Travel

My First Time in Helen Georgia: A Bavarian Village in the Blue Ridge Mountains

My First Time in Helen Georgia_ A Bavarian Village in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Helen, Georgia is a charming Bavarian-themed town in north Georgia. Here’s what to know before you go, including the best days of the week to visit.

What is Helen, Georgia?

If you’ve never been to Helen, Georgia, you’re in for a treat. Or a head-scratcher. Possibly both.

Helen is a small mountain town in White County, Georgia, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Chattahoochee River. In the late 1960s, the town transformed itself into a replica Bavarian alpine village. Every building downtown was redesigned to look like it belonged in southern Germany. Half-timbered facades, painted trim, flower boxes, and cobblestone-style streets. The whole nine yards.

It’s a tourist town through and through. But it leans into the theme so hard that it kind of works. There’s an annual Oktoberfest celebration that draws huge crowds. The shops sell German-inspired everything. Restaurants serve schnitzel and bratwurst alongside Southern comfort food.

Check out the official Helen Georgia visitor site for the latest info.

Know Before You Go

Some things I really wish I’d known before our trip:

  • Most shops are closed Monday and Tuesday (we learned this the hard way)
  • The best days to visit are Thursday through Sunday
  • The Hofbrauhaus restaurant is a must-visit for German food
  • The Glass Blowing Shop has stunning works of art and is open most days
  • Betty’s Country Store is a touristified grocery store worth checking out
  • Parking can be tight on busy weekends, and pretty much every lot charges to park
  • The Christmas shop doesn’t open until after Memorial Day
  • The Chattahoochee River runs right through town and is popular for tubing
  • Helen is only about 90 minutes north of Atlanta
  • Anna Ruby Falls is just a short drive away and worth pairing with a Helen visit
  • The town is walkable once you park
  • Many shops have outdoor flower displays and photo-worthy storefronts
  • Dogs are welcome on most streets and patios

How We Got to Helen

Jeremy and I rolled into Helen on Monday, May 4th after a full day of hiking Tallulah Gorge and Anna Ruby Falls. We checked into the Riverbend Hotel, dropped our stuff, and headed out to find dinner before walking the town.

Our timing was, in hindsight, terrible. We had two days in Helen, Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning. That’s the absolute worst window for visiting because most of the shops are closed both of those days.

I’m putting this in bold letters for anyone reading: visit Helen Thursday through Sunday. Just trust me on this.

Dinner at Hofbrauhaus Restaurant

The first night, we had dinner at the Hofbrauhaus Restaurant, which sits right along the Chattahoochee River. This place has been a Helen landmark for decades, and it shows in the decor and the menu. Long wooden tables, German-themed everything, and a menu full of authentic Bavarian dishes.

Our waitress was a young woman named Maddie, and she was an absolute delight. Friendly, attentive, and full of recommendations.

My full review of the joint is coming soon, but bottom line: we loved it! 

The Hofbrauhaus has its own website where you can check out the menu and hours: hofbrauhaushelenga.net.

The Riverbend Hotel

We stayed at the Riverbend Hotel in Helen. It was a comfortable spot with a pretty decent breakfast included for guests. Nothing fancy, but everything we needed after a long day of hiking and exploring.

The hotel sits along the river, which is a nice touch. You can hear the water flowing from your room if your window faces the right direction.

What Was Closed (and It Was a Lot)

This is the part of our Helen visit that I want to flag for anyone planning a trip. So much was closed.

The wine tasting room was closed.

The Christmas shop was closed (and apparently doesn’t open at all until after Memorial Day, so that one was a double whammy).

The candy shop we wanted to check out was closed.

Several other shops we walked past had signs saying they’d be back Thursday or Friday. Sigh…

We wandered the streets and peeked in windows at all these adorable little stores we couldn’t actually shop at. It was equal parts charming and frustrating.

What WAS Open

The Glass Blowing Shop was seriously a bright spot. They had some of the most beautiful pieces with shapes and styles that were absolutely mesmerizing. We didn’t buy anything, but I wanted to. The shop had everything from small pendants to large decorative pieces.

Betty’s Country Store was the other place we made sure to visit. It’s a regular grocery store on the surface, but it’s been touristified with souvenirs, local snacks, and Helen merchandise. We stopped in specifically because Jeremy’s late mother was named Betty. It felt like a small way to honor her memory by walking through a store that bore her name.

A handful of restaurants were open. The Hofbrauhaus, of course. A couple of other places along the main street. So you can definitely eat in Helen on a Monday or Tuesday, even if you can’t shop.

Walking Around Helen

Even with the shops closed, walking the streets of Helen was enjoyable. The Bavarian-style architecture is genuinely charming. Every building has those half-timbered facades and painted accents that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a German village.

We walked at least a mile through town, possibly more. We took pictures of the bridges, the river, the storefronts. We enjoyed seeing a guy fishing in the river too.

Tubing the Chattahoochee is a hugely popular activity in Helen, especially in summer. We didn’t have time for it on this trip, but it’s something I’d like to do on my next visit.

Breakfast at the Hotel

Tuesday morning, we ate breakfast at the Riverbend Hotel. They had a proper breakfast spread for guests, which was a nice perk. We did our stretch class, ate some yummy food (and even grabbed some snacks from their bar for the road), packed up, and then headed back out for one more walk through Helen before getting on the road home.

The morning light in Helen is really pretty. The town wakes up slowly, the streets are quiet, and you can take all the pictures you want without dodging crowds. If you do visit on a quieter day like we did, the morning hours are when the town shines.

What I’d Do Differently

If I could redo our Helen visit, here’s what I’d change:

– I’d visit Thursday through Sunday so everything would be open. This is the single biggest change I’d make.

– I’d plan time for Anna Ruby Falls and possibly a hike or two in nearby Unicoi State Park. There’s a lot of natural beauty in this area that gets overlooked because the town itself is so attention-grabbing.

– I’d try Bodensee Restaurant or Muller’s Famous Cafe for variety, even though Hofbrauhaus was great.

– I’d plan a day of tubing if the weather was warm enough.

– I’d visit Hofer’s Bakery in the morning for German pastries.

– I’d check out Nora Mill Granary, a working grist mill where you can buy fresh-ground grits and other Southern staples.

Why It’s Worth the Visit

Helen is one of those quirky destinations that you either love or find a little overdone. I fell on the love side, even with the shops being closed.

The Bavarian theme is so committed and so well-executed that it stops being kitschy and becomes its own thing. The food is excellent (at least at Hofbrauhaus). The setting along the river and in the mountains is genuinely beautiful. And the people we met were friendly and welcoming.

It’s the kind of place you visit once and then keep wanting to come back to during different seasons. Christmas in Helen is supposed to be magical. Oktoberfest is legendary. Spring brings out flowers everywhere. Summer is tubing season.

A Note About Oktoberfest

Helen’s Oktoberfest is one of the longest-running in the country. It typically runs from early September through early November. The town gets packed with visitors, live polka music plays everywhere, and the German beer flows freely.

I haven’t been to Helen during Oktoberfest yet, but it’s now officially on my list. If you’re a fan of German food, beer, and celebration, plan a fall trip.

Final Thoughts on Helen, Georgia

Helen is a delightful little surprise tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not a place you stumble into. You have to actively choose to drive there. But once you do, you’re rewarded with a unique town that doesn’t really exist anywhere else in the South.

Just please, for the love of all things German, visit Thursday through Sunday. Or even just Friday to Sunday if you want the full experience.

We had a wonderful time despite our timing miss. The Hofbrauhaus dinner alone was worth the trip. Maddie’s hospitality made it better. And the chance to walk a Bavarian village without leaving the United States is something everyone should experience at least once.

I’m already planning my return trip to Helen. Thursday through Sunday this time. Promise.

My First Time at Whitewater Falls: The Highest Waterfall East of the Rockies

My First Time at Whitewater Falls_ The Highest Waterfall East of the Rockies

Whitewater Falls in North Carolina drops 411 feet and is gorgeous. Here’s what to expect on this short but stunning hike in Nantahala National Forest.

What is Whitewater Falls?

If you’ve never heard of Whitewater Falls, allow me to introduce you to the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.

Upper Whitewater Falls drops 411 feet down a rocky cliff in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. There’s also a Lower Whitewater Falls in South Carolina that drops another 400 feet. Together, the falls span 811 feet of waterfall drama between the upper and lower sections.

The Upper Falls is the one most visitors see. It’s about an hour and a half southwest of Asheville, North Carolina, near the South Carolina state line. The trailhead is just off NC-281, near Cashiers.

You can read more about it on the USDA Forest Service page for Whitewater Falls.

Know Before You Go

A first-timer’s guide to Whitewater Falls so you don’t get caught off guard:

  • There’s a small parking fee (usually $3 to $5 per vehicle, paid at the kiosk)
  • The America the Beautiful park pass gets you in free
  • The paved trail to the upper overlook is about a quarter mile each way
  • Adding the lower overlook means 154 wooden stairs each direction (so 308 total round trip)
  • The full hike is about 1 mile round trip when you do both overlooks
  • The trail is wheelchair-friendly only to the upper overlook
  • Dogs are allowed on leash (but you’ll want to carry them up and down the stairs!)
  • Restrooms and picnic tables are available at the parking area
  • No cell service in most of the area
  • Open dawn to dusk daily
  • Bring water – and more than you think you will need! (especially in warmer weather)
  • Several deaths have happened from people venturing off the trail. Seriously! There are signs warning people to stay on the path for a reason!
  • No camping or fires allowed at the recreation area

How We Ended Up at Whitewater Falls

Sunday, May 3rd was supposed to be the day we hiked Whitewater Falls. Then it rained all day Saturday, and we got delayed at California Dreaming in Augusta with that whole steak saga. So we ended up tackling Whitewater Falls on Sunday after a Bojangles breakfast (which was good, even if it wasn’t healthy) and a stop at Bobby Brown State Park.

By the time we made it to the Nantahala National Forest, the rain was completely cleared from the radar and the day was sunny and bright. And the falls? Well, they were running strong thanks to all that previous day’s precipitation.

The Walk to the Upper Overlook

The paved trail starts at the end of the parking lot and curves into the woods. You’re immediately in this beautiful Appalachian forest with tall trees, ferns, and the kind of dense green that makes you forget you’re not far from a major road.

The first quarter mile is easy. The grade is gentle, the surface is paved, and you can hear the falls before you see them. That’s one of my favorite things about waterfall hikes. The sound builds gradually, and your anticipation builds with it.

When you reach the upper overlook, you get your first view of Upper Whitewater Falls cascading 411 feet down the cliff. The view is wide and impressive, though some trees do partially block the bottom of the falls from this angle.

If you’re not up for taking all those stairs, the upper overlook gives you a great experience and you can turn around here. The trail is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers up to this point.

Then We Did the Stairs

We decided to go for it. I workout after all. Ha!

The lower overlook is reached by going down 154 wooden steps. That’s a lot of stairs. The grade is steep, and the railings are basically required. You feel like you’re descending into the canyon itself.

But here’s the payoff. The lower overlook gives you a much better, unobstructed view of the entire waterfall. The platform is wide enough to fit a dozen people or so, though the prime center spots are limited and you may have to wait your turn for the best view.

Standing at the lower overlook with the falls thundering down across the canyon was one of those moments where you forget to take pictures because you’re just staring. The water sparkles. The mist drifts up. The sound is incredible.

We took plenty of pictures eventually, of course. We always do.

The Climb Back Up

I’ll be honest. The 154 stairs back up were harder than going down.

By the time we hit the top, my calves were on fire and I was breathing hard. Jeremy was doing better than me because of my left knee issues, but it was still pretty intense for both of us! We took a couple of breaks on the way up because we knew that pushing too hard would just leave us shaky.

If you’re not in great shape, those stairs are a serious workout. Take your time. Use the railings. Bring water.

The Detour to Duke Energy’s Bad Creek

After we finished Whitewater Falls, we drove over to the Duke Energy Bad Creek Hydroelectric facility. They have a turbine pump that’s part of their pumped storage system, and you can see an overlook of Destination Oconee from there. (That’s O-C-O-N-E-E if you’re looking it up.)

It’s not a hiking destination, but it’s a cool stop if you’re already in the area. You get a different vantage point on the gorge system and Lake Jocassee. The Foothills Trail also has an access point here, which leads to the Lower Whitewater Falls if you want a longer hike.

The Foothills Trail

Speaking of the Foothills Trail… We did a small section of it called the Lake Jocassee Foothills Trail. The full Foothills Trail is 77 miles long and stretches across the Blue Ridge Mountains, but you can do short sections without committing to a multi-day hike.

If you’re an experienced hiker, you can actually do an 8.5-mile one-way hike from the Upper Whitewater Falls overlook along the Foothills Trail to the Lower Whitewater Falls overlook in South Carolina. That requires shuttle planning or a serious commitment to backtracking.

A shorter option is to access the Lower Whitewater Falls from the Bad Creek trailhead, which is about a 2-mile one-way hike. The total distance is roughly 4.3 miles round trip and considered moderate.

We didn’t have the energy for that on our trip since we were doing so many hikes and walks, but I’d love to come back and do it someday.

Moody Springs and Other Pretty Spots

On our way out of the area, we stopped at Moody Springs and snapped a quick picture. It’s a small, easy-to-miss spot, but it’s pretty.

The whole region around Whitewater Falls is full of these little surprises. Pretty creeks, scenic overlooks, hidden trails. If you’ve got a full day, you can chain together multiple waterfall stops in one outing.

Wildlife and Plants

The trail to Whitewater Falls is known for wildflowers, especially in early to mid April. We were just past peak wildflower season when we visited in May, but I still spotted some pretty blooms along the trail.

Common wildflowers in the area include Vasey’s trillium, Catesby’s trillium, trailing arbutus, mayapple, sweet white violet, and showy orchid. If you’re a flower person, plan your visit for spring.

I didn’t see any wildlife up close, but the Nantahala National Forest is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various smaller animals. Keep an eye out, especially in early morning or late afternoon.

What I’d Do Differently

If I could redo our Whitewater Falls visit, here’s what I’d change:

– I’d give myself more time. We were trying to fit too much into one day, and Whitewater Falls deserves at least a couple of hours.

– I’d add the Lower Falls hike from Bad Creek if my legs were up to it. Knowing now that Lower Whitewater Falls is just as impressive (though smaller), I’d want to see both.

– I’d pack more water. The hike up those stairs takes more out of you than you’d expect.

– I’d visit during the wildflower season if possible. Mid-April is supposedly peak, and the trail is supposed to be incredible.

Why It’s Worth the Stop

Whitewater Falls is the kind of natural wonder that reminds you why you take road trips. You drive for hours, you park, you walk a half mile, and suddenly you’re standing in front of one of the most impressive waterfalls in the eastern United States.

The fact that it’s named “Whitewater Falls” in a region with about ten thousand waterfalls is telling. It earned that name.

Final Thoughts on Whitewater Falls

If you’re driving anywhere near the North Carolina and South Carolina border, make the detour to Whitewater Falls. The parking fee is cheap, the hike is short, and the views are unforgettable.

The 154 stairs to the lower overlook are absolutely worth it if you’re physically able. The upper overlook is great, but the lower view is the one that knocks your socks off.

This was hands down one of the best hikes of our entire road trip. We were tired, we were sore, and we were stunned by the beauty of it all.

I’m already planning my return trip. Next time, I’m tackling the Lower Falls too.

My First Time at Tallulah Gorge: Stairs, Rim Trails, and Why We Missed Most of the Trail

My First Time at Tallulah Gorge_ Stairs, Rim Trails, and Why We Missed Most of the Trail

Tallulah Gorge State Park in Georgia is breathtaking but tricky for dog owners. Here’s what we learned hiking the North Rim Trail with our Pampered Pomchis.

What is Tallulah Gorge?

If you’ve never heard of Tallulah Gorge State Park, let me catch you up. It’s tucked into Rabun County in northeast Georgia, about an hour and a half north of Atlanta. The gorge itself is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep, which makes it one of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern United States.

There are six waterfalls inside the gorge, a swaying suspension bridge that hangs 80 feet above the river, and over 20 miles of trails. Tightrope walkers have actually crossed the gorge twice, including the legendary Karl Wallenda in 1970. You can still see the towers he used.

You can get all the planning details on the Georgia State Parks website.

Know Before You Go

Before I get into our experience, here’s what I wish I’d known before pulling into the park:

  • Parking is $5 per vehicle and can be paid in cash or by scanning a QR code with your phone
  • Dogs are NOT allowed on the staircase down to the suspension bridge, the gorge floor, or the Sliding Rock Trail
  • Leashed dogs ARE allowed on the rim trails, including the North Rim and South Rim
  • The Hurricane Falls Loop down to the gorge floor has 1,099 stairs total (not for the faint of heart)
  • The suspension bridge is accessed via 310 steps down from the rim
  • Permits for the gorge floor are free but limited to 100 per day, available at the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center
  • The interpretive center has restrooms, water, and a small museum
  • Trails are open year-round, though waterfall flow varies depending on water releases
  • Whitewater release weekends close the gorge floor to hikers
  • Bring proper hiking shoes, especially if you’re tackling the stairs
  • The park is open 8 a.m. until dark, with the office open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Cell service is limited inside the park

How We Ended Up at Tallulah Gorge

Monday, May 4th was a packed day for Jeremy and me. We started by feeding goats at Goat Landing and Ladybug Landing in Tiger, Georgia. We stopped at the official Bigfoot Crossing for a fun photo op. We had drinks at Kringle Trading Company. And we took in the view at Tallulah Point Scenic Overlook before driving into the state park itself.

By the time we arrived at the park, we’d already had a full morning. Our Pomchis, Baileys and Kahlua, were riding along with us and ready for a stretch.

Where the Dogs Couldn’t Go

This is the part of Tallulah Gorge that surprised us. We knew it was a state park, and most Georgia State Parks allow dogs on trails. What we didn’t realize was that this park has very specific restrictions on where pets are welcome.

The suspension bridge? No dogs.

The 310 stairs down to the bridge? No dogs.

The Hurricane Falls Trail to the gorge floor? No dogs.

The Sliding Rock Trail? No dogs.

The reason is actually pretty thoughtful. The stairs have grippy metal surfaces designed for human feet. Those same grips can shred a dog’s paw pads, especially small dogs like our Pomchis. It’s a safety issue, not just a pet policy.

So we had a decision to make. Either skip the famous suspension bridge or take turns watching the dogs while one of us hiked down.

What We Actually Did

We chose to focus on the rim trails, where Baileys and Kahlua were welcome on leash for this trip.

We did about half a mile on the North Rim Trail, which gave us our first view of the gorge from above. The first overlook is about a quarter mile from the trailhead, and it’s stunning. You’re standing on the edge of a 1,000-foot drop, looking out at the dramatic walls of the gorge with waterfalls visible in the distance.

Then we walked at least another half mile around the park, taking in different overlooks and stretching our legs. All together, we hiked about a mile at Tallulah Gorge, all on the rim trails where the dogs could come along.

The North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail are both on mulched paths with a moderate incline. They’re rated easy to moderate. Together, they make about a 3-mile round trip if you do the full loop.

What We Missed (and Don’t Feel Bad About)

We didn’t go down the 310 stairs to the suspension bridge.

Part of me regrets it because the bridge is the iconic photo op for the park. The other part of me knows that even if Baileys and Kahlua had been allowed, hiking 310 stairs down and then 310 stairs back up after a long day of driving probably wasn’t a smart choice.

I read later that park rangers do a lot of rescues on those stairs. People think they can handle the climb back up, then realize halfway through that they can’t. The rangers told one visitor that the climb is “no joke,” and a lot of people overestimate themselves.

If we ever go back, we’ll plan a full day at Tallulah Gorge, leave the dogs at home (or at least in a hotel because we take our dogs on most trips!), and tackle the gorge floor properly with permits and snacks and water.

The Views From the Rim Were Still Incredible

Even without the suspension bridge experience, the rim trails delivered some of the most beautiful views of the whole trip. The waterfalls were visible from multiple overlooks. The drop into the gorge is genuinely vertigo-inducing in the best way. And the trails themselves are well-maintained and easy to follow.

We saw L’Eau D’or Falls and Tempesta Falls from the rim overlooks. The North Rim has the best general views of the falls, while the South Rim offers different angles. If you’ve only got time for one side, locals seem to recommend the North Rim.

The Interpretive Center

The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center at the entrance is also worth a stop. It functions as part visitor center, part mini-museum. There are exhibits about the history of the gorge, the Cherokee people who originally lived in the area (they called the gorge “Ugunyi”), the Victorian-era resort town that once existed here, and the wildlife and plants that still thrive in the gorge today.

The center also has a gift shop. We didn’t buy anything, but the kids who were there with their parents looked like they were having a great time exploring the exhibits.

Wildlife and Plants Worth Knowing About

Tallulah Gorge is home to several protected species. The persistent trillium, the monkey-face orchid, and the green salamander all live within the gorge ecosystem. Stay on the trails and don’t pick or disturb any plants.

We didn’t see any wildlife up close, but the area is known for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, various raptors, and small mammals. Keep an eye out if you’re observant.

What I’d Do Differently

If I could redo our Tallulah Gorge visit, here’s what I’d change:

– I’d plan a full day at the park, not just an afternoon stop. The amount you can do here easily fills four to six hours if you’re a hiker.

– I’d leave the dogs in a hotel so I could take the stairs down to the suspension bridge.

– I’d get a free gorge floor permit early in the morning (they go fast on busy days, available at the interpretive center starting at 8 a.m.).

– I’d pack more water and proper hiking shoes (we had decent shoes but not great ones for serious stair climbing).

– I’d visit Tallulah 1882, the coffee and small-bites spot right across from the park entrance that other reviewers rave about.

Final Thoughts on Tallulah Gorge

Tallulah Gorge State Park is genuinely one of the most beautiful natural spots I’ve ever seen. 

The drama of the gorge, the waterfalls, the suspension bridge, the rim trails, all of it lives up to the hype.

It’s just not the most dog-friendly destination if your dogs are small and you want to do the iconic hikes. The rim trails are still beautiful and worth visiting with your fur babies, but the famous suspension bridge experience is off-limits for them.

If you’ve got dogs like Baileys and Kahlua and you want to see Tallulah Gorge, plan ahead. Either bring backup pet care for the day or accept that you’ll be hiking the rim trails only. Both are great options. The trick is knowing before you go.

We had a wonderful time. We took beautiful photos. We made memories. And now we have a reason to come back without the dogs and do the stairs.

Sometimes a trip leaves you with unfinished business. Tallulah Gorge is one of those for us.

My First Time Driving the Tail of the Dragon and Why Photos from 129 Caught My Eye

Driving the Tail of the Dragon was both terrifying and beautiful. Plus, why the roadside photographers on US 129 are running a clever little business.

What is the Tail of the Dragon?

Before our road trip, I’d heard about the Tail of the Dragon in passing but didn’t really know what it was. So in case you’re like I was, let me catch you up.

The Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of US Route 129 that runs between Tennessee and North Carolina. It’s known for one wild fact. There are 318 curves packed into those 11 miles. That’s almost 29 curves per mile, which is insane.

It straddles the border at Deals Gap, which sits between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest. There are no houses, no driveways, no intersections, and no businesses along the road itself. Just curves, trees, and (sometimes) other drivers and motorcyclists.

You can read all about its history and current conditions on the official Tail of the Dragon website.

Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to drive the Tail of the Dragon for the first time, here are some things you should know:

  • The road is two lanes with no shoulders and very few pull-offs, so committed driving is the only option once you start
    • We used these pull-offs a LOT to let people pass us…
  • There are 318 curves in 11 miles, including some hairpin turns
  • Motorcyclists love this road and tend to drive it fast, so be alert for bikes
  • Trucks and large vehicles are not recommended (and in some sections, prohibited)
  • The road runs between Deals Gap, North Carolina and the Tabcat Creek Bridge in Tennessee
  • The Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort sits at one end and is a fun stop for snacks, swag, and the famous Tree of Shame
    • I regret we missed seeing this!
  • Cell service is spotty to nonexistent along most of the route
  • Best weather is dry and clear, since rain makes the curves more dangerous
  • Plan extra time, because you’ll want to stop at any pull-off you can find for pictures
  • Don’t try to drive it after dark unless you really know the road

Why I Was Nervous

I’m going to be honest with y’all. Windy roads make me anxious.

I’ve never exactly been a fan of mountain driving. The combination of tight curves, steep drops, and unfamiliar terrain stresses me out. So when Jeremy and I decided to add the Tail of the Dragon to our route home from Florida, I was already psyching myself out before we even got there.

Jeremy was driving, which helped. He’s a steady, patient driver who takes mountain roads at a comfortable pace. But even with him at the wheel, I was gripping the door handle for most of the 11 miles.

What It Actually Felt Like

The first few curves weren’t bad. I thought, “Okay, this isn’t so terrible.” Then we hit a hairpin curve, and I felt my stomach drop into my shoes.

Some of the curves are named, by the way. There’s Copperhead Corner, Hog Pen Bend, Wheelie Hell, Shade Tree Corner, Mud Corner, Sunset Corner, Gravity Cavity, Beginner’s End, and Brake or Bust Bend. Those names exist for a reason.

The good news is that the scenery is genuinely beautiful. Even though most of the road is just walls of trees on both sides, you catch glimpses of mountain views, rocky overhangs, and the occasional creek or stream. 

Some of the spots we saw were so pretty that I wished we could pull over. But there aren’t many places to do that safely.

After 11 miles, we made it through. I was relieved. Jeremy was happy. And I had a story to tell.

The Roadside Photographers

This is the part of the Tail of the Dragon story I really want to talk about.

As we drove the road, I started noticing tents set up at strategic spots along the curves. Inside each tent were two photographers. They had professional cameras and stood completely still as cars and motorcycles passed by, snapping pictures of every vehicle that came through.

I counted at least two companies with their own tents. 129 Slayer and 129 Photos. There may have been others I missed.

I learned later that there’s a third major company called Killboy, plus a smaller one called Moonshine Photo. So there are usually four or five different photography businesses working the same 11 miles of road.

You can find them online at 129photos.com and at the 129 Slayer store. Each one has a website where you search by date and a rough time estimate, find your vehicle, and buy your photos.

How the Photos from 129 Business Works

The system is pretty clever. Photographers shoot every day from about 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Each photo gets tagged with the date and time. You go home, pull up the company’s website, search by the date you drove the road, and find your vehicle.

The downloads start at around $8.50 for a high-resolution digital image. That’s the entry-level price for a basic download. You can also buy prints, framed photos, photos on mugs and tumblers, road signs with your image, and posters. Different sizes and products cost different amounts.

We didn’t buy any photos because we drove an unremarkable vehicle, and honestly, the experience of being on the road was more important to me than the souvenir. But if we’d been on a motorcycle or in a sports car, I might have grabbed one.

My Honest Take on the Business

As someone who used to be a photographer myself, I respect this hustle.

Think about it. You set up a tent in a popular spot. You take pictures all day. You tag and upload them to a website. People go home, find their photos, and pay you. You barely have to interact with customers. You sell digital downloads with practically zero overhead after the initial setup.

Is it a fortune? Probably not. But it’s a clever way to make a living doing photography in a beautiful spot, and the demand is consistent because thousands of drivers and motorcyclists hit this road every year.

I do wonder how the permitting works.

– Are these photographers permitted by the local jurisdictions?

– Are they private contractors operating on public land or private property?

I couldn’t find a clear answer, and I’m curious about the legal side. But the customers don’t seem to care, and the business has been operating for years, so somebody must have it figured out.

For anyone reading this who’s a creative entrepreneur, I think there’s something interesting here. Find a high-traffic location with built-in demand. Set up a system. Let the technology and the volume do the work.

What I’d Do Differently for the Tail of the Dragon

Looking back on driving the Tail of the Dragon, I have a few thoughts.

I’d give myself more mental prep time. Knowing that 318 curves was going to feel like 318 curves would have helped me brace for it.

I’d consider doing the drive earlier in the day when I’m fresher and more alert. We did it later in the trip when we were already tired from days of driving and hiking.

I’d plan to stop at the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort at the end. We didn’t make time for it, and that’s where you can see the Tree of Shame (a tree decorated with motorcycle parts from crashes) and pick up the official Dragon Sticker.

I might take a friend who isn’t scared of curves so my anxiety wouldn’t dampen the experience for Jeremy.

The Lake or River After the Dragon

After we finished the Tail of the Dragon, we drove past this beautiful body of water on the side of the road. I thought it was a lake at first. Looking back, it was probably a river. The scenery was so pretty that we slowed down just to look.

The road through the Smoky Mountains region has so many of these little surprises. Lakes, rivers, scenic overlooks, and forest stretches that go on for miles. The Tail of the Dragon may be the famous part, but the rest of the drive is honestly just as beautiful (and a lot less terrifying).

Would I Drive It Again?

Honestly? Yes. Probably still as a passenger though. I have ZERO interest in ever driving it.

If you’re a thrill seeker, a motorcyclist, or a sports car enthusiast, the Tail of the Dragon is a bucket list drive. You’ll love it.

If you’re like me and prefer your roads straight and your scenery accessible by easy walking trails, the Tail of the Dragon is something you do at least once to say you did it. Then you find a less stressful route home.

Final Thoughts on the Tail of the Dragon

The Tail of the Dragon lived up to its reputation. 318 curves, 11 miles, terrifying and beautiful all at once.

The photography hustle along the route was an unexpected highlight for me. It’s the kind of clever side business that makes you think about all the other ways photographers and creative entrepreneurs can build income streams in unique places.

Would I recommend driving the Tail of the Dragon? Absolutely, if you’ve got the stomach for it. Just make sure you have a steady driver, a clear day, and maybe a slice of cheesecake waiting for you at the end as a reward.

Next time, I might just buy myself one of those Dragon photos. Even from a regular old SUV.

Universal Joint Clayton Review: Where Bar Food Meets Mountain Town Charm

Universal Joint Clayton_ Where Bar Food Meets Mountain Town Charm

Universal Joint in Clayton, Georgia delivered a killer quesadilla and a tzatziki misstep. Here’s my honest take on this dog-friendly mountain town gem.

Finding Universal Joint in Downtown Clayton

After a long day of hiking Whitewater Falls in the Nantahala National Forest on Sunday, May 3rd, Jeremy and I were tired, hungry, and looking for a decent meal. We were spending the night at the Days Inn in Clayton, Georgia, and we wanted dinner that wasn’t fast food.

Universal Joint at 109 N Main Street in Clayton kept showing up in our searches. Reviews looked solid. The location was easy to get to from our hotel. So, we decided to give it a shot.

You can find more info on the Universal Joint Clayton website or the Explore Georgia listing.

First Impressions of the Place

Universal Joint sits in what used to be an old gas station, and they kept some of that character in the design. Picture a horseshoe-shaped bar inside, outdoor patio seating with a fire pit, and that easy, laid-back vibe that makes you want to settle in.

Live music sometimes happens here. They’ve got 17 beers on draft. And here’s the part Jeremy and I cared about most. Dogs are welcome on the patio. We didn’t bring Baileys and Kahlua this time, because they were resting at the hotel after a big hiking day, but it’s good to know for future trips.

The place wasn’t too busy because of the time of night we got there. There was a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in and outside of the bar. It definitely felt like the kind of neighborhood spot where regulars have favorite bar stools.

What I Ordered

I went with the Southwest chicken quesadilla. It came with chicken, cilantro-corn, monterey jack cheese, chipotle aioli, salsa, and sour cream. Black beans were supposed to be inside too, but our waiter mentioned they were spicy, so I asked for them on the side.

The quesadilla was excellent. The chipotle aioli had a smoky kick without being overpowering. The cilantro-corn added a nice fresh pop. The cheese was melty and generous. 

The black beans on the side gave me the option to add them in one bite at a time, but I feared adding in any more spice!

I also subbed my side from chips and salsa to the arugula salad. That salad ended up being one of the highlights of the meal. Baby arugula, sun-dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, feta cheese, and pecans, all tossed in their house version of a thousand island dressing. The combination of sweet, salty, peppery, and creamy was really something special.

If I went back, I’d order both again without thinking twice.

What Jeremy Ordered

Jeremy got a gyro with tater tots on the side.

Here’s where the meal went sideways for him. The gyro itself was fine, but the tzatziki sauce had way too many cucumbers in it. Like, the cucumber-to-yogurt ratio was completely off. 

Tzatziki should taste like creamy garlic yogurt with a hint of cucumber. Instead, it tasted and looked like cucumber salad with a little yogurt mixed in.

He ate it because he was hungry, but he wasn’t a happy camper. He said if the tzatziki had been done right, the gyro would have been a great meal. That’s a pretty big “if.”

The tater tots were good though. Nothing fancy, just well-cooked tots.

Friendly Service and Decent Atmosphere

Our waiter was great. He proactively warned me about the spice level of the black beans, which I appreciated. He checked on us regularly without hovering. 

Even with the tzatziki misstep, Universal Joint had a welcoming feel that made us feel comfortable. After a day of hiking, sitting somewhere that didn’t feel rushed was exactly what we needed.

The bar had a nice selection of drinks. I noticed they offered non-alcoholic options too, including non-alcoholic beer for folks who aren’t drinking. That’s a thoughtful touch that I don’t always see at small-town bars.

We didn’t partake in any adult beverages because we were exhausted, but we might if we ever go back.

A Few Things to Know

Universal Joint Clayton is open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight. They make everything in-house and fresh daily. It’s a bar and grill, but it’s family-friendly enough during regular hours.

They’ve got plenty of parking, prices are reasonable, and we didn’t feel like we were paying tourist prices…which can sometimes happen in popular mountain towns.

Will I Go Back?

Yes. If we’re ever back in Clayton, Georgia, I’d return to Universal Joint without question. The quesadilla and salad alone was worth the stop for me. And next time, I’d convince Jeremy to skip the gyro and try one of the signature burgers (which apparently are what they’re most known for anyway).

What I’d Order Next Time

If you find yourself at Universal Joint in Clayton, Georgia, here’s my recommendation list based on what I tried and what other reviewers rave about:

  • Southwest chicken quesadilla (my pick again)
  • Arugula salad as a side
  • Any of their burgers (they’re known for them)
    • Black bean burger for vegetarians
  • BBQ Brisket Nachos
  • Brisket French Dip with au jus
  • Skip the gyro unless you’re a fan of heavy cucumber in your tzatziki

Final Thoughts on Universal Joint Clayton

For a small mountain town in north Georgia, Universal Joint punches above its weight. The food is mostly excellent, the service is warm, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the location can’t be beat if you’re exploring Tallulah Gorge, Whitewater Falls, or anywhere else in the area.

It’s the kind of restaurant that locals love and tourists discover with delight. The dog-friendly patio makes it even better for travelers like Jeremy and me who bring our fur babies along.

Skip the gyro. Get the quesadilla. Try the arugula salad. Maybe sit on the patio if the weather is nice and order something off the craft beer list.

Bad Steak, Killer Cheesecake: My California Dreaming Augusta Review

Bad Steak, Killer Cheesecake_ My California Dreaming Augusta Review

My honest take on California Dreaming in Augusta, GA. The steak went sideways, but the cheesecake had me forgiving everything fast.

How We Ended Up at California Dreaming

Jeremy and I were supposed to be hiking Whitewater Falls on Saturday, May 2nd. That was the plan when we left Gainesville, Florida earlier that morning. Then the rain started, and I’ll be honest with y’all, I completely forgot we’d ever planned that hike. The weather had different ideas, and we did too.

We were already trying to stay off the interstate for the entire trip. So instead of fighting the rain on a hike that didn’t make sense anymore, we ended up driving through Augusta, Georgia looking for food.

Our first stop didn’t work out. We tried to drive over to a golf course in Augusta, but it turns out it’s closed to the public. Of course it was. By this point we were hungry anyway, so we got back in the car, looked for something nearby, and pulled into California Dreaming.

I had high hopes. Y’all, I really did. The place was packed, so I thought it would be an amazing meal…

What Jeremy Ordered

Jeremy went with the Blackened Chicken Pasta. It came with fettuccine Alfredo, scallions, tomatoes, and Romano cheese. He absolutely loved it. From the first bite to the last, he was a happy camper. I’d say it was the highlight of the meal from his side of the table.

Honestly, if I’d ordered the same thing, this review would probably read a whole lot different. But that’s not how my night went.

What I Tried to Order

I had my eye on the filet mignon. I ordered it with a loaded baked potato as my side, and Jeremy and I split a Caesar salad as our appetizer.

The Caesar salad was actually really good. We split it without any complaints from either of us, and it set the bar for the rest of the meal at a pretty high level. Crisp, well-dressed, plenty to share. A solid start.

Then the steak came out.

My Steak Saga

I’d ordered the filet medium rare. What I got was a confused piece of beef that was well done on the outside and very rare on the inside. Not medium rare anywhere on the plate. The center was practically still mooing while the outside had been overcooked into oblivion.

I sent it back. I HATE doing that. The staff was nice about it, which I appreciated, but I really didn’t want to be that girl…

Now, what happened next is the part that confused me. Instead of starting over with a fresh steak, they took my same piece of beef and tried to re-cook it. Well, you might be able to guess where I’m going here…

It came back to my table even more well done on the outside, and still pretty rare in the middle. 

Same problem, just amplified. At that point, I knew this filet was a lost cause.

I told the server I’d just split Jeremy’s pasta with him. I filled up mostly on that loaded baked potato, which was honestly pretty good. Big, hot, plenty of toppings. If the kitchen could handle a potato that well, the steak situation became even more frustrating.

The Cheesecake Redemption

This is the part of the night where California Dreaming earned some points back. Actually a lot of points!

The manager came over and apologized. They took the steak off the bill, which was absolutely the right call. And then they brought out a slice of cheesecake to make up for it.

Y’all. That cheesecake.

It was rich, creamy, and exactly the kind of dessert that makes you stop being mad at a restaurant. I forgave them on the spot. Jeremy and I tore into that thing like we hadn’t already eaten dinner.

If you go to California Dreaming and remember nothing else from this review, remember the cheesecake. It might be the best thing on the menu…well at least in my case.

The Service Was Solid

I want to give credit where credit is due. The service was friendly throughout the entire meal, even when things went sideways with my steak. The manager handled the situation about as well as anyone could in that spot. They removed the cost of the steak, brought us a delicious apology dessert, and didn’t make us feel weird about any of it.

That counts for a lot in my book. A bad meal can turn into a worse night if the staff gets defensive or makes the customer feel like the problem. None of that happened here.

I’d still rather have gotten the steak I ordered, but as far as service recovery goes, they did right by us.

Would I Go Back?

This question matters most, and my answer is complicated.

I would absolutely not order the steak again. In fact, two weeks after this trip, I’m still craving a good steak. I keep telling Jeremy I just need to buy a filet at the grocery store and cook it myself, because at this point I’m pretty sure I can do a better job than what came out of that kitchen.

But would I go back for the Blackened Chicken Pasta, the Caesar salad, and that cheesecake? In a heartbeat. If Jeremy and I ever pass through Augusta again, I’d probably stop in just to try a few more menu items I didn’t get to sample.

What I’d Order Next Time

If we make it back to California Dreaming, here’s my plan:

  • Caesar salad to start
  • Blackened Chicken Pasta as my main
  • Cheesecake to finish
  • Skip the steaks entirely

Stick with what they do well. That seems to be pasta, salads, sides, and dessert.

My Honest Bottom Line

Was California Dreaming in Augusta worth the stop? For Jeremy, absolutely. He had a great meal and walked out happy. For me, the food itself was a mixed bag, but the service recovery and that cheesecake softened the blow enough that I’d still recommend the place to other travelers passing through.

If you’re driving through Augusta, Georgia and looking for something a little nicer than fast food without going full special-occasion, California Dreaming could work for you. Just maybe stay away from the steaks until you’ve heard better reports than mine.

And note to self for the millionth time, I really do need to buy that steak and cook it at home. The craving isn’t going anywhere.

Anna Ruby Falls: The Unplanned Hike That Stole the Day

Anna Ruby Falls_ The Unplanned Hike That Stole the Day

Anna Ruby Falls in Georgia was a last-minute stop on our way to Helen. Steep, gorgeous, and totally worth it. Here’s what to know first.

The Best Stop We Didn’t Plan

Some of the best hikes are the ones you didn’t see coming. Anna Ruby Falls now belongs on that list for me.

Jeremy and I were driving toward Helen, Georgia on Monday, May 4th. We’d already had a packed day.

We’d fed goats at Goat Landing and Ladybug Landing in Tiger.

We’d stopped at the official Bigfoot Crossing, taken in the view at the Tallulah Point Scenic Overlook, and hiked the North Rim Trail at Tallulah Gorge State Park.

Our legs were tired. Our dogs Baileys and Kahlua – aka The Pampered Pomchis – had also been on the move all day.

Then we saw the signs for Anna Ruby Falls. And like any good road trip warriors who now choose to go off-highway 90% of the time, we said let’s do it.

I’m so glad we did.

Know Before You Go

Before I get into the actual hike, here’s a quick rundown of what I wish somebody had told me before we pulled into the parking lot:

  • The parking fee is $6 per person, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling as a group (and yes! I saw that silly TikTok of hiding folks in the trunk at parks…don’t do that 😅)
  • The trail is about a mile round-trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you, it’s steep
  • Bring sturdy walking shoes, not flip-flops or anything that slides around on your feet
  • The trail does allow dogs, but keep them leashed and pay attention to posted rules
  • Check the closing time before you start, because the gates do close and you don’t want to rush (like we did…sigh…)
  • The falls are located near Helen, Georgia, inside the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
  • Bring water, especially in warmer weather, because the climb will have you working
  • This is doable in an afternoon, but give yourself at least two solid hours to enjoy it properly…I wish we’d had more than an hour!
  • Restrooms are available near the trailhead, so use them before you start the climb
  • The trail is paved, which makes it more accessible than your average forest hike

Now let me tell you why this hike was worth every penny of that $6 per person.

How We Almost Missed It

I have to admit something. We pulled into Anna Ruby Falls a little too close to the closing time. Not dangerously close, but close enough that we had to hustle.

I don’t recommend that approach. If you’re going to hike Anna Ruby Falls, give yourself at least two or three solid hours before close so you can take your time, snap pictures, and actually enjoy the experience without watching the clock. We were checking our watches the whole way up, which took some of the joy out of the climb.

Lesson learned. Plan ahead.

The Trail Itself

The trail is paved, which I appreciated. Anyone who’s hiked an unpaved trail with two small dogs in tow knows the struggle.

Baileys and Kahlua handled the path beautifully because there were no roots or loose gravel for their little legs to navigate around.

That said, paved does not mean easy. This trail is steep. Like, my calves were burning before we hit the quarter way point. We had to stop a few times to catch our breath, and I’m in pretty decent shape from all my Zumba classes and stretch routines.

If you have mobility issues, this hike will be tough. The pavement helps, but the grade is no joke. Take your time, take breaks, and bring water.

What You’ll See

Y’all. The falls.

Anna Ruby Falls is actually two waterfalls coming together. Two separate streams flow down two different cliffs and meet at the bottom to form one creek. It’s the kind of natural feature you don’t get to see every day, and the viewing platforms put you pretty darn close.

The sound was incredible. We could hear the water before we could see it, and the noise got louder with every step. By the time we reached the viewing area, the whole forest was filled with the rush of those two falls hitting the rocks below.

I took way too many pictures. I always do.

The Dogs Did Great

Baileys and Kahlua were absolute champions on this hike. The paved trail made the climb manageable for their tiny legs, and they were entertaining the other hikers along the way. Pomchis tend to draw a lot of attention, and these two are no exception.

If you’re a fellow pet parent thinking about whether to bring your dog, I’d say go for it on Anna Ruby Falls. Just make sure your dog is leashed, in good enough shape for the climb, and that the weather isn’t too hot. Pavement can heat up fast in summer months and burn little paws.

We had no issues with the pet rules at this location, which was a refreshing change after the stairs situation we ran into earlier in the day at Tallulah Gorge. But that’s a story for another post.

Parking and Fees

The parking fee at Anna Ruby Falls is $6 per person. For Jeremy and me, that was $12 total, which was honestly a steal for what we got out of it. Yes, everywhere online says $5…but we were told at the gate it was $6 per person…

The parking lot is a decent size, and we didn’t have any trouble finding a spot. That said, we were there on a Monday afternoon. I imagine weekends are a completely different story, especially during peak tourist season.

If you’re trying to do this hike on a weekend, get there early to avoid any potential headaches.

The Visitor Center

There’s a visitor center near the trailhead too, which is worth poking your head into if you have time. We didn’t get to spend much time there because we were racing the clock, but I caught enough to know it would have been a nice add-on to the hike if we’d planned better.

This is another reason to give yourself plenty of time. The visitor center is part of the full experience, and rushing past it felt like a missed opportunity.

What I’d Do Differently

If I could rewind and do this stop again, here’s what would change:

– I’d give us a full afternoon instead of squeezing it in.

– I’d pack more water.

– I’d take time to actually visit the visitor center.

– And I’d plan to do this hike before Tallulah Gorge, not after, so my legs would have more energy for the steep climb.

But honestly? Even with the rushed timing and the tired legs, Anna Ruby Falls was the best surprise stop on our entire road trip. And, if I’m completely honest…had the prettiest falls we saw on this trip!

Final Thoughts

If you’re driving toward Helen, Georgia and you see signs for Anna Ruby Falls, take the turn. Even if you weren’t planning on a hike. Even if your legs are tired. Even if you’re not totally sure how much daylight you have left.

Just maybe arrive a little earlier than we did so you don’t have to rush.

This stop reminded me of one of my favorite things about road tripping off-highway. You find places you never would have known about if you’d taken the interstate. Anna Ruby Falls would have stayed off our radar forever if we’d been zooming up the interstate instead of taking the back roads to Helen.

Two miles, a $12 parking fee, and one steep climb later, we walked away with one of my favorite memories from the entire trip. Not bad for an unplanned stop.

Now I just need to come back and do it right.

Keke’s Breakfast Café in Gainesville Almost Stole My Heart

Keke's Breakfast Cafe in Gainesville Almost Stole My Heart

My honest review of Keke’s Breakfast Café in Gainesville, Florida. The omelet was a winner, but the stuffed French toast had some work to do.

Finding Keke’s on a Saturday Morning

Jeremy and I checked out of our Gainesville hotel on Saturday, May 2nd with one goal in mind. We needed a good breakfast before hitting the road back toward Augusta, Georgia on our road trip home.

After a quick stretch class, we drove over to Keke’s Breakfast Cafe at 4062 Plaza Boulevard in the Butler North area of Gainesville.

Pulling into the parking lot, the place was hopping. That’s usually a good sign for a breakfast spot.

Sometimes it’s also a warning that you’re going to be waiting a while, but luckily, our party arrived before us and already snagged a table.

If you want to plan ahead, you can check their hours and location info on the Keke’s Gainesville page. They’re open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every single day of the week.

Splitting Plates Like We Always Do

Jeremy and I are huge fans of splitting meals when we travel. It saves money and it cuts down on food waste (because what are you going to do with leftover French toast in a hotel room?). 

Sometimes, it lets us try more than one thing on the menu if we want two meals and are super hungry, which WAS the case this particular morning.

At Keke’s, we ordered two things to split. The ham and cheese omelet and the stuffed French toast. One winner, one okay performer. Let me break down both.

The Ham and Cheese Omelet Was the Star

Y’all. This omelet was really, really good.

The ham was generous. The cheese was melty in the best way. The egg was cooked just right, not rubbery or overdone like you sometimes get at breakfast chains. I’d order it again in a heartbeat.

The omelet came with home fries and cinnamon raisin toast as the sides. The cinnamon raisin toast was a nice touch. I love when a breakfast spot offers something other than the standard white or wheat. Cinnamon raisin somehow makes a regular breakfast feel a little fancier. Just me?

Now, the home fries. They were the one disappointment of the savory side. Neither Jeremy nor I cared for them. I can’t quite put my finger on what was off about them, but they just didn’t do it for us. If I went back, I’d ask if I could swap them for something else.

The Stuffed French Toast Had Potential

Here’s the deal with the stuffed French toast. It’s a really cool concept on paper. Keke’s offers their stuffed French toast with several fruit options. Apple cinnamon, blueberry, or raspberry. We asked if they could swap in strawberries instead, and the kitchen accommodated us without any fuss.

I appreciated the flexibility.

But the French toast itself was a little dry. Not horribly so, just not as moist and rich as I would have hoped. The strawberries were fine, but they couldn’t quite save the bread itself.

Now I’m going to brag a little. I make a stuffed French toast at home that I created as a copycat of the version IHOP used to serve. Mine is rich, custardy, and has the perfect balance of sweet, soft and moist. Keke’s version reminded me a little of mine in concept, but mine wins in execution.

The Atmosphere Earned Some Points

The restaurant itself is clean, bright, and feels like a step up from your standard chain diner. The decor leans toward trendy without being over the top. The staff was friendly. We didn’t have to flag anybody down to get refills or check in on us.

Service was efficient. Our food came out at a reasonable pace, which mattered because we had a long drive ahead.

The dining room was full but not chaotic. It felt like the kind of place locals actually love rather than just a tourist trap. 

If you’re in Gainesville visiting family or for a University of Florida event, Keke’s is a solid stop.

Would I Eat Here Again?

Yes. With caveats.

If I were back in Gainesville…or any city that has a Keke’s now that I know it’s a chain…I’d absolutely return to Keke’s. But I’d probably order differently. I’d stick with the omelet (or try a different savory dish), and I’d skip the stuffed French toast next time. Maybe I’d try the pancakes or one of the breakfast combos.

That ham and cheese omelet earned my respect. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to come back even when other parts of the meal disappoint.

What I’d Order Next Time

If we make it back to Keke’s Breakfast Cafe in Gainesville, here’s my game plan:

  • Ham and cheese omelet (Jeremy can fight me for it)
  • Swap the home fries for something else
  • Try one of the specialty pancakes or waffles instead of the stuffed French toast…or at least try the nutella stuffed French toast because I’m betting that wouldn’t be as dry
  • Cinnamon raisin toast, always

Final Thoughts on Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

For a breakfast spot in Gainesville, Florida, Keke’s hits a sweet spot. It’s nicer than your average diner without being expensive enough to feel like a special occasion. The food is mostly good, the service is solid, and the atmosphere is comfortable enough that you don’t feel rushed.

The omelet was worth the trip. The French toast needs some work. The home fries should probably be reconsidered. But none of that is enough to keep me from going back.

If you’re driving through Florida (since that’s where 90% of their locations are), and need a real breakfast that’s not a fast food chain, look for a Keke’s and give it a try. Just order strategically.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go make myself some stuffed French toast now that I’m back at home.

My First Time at Shaking Seafood and Wings of Lexington: A Review

If you’ve been looking for a seafood spot in Lexington, Kentucky, you may have already come across Shaking Seafood and Wings of Lexington. My husband and I recently paid them a visit for the first time, and I’m here to give you a review of our experience.

TLDR: Would eat there again!

How We Ended Up There (It Wasn’t Exactly Planned)

Honestly, this was one of those spontaneous dinners that just kind of happens. We were out in Lexington on Saturday, February 21st, hunting for a new office chair for me and running errands. Before we knew it, it was getting late, and cooking dinner at home was completely off the table.

If you know me, you know how much I prefer eating at home. But, with hanger pains rearing their ugly head – it was time to eat! And, we were craving seafood…

We knew there were some seafood options in the area, and after a little debate about what was closest we picked Shaking Seafood and Wings of Lexington and decided to give it a shot.

We walked in around 9:15 PM. The restaurant closes at 11 PM on Saturdays, and there were still people there, so we figured why not? We stayed until closing along with several other folks that were glued to whatever sporting event was on at the bar. To be honest, I didn’t pay much attention so I couldn’t tell you what sport it was or who was winning.

Shell Yeah, Here’s What We Ordered

Once we sat down and got our menus, I asked our waitress for her recommendation. She pointed me straight to the fried catfish shaking tacos, and I went with it. They come with three warm tortillas filled with lettuce and coleslaw, topped with ranch, spicy mayo, and cheese.

They were genuinely impressive, and not too terribly expensive. I was surprised by how spicy they were, and the flavor was really well developed. Catfish can sometimes taste pretty bland to me, but that was not the case here at all thanks to the yummy sauce. The coleslaw on top was also really good, which I was not expecting to be a highlight but here we are.

My husband ordered a pound of snow crab from their seafood market menu, which came with two pieces of potato, one piece of corn, and one egg. For his sauce, he went with the Shaking Special, which is a combination of all three of their house sauces: Cajun (a blend of Cajun spices including cayenne pepper and paprika), lemon pepper (lemon zest with black pepper and light Cajun seasoning), and garlic butter (roasted garlic, melted butter, and light Cajun seasoning). The waitress recommended the medium spice level for the snow crab, and he took her advice on that too.

The Verdict on the Food

The snow crab at medium spice was no joke. It was the kind of heat that builds as you eat, so by the end of the meal you are really feeling it. My husband said he loved the snow crab legs and would absolutely order them again. I tried a little and thought it was delicious too.

The potatoes that came with his combo were perfectly seasoned (thanks to all the Shaking Special sauce all over the plate!) and really good. He also said the corn was fantastic. The egg, though? Neither of us were fans of that. It felt a little out of place to be honest, and we could have done without it entirely.

I let him try my catfish tacos and he agreed the catfish was cooked perfectly and the sauce was great. So basically we both enjoyed our dinner.

The Staff Didn’t Flounder Either

The waitstaff was lovely and very attentive. Any time we were running low on drinks, they were right there with refills. That kind of service matters, especially when you’re sitting down for a full meal close to closing time.

What I’m Reeling In Next Time

There were a couple of things on the menu that caught my eye that I didn’t get to try this time around. The crab cakes are at the top of my list. They’re made with lump crab meat and served with sweet butter corn and bell pepper, plus a choice of spicy mayo or tartar sauce. I love to make my own crab cakes at home, but I’m always curious to try them elsewhere.

I also want to go back for the catfish basket, which comes with four pieces of catfish plus fries and all the dipping sauces. If the catfish in my tacos was any indication, the basket is going to be really good.

My husband already has his next order picked out too. He’s going back for another seafood combo.

Is It Worth It? Let’s Talk Claws and Dollars

I will say that Shaking Seafood is a little pricey, but that’s pretty standard right now, and seafood especially tends to run higher due to market pricing. If you’re going in for crab, just know the price can vary depending on availability and the season. Going in with that expectation makes it easier to enjoy the experience without any sticker shock.

Our total with tax and tip came it at under $75, but considering what we ordered, we weren’t too crabby about the cost.

The Bottom Line

Shaking Seafood and Wings of Lexington is a Cajun style seafood restaurant with homemade sauces, solid food, and good service. For a first visit, we both came away happy and ready to go back. If you’re in Lexington and looking for a seafood dinner, it’s worth checking out.

You can find them at 3110 Mapleleaf Drive in Lexington, KY 40509. Their website is shakingseafoodlexington.com, here’s their Facebook page, or you can reach them by phone at (859) 264-8888.

Have you been to Shaking Seafood and Wings of Lexington? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

My First Time at Jungle Jim’s International Market: A Food Lover’s Disney World

First time at Jungle Jim’s International Market in Fairfield, Ohio? Here’s what to expect from one of the most overwhelming, exciting, and unforgettable food experiences in the Midwest.

What Even Is Jungle Jim’s International Market?

I mentioned I was headed to Ohio for Valentine’s Day, and my gym buddy Sara told me a little about Jungle Jim’s International Market. She said we should definitely stop by, but nothing could have prepared me for what it actually was.

My husband and I made the two-hour drive out to the Fairfield, Ohio location on Valentine’s Day, and while a grocery store might seem like an unconventional way to spend the holiday, it turned out to be part of one of the most fun and memorable outings we’ve had in a long time.

To give you a little context about what this place even is: Jungle Jim’s got its start back in 1971 when a man named “Jungle” Jim Bonaminio set up a roadside produce stand in a parking lot in Hamilton, Ohio.

It moved around a few times before he finally bought his own land, and the first actual store opened in 1975 with about 4,200 square feet of space. Over the decades, he just kept expanding and adding things at customer request.

In 1988, after visiting specialty markets in Chicago, he made the decision to turn it into a full international market and introduce the jungle theme. Today, the flagship Fairfield location sits at roughly 200,000 square feet and carries over 180,000 products. There’s a second location in Eastgate that opened in 2012. To put it plainly: this is not a grocery store. It is an experience.

Walking In: Disney World Vibes from the Start

Growing up in Tampa, my frame of reference for “overwhelming but magical” is Disney World. And I’m telling you, the moment we walked through those doors, that is exactly what came to mind.

Even the signage had this big, bright, theme-park energy that made you feel like you were somewhere special. The whole place has that same quality of being almost too much to take in at once, where you turn a corner and find something you never expected.

We got there a few hours before closing, which, as we quickly learned, was both plenty of time and somehow not enough. The first thing that greeted us near the entrance was a section full of novelty and gift items. Novelty snacks and treats, Harry Potter merchandise, goods tied to different movies and TV shows, all kinds of fun stuff that had nothing to do with your weekly grocery run. It immediately signaled that this place was not going to be your average shopping trip.

Here’s a fun video of the place to give you just a taste of all we saw:

Ice Cream, Wine, and Walking the Aisles

Then we spotted the ice cream shop. Inside the grocery store. We looked at each other and just laughed, because of course there’s an ice cream shop. We tried a few samples and then committed: I went with cookies and cream, and my husband got chocolate chip cookie dough. Walking around a massive international market eating ice cream cones felt a little absurd and completely wonderful.

From there, we noticed there was an actual bar inside the store where you could do wine tastings. So naturally, we walked over and I ordered a glass of raspberry truffle wine, which I had never tried before. At five dollars a glass, it felt like a no-brainer. There’s something deeply funny and delightful about sipping a glass of wine while wandering the aisles of a grocery store, and we leaned into it completely.

The International Food Selection Is Truly Something Else

With our drinks in hand, we made our way through the store and it just kept going. The wine section alone is staggering, with around 12,000 options. The liquor section is its own whole world. And then you hit the international aisles and that’s where things get truly impressive. 

There were dedicated sections for foods from countries all over the globe including African, Mexican, and Indian sections, and so many more. The store carries products from an enormous range of food cultures, and it’s one of those places where you find yourself stopping every few feet just to look at something you’ve never seen before. They also carry around 1,600 cheeses and 1,000 varieties of hot sauce, which sounds like a made-up number until you’re standing in front of the shelves.

We also came across the cigar area, which had a full humidor and everything you’d need if that’s your thing. But the moment that genuinely stopped us in our tracks was the live seafood section.

Lobsters and all kinds of fish were swimming in tanks, and there was an enormous variety of fresh fish available for purchase, including species neither of us had ever even heard of. Because we arrived later in the day, some of the stations were starting to close down and wrap things up, but they were still packaging product you could buy and the sheer scale of what they offer there was obvious even at the fishtail end of the day.

Three Hours Later, We Still Didn’t See Everything

We spent a solid three hours there and pretty much stayed until the store closed. And here’s the thing: we didn’t buy a single item to take home. We hadn’t gone in with a shopping mindset. We went for the experience, to see what all the fuss was about. And while I have zero regrets about how we spent those three hours, I do have one small regret about leaving empty-handed. 

Here’s a longer walkthrough video of the place so you can see what you’re really getting into if you visit:

Three Things I Learned from My First Time at Jungle Jim’s

1. Take advantage of the map. There is a reason this store provides a map, and you should absolutely pick one up the moment you walk in if you have never been there before. The place is enormous and organized in a way that makes sense once you understand it, but without some kind of guide you will wander aimlessly. Which is fun, but if you’re trying to actually find something, you’ll want the map.

2. If you’re going there to grocery shop, go in with a plan. I genuinely could not figure out how people use this as their regular grocery store, but there were absolutely people in there just doing their weekly shopping. I have so much respect for them. The selection is overwhelming in the best way, but if you walk in without a list and a strategy, you will be absolutely lost. There are too many options, too many sections, and too many distractions to just wing it.

3. Come ready to buy something. This is my biggest takeaway. We drove two hours to get there, and without a cooler in the car it wasn’t practical to bring home any of the cheeses, fresh seafood, or specialty foods that we were eyeing. I genuinely wish we had thought ahead and packed one. When you’re looking at live lobster tanks and walls of imported goods, you want to be in a position to actually take something home with you. Don’t make our mistake. Plan ahead, bring a cooler if you can, and come ready to treat yourself. Jungle Jim’s is the kind of place that deserves more than just a look around.