About
American classics and comfort foods with a Southern twist are what’s being served at Chester Brunnenmeyer's Bar & Grill. Located in the heart of downtown Blue Ridge, this eatery carries real family history, and the food keeps that legacy alive.
Long before North Georgia attracted tourists, Blue Ridge was a busy rail center in the 1920s and 1930s. Vsitors arrived for its mineral springs and the Mary P. Willingham School for Girls, staying at the two-story hotel owned by Annie and William Gartrell.
In 1944, Chester Brunnenmeyer inherited the Gartrell Building and transformed it into a tavern called The Spot. Chester sold it a decade later, and the building was used as a flower shop, an auto parts store, and an antique mall.
In 2014, new owners bought and restored the structure, bringing Chester's Provisions and Chester's Bar and Grill to the ground floor, and 2nd Story Entertainment on the (wait for it!) second floor.
The eatery is across the street from the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, making it easy to combine a train ride with a celebratory meal at Chester’s.
With a seasonal menu showcasing creative twists on American classics, this local hotspot delivers mouth-watering cuisine on your North Georgia getaway.
Vibe
The restored two-story Gartrell Hotel is one of Blue Mountain’s most recognizable structures. With its painted-brick facade, large windows, and brown metal awnings, the building offers a refreshed look to Main Street. If you look near the roofline, you’ll spot the painted letters of “The Gartrell Building,” connecting you to its past.
The interior features exposed brick, wood accents, and a lively bar area. High-definition TVs dot the walls, balancing a casual mountain-town feel with its historic setting.
The dining areas give you room to choose your experience. Pull up a seat at the expansive bar, the beating heart of the restaurant. Tables fill the main floor for groups, families, and couples alike. The layout welcomes both quick visits and long, easygoing meals, and the central location makes it simple to settle in after a day of exploring downtown.
With its blend of comfort, energy, and local character, Chester Brunnenmeyer's Bar & Grill is a fitting stop on your North Georgia vacation.
Chester Brunnenmeyer's Bar & Grill: Menu & Drinks
The appetizers are impressive, and could be combined for a tapas dining experience. Examples include the fire-roasted pimento cheese, the smoked trout dip, and handmade egg rolls.
A handheld worth trying is the Shaved Prime Rib Sandwich. It features a mound of shaved, juicy meat with pepper jack cheese, caramelized onion, and horseradish creme sauce. This deliciousness comes on a ciabatta bun with a side of au jus and fries or house-made chips.
The sticky ribs entree is for ravenous appetites. This hearty meal showcases baby-back ribs in a homemade honey-and-soy glaze. The ribs are topped with scallions and sesame seeds and come with white cheddar mac and cheese and bacon Brussels sprouts. The result is a savory comfort food that will have your taste buds dancing.
For a true Southern classic, look no further than the scratch-made shrimp and grits. The seafood is sauteed with andouille sausage, fresh vegetables, and scallions, and comes on a creamy mound of Logan Turnpike cheese grits. The house-made Cajun sauce perfectly connects the flavors and textures.
The various salads offer a lighter option, with the option to add chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, a burger, or a bean burger. And like many menu items, the salads can be made gluten-free, ensuring something for everyone when dining out.
The bar offers classics like an Old Fashioned, crafted with your bourbon of choice from the restaurant's extensive collection. You’ll also find signature and seasonal cocktails.
The craft beers round out the experience, while a curated wine list adds another layer for those who prefer a glass with dinner.
With its historic setting, American comfort foods, and impressive libations, Chester Brunnenmeyer's Bar & Grill promises to be a highlight of your North Georgia adventure.
Local Tips
- While they don’t take reservations, there is a waitlist on the website.
- Order take-out to enjoy back at your Casago rental.
- Free parking is available on site.
- The kids’ menu makes it family-friendly.
