Located just 30 minutes from the Atlanta perimeter on I-75/575, Woodstock is an unexpected destination with an ever-growing culinary scene. With new restaurants and even more on the horizon, Woodstock is bustling with creative chefs and outstanding dining experiences. Here’s a look into Woodstock’s thriving culinary scene, noteworthy new spots and a little more about the chefs making an impact in the community.
Meet Chef Lauren Bolden of Pie Bar
Celebrating nine years this fall, Downtown Woodstock’s award-winning Pie Bar is such a treat in more ways than one. Specializing in handcrafted sweet pies with beloved flavors like rustic Peach Crumble Pie and Brown Sugar Chess Pie, the shop also offers seasonal favorites such as Apple Streusel, S’mores Pie and other sweet treats. Chef Lauren Bolden and her husband were inspired to open their business in downtown Woodstock after experiencing first-hand the warmth and supportive nature of the community. What started out as selling pies at local farmers markets is now an award-winning business with two locations (Woodstock and nearby Marietta).
Recently named “Executive Chef of the Year” by Georgia Grown, Lauren and her team are focused on creating warm memories for patrons through pies. From the first bite of a Coconut Cream Pie that takes diners right back to grandma’s kitchen to new memories and milestone celebrations—commemorated over a warm slice of pie with family and friends, creating memories is Pie Bar’s specialty. When asked what her favorite pie is to prepare, Bolden noted seasonal flavors are always a favorite to prepare but when it comes to indulging, it’s the brown sugar chess pie for her. As for the future, Lauren and her team look forward to deepening their roots within the Woodstock community with hopes of slow and steady growth in the years to come. Pie Bar, 8720 Main Street, Suite 130, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-402-6245
Meet Chef William Sigley of Prime 120 and the new Roberto’s Deluxe
Led by Chef William Sigley, Prime 120, located in the heart of downtown Woodstock, opened in 2019 to a smashing success. Offering diners a premier steakhouse experience complete with crafted cocktails, an elegant dining room and a spacious patio featuring a 20-foot stone fireplace, Prime 120 is a favorite among locals and visitors. Inspired by fresh, in-season ingredients, Chef William Sigley believes in keeping things simple, allowing the fresh ingredients to be the stars of every dish. Aside from the incredible food, creative cocktails and outstanding service, it’s the atmosphere at Prime 120 that really makes it special. When asked what his greatest accomplishment is thus far at Prime 120, Chef William spoke of the folks that make Prime 120 what it is day in and day out. With a team comprised of many young locals, many of which have little to no work experience, Sigley and his team pour into their employees, giving them hands-on opportunities to learn and grow. Warmth, excitement and loyalty exudes throughout Prime 120 making it a truly magical place.
Chef William’s newest restaurant, Roberto’s Deluxe, located in downtown Woodstock, is equally as special. Offering the freshest seafood around that’s expertly prepared by talented chefs, Roberto’s Deluxe gives diners the chance to taste the ocean in every bite. Featuring oysters and shellfish from around the globe in an up front and center raw bar (the main attraction!), as well as counter-mounted steam kettles serving up delicious stews and chowders, diners instantly fall in love with the impressive selections and laid-back ambiance.
When asked where the inspiration for Roberto’s Deluxe came from, Chef William simply noted it was a love letter to his first and longest employee, Roberto Olmeda. Roberto was an expert oyster shucker, dishwasher and all-around great person who was beloved by everyone. Roberto is the inspiration for all things within the restaurant and for those that knew him, his influence can be felt with every visit.
Roberto’s Deluxe opened summer of 2024 and is already expanding its hours to include lunch on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Insider tip—don’t miss the cocktail selections—Chef noted the martinis are so cold and shaken to perfection, you can walk across the ice floating on top. Prime 120, 120 Chambers Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-800-8049; Century House, 125 East Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-693-4552 | Roberto’s Deluxe, 8212 Main Street, Suite 1102, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-395-9592
More on the menu
In addition to these great spots, there are several more noteworthy new spots including Sizzling Spices, Woodstock’s first Indian restaurant. Featuring a menu blending traditional recipes with modern twists, this family-owned restaurant is passionate about providing a welcoming atmosphere showcasing India’s rich culinary traditions. From aromatic tikka masala and sizzling tandoori delights to a variety of rich curries made with fresh ingredients, diners are sure to indulge in an authentic Indian culinary experience. Sizzling Spices, 106 Arnold Mill Road, Suite A-1, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-401-2488
Sucre, a New Orleans-founded luxury sweet boutique located in the heart of downtown Woodstock, offers unique handmade, French inspired desserts and sweets. From their renowned macarons to gelato and more, this new patisserie offers guests top notch customer service and an elegant ambiance perfect for indulging in decadent desserts. Stop in and treat yourself or pick up a gift of sweets for that special someone. Sucre, 8654 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 877-414-1708
To add to the already booming culinary variety in Woodstock, there are four additional restaurants already underway in the downtown district that are expected to open within the next 12 months. Visit VisitWoodstockGA.com to stay abreast of new restaurants and more.
Hungry for more? Don’t miss Woodstock’s 12th annual Taste of Woodstock happening September 12, 2024, in downtown Woodstock. This beloved event features over 25 local restaurants all of which offer small tastes of some of their most popular bites. For more information on the Taste of Woodstock, click here.
Visiting Woodstock
Come for the arts and stay to experience so much more! Woodstock offers a variety of lodging options, spectacular dining experiences, shopping and options for entertainment. Don’t miss dinner and rooftop views at Rootstock, known for offering farm fresh gourmet food, an impressive wine list, whiskey tastings and live music. Grab a local brew at Jekyll Brewing and pop in Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop and Boutique for that one of a kind find. Rootstock, 8558 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188; 770-544-9009; Jekyll Brewing, 8634 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188; 844-453-5955; Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop and Boutique, 102 Fowler Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188, 770-926-9280
For information on annual events and year round happenings such as walking tours, seasonal markets and more, please visit VisitWoodstockGA.com/events/ or make a stop at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store located in the heart of downtown Woodstock. Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-924-0406
