Finding a decent meal in Fitzgerald, GA can feel like a scavenger hunt. Unless you’re content with the same old diner fare every Friday night because their pie is reliable and you still haven’t mastered a decent pot roast, dining out here often means circling the same few blocks, hoping something—anything—has a table. But there’s a better way: knowing where to go. Save yourself the hunger-induced despair and bookmark these spots.
Here are 11 restaurants that aren’t just good; they’re the best Fitzgerald has to offer.
Pizza Hut
$ | (229) 423-2023 | WEBSITE
Pizza Hut is probably a place you always drive right past, stop in again before catching a movie at the multiplex, and then wonder why you haven’t ordered from here the past five Fridays. And guess what? They also make a pepperoni pizza that rivals any in Fitzgerald – you’re getting the classic pan, the stuffed crust, or the Meat Lover’s. It does get crowded, but that’s what calling ahead is for. And yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to do breadsticks and soda before dinner.
Rancho Grande
$ | (229) 423-2323 | WEBSITE
You’re craving something vibrant and authentic this Friday night and you’ve settled on a Mexican feast at Rancho Grande. The lively Fitzgerald spot might be a bit more colorful than what you’re used to for dinner, but you’re celebrating a friend’s birthday with mariachi music afterwards – tonight is a perfect night for a $14 chunky guacamole starter. Rancho Grande’s location is also just a quick drive from all the downtown entertainment.
Ronny’s Hamburger Shack
$ | (229) 423-3013 | WEBSITE
While it’s known as one of Fitzgerald’s most popular family spots, what many don’t realize is Ronny’s Hamburger Shack opens bright and early every morning. Sure, you can’t get their famous ribs or double hamburger until lunchtime, but items like the packed breakfast menu, kid-friendly pancakes, and accommodating service (especially for children with autism) more than make up for that.
It’s the perfect small-town diner where everything on the menu is fantastic, with special mentions going to those excellent ribs and that flavorful chili.
Captain D’s
$ | (229) 423-0334 | WEBSITE
After a long week of work and maybe one too many greasy takeout boxes, it’s time to treat yourself right and head to Captain D’s. The classic Southern-style fish spot where the atmosphere is reliably enjoyable and the cheese sticks are downright delicious is as Fitzgerald as it gets, but the food here is pretty tasty. Also, the casual dining room is welcoming, straightforward, and not as crowded on a weeknight as you might expect.
Cafe Budapest
$ | (229) 635-1004 | WEBSITE
Right in the heart of Fitzgerald sits this cozy, sandwich-focused neighborhood spot that feels like you’re grabbing lunch at your favorite aunt’s welcoming kitchen. Come lunchtime, you’ll find their full selection of wraps and sandwiches (they serve the chicken avocado club that everyone raves about), but the atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly and there’s still that banana pudding cheesecake we can’t stop ourselves from ordering every time we visit.
If you’re looking for a different kind of casual lunch experience, head over to Cafe Budapest.
Huddle House
$ | (229) 424-0980 | WEBSITE
You have plenty of breakfast choices in Fitzgerald, but there are three words that make Huddle House one of our favorites: Loaded Potato Bowl. Besides serving all the best savory things in one menu item, Huddle House’s breakfast is perfect for literally everything. Come with a group for a meal, a friend for some quality time, or the family you woke up with this morning.
Burger King
$ | (229) 423-4170 | WEBSITE
Heading to Fitzgerald for fast food might seem like an obvious choice, but having a craving for Burger King is solid justification. You can wear your comfiest jeans and pretend you’re at a classic American diner (instead of a quick-service chain), and enjoy all the fries you want at lunchtime. An extra bonus is that you can typically get your order within minutes – not after a long wait in a crowded line.
Your daily dose
$ | (229) 423-0298 | WEBSITE
My sister, my cousin, and my college roommate are all meeting up and considering that my roommate starts craving caffeine by 9am, a coffee shop is your best-case scenario for getting through the morning. All three will be happy at Your Daily Dose.
The menu is highly approachable and a little bit comforting (delicious coffee, highly recommended iced coffees, a variety of pastries and muffins), the atmosphere is cozy (and will give you that hometown feel), and it’s friendly enough that my cousin will feel right at home. Obviously, it’s a local spot.
Ms. Mott’s Place llc.
$ | (229) 423-0070 | WEBSITE
It’s no secret that finding authentic comfort food in Fitzgerald can be a challenge, and you’re way too tired today to deal with complicated menus. Head to Ms. Mott’s Place. This consistently-reliable Southern restaurant right in the heart of town has a welcoming atmosphere, excellent buffet (get the perfectly seasoned wings or juicy fried chicken with sides), and very satisfying sweet tea. The friendly service and home-like feel make it a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Restaurante El Nopal
$ | (229) 345-1788 | WEBSITE
Restaurante El Nopal is a kind of standout spot for Fitzgerald, so locals have some strong opinions about this authentic Mexican place on the main strip. We are firmly in the pro camp, even with the slightly confusing no-free-refills thing going on (there’s a generous portion policy, a clean environment up front, a welcoming dining area, and horchata that’s highly recommended in the back).
At dinner you should be heading for the enchiladas, ordering the queso birra tacos, and then start wondering why you ever settled for chain Mexican food before.
Hibachi Buffet
$ | (229) 424-9630 | WEBSITE
If you’ve ever found yourself craving a feast with endless choices, then Hibachi Buffet is your destination. And if a massive plate of fresh hibachi isn’t quite what you’re after, there are other delights: everything from delicious vegetarian veggies and tasty selections to accommodating options for large groups, obviously, with plenty of accessibility. We almost prefer this spot for lunch – it’s welcoming and spacious and appropriately inviting.
