Paul's Steakhouse

Before Helen became a Bavarian village, before the timber-framed facades and the German street names, there was Paul's. Established in 1965, Paul's Steakhouse predates Helen's Alpine transformation by four years, making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the area. While everything around it reinvented itself as a slice of Bavaria, Paul's stayed true to its roots as a classic American steakhouse. That dedication to quality steaks and seafood has kept it thriving for more than half a century. In a town where restaurants come and go with the seasons, Paul's is still here because consistently good food never goes out of style.

Located on South Main Street, Paul's occupies a commanding position along the Chattahoochee River. The restaurant has grown and evolved over the decades, adding new dining areas and features while maintaining the core identity that has made it a beloved institution. Today, Paul's is known not only for its food but also for having what many consider the largest outdoor deck on the river - a sprawling, multi-level structure that offers diners panoramic views of the water and the forested mountains beyond. It is a place that generations of families have made a tradition, returning year after year for the same excellent prime rib and the same stunning setting.

The prime rib is the undisputed star of the menu and the dish that has defined Paul's reputation for decades. Slow-roasted to tender, juicy perfection, it arrives in generous cuts that range from a standard portion to a king-sized slab that challenges even the most committed carnivore. The exterior carries a beautiful herb crust while the interior is perfectly pink and buttery, practically melting on your tongue. Served with au jus and creamy horseradish, it is the kind of prime rib that reminds you why this cut became a steakhouse icon in the first place. Regular visitors have been known to order nothing else, and many will tell you it is the best prime rib they have ever had.

Beyond the prime rib, the steak menu offers a full range of cuts prepared on the grill. Ribeyes, New York strips, and filets are cooked to your specification and served with traditional steakhouse sides including baked potatoes, house salad, and freshly baked rolls. The quality of the beef is consistently high, and the kitchen knows its grill - steaks arrive at the temperature requested, with a proper sear and well-developed crust. For those who prefer surf to turf, the seafood offerings include fresh fish, shrimp preparations, and combination platters that pair steak with seafood for the best of both worlds.

The appetizer menu sets the stage nicely, with classic starters like shrimp cocktail, onion rings, and soup of the day. Desserts lean toward the indulgent, with house-made options that provide a sweet finish to a hearty meal. The wine list is curated to complement the steakhouse menu, with bold reds dominating but enough variety to satisfy different preferences. Draft and bottled beers are also available, along with a full cocktail menu.

The outdoor deck at Paul's is legendary in Helen. Stretching along the Chattahoochee River, it is often cited as the largest outdoor dining deck on the river, and the claim is difficult to dispute. Multiple levels of decking accommodate a significant number of diners, yet the design maintains an intimate feel at each individual table. The views are spectacular at any time of day - the river sparkles in the afternoon sun, catches golden reflections at sunset, and takes on a peaceful, reflective quality after dark when the deck lights create a warm glow against the water.

During warm weather, the deck is the place to be, and securing a riverside table on a summer evening is one of Helen's premier dining experiences. The sound of the Chattahoochee provides a soothing natural soundtrack, and the mountain air carries a coolness that makes even the hottest Georgia day feel manageable. It is not uncommon to see tubers drifting by during the afternoon, adding a playful element to the already pleasant atmosphere. Families, couples on date nights, and groups of friends all find the deck equally appealing, and the relaxed outdoor setting encourages lingering over dessert and another glass of wine.

The Margarita Deck adds another dimension to the Paul's experience. Located on the upper level, this dedicated space shifts the culinary focus to Tex-Mex fare - think margaritas, tacos, nachos, and other south-of-the-border favorites served alongside the river views. It is a fun, festive area that provides a change of pace from the traditional steakhouse menu below and has become a popular gathering spot for groups who want to start their evening with margaritas and appetizers before moving downstairs for a full dinner. The Margarita Deck is also one of Helen's nightlife hubs, staying lively well into the evening with a party atmosphere that matches the free-flowing cocktails.