Georgia’s Lake Country, which includes areas around Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair, offers a variety of options for outdoor dining. Many scenic locations provide opportunities to enjoy a meal while taking in the natural beauty of the lakes and surrounding landscapes. Many restaurants in the region feature outdoor seating areas, patios, or decks to enhance the dining experience!

Visit Eatonton

One of the most recent restaurants offering outdoor seating on beautiful Lake Oconee is the Lake Oconee Bistro. Opened in March 2020, the bistro provides a diverse menu ranging from towering raw seafood trays, to a variety of pizzas, soups, and sandwiches. With over 20 seafood options available, diners are sure to find a new favorite each time they visit. The Bistro added a large deck in 2021 enabling patrons to eat outside and enjoy not only the stunning lakeside views but also live local music and community-based events, weather permitting. In addition to a variety of cuisine, the Bistro has an extensive drink menu that includes craft beers, domestics, and popular hard seltzers. During their weekly Sunday brunch, the Bistro offers an expansive Bloody Mary bar as well as their usual specialty beverage menu.  They are open Monday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Another great selection is Iron Fork Cafe. Their Southern fare and treat customers like family mentality makes dining here a real treat. Try their delicious grilled basa or wonderfully seasoned Flat Iron steak with classic Southern appetizers and sides like fried green tomatoes, squash casserole, and collard greens to name a few. They are open Sunday and Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Visit Lake Oconee

Gaby’s by the Lake at The Ritz-Carlton pairs laid-back lakeside dining with one of the best views at The Ritz-Carlton. Overlooking Lake Oconee, this relaxed poolside spot serves casual favorites like fresh salads, sandwiches and their famous BBQ Pork Nachos. Settle in with a specialty cocktail, cold beer or glass of wine and enjoy the view—it’s an easy place to linger a little longer.

Another Lake Oconee favorite for dining by the water is The Burch x Boathouse, located along the lake on Walker Church Road. This laid-back, fast-casual spot combines Burch favorites like their smash burger with beautiful waterfront views, making it an ideal stop after a day on the lake. Arrive by car or pull up by boat, grab lunch or dinner, and enjoy it from the open-air seating overlooking Lake Oconee.

Visit Madison

Overlooking the serene and historic Round Bowl Springs, indulge yourself on the patio of Town 220 with a delectable meal from the French-inspired menu.  The menu features mouthwatering appetizer options such as bacon-wrapped beef tenderloins and smoked salmon and crab napoleon, and the main entrees are only even more delectable. Pair your order with a glass of wine from their extensive wine list or with one of their specialty cocktails for a unique dining experience. To perfectly match the ambiance of the patio, indulge in a delightful dessert and sip on an espresso or beautifully crafted cappuccino.

For those who want a lakeside picnic immersed in nature, look no further. Grab a boxed lunch at The Caboose and head over to Georgia’s second largest state park – Hard Labor Creek State Park. In downtown Rutledge, just a few minutes from the park entrance, The Caboose offers a selection of deli sandwiches, the local favorite Reuben is a can’t miss! They also offer an array of sweets including cakes, cookies, rice crispy treats and a full array of ice creams.

Visit Milledgeville

The atmosphere at the Local Yolkal Cafe is often described as warm and welcoming, with a cozy and rustic interior that creates a relaxing dining experience. When it comes to the menu, Local Yolkal offers a wide array of dishes that cater to breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. Some popular items on their menu include eggs benedict, waffles, omelets, and biscuits and gravy. They also serve a variety of mimosas with different fresh fruit juices. Sit at their sidewalk seating and enjoy a front-row seat to downtown Milledgeville.

The Front Porch on Sinclair is a waterfront dining destination on Lake Sinclair where guests can enjoy fresh seafood, burgers, Southern favorites, and lakeside views. The menu features a variety of shareable appetizers, including Brisket Nachos, Buffalo Shrimp, and oysters prepared raw, Rockefeller, or charbroiled. For a heartier meal, try favorites like Bam Bam Shrimp Tacos, Shrimp & Grits, Cajun Pasta, or a seared NY Strip. With a spacious front porch, open-air bar, live music, and easy access by boat, The Front Porch on Sinclair is a laid-back spot to enjoy a meal and soak up the lake atmosphere.