Welcome to Last Resort Grill
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174-184 W Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601 Hotline: (706) 549-0810
Located in the heart of Athens, Georgia, the Last Resort Grill emerges as a vibrant gem within the city's culinary scene. Nestled at 174-184 W Clayton St, this eatery seamlessly blends Southern hospitality with New American flair, creating a dining experience that is both memorable and replete with southern charm. Whether you're winding down after a long day or seeking an intimate setting for a special occasion, Last Resort Grill invites you to indulge in a menu that honors the richness of local ingredients while offering a creative twist on beloved classics.
The ambiance sets the stage, characterized by dim lighting, decorative tables, and a cozy atmosphere. Guests often praise the inviting feel, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The vibrant décor, coupled with an outdoor dining area complete with greenhouses, offers a unique and charming setting for a relaxing meal.
The menu at Last Resort Grill is a celebration of Southern flavors and innovative cooking techniques. Starters like the Fried Green Tomatoes, delicately battered and paired with a signature Vidalia bacon dressing, are a must-try. The Carolina Crab Cakes are equally noteworthy, boasting rich crab flavor accentuated by zesty aioli. For those looking for something to really tantalize the taste buds, the Crispy Pork Belly served on crostini with a fresh herb salad will certainly impress.
As you move to the mains, the Horseradish Crusted Salmon will likely take center stage, perfectly seared and delicate in flavor, complemented by the savory sautéed kale and sweet potato mash. Meat lovers will find solace in the 6 Hour Pig, marinated to perfection and served with creamy grits and delightful roasted pineapple salsa, marrying tender pork with robust flavors.
Those with a penchant for unique vegetarian options will appreciate the Veggie Stack, an artful arrangement of crispy green chili grit cakes topped with vibrant roasted vegetables, echoing the restaurant's commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The drink menu is another highlight, with craft cocktails that perfectly harmonize with the food. Diners rave about the Spicy Pineapple Margarita and the visually stunning presentations, making each sip an experience in itself.
While many dishes shine brightly, feedback is not without its critiques. Some guests have noted that particular entrees might not stand out in comparison to the delightful beginnings; however, the overall dining experience remains a favorite among patrons. The cheesecakes and desserts here are fabled, making them indispensable to conclude your meal on a sweet note.
In summary, the Last Resort Grill invites you to embrace its culinary artistry and Southern traditions. With great service, an eclectic menu, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's hard not to become enamored with this local treasure. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply savoring a Thursday night, be prepared to find flavors that resonate long after your meal has ended.
Everything I ate was phenomenal. Roasted red pepper tomato bisque AND the blackened swordfish (both specials). The ambience was 10/10!
Last Resort Grill is an Athens, GA staple and a favorite for many. They also just started a brunch menu (that in my opinion is even better than their dinner menu). The ambiance is great with dim lighting, tabletop candles, and decorative tables, but if it is crowded (which it was the day before valentines day...obviously) you may have trouble hearing the person/people across from you. We had stellar service. Even being tucked away in a nook near the back they were quick to take our orders, get food and drinks out, offer refills, and clear the table after each course. As far as the food, it was good...not sure if it was quite worth the price but everything came out good. The drinks were amazing and had quite the presentation. I got the spicy pineapple margarita and a paloma margarita which were both yummy. My boyfriend got a few of the bourbon bee drinks, but was definitely shocked when this bourbon drink came out in a martini glass, however that did not stop him from ordering more! We started with 2 appetizers. The crispy pork belly was absolutely phenomenal, the meat was sitting on crispy buttered bread and soaked broth filled with lots of flavor. We also had the crab cakes that were nice and crunchy on the inside but the crab meat was extremely ground up, and we usually prefer having the chunks of meat inside. This night, they were also offering a starter salad and bread with any entree so we got that and were able to choose between 5 different dressings. We went with blue cheese and a bacon vinaigrette, which were both great. We both enjoyed our entrees, but agreed they were not spectacular. I got the new struggleville pasta which was some type of shrimp pasta and it was good, but slightly bland. He got the beef short rib and said that it was good, but tasted like rib in the crock pot with salted green beans and mashed potatoes. No one was disappointed but the entrees didn't stand out too much. We ended the night with a bang and got the mocha toffee cheesecake which was exceptional.We almost bought a to go one for later that night. We will 100% be back for the cheesecake.
Came back after 6 years and it was still delicious. Got to enjoy dinner in one of outdoor greenhouses. It was warm in there, but the sun went down pretty quick so it was fine. Again, enjoyed some cocktails, friend green tomatoes. My salmon and grits were so yummy. Short rib was also delicious. Had some red and black cake to go and it was wonderful.
Last resort is nothing short of fabulous! I have been here several times for birthday celebrations, anniversary's, or for just a good quality meal! Last spring my boyfriend and I went for our anniversary and sat in one of their outdoor green houses. It was one of the most romantic, private yet in public dinners we've ever had. Every visit has been incredible from service to taste! My personal favorites are everything I included in my pictures below. I do also love their cheesecake!
What is there not to love about this place! In town visiting U of Georgia with our daughter we wanted to try something local and the reviews looked pretty good! We pulled up and I was surprised that there was an open air space in the front of the restaurant. Outside was full so she walked us in past the bar and amazing dessert display case into another crowded room where we had a cute corner table where we could see the food coming out from the chef and being garnished right in front of us! Our waiter was awesome, offering my daughter a small plate of grits, something new for her. All our food was creatively presented, full of many flavors all blended together to make an exquisite dish. We tried the shrimp quesadilla appetizer and the potato pancake appetizer. I could have eaten both as a main meal! Then came our salads. We had the Gorgonzola dressing and this amazing jalapeño type dressing. Both were spot on in their flavors. I ordered the horseradish crusted salmon, my daughter the salmon and grits and my husband had the Trout. We were so full but could not pass up the desserts. Dulce de Leche cake and NY cheesecake topped off a perfect evening! Great atmosphere, great staff, impeccably food! I will highly recommend!!!
Classic date night spot! The praline is always so good and the grits that came with the pork were delicious
We had the good fortune of finding this place when in Athens for work. So first let me say that the food was amazing. However, the service was the best part of the experience!
The Last Resort Grill is a pleasant sit down dining experience with an upscale southern menu. The ambiance still captures the classic downtown, older building vibe, with an open dining room and roomy porch for a vibrant experience. Service is always very friendly. I've experimented with the menu and love all the steak selections.
Always a favorite spot of mine, and my family, when visiting Athens, GA & the University. Many wonderful dining memories made here through the years. Know they don't take reservation, and the wait can get quite long! I'd recommend eating early and get here before they open to start the line. We started our meal with their tasty, lightly battered fried green tomatoes served with a yummy, creamy condiment sauce. Our salad came next, and while I really enjoyed my pretty garden salad - topped with fresh veggies and made in house Gorgonzola dressing, my husband didn't like his Caesar salad at all. Their twist on the original Caesar was a fail and disappointment in his opinion. Our shared short rib (thank you for allowing) was comfort food at its best! The creamy mashed potatoes and crisp tender green beans were delicious sides!! Last, we shared a piece of their Key Lime Cheesecake. Heads up, they are known for their wonderful cakes and cheesecakes! This Key Lime cheesecake tonight didn't have enough tartness for hubs, but I thought it was creamy deliciousness! Our classic cocktails hit the spot, they've added an outdoor dining patio and bar, and their interior decor is eclectic and unique. Can't wait to return!
The food was AMAZING! The fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, and short ribs were so delicious! I loved the white chocolate cheesecake and red velvet cake too. I loved everything! The server was great. She was very attentive. The place is electrified. The decor is nice.