Most of the time quirky, award-winning restaurants are found in cities. That's where they get the most buzz and business. But sometimes you can find a real treasure off the beaten path. Case in point is The Bavarian's, an authentic South German style restaurant located in the small town of Jesup in southeast Georgia. We visited a couple of weeks ago while heading to the coast with friends.
Although the restaurant takes reservations, we were able to walk in early on a Friday night and easily find a table. (The Bavarian's is only open Thursday through Saturday.)
We had no idea what to expect, but found a casual space with kitsch decor and sturdy picnic tables with movable benches. The service was good and easygoing -- even cheerful when (ahem) a five year-old boy spilled a large glass full of water. The Bavarian's takes care to create that sort of a relaxed atmosphere. A few interesting words from their menu...
Had my Carnivore King father been there, he would have shaken his head at what I ordered. Although the restaurant serves up locally made sausages and specializes in schnitzel, I made a meal of several non-meat sides including yummy German Potato Salad, fried potatoes, and tiny spätzle dumplings. (I had no idea the sides would be so generous or I would have ordered far less.) What won my heart, though, was noodles covered with fantastic mushroom gravy. It was full of flavor and absolutely thick with pieces of mushrooms of several varieties. I'm still daydreaming about that gravy and what else it could be paired with.
As for Eli, he picked the cheese and bread sampler. He was thrilled when a big soft pretzel arrived at his plate (along with a white roll and slice of rye) and he gave his first taste of brie cheese two thumbs up. When asked which cheese was his favorite, Eli pointed to a remaining square of yellow with nibble marks along the sides. It looked familiar, so I poked at it. Yep. My kid's favorite "cheese" was chilled butter!
It was fun to go someplace different and memorable. The prices were reasonable and the service good. Next time I'm near Jesup, I'll be eager to go again. (Mmmm...mushroom gravy.)
The Bavarian's is located at 298 W Orange Street, Jesup GA 31545. Click HERE for their web presence on Facebook. If you are traveling along Interstate 95, The Bavarian's is about 38 miles (47 minutes) northwest of Brunswick via Exit 38. Many thanks to Nikki to sharing this culinary treasure!
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