Milledgeville is a treasure trove of diverse bars and eateries, each offering unique experiences. From innovative cocktails to craft brews, and vibrant atmospheres to cozy neighborhood spots, you'll find a wide range of options to explore. Whether you're visiting town for the first time or returning to uncover more of its charm, we've rounded up the best bars in Milledgeville. Discover where you can enjoy everything from fine wines to customizable margaritas and live music. Dive into our guide and find the perfect spot for your next night out.
Cocktail: Kai Thai
Colorful sushi rolls paired with equally vibrant cocktails make Kai Thai a must-visit. Their wide array of specialty cocktails is perfect for those seeking a fruity drink fix. Try the “Thaitastic,” a vibrant drink made with vodka, blue curaçao, lychee, lime juice, and Sprite. If you prefer something less sweet, Kai Thai offers imported beers, such as Kirin Ichiban and Sapporo, which pair wonderfully with their traditional dishes. The restaurant’s lively ambiance and artistic presentation of both food and drinks create a visually stunning dining experience. Whether you’re a sushi lover or a cocktail connoisseur, Kai Thai offers a delightful mix of flavors and colors that’s hard to resist.
Neighborhood: Buffington’s
A favorite for both locals and visitors, Buffington’s attracts a diverse crowd. Crack open one of their 50 bottled craft beers or enjoy a specialty cocktail, like their Gin & Jam, made with gin, elderflower liquor, and black currant jam. Stick around long enough, and you’re bound to befriend the staff. Known for its casual and friendly vibe, Buffington’s is the perfect place to unwind, meet new people, and enjoy great food and drinks. When their iconic large windows are open, guests inside and out can feel the welcoming and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or a long night out, you’ll feel right at home.
Wine: The Reel Grill
With over 20 wine options, The Reel Grill is a dream for enthusiasts. Sip a crisp Chardonnay with your fish or savor a full-bodied Merlot with their famous ribeye. Housed in a historic bank, this restaurant offers a unique and upscale experience for enjoying your wine. A fully one-of-a-kind experience awaits in the historic vault, which now serves as the wine room and is available for reservations. The elegant setting and carefully curated wine list make Reel Grill a top choice for those looking to indulge in fine dining and exquisite wines, all while soaking in the charm of a beautifully restored historic building.
If you’re looking for something unique to sip on, “Flannery O’Connor’s Love Letters” is one of the restaurant’s most well-known drinks and pays honor to the city’s nationally renowned author, Flannery O’Connor. This zesty and rich drink is made from Woodford Reserve Bourbon, orange liqueur, and bitters, topped with champagne, and garnished with a lemon.
Unexpected Outdoor: The Velvet Elvis
The Velvet Elvis delivers the quintessential bar experience with a hidden gem. When you walk in, you’ll find neon signs, vintage posters, and classic bar stools that create a nostalgic ambiance. Head up the stairs and out the back door, and you’ll discover a back patio perfect for socializing and enjoying the fresh air. Since its opening in 2006, this downtown bar has consistently served drinks and bar food that always hits the spot. The back patio is equipped with a full bar and often hosts live music, making it a popular destination following dinner inside the dining room. Whether you’re hanging out inside or out, be sure to check out the bar's signature cocktails like the Hipps Don’t Lie, made with vodka, Peach Schnapps, pineapple juice, and grenadine. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make Velvet Elvis a beloved spot for regulars and newcomers alike, ensuring a great time with every visit.
Craft Brews: The Brick
One of the oldest spots in downtown, The Brick is known for its regional and craft beer selection. Whether you’re new to craft brews or a seasoned IPA lover, The Brick has the perfect pint to quench your thirst. The laid-back atmosphere and rotating selection of beers make it a favorite among beer enthusiasts. More often than not, you can find guests gathered to enjoy their pitchers of beer and pizza around the many TVs around the restaurant that are always set to the latest game. With its blend of tradition and modernity, The Brick offers a welcoming environment where you can explore a diverse range of flavors and styles.
Live Music: Taylor’s Cove
Taylor’s Cove combines delicious food, incredible drinks, and great music for a memorable experience. Located next to Lake Sinclair, you can enjoy the fresh air on the patio bar or dine inside their coastal-inspired dining room while listening to live music lakeside. Their waterside views and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a night out with friends. Whether you’re enjoying their Dynamite Shrimp Tacos, sipping on a specialty cocktail, or soaking in the live music, Taylor’s Cove offers an unforgettable lakeside experience.
Sports: Legends
A big game is best enjoyed alongside fellow fans in a venue filled with screens. Legends Seafood and Grill has TVs in all their dining areas, always showing the day's game. Support your team while diving into delicious seafood and their extensive beer and cocktail selection. A popular signature cocktail is the “Legend’s Island,” made with vodka, pineapple puree, and watermelon mix. Regular live bands and DJs add to this restaurant’s entertainment. The dynamic setting and passionate crowd make Legends the perfect place to catch the game. With great food, drinks, and entertainment, every visit to Legends is a win. Private parties are available for reservation in both their indoor and outdoor dining areas.
Gaming: Black Sheep Barcade
For those who cherish the nostalgic glow of neon signs and classic bar games, Black Sheep Barcade in downtown Milledgeville is the ultimate destination. With pool tables, corn hole, Skee-Ball, darts, and classic arcade games, it’s the perfect choice for those who love a good competition. The bar boasts a full selection of drinks and specials, including their popular $12 beer buckets, perfectly paired with their late-night food options. Revel in the neon glow while enjoying a game of pool or a round of skee ball, making Black Sheep Barcade the perfect spot for a fun and memorable night out.
Sleek: Shima
While Shima is not new to town, its recent transformation is turning heads. The introduction of a full bar at this downtown spot has elevated the dining experience. Enjoy innovative cocktails like the Shima Cosmopolitan or Iwai Sour, or opt for more traditional draft beer, wine, and sake. These beverages are the perfect complement to their traditional Japanese hibachi and bento boxes. Whether you’re out for a casual night or a special occasion, Shima offers a blend of tradition and innovation that’s sure to impress.
Fusion: Bollywood Tacos
For those who love vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere, Bollywood Tacos is the place to be. Known for its colorful decor and festive vibe, this bar serves up some of the best margaritas in town. While they offer a variety of drinks, including craft beers and specialty cocktails, they are best known for their customizable margaritas. Whether you prefer classic lime or more tropical passion fruit, their margaritas can be tailored to your taste. Enjoy the fun, energetic ambiance while sipping on a refreshing margarita and indulging in bold, flavorful dishes that bring a taste of Bollywood to your night out.
Entertainment: Amici
Amici promises a fantastic time with live music every Tuesday night, making it a downtown hotspot for delicious food, drinks, and entertainment. Guests can savor fan-favorite dishes like Buffalo Roll-ups or their gourmet pizza. The bar is renowned for its unique Dead Turtle Shot, crafted with vodka, pickle juice, and Tabasco. Amici offers an array of entertainment options to enhance your dining and drinking experience. In addition to hosting weekly Monday night trivia, perfect for those eager to test their knowledge, Amici features monthly jazz concerts by the GCSU Jazz Department and performances by regional artists. With many large TVs to catch all the latest sporting events, Amici ensures there's always something exciting happening. Whether you're enjoying the music, the trivia, or the games, Amici guarantees your group an entertaining night.
On The Rise: Metropolis
One of downtown’s most popular date night destinations is elevating its experience with the addition of a full bar menu. Metropolis Cafe, which recently moved to a new location with a sophisticated aesthetic, is crafting a menu of signature cocktails, along with a curated selection of wine and beer. This sleek restaurant is known for captivating guests with its authentic Mediterranean cuisine, offering high-quality and fresh flavors. The new drink menu will enhance the social dining experience, making it even more well-rounded. Imagine sipping a cocktail with your date over a shared plate of Mango Cauliflower—fried cauliflower tossed in a hot mango sauce—or sharing a bottle of wine during a girls’ night out. Metropolis’s expanded offerings are set to elevate the already upscale atmosphere.
Visitors exploring Milledgeville will find a diverse and inviting bar scene to enjoy. Discover innovative cocktails, cozy neighborhood spots, and lively music in this unique town. Whether you're sampling craft brews, fine wines, or customizable cocktails, Milledgeville's best bars offer unforgettable experiences, inviting you to immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife.