Restaurants in Helen Georgia
If you're exploring Helen, Georgia, you won't want to miss the local dining scene. From authentic German restaurants right in the heart of the Bavarian village to farm-to-table gems tucked into the Sautee Nacoochee Valley, the area offers far more variety than most visitors expect. Grab a riverside table and watch the Chattahoochee roll by, discover a chef-driven menu built entirely around what's fresh from local farms, or settle into a Helen original that has been feeding hungry guests since 1965. Whether your group is in the mood for schnitzel and live music, stone-oven pizza, or a quiet dinner worth planning ahead for, restaurants in Helen, Georgia have something for every appetite and every kind of night out.
Bigg Daddys Restaurant and Tavern
One of the best BBQ spots in Helen is Bigg Daddy’s Restaurant and Tavern. The atmosphere at Bigg Daddy’s is fun and lively with a sports bar vibe and plenty of TVs to watch the big game. Their menu features a variety of BBQ meats, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, all of which are smoked to perfection. They also offer a variety of different sauces for customers to choose from, including tangy and sweet options. Their burgers are the best I’ve had, we love their pizza, and the fish tacos are amazing!
Cowboys and Angels Restaurant and Bar
This family-owned restaurant is a fusion of Southern and Western cuisine, with dishes like cowboy burgers and chicken-fried steak alongside Southern staples like fried green tomatoes and collard greens. But it’s not just the food that sets Cowboys and Angels apart – the atmosphere is fun and lively, with a rustic Western theme and live music on their spacious porch on weekends. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a casual meal with family.
The Troll Tavern
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the Chattahoochee River, head over to The Troll Tavern. This popular spot offers a variety of pub-style dishes with a Bavarian twist, such as the Bavarian Pretzel, the Bratwurst Burger, and the Schnitzel Sandwich. The Troll Tavern offers a variety of flavored ribs, including their signature Baby Back Ribs, which are slow-cooked over hickory logs and finished with a secret sauce. They also serve a delicious pulled pork sandwich which is a crowd favorite. Pair your meal with one of their delicious cocktails or a beer from their extensive tap list.
Cafe International
If you’re in the mood for lighter fare or want to try something new, stop by Cafe International. This charming cafe serves up a mix of European and American cuisine, including soups and salads, savory crepes, classic burgers, and German-style sandwiches (the Reuben is excellent!). Grab a picnic table on the outside deck seating area for one of the best spots in town to watch the river tubes pass by on the Chattahoochee.
Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria
Stone-oven craft pizza made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and dough mixed daily. The locals have voted Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria the best pizza in Helen, and it’s easy to see why. The menu goes beyond pizza with sandwiches, salads, and a solid lineup of regionally brewed craft beers and local wines. No reservations taken, so arrive early, grab a cold drink, and settle in.
Bodensee Restaurant
Bodensee Restaurant is another popular spot for those looking for traditional Bavarian fare in Helen. The menu features traditional dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and there are plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available as well. The menu includes a variety of classic German dishes, including the Jägerschnitzel, Rindfleisch Rouladen, and Bratwurst. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as Bodensee is known for its delicious Black Forest Cake.
Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub
The Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub sits right along the beautiful Chattahoochee River, offering a cozy dining atmosphere both inside and out. They serve all the classic German dishes, from hearty Jaeger Schnitzel to flavorful sausages and Kasseler Rippchen, each made with care and the highest quality ingredients.
Hofer's of Helen
Hofer’s is a must-visit for authentic German cuisine, fresh homemade treats, and a cozy atmosphere. With its wood-paneled walls and warm lighting, the restaurant creates a welcoming ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience. So whether you’re in the mood for schnitzel or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Hofer’s is the perfect spot for hearty breakfast or lunch. Their stone hearth oven ensures each loaf of their freshly baked bread has that perfect crust and flavor. It is currently closed Wednesday and Thursday and lunch is served until 3 pm.
Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe
If you’re looking for something unique and delicious you’ve got to try Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Café! This cozy, family-owned spot serves up authentic German and Czech dishes that are packed with flavor. Their signature fried cheese is a must-try, along with hearty schnitzels, goulash, and other traditional favorites.
The portions are generous, and everything is made fresh to order with recipes passed down through generations.
Paul's Stakhouse
A Helen original since 1965, Paul’s Steakhouse has been serving riverside steaks long before the mountains became a weekend destination. The menu runs from hand-cut ribeyes and blue crab cakes to jalapeño poppers and fresh seafood, with all-you-can-eat specials that make it an easy call for a hungry group. Pull up a seat on the Chattahoochee patio, stay for the live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and let the evening take care of itself.
Bangkok Haus
When the group wants a break from schnitzel, Bangkok Haus delivers. Classic Thai dishes and a full sushi menu are served in a warm, relaxed setting right in the heart of Helen, where owners Joel and Nina have built a loyal local following. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, it’s one of the most versatile and consistently good options in town.
Harvest Habersham
No printed menu. No frozen ingredients. The chef at Harvest Habersham builds the evening around what’s freshest from local farms and doesn’t finalize the menu until 3:30 that afternoon. Everything that arrives at your table is seasonal, scratch-made, and genuinely unlike anything else in the mountains. Reservations are required, and dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday only, so plan ahead and make a night of it.