The Atlanta Traveler

I had heard a lot about the Dillard House before I went. The food is delicious, the service is great, it’s just something you have to do in the mountains – so my expectations were high. There is a long line at traditional meal times, but it moves quickly. (You can admire the view from the porch rocking chairs while you wait.) When we were seated, the server promptly came and took our drink orders. The menu on the wall outside had listed fried chicken, steak and gravy, sliced country ham and catfish. It was hard to choose but I had decided what I wanted. The drinks arrived and still, I waited for someone to come and take our food order.  Instead, the server came out with a huge tray, with some of everything in the kitchen.

The food is Southern and as local as the seasons allow. In addition to the meats, at various times I have had corn on the cob, fried okra, sweet potatoes, cheddar potatoes, squash casserole, peas, green beans, butter peas, tomatoes, cabbage. There are biscuits, rolls and cornbread. No foil wrapped jellies for the Dillard House customers – you get apple butter served in a little bowl. And you can have more of anything you ask for.

The Dillard family has lived in this area since 1820. The cookbook sold in the gift shop includes plenty of history about the operation. In addition to the restaurant, there are rooms, cabins, a swimming pool and horseback riding. You can find out more at their website, www.dillardhouse.com. The restaurant and resort is located on Highway 441 in Dillard, Georgia. And yes, they are open for Thanksgiving.

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