Riverside Dining Guide
Three places to eat with the Chattahoochee beside your table
The short answer
The Chattahoochee is a shallow, clear mountain stream by the time it runs through Helen, and a few restaurants have built their patios right up to it. Sitting beside moving water with a cold drink is the easy way to slow down a weekend here.
In summer you'll see tubers float by. The daily tubing season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, so in October the river is quieter, and the outfitters may open on warm weekends if you want to check their calendars. The deck seating is still pleasant on a mild afternoon; bring a layer for the evening.
Where to sit by the river
| Restaurant | Address and phone | River seating | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Troll Tavern | 8590 N Main St; 706-878-3117 | Riverfront patio under the Main Street bridge | Mon-Thu 11 AM-9 PM; Fri-Sun 11 AM-10 PM (seasonal, call) |
| Paul's Steakhouse and Margarita Deck | 8537 S Main St; 706-878-2468 | Margarita Deck on the river; restaurant calls it the largest outdoor deck on the river | Daily 4 PM-10 PM |
| Cafe International | 8546 S Main St; 706-878-3102 | Describes itself as overlooking the Chattahoochee | Not posted; call ahead |
Details change, so confirm hours by phone. Full guides: Troll Tavern, Paul's, Cafe International.
What each one is good for
Troll Tavern for variety
German platters, smash burgers, rainbow trout and beer boots. It's open from 11 AM, so it works for lunch.
Paul's for dinner
Steaks, seafood and baby back ribs, with a casual Margarita Deck for burgers and frozen drinks. Dinner only.
Cafe International for a Reuben
Its own site lists a menu with sandwiches and wurst platters. Hours aren't posted, so call before you walk down.
Skip the heat of the day
Late afternoon is when the light on the water is best and the first dinner tables open up.
Tips for eating by the river
Ask for the patio
Request river seating when you arrive. Tables on the water fill first on warm weekends.
Watch for bugs
Summer evenings can bring mosquitoes near the water. Bring repellent.
Bring a jacket in fall
October nights in the mountains are cool; the average low in Helen is about 46 degrees.
Park first
Read the parking guide before you drive down Main Street.
Beyond downtown
If you'd rather be out in the valley, Sweetwater Coffeehouse on GA-17 in Sautee Nacoochee has coffee, quiche and pastries daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. For a stroll before or after a meal, walk the river walk.
Riverside dining questions
Which Helen restaurants are on the river?
The Troll Tavern, Paul's Steakhouse and its Margarita Deck, and Cafe International all describe riverside or river-view seating.
Can I see tubers from the deck?
In summer, yes. The daily tubing season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and outfitters may open on warm weekends in the shoulder seasons.
Which riverside restaurant is open at lunch?
The Troll Tavern opens at 11 AM daily. Paul's opens at 4 PM, and Cafe International's hours aren't posted, so call 706-878-3102.
Are dogs allowed on the riverside patios?
Not at the Troll Tavern, which allows only service dogs. Ask the other restaurants before you bring a pet.
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