10 Best Places for Appetizers in Georgia
By Alli Hill

Everyone knows that appetizers are the best part of the meal. When you’re hungry, there’s nothing more satisfying than knowing an appetizer is on the way to save the day. They’re quicker than entrees, they fill you up without leaving you overstuffed, and they’re usually budget-friendly! Head to these 10 best places for appetizers and sink your teeth into some amazingly creative concoctions.

Agave Restaurant, Atlanta, GA

Infused with some of the best flavors of the southwest, this refined eatery has so many apps on their menu you might just consider it their specialty. Fans rave about the grilled street corn, signature mussels, and the shrimp and poblano spring rolls, but the goodness doesn’t stop there. Portions and pricing make their apps shareworthy, so order a few for the group and sample ‘til your heart’s content.

Olde Pink House Restaurant, Savannah, GA

This historic little gem is tucked inside the famous Planter’s Inn, but you don’t need a reservation to pull up a seat and dive into their amazing apps. Their menu gives you plenty of choices, including fried quail, fried green tomatoes, and seafood, all created with a southern twist. Side note: they also have one of the most impressive wine lists in the city, and their vinos are the perfect complement to their appetizers.

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Recess Gastropub, Gainesville, GA

Southern inspired and 100 percent delicious, this gastropub knows how to do apps right. Small plates like Cherry Tomato Bruschetta, Pimento Cheese Fritters, and Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears can’t be found just anywhere. They’ve put a lot of thought and care into every dish, and you’ll appreciate the uniqueness and attention to detail.

Coastal Breeze, Buford, GA

This seafood haven has no shortage of scrumptious appetizers from both land and sea! Upgraded classics like crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, and calamari are served small-plate style so you can fill up for less. If you can’t make up your mind, grab a sampler and start snacking on all your favorites!

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The Black Cow, Columbus, GA

This place is oozing of laid back, rustic charm, southern eats, and an atmosphere that’s perfect for conversation. Their apps are an exquisite prelude to their entrees, offering a variety of barbecue dishes, fried fare, and classic apps like cheese sticks and wings. They’re generous with portions, so you might just want to skip the entree section completely.

TWO Urban Licks, Atlanta, GA

They’re the masters of creative apps. Here you can expect fancy twists on classics like shaved calamari, salmon chips, deviled crab, and one of the best empanadas you’ll ever put in your mouth. They set the stage for an amazing dinner, or as a light snack for smaller appetites.

The American, Bainbridge, GA

This place is about as southern as it gets. Apps like fried green heirloom tomatoes and pecan truffle fries perfectly embody what Georgia cuisine is all about. It’s an interesting concept for such a small town, and one that won’t hesitate to surprise and delight.

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Luna’s Restaurant and Piano Lounge, Gainesville, GA

This stunning piano lounge offers a southern-inspired app menu that captures all the best flavors Georgia is known for. Fried green tomatoes, salads, crab cakes, and soups can easily be a meal on its own. There’s not much variety here, but they more than make up for it in terms of ambiance (it’s a piano lounge, after all) and flavor.

Clark’s on Main, Clayton, GA

This gem in a small mountain town combines delicious bar apps with a rooftop deck, warm cozy digs, and family-friendly service. Their apps are a delicate combination of healthy, wholesome fare like ahi tuna and fried Brussels sprouts and classics like nachos and wings. They’re also a hotspot for live music and trivia night.

Trappeze Pub, Athens, GA

This bright, airy pub is an ideal spot to hang out with friends, take the family for dinner, or simply grab a quick lunch. Their variety of fries are a fan favorite, giving you multiple ways to enjoy this classic side. Plus, apps like hummus and ahi tuna can fill you up without the guilt.