A Restaurant for Every Month: 12 Bucket-List Worthy Spots in Georgia

If you're a foodie like us, we have the ultimate calendar of places to go. These 12 bucket list restaurants in Georgia should absolutely be part of your plans for the new year, one for each month. From cozy mountain towns to bustling Atlanta neighborhoods, Georgia’s dining scene offers unforgettable meals year-round across the Peach State. Who’s ready to feast?

January Pick: Ball Ground Burger Bus and Its Legendary Burgers

Start this restaurant adventure with a trip to a coveted burger spot in Ball Ground, Georgia. Ball Ground Burger Bus has set up shop in a vintage bus, making it one of the coolest places to dine in Georgia. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that their burgers are insanely delicious. You'll work up an appetite when you keep reading more about Ball Ground Burger Bus.

February Spotlight: Savor Seasonal Flavors at The Garden Room

For the month of February, when almost everyone is wondering who their Valentine will be and where they will dine, you’ll already be a step ahead. The Garden Room in Atlanta is a dining adventure set within a vibrant, immersive garden. What is more romantic than that? You can read more about this enchanting bucket list restaurant in this article. Be sure to make reservations, especially around Valentine’s Day.

March Dining: Authentic Amish Fare at Yoder’s Deitsch Haus

In March, we’ll be switching up things a bit to head over to Yoder’s Deitsch Haus Restaurant and Bakery, one of the best hidden gem restaurants in the state. Serving up cafeteria-style cuisine from the Mennonite community, this is one comfort meal not to be missed. Yoder's Deitsch Haus Restaurant is the place you never knew you craved. And when you visit for the first time, you will appreciate the cafeteria-style service, which lets you sample multiple homestyle dishes at your own pace.

April Highlight: The Varsity, Atlanta’s Fast-Food Landmark

In April, we’re going big to one of Georgia’s largest restaurants in the state! The Varsity has been a coveted restaurant in Atlanta for decades, occupying two city blocks. Come to the drive-in and order up a classic burger and onion rings, a scrumptious chili dog, and a fresh peach pie. It's no wonder The Varsity is on our bucket list of restaurants. Ordering is fast-paced and part of the experience, especially during peak hours.

May: Seafood Delights Await at Pelican Pete’s in Georgia

When the weather starts to heat up in Georgia, we’re going to head over to Pelican Pete’s floating Lake Lanier gem. As the only floating restaurant on Lake Lanier, Pelican Pete’s truly is a tropical paradise. Come grab a frozen drink under the thatched tiki hut and score some scrumptious American fare. Because the restaurant floats on Lake Lanier, accessibility may vary depending on water levels and dock conditions.

June Must-Try: TreeHouse Grill for Gourmet Comfort Food

Summer is about to be in full swing, which means the foliage is likely all grown in by now. That makes this the perfect time to be surrounded by poplar trees at TreeHouse Grill! This local treehouse hotspot offers fried pork rinds, fried Vidalia onions, and tons of fresh seafood. Plus, you can’t beat these views in Vidalia. Please note that accessing the treehouse-style seating may involve stairs and uneven ground.

July: Elegant Dining Awaits at White Oaks Bistro in Georgia

White Oaks Bistro in Dahlonega is a hip restaurant offering delightful views of the North Georgia mountains. Known for its innovative steak dishes, this hidden gem restaurant is perfect for a warm summer evening, with views that stretch for miles into the horizon. Reservations are recommended during summer weekends.

August Feature: Canoe Restaurant – A Must-Visit Georgia Eatery

One of the most renowned restaurants in the state is situated right on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Canoe Restaurant offers an alfresco experience that is absolute perfection in those warm summer months. Sip craft cocktails as you enjoy the sprawling gardens under twinkling lights. Guests can request outdoor seating when the weather permits. Also note that Valet parking is available. Keep reading to find out more about what to expect when you dine at Canoe Restaurant.

September: Classic Comfort Food Awaits at Peggy’s Restaurant

Peggy’s Restaurant is a real Southern gem in Wrens, Georgia. The menu is brimming with homestyle favorites like black-eyed peas, corn muffins, macaroni and cheese, and fried chicken piled high on plates. But what’s more is that this homestyle spot also offers up breakfast, too, which is the perfect way to kick-start your day. Be sure to arrive early since breakfast service makes Peggy’s a popular morning stop for locals. You'll never leave hungry when you go to Peggy's Restaurant.

October Pick: The Olde Pink House for Timeless Georgia Flavors

The Olde Pink House is a perfect getaway for October. This historic Savannah-based restaurant, housed in a restored 18th-century mansion, is very popular for Southern fine dining and candlelit dining rooms, and is often mentioned in ghost lore. When here, don't forget to order grits, she-crab soup, or shrimp. While the atmosphere leans upscale, the dress code is approachable. Due to the building’s historic nature, accessibility may vary between dining rooms.

November: Scenic Dining at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in Georgia

One of the best places to snag a front-row seat to fall foliage is in Blue Ridge, Georgia, at the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant. Sit right on the river, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the fresh-caught trout. Just make sure, before you go, you check their hours of operation; this riverfront restaurant isn’t open every day. Fall weekends are especially popular for leaf-peeping, so checking hours and securing a table in advance can help avoid long waits. Be sure to find out all the details before you visit Tocca Riverside Restaurant.

December Must-Try: Trader Vic’s for Memorable Meals and Drinks

Are you looking for a hidden gem to escape winter blues? Trader Vic’s in Atlanta is the perfect restaurant to visit in December. It's a legendary Polynesian-style restaurant famous for its globally inspired menu, tropical cocktails, and island décor. You'll be amazed by its immersive and warm atmosphere. When here, be sure to tryout Vic’s Tuna Poke, Vegetable Spring Rolls, and Cosmo Tidbits.

Have you been to any of these 12 bucket list restaurants in Georgia? Share with us your experience! Or if you have more restaurants that you think would be a great fit for another list, make sure to shout them out, too.

Are you ready to turn this list into a road trip? Consider using our Itinerary Planner to map out your month-by-month dining adventures across the Peach State.