The Absolute Best Shrimp and Grits in Athens [Updated 2025]

With a passion for exploring the culinary delights of Athens, Georgia, I have personally reviewed 12 different establishments in search of the finest shrimp and grits this vibrant city has to offer. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, I have left no stone unturned in my quest for the most delectable combination of succulent shrimp and creamy, perfectly cooked grits.

Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey as I unveil the hidden gems that will satisfy any seafood lover's cravings. Whether you're a local Athenian or a visitor in search of a memorable dining experience, get ready to indulge in the best shrimp and grits in Athens, GA.

The Place

Highlights
Exceptional service
Quick and hot food
Perfect starters
Large portions
Fun and inviting atmosphere

The Place in Athens truly lives up to its name. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with exceptional service that made me feel right at home. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was enjoyable from start to finish.

When it came to the food, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly my order of shrimp and grits arrived at my table. Not only was it served promptly, but the dish was piping hot and full of flavor. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender and succulent, complementing the creamy and well-seasoned grits.

Before diving into the main course, I was also delighted by the perfect starters that were offered. From crispy fried green tomatoes to mouth-watering hush puppies, the appetizers truly set the stage for a delicious meal.

One thing that stood out at The Place was the generous portions. I left feeling completely satisfied and even had enough leftovers for a second meal. The large portions allowed me to fully savor every bite of this delectable Southern dish.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere at The Place was fun and inviting. The rustic decor and lively ambiance made me feel like I was dining in a true Southern hotspot.

All in all, The Place in Athens is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best shrimp and grits in town. With exceptional service, quick and hot food, perfect starters, generous portions, and a fun atmosphere, this restaurant has it all. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their flavorful shrimp and grits - you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best shrimp and grits in Atlanta.

Seabear Oyster Bar

Highlights
Fresh oysters
Impeccable service
Amazing food
High quality oysters
Beautiful restaurant

Let me start off by saying that Seabear Oyster Bar has some of the most fresh and delightful oysters I've ever tasted. Each bite transported me to the salty shores, with a burst of briny flavor that tingled my taste buds. The combination of the plump, juicy oysters and the perfectly creamy grits was a match made in seafood heaven.

What really impressed me, apart from the incredible food, was the impeccable service. The waitstaff were knowledgeable, friendly, and always at our disposal. They were more than happy to provide recommendations or answer any questions we had about the menu, making us feel like valued guests throughout our dining experience.

Speaking of the menu, Seabear Oyster Bar offers a wide variety of dishes, but the star of the show, of course, was the shrimp and grits. The quality of the shrimp was exceptional, with each piece cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The grits were smooth and creamy, providing the perfect canvas for the tender shrimp to shine. It was a harmonious symphony of taste and texture that left me wanting more.

The restaurant itself is a beautiful space that instantly makes you feel relaxed and at ease. The coastal-inspired decor, muted colors, and soothing atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best shrimp and grits in Athens, look no further than Seabear Oyster Bar. With its amazing food, high quality oysters, and top-notch service, it ticks all the boxes for a truly exceptional dining experience. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best shrimp fried rice in Atlanta.

Mama's Boy Restaurant

Highlights
Reasonable price
Locally sourced
Great atmosphere
Dog-friendly
Perfect seasoning

Walking into Mama's Boy Restaurant in Athens, I immediately felt a warm and friendly vibe. The cozy atmosphere and eclectic decor instantly put me at ease. But let's get down to what really matters: the shrimp and grits.

Mama's Boy certainly didn't disappoint when it came to their take on this classic Southern dish. The shrimp were plump and succulent, cooked to perfection. The grits were creamy and smooth, providing the perfect base for the star of the show. What really impressed me was the way they managed to strike a balance between richness and lightness in the dish. The seasoning was spot on, adding a burst of flavors to each bite without overwhelming the delicate taste of the shrimp.

One thing that stood out about Mama's Boy was their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. The freshness of the shrimp was evident, and it made all the difference in the final product. The quality of the ingredients was unmatched, and it showed in the taste.

Another aspect that I appreciated was the reasonable price of the dish. It's not often that you come across shrimp and grits of this caliber at such a wallet-friendly cost. It's a dish that doesn't break the bank but still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Oh, and did I mention that Mama's Boy is dog-friendly? I was delighted to see that they welcomed furry friends with open arms. It added an extra layer of charm to the whole experience.

Overall, I had a fantastic time at Mama's Boy Restaurant. Their shrimp and grits was a true standout, and it's clear that they've mastered the art of this Southern classic. I highly recommend giving it a try if you're in Athens and in search of the best shrimp and grits in town.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Atlanta.

Brett's Casual American

Brett's Casual American in Athens truly knows how to whip up a playful plate of shrimp and grits! The creamy grits were the perfect backdrop for the plump, juicy shrimp that had a burst of flavor in each bite. This spot definitely deserves a spot on the list of Athens' best!

You might also want to check out the best bbq in Atlanta.

The Pine Bar

The Pine Bar in Athens deserves a spot in the best shrimp and grits list, and I'm not 'shrimpin' you! Their mouthwatering combination of plump shrimp and creamy grits leaves your taste buds dancing like lively southern fireflies. A delightful blend of flavors that'll make you say, "Shazam, these grits are dynamite!"

You might also want to check out the best fried chicken in Atlanta.

The National

The National in Athens truly nailed their shrimp and grits game! The plump and juicy shrimp were perfectly cooked and paired harmoniously with the creamy, velvety grits. The addition of crispy bacon and a tangy tomato sauce elevated this classic dish to a new level. A must-try!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Marietta.

George's Lowcountry Table

George's Lowcountry Table in Athens has nailed it with their shrimp and grits. The flavorful shrimp are cooked to perfection, with a hint of spice that keeps things exciting. The grits are creamy and buttery, a comforting match made in culinary heaven. A must-try for any shrimp and grits aficionado in Athens!

You might also want to check out the best donuts in Atlanta.

Marker Seven Coastal Grill

Marker Seven Coastal Grill in Athens exceeded my shrimp and grits expectations with their velvety grits and succulent shrimp. The flavors danced in my mouth like a playful tango. The ambiance was inviting, making it a perfect spot for a professional shrimp and grits indulgence.

You might also want to check out the best italian food in Atlanta.

South Kitchen + Bar

Just imagine a plate filled with a sensational combination of plump shrimp and creamy, velvety grits. South Kitchen + Bar delivers just that! Their shrimp and grits dish is nothing short of exquisite. The shrimp is perfectly cooked and seasoned, while the grits are smooth and luscious. It's a match made in seafood heaven. Don't miss out on this culinary gem in Athens!

You might also want to check out the best bagels in Atlanta.

Hilltop Grille

Hilltop Grille in Athens is a must-visit for shrimp and grits enthusiasts. Their dish is a delightful blend of creamy grits and succulent shrimp, bursting with flavor. The dish is beautifully presented, and the service is top-notch. Don't miss out on this shrimply amazing experience!

You might also want to check out the best casual restaurants in Atlanta.

Square One Fish Co

Square One Fish Co in Athens is a hidden gem that knows how to satisfy your cravings for some shrimp and grits. With their tantalizing blend of plump, juicy shrimp and smooth, creamy grits, it's like a taste of coastal heaven right in the heart of Athens. Trust me, this place is a must-visit for any seafood lover.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Norcross.

Last Resort Grill

Hey there, shrimp and grits enthusiasts! As your trusty connoisseur, I just had the pleasure of dining at Last Resort Grill in Athens. Let me tell you, these shrimp and grits are the real deal. With each bite, the succulent shrimp danced gracefully alongside the creamy, dreamy grits. Perfection!

You might also want to check out the best pasta in Atlanta.