Best Southern Food in Augusta, GA (2026)
Augusta sits at the crossroads of Southern food traditions — lowcountry, Appalachian, soul food, and the modern Southern cuisine that's become its own thing. This isn't a list of chains serving reheated mac and cheese. These are the kitchens where chefs actually know what they're doing with butter, bourbon, and biscuits.
Last updated: March 20, 2026
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The Local Take
Augusta has one of the best Southern food scenes in Georgia outside of Savannah. Last Resort Grill and Five and Ten set the standard for upscale Southern cooking that respects tradition while pushing boundaries. Mama's Boy owns breakfast. George's Lowcountry Table is the only place in Augusta doing proper coastal Southern food. The real story is how Augusta' Southern food scene blends with its farm-to-table movement — restaurants like Last Resort and Five and Ten have been sourcing locally since before it was trendy. The Augusta University agricultural program and nearby farms in Oconee County create a supply chain that most Southern cities would envy. If you're visiting Augusta for the first time, eat at Last Resort Grill or Mama's Boy and you'll understand why food people take this town seriously. And don't sleep on Lindsey's Culinary Market — it's the kind of place locals keep to themselves.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Southern restaurant in Augusta, GA?
Last Resort Grill leads with 2,224 reviews at 4.6 stars. Five and Ten (James Beard heritage) and South Kitchen + Bar (upscale) are also excellent. For breakfast, Mama's Boy is the clear winner.
Where can I get biscuits and gravy in Augusta?
Mama's Boy is the gold standard for biscuits in Augusta. The Flying Biscuit Cafe serves organic biscuits with cranberry apple butter. Biscuit Basket focuses entirely on biscuit sandwiches.
Is there good fried chicken in Augusta, GA?
Mama's Boy serves an outstanding fried chicken biscuit. South Kitchen + Bar and George's Lowcountry Table both have fried chicken on their menus. Lindsey's Culinary Market rotates fried chicken as a lunch special.
Where is the best shrimp and grits in Augusta?
George's Lowcountry Table makes the best shrimp and grits in Augusta — it's their specialty as a lowcountry restaurant. South Kitchen + Bar and Last Resort Grill also serve excellent versions.
What Southern food is Augusta known for?
Augusta is known for elevated Southern cuisine (Five and Ten, Last Resort Grill), incredible biscuits (Mama's Boy), and a farm-to-table movement rooted in local agriculture. The food scene rivals cities twice its size.