinks).
The vibe is casual and fun, perfect for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner with friends. Service is friendly and efficient. For tacos that are anything but boring, Tacocat is a winner among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
12. Edgar’s Above Broad
Let’s go up. Way up. Edgar’s Above Broad offers a rooftop experience right in the heart of downtown Augusta, and it’s something special . Perched above Broad Street, this spot gives you skyline views while you enjoy small plates and good company.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, with bocce ball, life-sized checkers, and cozy lounge seating that invites you to settle in for the evening.
The menu features sharable small plates that are perfect for grazing while you take in the view. The vibe is elevated but not pretentious—the kind of place where you can dress up a little or keep it casual.
The staff is attentive and happy to help you navigate the menu. For a memorable dining experience with a view, Edgar’s Above Broad is a must among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia .
13. Your Pie
We’re closing out the list with a pizza spot that does things right. Your Pie on Riverwatch is a fast-casual pizza place that lets you build your own creation with fresh ingredients . But here’s what makes them special—they’re incredibly accommodating for all kinds of diets.
We’re talking vegan pizza, vegetarian pizza, gluten-free pizza, even keto-friendly pizza. All made in a brick oven with hand-tossed dough.
The concept is simple: you go down the line and pick your sauce, cheese, and toppings. Everything is fresh, and they make their sauces and dressings in-house. The crust comes out of that brick oven with the perfect char and chew.
They also serve pasta and paninis if you’re not in a pizza mood, and their Italian-inspired gelato is a perfect finish. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
For a customizable meal that works for literally everyone in your group, Your Pie is a solid choice among restaurants in Augusta, Georgia.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Thirteen incredible spots that prove Augusta, Georgia is absolutely crushing it in the food department.
From century-old BBQ joints with covered bridges to Caribbean spots serving transcendent oxtail, from French-inspired bistros to rooftop lounges with skyline views—this city has range for days. The hardest part is going to be deciding where to eat first.
Now it’s your turn. Grab your keys, round up your people, and go get a table. Try that smoked hash at Sconyers. Dive into those award-winning desserts at Boll Weevil.
Savor every bite of those oxtails at 876 Island Cuisine. And when you find your new favorite spot—because you absolutely will—come on back and tell me all about it. Happy eating, Augusta.