Posted in Georgia Dining April 25, 2022 by

Three Generations Of A Georgia Family Have Owned And Operated The Legendary Luigi’s

It seems like there’s a new restaurant in Georgia opening up every week. Places come, places go: it can be tough to find long-standing restaurants that have been in the same family for generations. One spot that bucks that trend is Luigi’s Restaurant in Augusta. This place has been in the same family for three generations. It’s the oldest family-run restaurant in the state and has been delighting diners since 1949. Its charming decor, delicious menu, and delightful jukebox have made it a long-time favorite spot for many Georgians.

Luigi's Restaurant isn't very spacious, but it's certainly big on character. The restaurant feels like it's been in Augusta for forever (which it practically has).
Luigi's/Facebook
You won't find a much more welcoming place than this. The atmosphere feels so familial, even if it's your first time visiting.
The restaurant was founded by an immigrant who first lived in New England before moving to the South. "Papou Nick" Ballas opened Luigi's Restaurant up in 1949, several decades after moving to the U.S.
Wyatt Lane/Google Maps
Though he was from the Greek island of Lesbos, Ballas knew that few in the United States were familiar with Greek food at this time. He decided to serve up Italian food, which was well on its way to becoming quite popular.
Nearly 75 years later, Luigi's is still serving up the Italian dishes that the eatery first became known for. There's traditional favorites like spaghetti.
Luigi's/Facebook
The fried ravioli are huge and one of the most popular foods here.
Luigi's/Facebook
While most of the dishes served here are Italian, plenty carry Greek influence, like this Greek combination pizza.
Wyatt Lane/Google Maps
When it comes to family-run restaurants in Georgia, it doesn't get much more long-standing than Luigi's Restaurant in Augusta!
Jason Grenard/Google Maps

For more information about Luigi’s Restaurant, including a menu, check out the restaurant’s website.

Have you been to this delicious Italian restaurant in Georgia? Share your experiences in the comments!

Address: Luigi's, 590 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30901, USA