Head northeast from Atlanta on Interstate 85 till the traffic begins to thin out a tad and you’re in a different world. Leave Atlanta’s edgy ambiance in the rear-view mirror. Immerse yourself in a different Georgia, one rife with its own collection of great places to eat and kick back:
- Dahlonega’s Smith House is one of a legion of good inns that grace the state. This one serves up unabashed southern fare: platters of fried chicken, baked ham, fried okra, candied yams, and yeast roles. Waddle off to bed for a nice nap after one of these feasts. It’s about all the exercise you’ll be able to manage
- Toccoa (remember HBO’s Band of Brothers?) is the site of Shirley’s Soul Food Café, a place featured on Food Network. Fried chicken, mac ‘n cheese and bounteous banana pudding are the draws here. Shirley not only serves up soul food, she gives of her own soul too, particularly to the homeless.
- Follow the faithful to Flowery Branch for a Big Bang brew at Toasted & Tapped, a brewpub established by a group of college friends. This place is a staple among folks in the Lake Lanier area.
- Don’t put on any airs when you open the door to the Dawsonville Poolroom. They’ll spot you right off. It also helps if you’re a NASCAR fan. This is the place they pay homage to former NASCAR star Bill Elliott, a Dawsonville boy. The walls are bedecked with racing memorabilia, and the menu blessed by a big bite of beef called the Bully Burger.
- In search of a nice counterpart to the Poolroom? Dahlonega’s Three Sisters Vineyards & Winery serves up great vintages, and fascinating events. In June alone three weekends are set aside for something special.
If Atlanta’s a bit too frenetic for you, remember, there’s refuge just up the interstate.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: jramspott)
