Griffin, Georgia offers a dynamic mix of shopping and dining that rivals much larger cities while maintaining the welcoming charm of a close-knit community. Whether you’re a local exploring new favorites or a visitor planning a weekend getaway, Griffin delivers a diverse culinary scene, one-of-a-kind boutiques, historic retail districts, and vibrant entertainment venues—all within easy reach of Atlanta. This guide walks you through the best that Griffin has to offer for food lovers, shoppers, and anyone looking for a memorable experience.
The Dining Scene in Griffin, GA
Upscale Dining Destinations
Griffin’s elevated dining options make it a go-to spot for date nights, business dinners, and celebrations. J. Henry’s Restaurant stands as the city’s top fine dining destination, offering expertly prepared steaks, seafood, and pasta in a white-tablecloth setting with an upscale bar and carefully curated wine list.
Other standout spots include:
-
Bank Street Cafe – A refined yet relaxed American eatery with vegetarian options.
-
LongHorn Steakhouse – Classic American steakhouse fare in a polished pub-style atmosphere.
These restaurants combine ambiance, service, and culinary craft, making them perfect for special occasions or upscale evenings out.
Casual and Family-Friendly Eateries
Griffin knows how to serve up comfort with a side of hospitality. Locals love:
-
Griffith’s Drive-In – A nostalgic staple serving burgers, breakfast plates, and classic American fare.
-
Murphys Restaurant – Blending American breakfast traditions with Mexican influences, it’s a brunch hotspot with a 4.7-star rating.
-
Corner Cafe – A cozy spot for café-style comfort food and brunch in a laid-back atmosphere.
International Flavors in Griffin
Griffin offers a surprising array of global tastes:
-
La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant – Known for authentic dishes, festive vibes, and standout margaritas.
-
Angelos Mediterranean Restaurant – Combines Greek and Italian classics with vegan and vegetarian options.
-
Good City Chinese Restaurant – A go-to for traditional Chinese takeout and casual dining.
-
Slices Pizzeria – Serves Italian-style pizza with vegetarian-friendly choices in a family-friendly space.
Breakfast and Coffee Spots
If you’re an early riser or brunch enthusiast, Griffin has you covered:
-
Murphys Restaurant – Renowned for hearty breakfasts and great coffee.
-
Griffith’s Drive-In – Offers diner-style breakfast classics with a drive-thru option.
-
Corner Cafe – Perfect for leisurely brunches or grab-and-go mornings.
Griffin’s Nightlife and Bars
Griffin’s bar and nightlife scene caters to a wide range of preferences:
-
J. Henry’s and Bank Street Cafe offer a refined atmosphere with craft cocktails and wine lists.
-
La Parrilla brings the energy with happy hour specials, colorful décor, and TVs for sports fans.
-
Big Jim’s Wing Shack and Smokin Margaritas offer laid-back vibes for game nights or casual hangouts.
Shopping in Griffin, GA
Major Shopping Centers
Griffin’s retail scene includes convenient malls and highway corridors:
-
North Griffin Square – A modern shopping center with national brands and local shops.
-
Highway 19 and Highway 16 Corridors – Home to big-box retailers and restaurants.
-
Solomon Street, South Hill Street, Williamson Road – Lined with salons, shops, and hidden gems.
Historic Downtown Griffin
Downtown Griffin merges retail therapy with history. Antique stores, artisan boutiques, and vibrant murals create a unique and pedestrian-friendly shopping experience with charm and character.
Specialty Stores and Boutiques
If you love discovering unique treasures, Griffin’s boutique scene delivers. From handmade home décor to trendy Southern fashion and vintage finds, you’ll uncover items not found in mainstream retail. Many shops are located in beautifully restored historic buildings that add to the experience.
Best Picks by Occasion
| Occasion | Best Restaurant | Best Shopping Spot |
|---|---|---|
| Casual outing | Murphys or Griffith’s Drive-In | North Griffin Square |
| Special dinner | J. Henry’s or Bank Street Cafe | Downtown Boutiques |
| Family day out | La Parrilla or Corner Cafe | Cotton Mill Mercantile |
| Date night | LongHorn Steakhouse | Antique shops |
| Gift shopping | — | Downtown Griffin |
Insider Tips for Visitors
-
Price Range: $10–$20 per person at most restaurants.
-
Accessibility: Most venues are wheelchair friendly.
-
Service Options: Dine-in, takeout, curbside, and delivery available.
-
Parking: Free and easy-to-find parking throughout the city.
-
Pet-Friendly: Outdoor seating at places like Griffith’s and La Parrilla allow dogs.
-
Reservations: Recommended at upscale spots like J. Henry’s and Murphys on weekends.
What’s New in 2025
Griffin continues to expand its commercial footprint with exciting new attractions:
-
Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen – Modern smokehouse and craft beer spot coming to 6th Street.
-
Putt and Pour – Mini golf, rooftop lounge, and taproom experience.
-
Fire Maker Brewery – A top-rated Atlanta brewery opening a new Griffin location.
-
The Garden at Cotton Mill Mercantile – Outdoor concerts and food truck events.
Final Thoughts
Griffin, GA is more than a charming Southern town—it’s a rising destination where culture, cuisine, and commerce thrive. Whether you’re shopping for antiques in a historic building, sipping craft beer on a rooftop patio, or enjoying a white-tablecloth dinner after boutique browsing, Griffin offers experiences that are both grounded in tradition and forward-looking in style.
Plan your next visit to discover why Griffin is one of Georgia’s most exciting places to eat, shop, and explore.
FAQ: Shopping and Dining in Griffin, GA
What are the best places to eat in Griffin, GA?
Top spots include J. Henry’s for upscale dining, Murphys for breakfast, and La Parrilla for Mexican cuisine.
Where can I shop in Griffin for unique items?
The Downtown Historic District is filled with boutique shops and antique stores offering one-of-a-kind finds.
Are there family-friendly restaurants in Griffin?
Yes! Murphys, Griffith’s Drive-In, and La Parrilla are favorites among families.
Does Griffin have any breweries or pubs?
Griffin is home to new and upcoming breweries like Fire Maker and Piedmont Brewery, along with casual pubs and sports bars.
Is Griffin, GA a good place for a weekend trip?
Absolutely. With its food scene, entertainment venues, boutique shopping, and rich history, Griffin is ideal for weekend getaways.
Dekota Oechsle
With a decade of experience in commercial construction and a degree in construction management, I bring a unique perspective to my work as a REALTOR® and real estate investor. Specializing in residential, land, and investment properties, I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market.
What drives me is more than just transactions; it’s the relationships I build along the way. I believe in serving my clients with integrity and providing detailed, clear communication to ensure they feel confident every step of the way. My passion for real estate, combined with my extensive knowledge of construction, allows me to offer insights that are both practical and strategic.
I am committed to creating a positive experience for my clients, whether they are first-time homebuyers or seasoned investors. Together, we can turn your real estate goals into reality.
I’m here to assist you with your real estate needs; you can reach me at
770-268-0907 or via email at [email protected].