20 Cant-Miss Best Restaurants in Helen Georgia

Restaurants in Helen are some of the best things to happen to this beautiful city of Georgia.

It’s a tourist destination that is well-liked for its fantastic food scene.

Helen offers a wide variety of cuisine, including upmarket farm-to-table American dishes, one-of-a-kind BBQ, traditional German fare, and vibrant Western-inspired dishes.

There are equally restaurants in Helen that appeal to vegetarians, lovers of seafood, and freshly baked pastries.

Are you still Wondering where to start upon your arrival in this downtown? This guide is all you need to navigate through Helen’s food scene.

Restaurants in Helen Georgia

1. Cafe International

Everything about Cafe International illustrates excellence and quality, making it one of the best-rated restaurants in Helen, GA!

The impeccable services and classy decor make a lasting impression on anyone visiting this great restaurant. Unlike many other restaurants you might think of while in Helen, the incredibly knowledgeable waiters here render pleasing services, and the bar has an array of wines to choose from.

In fact, the fantastic ambiance here and their consistent quality make Cafe International the perfect choice for the whole family or an intimate dinner date.

Anytime you are here, get yourself Camel Rider later; it’s more than the regular German meals, and if that won’t be enough, vegan bratwurst or Ruben will do!

Pastrami with sauerkraut is also the favorite of several people here. So, if you’re willing to spend extra nine dollars, don’t leave without sampling it; it’s always yummy!

It’s super great that no matter your choices, even if you’re in for vegan-free meals, there’s undoubtedly something for you.

Cafe International is one of the staples you should stop by when in Helen. They’ve been around for years and not stopping at doing greatness anytime soon!

Address: 8546 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

2. Bigg Daddys Restaurant & Tavern

When you are visiting or on the go through downtown Helen, getting a delicious bite along your way wouldn’t be a problem with the presence of Bigg Daddys Restaurant & Tavern.

It’s one of the top restaurants in Helen where you can get everything from fried green tomatoes to Salmon to spinach salad and lots of fish tacos as well as burgers.

Texas Chilli offered in this restaurant is also delicious as it regularly comes with pasta, Alfredo, beef, and spinach.

Besides, Garlic bread with cheese is also a great option if you’re conscious of your health, and if you prefer something spicier, go for a Cartel sandwich, waffle fries, Pittsburgh salad, or some portion of nachos.

In fact, with condiments and lots of cherry on top, the Bigg Daddys Restaurant & Tavern’s BBQ sauce is the best you can get in town!

On the kid menu, the fish and chips are top-notch; it is always perfectly cooked, flavorful, and gigantic!

Aside from its scrumptious dishes that are suitable for the whole family, another admirable thing about this restaurant is that the service is so quick, and the servers are so accommodating. The hostesses at the door are equally superb and ensure they do everything possible to eliminate the waiting time with their upbeat character.

Even at that, prices are bearable, unlike other restaurants in Helen, and there are lots of great beers on tap. Meanwhile, if you’re more of wine, I suggest you get a cole slaw; it’s made from locally sourced grains, and you’ll love it!

To top that up, this favorite location features live music! Absolutely, this is an excellent option for anyone looking to eat while in Helen!

Address: 807 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

3. Paul’s Margarita Deck

The historic & charming setting, along with its beautiful river views, makes Paul’s Margarita Deck to be one of the most visited restaurants in Helen for the past 15 years.

For hearty home-style dishes, you really can’t go wrong stepping into this quaint restaurant.

Their unique all-you-can-eat serving style enables guests to sample the whole range of food on the menu, thereby making it an enriching and exciting dining experience for all.

The impressive chandelier at its entrance, beautiful interiors, and pleasing ambiance immediately make you feel welcome after stepping inside Paul’s Margarita Deck. At all times, this great restaurant earns a big thumbs-up for its excellent fantastic service and quality food.

Every server here is very attentive and meets guests’ needs with absolute efficiency, while the food is flavorful, fresh, and well-presented!

Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Turkey Reuben, Prime Rib Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Club, Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich, and Philly Cheese Steak, are amongst the most flavourful and delicious dishes cooked from fresh ingredients waiting for your arrival here.

For slides, I recommend Onion Rings, Jalapeno Poppers, or some portion of French Fries & Cheese Fries. If you care for wings, do not leave without sampling their ever-garnished Lemon Pepper, Teriyaki, BBQ, Jerk & Fire, or Mild.

Jumbo dogs, including Hot Dogs, Chili Dog, Cheese Dog, Slaw Dog, Chili Cheese Dog, or Sloppy Dog will also be a perfect pick if you crave for a sauced meal.

Either way, a stop here will have your mouth watering because it’s one of the top restaurants in downtown Helen with diversifying menu options!

Address: 8537 S Main St, suite b, Helen, GA 30545, United States

4. Hofbrauhaus Restaurant

The Hofbrauhaus Restaurant is a riverfront, Bavarian-style restaurant that offers traditional German dishes. It sits in an attractive location that looks like you stepped into Germany.

Here, you can start by ordering the Big pretzel with cheese; it’s always so yummy, and if you’re on a stop with your spouse, the Schlachthaus Platte is intended to be for two; you need to try that for sure!

The pork offered at Hofbrauhaus Restaurant is also the best one you can get around this neighborhood – it’s massive, delicious, and the most bang for your buck compared to other restaurants in Helen!

For something tastier, I recommend a portion of the French Onion Soup; a generous amount of cheese is melted on top of the soup, and there’s a bit of bread sprinkled inside, which makes it far better than what you may even get in French land!

Potato cake and green beans or a plate of Apple strudel will also be a better option; it’s perfectly seasoned and, for sure, cooked to perfection.

Best of it all, the views and scenery are equally impressive, and there’s live music that contributes beautifully to the ambiance.

Great food, great beer, fantastic staff,  just a wonderful experience overall. It will surely make for the most enjoyable lunch if you’re anywhere near Georgia! By far, one of the best restaurants in Helen!

Keep in mind this restaurant gets very busy on weekends and more during the summer. Alternatively, I suggest you come during the week.

Address: 9001 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

5. Huddle House

The Huddle House is a retro-style country diner hangout and one of the best restaurants in Helen for authentic Southern dishes and experiences.

Its vintage booths, funky decor, alongside warm hospitality all add up to give you the best dining experience you crave for.

Here, all dishes are from locally sourced farm fresh ingredients, making their various meals so healthy with the expected flavors.

From the fried chicken that’s lip-smacking to its most sought-after smoky gravy, every day is a great day at the Huddle House!

In fact, the DoorDash, Mac-chess, butter-milk pancake, and the various home-style pancakes available here are worth dying for!

Iced tea and freshly squeezed juice are fantastic too. Other than these, a noticeable strike of this authentic restaurant is the uplifting atmosphere and positive vibe. Whether summertime or winter period, this eatery is always fabulous!

More importantly, the owner and the chef take hospitality to the next level with their complimentary food samples and personal attention to guests waiting in the queue.

By far, the Huddle House is one of the best restaurants I can think of in Helen! Plan a visit to this restaurant on Sundays to Thursdays from 8:00 am – 8:00 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, it is open from 7:00 pm through 10:00 pm.

Address: 8428 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

6. Cowboys & Angels Restaurant

For the best breakfast while in Helen, you really cannot beat Cowboys & Angels Restaurant! Their mission is to serve excellent dishes with the best ingredients and genuine hospitality.

You can start by ordering the filet, it’s always cooked perfectly with excellent seasoning, and the Sea scallops are also fantastic, with the right firmness you’ll love.

The Cowboys & Angels Restaurant also prides itself with its fries alongside some crunchy batter that’s super delicious.

Even for appetizers, the jumbo lump crab cake is just so extraordinary! For the price of 12 dollars for one burger, it wouldn’t be anything bad as well.

The live music is also a plus; it gives the right vibe, and there are lots of outdoor seating with the friendliest staff ever.

Although it may be highly chilly outside, but, there are heaters. So, that is nothing worth worrying about.

Also, bear in mind that there may be a long waiting time for sure. Therefore, I suggest you reach out ahead of time as they don’t take reservations; it’s walk-in only. Nevertheless, it’s no doubt, the Cowboys & Angels Restaurant comes first among the top restaurants for dinner and hangout in Helen!

Visit the Cowboys & Angels Restaurant from 11:00 am – 10 pm from Monday through Sunday.

Address: 60 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

7. Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria

The beautiful setting at the Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria makes it one of the best restaurants in Helen if you crave delicious hoagies and salads.

Its beautifully landscaped gardens add to the charm of this place, making it not only suitable for a casual meal but equally a perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic date.

Whether in for some little hiking nearby or you’re returning from a beach vacation, this restaurant makes for an unforgettable experience because its warm hospitality and friendliness prices alone set this place apart from all other restaurants in Helen, Georgia!

The servers are also professional and do ensure they make great suggestions for every order with the perfect pair of drinks that’ll leave you totally satisfied.

If you’re anywhere near, stop by the Nacoochee Village Tavern before, I assure you, it wouldn’t be short of great vibes!

Meanwhile, I suggest you come during the week because it may be so rowdy during the weekend.

Address: 7275 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

8. Bodensee

As for Bodensee, it’s a down-to-earth restaurant turning out traditional German dishes in alpine-inspired surroundings.

This German-themed restaurant serves the best German dishes that taste as good as they look. Their slabs of beef smoked pork chop and pretzel & beer cheese beat what you’ll get in other coastal restaurants in Helen.

While the German sampler, Apple Strudel, and Molten lava chocolate cake are superb for starters, the combination of shrimp, chicken, and crab are also great value meals here.

Slides like coleslaw, baked potato, and hush puppies equally taste good, and their house salad or desserts isn’t anything to be missed.

Visiting this authentic restaurant in this charming city of Georgia is an experience you will cherish for a long time to come. Honestly, you’re doing yourself a disservice if you visit Helen and don’t eat here!

Except on Wednesdays, the Bodensee is ready to take your dining experience to the next level from 11 am – 8 pm

Address: 64 Munich Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

9. Spice 55 Thai and Sushi Restaurant

Spice 55 Thai and Sushi restaurant is another restaurant worth my recommendation.

However, unlike other restaurants in Helen, this spot is a quaint Thai eatery that serves dishes in a vibrant casual space. Their menu features mouth-watering meals that are cooked to perfection, including fried chicken and Pad Thai Chicken.

Sushi, 55 Duck, and fries are also much better options you consider in this down-to-earth restaurant. Their Susie also has a fantastic taste, and on the kid’s menu, Shrimp and Scallops with eggplant beat it all!

You can also try out internationally sourced Thai wine that adds a twist to the sumptuous meal. Most admirably, this restaurant is decorated with hand-woven doilies. So, you are definitely going to have the feeling that you’re in Thai Land even while in the United States!

A little bit of advice, this isn’t pet-friendly, do away with your pets while coming. But, overall, I would recommend this place if you’re looking for a good experience that’s a bit out of the way from the crowds of Helen!

Spice 55 Thai and Sushi restaurant does not open on Tuesdays, but you can surely come for great treats on all other days.

Address: 705 Brucken Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

10. The Troll Tavern

The Troll Tavern is a Riverfront restaurant in Helen, Georgia, that serves American & German fare with beers in a casual environment that’s surrounded by outdoor seats.

This next-to-the-river restaurant offers a beautifully brisk lunch at the best price ever. To start with, I suggest you request some portion of breaded pork with mashed potatoes, and if you want something less spicy, go for lemon pepper salmon and green beans.

You can also opt for a salad with grilled chicken; it may sound so simple, but it’s exceptionally flavorful! If you want something more, go for some portion of grilled reuben, the roast beast and the triple platter that’s added to it will make it the best you’d ever taste in the West.

Most interestingly, the Troll Tavern also has options for a gluten-free diet, and they have the perfect pair of drinks for every meal.

The beer cheese soup comes with the pretzel as well and wouldn’t be anything bad if you want something great for the entire family.

In fact, a noticeable attribute that distinguishes this eatery from all other restaurants in Helen is that there’s inside and outside patio dining, and the outdoor area is covered by massive umbrellas. So, you could eat out there in wet or hot weather.

With all the restaurants, cafes, diners, and pubs you can eat at in Helen, Georgia, this is definitely one to try if you’re in town!

This restaurant opens from Mondays – Thursdays from 11 am through 8 pm and 11 am through 10 pm on Fridays – Sundays.

Address: 8590 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

11. Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe

Among the restaurants in Helen, Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe stands out because of its fusion of German and Czech cuisine. The fried brie in this restaurant is so yummy, the chocolate fudge cake is equally rich, and the dense & moist are exceptionally delicious.

Also, the schnitzel, cabbage, and sauerkraut are always excellent, and the fried Cheddar cheese and ham appetizer that comes with some tossed greens will be a top highlight of your experience here because it’s perfectly garnished.

With its beautiful outdoor courtyard, this fabulous restaurant is not just famous for mouthwatering dishes but also for the best services.

In fact, just as you’ll appreciate, Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe also features a bar that is amazing for a nightcap after a meal. You can’t miss it if you have a stop here!

Address: 60 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

12. Slice of Helen

Do you want to spend some enjoyable time with your loved ones while being away from your city?

If you do, don’t be hesitant to dine at the Slice of Helen, it is one of the most romantic restaurants in Helen!

Being a Stalwart and local Tavern eatery, this location provides draft brews, cocktails & New York-style pizza, plus karaoke nights.

With varieties of menu options and solid prices, everyone will certainly get the best here. Luckily, they serve breakfast all day, and the expansive lunch menu makes choosing your meals difficult because everything is always enticing.

Anything and everything in this great restaurant is just too good. If it’s for the best restaurants in Helen, I will surely give them the nod!

Address: 8252 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

13. La Cabana Express

La Cabana Express is a paradise for non-vegan tourists; it’s a restaurant that strikes that perfect balance with live music.

Known for offering lovely views of this city of Georgia alongside its breathtaking regal ambiance, the La Cabana Express is another joint for a fantastic dining experience.

Vibrant colors, sparkling lights, a romantic ambiance, and great value are some of La Cabana Express’s highlights that make it a perfect recipe for anyone craving a richer dining experience.

On its options, consider a pick from garlic shrimp lite, a fish plate with spinach, or possibly, a plate of Tacos will do.

This restaurant also has low-carb options that help if you’re watching your weight, and the Fajita plates you’ll get for “one person” in this restaurant will probably be enough to feed two people because it’s always massive!

Like a gem amongst other precious stones, if you are in Helen, say yes to this most presentable location! It may not be everyone’s preference, but to me, it’s still one of the best restaurants in Helen worth a recommendation!

Address: 8520 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

14. Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant

If you want authentic German food and beer while in Helen, the Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant is the place to go! You cannot go wrong with either their Ruben sandwich or the pretzel and Jagar Snitzel. These dishes are definitely going to leave you feeling so happy and satisfied.

Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant also has a superb lunch and dinner menu with items like mashed potatoes, bratwurst, and onion rings.

These options are not only authentic, but the prices are also far more reasonable than most of the tourist traps in downtown Helen.

Beyond these absolutely delectable dishes, the hospitality you’ll receive from the staff is top-notch. Immediately you enter, you’ll be warmly received with friendly smiles all over their faces, and while you are waiting for your order, you’ll be offered some free snacks.

If you only get the chance to eat at one place in Georgia, come here; it’s one of the best restaurants in Helen!

I recommend stopping in and trying something new if you’ve never had German food before!

With the exception of Tuesdays, the Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant welcomes locals and tourists alike from 11 am through 7 pm.

Address: 8619 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

15. Mully’s Nacoochee Grill

Since its opening in 2013, Mully’s Nacoochee Grill has been redefining the dining experience in Northern Georgia.

Being a casual restaurant with a modern vibe, Mully’s Nacoochee Grill doesn’t disappoint because of its robust menu list. This restaurant’s chef-driven menu features a series of local farm-to-table options ranging from local trout to hand-cut steaks to grits and shrimp are just a few of the items that define Mully’s cuisine.

Whether you’re up for breakfast, dinner, or lunch, their welcoming staff are always anxious to give everyone the perfect meals that’ll solve every craving.

Other than its enviable meals, Mully also features a full bar with local wines and daily drink specials, including a great selection of beer.

You’ll also find many signature cocktails from the mixologists on the ground, and to top, that up, the guitar that’s always played in the background is always enchanting.

Overall, this restaurant feels cozy and inviting and will make a perfect choice if you’re looking out to eat in one of the best restaurants in Helen, Georgia!

Mully’s Nacoochee Grill opens on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 4:30 am – 8 pm.

Address: 7277 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

16. The Hooch

The Hooch is a Cozy comfort restaurant in Helen that dishes up jumbo pizzas, burgers & dogs from an unassuming counter serve.

From its gorgeous shimmering lights to its well-curated culinary delights, this restaurant leaves nothing undone in impressing its guests.

More so, being a globally ranked Kitchen and one of the best restaurants in Helen, this place is dominated by wooden furnishings that are great for all kinds of hangouts. It’ll take you back into the period of retro culture and, indeed, makes a difference in the dining styles.

Whether you want a quiet place to enjoy some time with your couple or you want an all-inclusive destination suitable for the whole family, stopping by the Hooch wouldn’t be a bad option.

I assure you, the feeling here is like escaping into another new world and unlocking happiness; their delectable dishes are not to be missed!

Address: 16 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, United States

17. Heidi Haus

Polish cuisine is reckoned and respected as one of the most celebrated cuisines globally. Since you’re looking for a recommendation for the top pick of the best restaurants in Helen, would you love to check out a Polish eatery?

As much as you would, the Heidi Haus is all you need! The Heidi Haus is the first of its kind in Georgia, offering traditional Polish dishes that are known for their spicy flavors and rich aroma.

The Jager Schnitzel and Pierogi are genuinely authentic, and the stuffed cabbage, and pierogis, alongside other plethora of options, are simply the best.

Although there is a wait for everything, you’ll be fine with that in exchange for some authentic food!

The only negative side is that the food is a bit on the pricey side, but I can say, it’s worth it if you’re in Helen.

Heidi Haus is open every Thursday through Sunday from 12 noon through 7 pm at night.

Address: 8660 N Main St Suite B, Helen, GA 30545, United States

18. The Heidelberg

The Heidelberg is a German restaurant in an elaborate building featuring a patio & beer garden.

After decades of history, this restaurant was established to refresh space and to accommodate better new memories; hence, next time you’re in Georgia, come for a bite here; it’ll be nothing short of memories!

Although currently, they don’t take reservations; instead, their operation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Tables here turn pretty quickly; hence, if it happens to be complete, you won’t wait long.

Upon your arrival, be sure to get German potato pancake fries, which cost as low as eight dollars, while Giant pretzels, that’s with melted herb butter cost just nine dollars.

Besides, Smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, and cucumber with bread is a better option if you’re a vegetarian.

Everything on their menu will leave you totally satisfied, and you’ll still crave more. You shouldn’t leave this restaurant behind if you’re anywhere near Georgia; it’s one of the best German restaurants in Helen you wouldn’t want to miss!

Heidelberg opens every day from morning till evening.

Address: 8660 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

19. Alpine Brew Deck

Dine like a king amidst the intimate setting and the charming aura of this riverside restaurant – the Alpine Brew Deck!

From pretzels to pierogis, and lots of pimento cheese dumplings, don’t pass up Helen without having a stop; the Alpine Brew Deck is unarguably one of the best restaurants in Helen devoted to doing what they’re good at!

With the most real vibes of live instrumental music all around, treat your taste buds to this authentic American restaurant, and it wouldn’t be anything that’ll call for regret.

Beautifully, its interior decor will leave you totally mesmerized and amazed, and it’s pretty spacious. So, aside from the assurance of the best meals, you can even enjoy musical nights here. Absolutely great!

Every attribute distinguishes it, which is why I can not but recommend it as one of the best restaurants in Helen, GA!

Address: 11 River St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

20. Two Tire Tavern

Being a rustic dining center, visiting Two Tire Tavern is akin to making a pilgrimage for anyone who prefers good food as much as their travel adventures.

Ordering a meal at the Two Tire Tavern is sure to be love at first bite, as this restaurant serves lip-smacking delights day after day.

Their Sauteed mushrooms, cheese, and Alpine Burger are out of this world; they’re always with great sides and delicious sauces.

Besides, the wings you’ll find here are crispy and well-sauced, and the Parmesan Garlic & Hot Buffalo sauce is the best you can get in town.

Even at that, there are large varieties of local drink options, from poinsettia to Prosecco and lots of flavorful cranberry juice.

Best of it all, the service in this worthwhile restaurant is also impressive, and the staff ensures they make the experience unforgettable.

To top it up, this restaurant is right next to the miniature train. So, you can board the train after eating; it’ll be so pretty!

Except on Mondays and Tuesdays, this restaurant is in operation on all other days.

Address: 8735 N Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

Final Remarks

With the diverse cuisine that abounds in Helen, it’s certain that restaurants in Helen will never disappoint.

So, get up and come hungry; there’s everything you need in this city!

Bon Appetite!