Bites Nearby: Chops & Hops

Billed as offering “food, beer and conversation,” should go one step further and add the superlatives. “Fine food, choice beer and wine and good conversation” is closer to the truth.

Executive Chef Richard Miley believes in preparing food to order using only the freshest of ingredients. He believes that “simplicity works,” and this basic philosophy is the foundation of the restaurant.

The extra touches on the menu demand that you savor the food’s special zing. The crab cake starter is served with a chipotle tartar sauce and lime. Chops & Hops does the popular fish taco one better and serves up salmon tacos as a starter accompanied by avocado ranch in addition to chipotle tartar. The salad ingredients read like a list of food treasures: sundried cranberries and apricots, candied pecans, focaccia croutons, bleu cheese and smoked bacon, to name a few. The chef creates a special soup daily in addition to daily menu specials.

If you are looking for a good steak, then you need look no further. All of the chops are hand cut using only Choice Black Angus beef and grilled the way you want it. Non-steak lovers are in for a treat, too. Alternative entree items include shrimp, scallops, lamb chops, pork chops and a vegetarian plate, all served with special touches, such as goat cheese mashed potatoes. 

The menu also includes a variety of inspired burgers and sandwiches and children’s meals. Chops & Hops has it all.

2 South Main St., Watkinsville. 706-310-1101. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Prices: Entrees from $16 to $26.