Statesboro, Georgia, isn’t just a vibrant college town brimming with youthful energy; it’s also a surprisingly diverse and delicious culinary destination. Whether you’re a Georgia Southern University student seeking a study break snack, a local resident craving a familiar favorite, or a visitor passing through on your way to the coast, Statesboro offers a satisfying array of food places to tantalize your taste buds. From authentic Southern comfort food that warms the soul to exciting international flavors that transport you across the globe, the Statesboro food scene provides an unexpected and delightful experience for every palate and budget. Get ready to explore the hidden gems and local hotspots that make Statesboro a food lover’s haven. This guide will take you on a culinary journey through Statesboro, showcasing the best food places the city has to offer in terms of comfort food, international cuisine, and budget-friendly options.
Southern Comfort and Barbecue Delights
No exploration of Georgia cuisine is complete without diving into the heart of Southern comfort food and smoky barbecue. Statesboro proudly upholds this tradition with several restaurants serving up classic dishes with a touch of local flair.
One must-visit is “The Grille on Main”, located right in the heart of downtown Statesboro. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and cozy booths creating a relaxed and rustic ambiance. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The Grille on Main is known for its mouthwatering fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Served with creamy mashed potatoes, country-style green beans, and a flaky biscuit, it’s a true Southern feast. Another star on their menu is the slow-smoked barbecue ribs. The ribs are cooked low and slow until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, then slathered in a tangy homemade barbecue sauce. They also boast incredible mac and cheese using a blend of cheeses to get the perfect level of thickness and flavor. The price range falls into the medium tier, making it an affordable yet satisfying experience. What makes The Grille on Main a must-try? It’s their commitment to using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible and their dedication to serving up authentic Southern flavors in a welcoming setting.
Another local favorite is “Bulloch BBQ”, a family-owned restaurant with a laid-back and friendly vibe. This establishment isn’t particularly fancy but the food speaks for itself. Bulloch BBQ’s claim to fame is the pulled pork sandwich, made with tender, slow-cooked pork that melts in your mouth. They also offer a variety of other barbecue classics, such as brisket, ribs, and chicken, all smoked to perfection. A variety of different sauces are offered allowing customers to have exactly what they want. Sides include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and Brunswick stew, ensuring that you have everything you could possibly want. Bulloch BBQ is priced very reasonably, making it a popular choice for families and students. The reason you should visit Bulloch BBQ is for the taste of authentic, down-home barbecue at a price that won’t break the bank.
Lastly, “Southern Roots Eatery” offers a modern twist on Southern classics. The restaurant’s atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a casual dinner. Southern Roots Eatery is known for its shrimp and grits, a Lowcountry classic elevated with creative toppings and flavorful sauces. They also offer a rotating menu of seasonal dishes, showcasing the best of what the local farms have to offer. The price range falls into the upper-medium tier. Southern Roots Eatery is a must-try for those seeking a sophisticated and innovative take on Southern cuisine.
International Flavors to Savor
Statesboro’s culinary scene extends far beyond Southern staples, offering a diverse range of international flavors to satisfy any craving.
For a taste of Mexico, head to “El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant”. This lively spot offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu packed with authentic Mexican dishes. El Sombrero is renowned for its delicious tacos, available with a variety of fillings, including carne asada, pollo asado, and carnitas. Their enchiladas are another popular choice, smothered in cheese and your choice of sauce. Pair your meal with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer. El Sombrero’s prices are very reasonable, making it a great choice for a casual and affordable meal. El Sombrero stands out because of its commitment to authentic Mexican flavors and its lively atmosphere, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
If you are looking for something with a little more kick, then consider “Taste of Thai”. The intimate setting makes for a perfect night out. The food is as authentic as it gets featuring Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles, and a variety of curries. Their coconut soup is made with rich coconut milk and is cooked to perfection. Prices are on the lower end of the spectrum making it a prime destination for students and families. Taste of Thai has delicious food, excellent prices, and is a great restaurant to experience.
For a taste of the Mediterranean, you can find satisfaction in “Gyro City Grill”. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and a menu full of Greek-inspired dishes. Gyro City Grill is known for its authentic gyros, made with tender, thinly sliced meat, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce. They also offer a variety of other Greek specialties, such as souvlaki, spanakopita, and hummus. Their Baklava is known to be top tier and should be ordered along with your food. Giro City Grill is priced affordably, making it a popular choice for lunch or a quick dinner. Giro City Grill is a must-try for its authentic Greek flavors and its friendly, family-oriented atmosphere.
Pizza, Burgers, and Casual Eats
Sometimes, you just want a classic burger or a slice of pizza. Statesboro has you covered with a variety of casual eateries that serve up delicious and satisfying fare.
“Eagle Creek Brewing Company” is not just a brewery; it’s also a fantastic place to grab a pizza. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with a large outdoor patio perfect for enjoying a meal and a beer on a warm day. Eagle Creek offers a variety of pizzas with creative toppings and a delicious crispy crust. They also serve up burgers, sandwiches, and other pub fare. Their selection of craft beers brewed on-site is a major draw. The price range falls into the medium tier. Eagle Creek is a must-try for those seeking a great pizza and a cold beer in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
“Rusty Pig BBQ” can also satisfy your craving for a burger. Although the name advertises Barbecue, the burger is a hidden gem. Their burgers are juicy, flavorful, and piled high with toppings. They also offer a variety of other sandwiches and sides. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. Rusty Pig BBQ is priced affordably, making it a popular choice for a quick and easy meal. The must-try experience is the quality of the food at a reasonable price.
For a delicious and convenient sandwich, “Three Blind Mice” is a great choice. This local deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed meal. “Three Blind Mice” is priced affordably, making it a popular choice for students and office workers. You must stop here for the variety of options and the freshness of the ingredients.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Shops
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats and a cup of coffee. Statesboro has a variety of bakeries and coffee shops to satisfy your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings.
“Sugar Magnolia Bakery” is a charming bakery that offers a wide variety of cakes, pies, cookies, and other delicious treats. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a vintage-inspired decor that adds to its charm. Sugar Magnolia is known for its beautifully decorated cakes and its delicious homemade pies. They also offer a variety of cookies, brownies, and other treats. The price range falls into the medium tier. Sugar Magnolia is a must-try for those seeking a delicious and beautifully crafted dessert in a charming atmosphere.
“Cool Beanz Espresso Bar” is a popular coffee shop that serves up delicious coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. Cool Beanz offers a variety of coffee drinks, from classic lattes to creative specialty drinks. They also serve up delicious pastries, such as muffins, scones, and croissants. The price range falls into the affordable tier. Cool Beanz is a must-try for those seeking a great cup of coffee and a relaxed place to work or socialize.
Late-Night Eats and Bars
When hunger strikes late at night, Statesboro has a few options to keep you satisfied. This is particularly helpful as it is a college town.
“Buffalo Wild Wings” is a popular sports bar that stays open late and serves up a variety of pub fare, including wings, burgers, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with plenty of TVs to watch the game. The price range falls into the medium tier. Buffalo Wild Wings is a must-try for those seeking a late-night meal and a fun atmosphere.
“The Blue Room” is a bar that also serves food. They are known for their eclectic decor, cocktails, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is loud and they are often featuring live music on the weekends. This is a place where you can get late-night food and enjoy the nightlife.
Budget-Friendly Options
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. Statesboro offers several budget-friendly options that are both delicious and affordable.
“Averitt Center for the Arts” is a local museum that also sells food. The prices are extremely affordable, which is a benefit to the area. The experience is fun because you can enjoy artwork while you wait for food. There are a variety of different options, allowing everybody to eat something they enjoy.
“Enzo’s Italian Kitchen” features pasta as low as $8, allowing you to have a large plate of food that is affordable. This is a staple amongst college students because they stay open late and are extremely cheap. Their pizza is one of the best in the area, while costing less than 10 dollars.
“The Coffee Corner” is one of the cheapest places to get coffee. They also feature different varieties of sandwiches, allowing you to get a cheap meal with a cheap drink. What makes them great is the speed, taste, and affordable prices.
Tips for Dining in Statesboro
Navigating the Statesboro food scene can be even easier with a few insider tips. Parking can be a challenge downtown, especially during peak hours and events. Look for street parking, but be mindful of time limits. Arriving slightly before or after peak lunch and dinner times can improve your chances of finding a spot. Given the area is filled with college students, it is a good idea to make reservations, especially during Parents Weekend and Graduation Weekend. However, most places do not require reservations. While Statesboro is generally a casual town, some restaurants, particularly those with a fine-dining atmosphere, may have a more upscale dress code. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire.
Conclusion
From Southern comfort food and international flavors to pizza, burgers, and sweet treats, the Statesboro food scene is diverse, delicious, and constantly evolving. With its mix of local favorites and hidden gems, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Whether you’re a student, a local, or a visitor passing through, be sure to explore the restaurants mentioned above and discover your own culinary favorites in Statesboro. So, the next time you find yourself in Statesboro, be sure to check out these amazing food places and discover your own culinary favorites! Statesboro’s food scene is constantly evolving, so there’s always something new and delicious to discover.
