With its downtown water park and miniature golf venue, Helen is a family-friendly vacation spot in the mountains of northern Georgia. This quaint little Alpine village boasts a variety of unique restaurants and cafeteria-style spots. From down-home cooking to international flavors, the city of Helen has it all. Book a stay at a cozy vacation rental in Helen today, and experience one of these top 10 eateries.

1. Chattahoochee Dog Haus

Formerly known as Jimmy’s Chicago Style Hot Dogs, the Chattahoochee Dog Haus offers a unique menu for anyone who loves hot dogs. Choose from standard toppings of relish and onions, or opt for something a little different like North Georgia BBQ pork or pimento cheese. You’ll also find a selection of sandwiches and sides. The owners are super nice, the service is spot-on, and it’s the perfect place to take the kids after a day on the river.

2. Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen

The sweet aromas greet you before you even walk in the door at the Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen. Located on Main Street, this little shop offers a large selection of confectioneries. Taste one of the delicious chocolate truffles, or opt for pears dipped in caramel and surrounded in a shell of chocolate. There’s also gourmet popcorn and homemade fudge in an array of flavors to take back to your vacation rental for later.

3. Betty’s Country Store

Betty’s Country Store has it all. Kids can browse the candy aisle, or you can stock up on supplies for your vacation rental. A small café sells sandwiches and sodas, and you can browse the fresh produce from local farmers. If you like honey, Betty’s has their own hives. Let the kids watch the bees hard at work, and then purchase the fruits of their labor before you leave.

Find the perfect Helen vacation rental on Tripping.com. Tripping.com is the world's #1 vacation rental search engine with over 10 million properties!

4. Nacoochee Village Pizzeria

Great prices and excellent service awaits you at the Nacoochee Village Pizzeria. There is outside seating for those coming in off the river, and a laid-back atmosphere if you choose to venture inside. Sample from the bowl of popcorn on your table while you wait for your meal. Be sure to check out the daily specials. There’s also salads, sandwiches, and made-to-order calzones.

5. Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe

Tempt your taste buds with some authentic German cuisine at Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Café. The lunch portions are huge, and prices are reasonable. Try the fried cheese sandwich and apple strudel. There’s also goulash, spaetzle, and German potato salad. The kids’ menu includes a chicken schnitzel that will leave them asking for more. The cafe is quite small, so you might be lucky enough to have the place to yourself. Call ahead for reservations if you have a large group.

6. The Meeting Place

Located across from Jolly’s Toys, The Meeting Place Family Restaurant is a cozy location to enjoy a meal together. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, the Meeting Place has a selection of specialty menu items, such as eggs Benedict, bagel sandwiches, and French toast. Try the fresh blueberry pancakes or the biscuits and gravy. The portions are large enough to satisfy any appetite, and the prices are reasonable, which is ideal for large families.

7. Kopper Kettle Fudge

Using only Hershey’s chocolate, the Kopper Kettle Fudge is the place to go to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let the kids pick from a wide selection of flavors, and take a slab back to your vacation rental to enjoy. Watch the art of hand-creaming and fudge making from a family that has been in business for over 40 years. You can also ship some goodies back home to family and friends.

8. Alpine Hot Dog and Grill Burger

The Alpine Hot Dog and Grill Burger is another tasty restaurant located right on Main Street in the heart of downtown. Sample the bratwurst combos, or opt for a grilled burger. All menu items are made-to-order, so they are always hot and fresh. They also sell chicken sandwiches and wraps along with a selection of sides and fountain drinks.

9. Granny’s Famous Funnel Cake Haus

You don’t have to go to the fair to taste a delicious funnel cake when you’re in Helen. Granny’s Famous Funnel Cake Haus is the oldest funnel cake store in the town. Start with a steaming hot funnel cake and add a variety of toppings to customize your creation, including caramel, powdered sugar, and homemade ice cream. They also sell giant ice cream cones, pretzels, and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

10. La Cabana Mexican Restaurant

If chips and salsa are what you’re after, stop by the La Cabana Mexican Restaurant. This family-friendly location offers live music and an outdoor patio that overlooks downtown Helen. Choose from a large selection of nachos, tacos, and fajitas. The kids’ menu includes cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and hot dogs for finicky eaters. Sample the fried ice cream or churros for dessert.


Ready to go? Check out these amazing Helen vacation rentals on Tripping.com.