South Kitchen + Bar in Athens, GA is a standout Southern restaurant and nightlife destination that brings together contemporary cuisine, polished service, and a warm, memorable atmosphere.
Located at 247 E Washington St Apt 101, the restaurant pairs elegant design details like stained glass, tile floors, and marble columns with a welcoming Southern spirit that makes every visit feel special.
Whether guests are stopping in for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or dessert, South Kitchen + Bar offers a polished dining experience that is both relaxed and refined, making it a favorite for everything from casual solo meals to date nights and celebratory gatherings.
The menu is built around contemporary Southern fare with a strong sense of place, including comfort food, healthy options, local specialties, and a thoughtful selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, happy-hour drinks, and happy-hour food.
Guests also appreciate the restaurant’s fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, great dessert, and impressive wine list, all of which help create a dining experience that feels complete from start to finish.
With options for outdoor seating, dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and on-site service, South Kitchen + Bar makes it easy to enjoy quality Southern dining in the way that works best for each customer.
The presence of a bar on site, free Wi-Fi, restroom access, and table service adds even more convenience and comfort, while the inviting mix of casual, cozy, historic, romantic, trendy, and upmarket styling gives the restaurant broad appeal.
South Kitchen + Bar is also designed with accessibility and ease in mind, offering a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet so more guests can enjoy a smooth and comfortable visit. Reservations are accepted, and brunch and dinner reservations are recommended, reflecting the restaurant’s popularity and the strong demand for its dining experience.
With a 4.60-star rating from 1,704 reviews, it has earned a reputation for quality, consistency, and hospitality that keeps guests coming back.
For anyone seeking a Southern restaurant that delivers atmosphere, flavor, and dependable service in equal measure, South Kitchen + Bar offers the kind of dining experience that feels both inviting and worth planning for.
Popular Items
Frequently ordered and highly recommended items at South Kitchen + Bar
Our Story
Welcome to a place where great food meets warm hospitality. We believe dining is more than just a meal - it's an experience to be savored and shared.
Our kitchen is dedicated to creating dishes that bring people together, using recipes that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Photos
A glimpse of our restaurant experience
Food & Drinks
Cornmeal + buttermilk fried green tomatoes served with house-made ranch + sweet red pepper sauce
Cavatappi noodles in creamy cheddar sauce topped with bacon fat bread crumbs
Charred poblanos, house-pickled jalapeños + red peppers, blueberry gastrique, lavash crackers
Traditional lemon hummus, olive tapenade, radishes, cucumbers, carrots, lavash crackers
Smoked trout, neufchâtel, horseradish, grilled leeks, lemon zest, house pickles, lavash crackers
Hand cut Russet potatoes, house-made hot seasoning, served with smoked onion aioli
Spring Mix, carrots, cucumber, radishes, tomatoes, Vidalia onion vinaigrette
Crisp romaine hearts, shaved Parmesan, candied bacon, croutons, *caesar dressing
Arugula, caramelized butternut squash, candied pecans, pickled red onions, bacon, goat cheese, apple cider vinaigrette
Crisp romaine hearts, cherry tomatoes, candied bacon, roasted corn + cherry peppers, shaved egg, cheddar, house made ranch, topped with buttermilk fried chicken thigh
Blackened shrimp cooked with smoked sausage, Vidalia onion, green + red bell peppers, meuniere sauce, served with stone ground white cheddar grits + braised collard greens topped with crushed pecans + fried leeks
Cornmeal dusted fried portabella mushrooms, pimento cheese, collard greens, red pepper sauce, honey roasted tomatoes, choice of side
*6oz Pan seared North Atlantic Salmon, grilled okra + honey roasted tomatoes, creamed corn with orange zest + fresh thyme
Fried boneless thigh tossed in Nashville hot seasoning, creamed corn, Brussels sprout slaw, toasted Challah
Braised pulled pork, sweet + tangy house-made BBQ sauce, Brunswick stew, Brussels sprout slaw, toasted Challah
Boneless fried chicken thigh, whipped sweet potatoes, collard greens, cornbread and brown gravy
Leg + thigh quarter brined in roasted root vegetables + braised served with whipped sweet potatoes, grilled okra + tomatoes, garnished with honey Dijon glaze, fresh gremolata
1/3lb *Black Angus ground chuck, sharp white cheddar, honey roasted tomatoes, pickled onion relish, watercress, spicy pepper sauce, choice of side
14oz Beeler pork chop brined in molasses, grilled + basted with chilis + peaches served with whipped sweet potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, goat cheese + watercress salad
Pan Seared Carolina style crab cake, watercress, lemon aoili, house pickled relish, brioche bun, choice of side
10oz Snake River Farms flank steak chargrilled + served with pan seared baby potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, goat cheese + watercress salad
8oz Australian Halal lamb chops lightly marinated + grilled, drizzled with a fermented pepper + honey glaze served with pan seared baby potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, goat cheese + watercress salad
Hear from our valued guests
We ate lunch at the bar. Our bartender was fantastic. He gave great recommendations and was fun to talk to. The tator tots were delicious. I would highly recommend this restaurant and I would go back and sit at the bar again.
3-11-26 After my appointment today at Athens ENT, we treated ourselves to South kitchen and bar. We loved the newly remodeled interior. See my new photos. It is a must see. I had the Brunswick stew and it was so good. I also had to try the tofu again. If you haven’t tried it, please do. Please ask for their special dip. This has to be the number one restaurant for dining in Athens. We are blessed to have such a nice establishment. Hope you will give it a try. shc __________ 10/20/2025. After my visit to the eye doctor we treated ourselves to the South Kitchen. Our waitress was very pleasant and poised. We had a hamburger (cooked perfectly - 5 Stars) and a Fried Green Tomato Sandwich which was delicious - 5 Stars). Beautiful building. Hope you enjoy my pictures. Very relaxing place to go. Hope you will give them a try!
This place is so good. The food is food, the atmosphere is good, and the service is phenomenal. The restaurant was not too busy when we came in to eat, just enough people for a moderate noise level. I ordered the Hot Chicken Sandwich and my friend ordered the three sides. We had a great server, Cam, who also is the bartender. He was attentive and helpful with the menu. This place is a great restaurant downtown. I would definitely return & recommend.
South Kitchen + Bar in Athens, GA is a fantastic stop for anyone craving elevated Southern comfort food in a stunning historic setting. The building itself is worth the visit—exposed brick, tall arched windows, and stained-glass accents give the space a warm, timeless feel. The fried chicken was crispy, perfectly seasoned, and plated with classic sides like collard greens, sweet potato mash, and buttery rolls. The Philly cheese with mushroom gravy were rich and full of flavor, especially paired with their creamy corn. Even the quesadilla was impressive—loaded, well-seasoned, and finished with a flavorful drizzle. Portions are generous without feeling heavy, and everything arrived hot and well prepared. Service was friendly, quick, and attentive without being rushed. The bar area is a highlight too, with its stained-glass windows and a strong selection of spirits—great spot to relax before or after dinner. If you’re exploring downtown Athens or looking for a solid place for comfort food with style, South Kitchen + Bar checks every box. We’ll definitely be back.
Our server would disappear and we had to wait 20 minutes to take our order. She did provide great service when present. The food, location and ambiance is amazing! Excited for my first time. Will return and highly recommend!
This was a fantastic place to eat. We started with the tots appetizer and it was so good. I had the Paneed Chicken and my son had the BBQ Blue Plate. Both were really good, though my chicken was a little over cooked. I would definitely come back again.
I had a wonderful dining experience at South Kitchen + Bar. The food was outstanding—beautifully prepared and full of flavor. The cocktail was perfectly balanced and thoughtfully made, the kind you slow down for because it’s just right. What really tied it all together was the service: friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without ever feeling rushed. A relaxed, enjoyable evening from start to finish. I’ll absolutely be back.
I had a wonderful dining experience at South Kitchen + Bar! This downtown Athens favorite offers creative Southern cuisine with modern twists — from hearty Low Country shrimp and grits to flavorful Nashville hot chicken and duck‑fat tots. The food was rich, well‑seasoned, and beautifully presented, and the atmosphere was relaxed yet special. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable about their craft beers and cocktails, making it a great spot for dinner with friends or a date night. Highly recommend if you’re craving elevated Southern comfort food!
Had an appointment at UGA vet clinic for my dog and was looking for a dog friendly patio for afterwards. This came up first in my search and ended up being a pleasant surprise! Great service (I'd shout-out the server but sorry didn't get the name - they did a great job - brought water for my dog, and did a great job checking on us as the only patio customers). The duck tot sauces were great! The wheat berry salad was also very good- lightly dressed and nice combination of flavors.
I come to South Kitchen and Bar every year during our Annual Conference. The food is always hot, delicious and cooked to order. I love the ambience of this classy yet home town favorite. Our waiter was attentive. It’s was just wonderful dinner experience.
Common questions about South Kitchen + Bar
South Kitchen + Bar is located at 247 E Washington St Apt 101, Athens, GA 30601, United States, Athens, GA, United States.
You can reach South Kitchen + Bar by calling +1 706-395-6125.
South Kitchen + Bar has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 1704 customer reviews.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, Wheelchair-accessible toilet.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following service options: Outdoor seating, On-site services, Takeaway, Dine-in, Delivery.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great dessert, Great wine list, Serves local specialty.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following offerings: Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Comfort food, Happy-hour drinks, Happy-hour food, Healthy options, Private dining room, Small plates, Spirits, Vegan options, Wine.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following dining options: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Dessert, Seating, Table service.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following amenities: Bar on site, Restroom, Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following atmosphere: Casual, Cozy, Historic, Romantic, Trendy, Upmarket.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following crowd: Family friendly, Groups, Tourists, University students.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following planning: Brunch reservations recommended, Dinner reservations recommended, Accepts reservations.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following payments: Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following children: High chairs.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following parking: Free street parking, Paid parking garage, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Somewhat difficult to find a space.
South Kitchen + Bar features the following pets: Dogs allowed inside, Dogs allowed outside.
Business Features
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