Cartersville’s Hidden Gem: Appalachian Grill

Located just 40 minutes northwest of Atlanta, Cartersville can lay claim to one of the most quaint, romantic steak house restaurants in this area. The Appalachian Grill offers all standard cuts of beef (rib-eye, strip, filet, and sirloin) prepared in their own special way, with signature flavor and spices. Also on the menu are various fish and pasta entrees, with a small kids menu available.

However, the steaks are what most patrons come for. The rustic, mountainous charm presented in this small, cozy restaurant nestled in downtown Cartersville is an unsuspecting delight in suburbia.

The lighting is quite dim in the dining room; however, the bar area is bright but not spacious. On a good Saturday night, it can get down right crowded; plan accordingly. Waits can last up to an hour, but reservations are accepted. Mainly booths align the walls of the dining room, which are covered in a grayish stone façade; complimenting the Appalachian theme. Guest are seated by the hostess, during my visit, a waiter (Scott) immediately asked for our beverage of choice. A moderate wine list is available, as well as a limited bar.

Pictured are recent chef specials.

Food at The Appalachian Grill

Most entrees are accompanied by a sensible salad, a portion that would satisfy some as the meal. Topped with dried cranberries and served with fish-shaped sweet cornbread; The Appalachian Grill can call these one of their signature offerings. Appropriately staggered next was our Cajun Popcorn appetizer. Crawfish, battered and lightly fried as “popcorn portions;” it was excellent. Very light and two sauces for dipping, a Cajun chipotle honey sauce and a standard cocktail sauce; they were unlike anything I have tasted before. Both sauces complimented the crawfish, very well.

The Blue Cheese New York Strip and the “Oscar Steak” were cooked to perfection. Each steak was severed with lump crab meat (no imitation stuff here), potato of your choice and vegetables. The asparagus with the “Oscar” was crisp, but savory – delicious. The baked potatoes on both entrees could’ve been cooked a bit longer because they were only slightly warm in the center. Nevertheless, the meal was delightfully prepared; dessert was out of the question. Only 4-5 items were on the dessert menu; however, daily specials are offered.

Charm, proximity, hospitality and excellent food make this steakhouse a pleasure. Although a bit more expensive than most chain steak restaurants; The Appalachian Grill is one of my favorites. A couple can have a three course meal and each a glass of wine, or two, under one hundred dollars.