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Your Premier Dining Destination in Eatonton, GA
Lake Oconee Bistro brings a historic 100-year-old building to life with a commitment to exceptional food, drinks, and service. Our mission is to create a welcoming casual dining destination rooted in local tradition and community. Led by restaurant veterans Gary Sofen and William Burklo, we prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a passion for culinary excellence. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, we offer a vibrant atmosphere complemented by private event spaces like The Magnolia Room and The Sandbar.

Our dedication to quality extends to handcrafted menus featuring seafood, steaks, and Southern-inspired dishes, alongside weekend brunch specials and a renowned Bloody Mary bar. With a focus on preserving the buildings historic charm while delivering modern hospitality, we aim to be a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Services
Lunch Service Dinner Service Weekend Brunch Catering Private Events Bloody Mary Bar Mimosas Online Ordering Gift Cards Employment Opportunities
Highlights and features
  • We operate from a historic 100-year-old building with deep local roots.
  • Our team includes restaurant veterans with decades of industry experience.
  • We use fresh, locally sourced ingredients for all dishes.
  • We offer versatile private event spaces for up to 100 guests.
  • We serve lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch seven days a week.
Services
Private Event Hosting
Our private event spaces, The Magnolia Room and The Sandbar, accommodate up to 40 and 100 guests respectively. Ideal for weddings, corporate events, or family gatherings, we offer customizable menus and full-service planning support. Our historic setting combines charm with modern amenities for unforgettable occasions.
Weekend Brunch
Served Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM, our brunch menu features Belgian waffles, omelettes, build-your-own Bloody Mary bars, and Southern specialties. A full bar includes bottomless coffee, mimosas, and craft cocktails to enhance your weekend experience.
Catering Services
We provide full-service catering for off-site events, including custom menus, staffing, and equipment rental. From casual buffets to formal dinners, our culinary team ensures fresh, locally sourced dishes tailored to your events theme and dietary needs.
Seafood Specialties
Our menu highlights include cedar-plank salmon, jambalaya, and lobster pizza, all made with sustainably sourced seafood. Dishes like shrimp & grits and grouper bites showcase Southern coastal flavors, prepared daily using traditional techniques for maximum freshness and taste.
Handcrafted Burgers
Featured burgers include the Jacked Up Burger with jalapeos and the Greensboro Burger with brie cheese. Served on brioche buns with hand-cut fries, our smash burgers combine classic American flavors with premium ingredients like double patties and artisanal toppings.
People
Gary Sofen
Co-Owner
Gary Sofen is a restaurant veteran with decades of experience in the industry. He is passionate about using the finest local ingredients to create exceptional dining experiences. Gary leads the team at Lake Oconee Bistro with a commitment to quality and community.
William Burklo
Co-Owner
William Burklo brings extensive restaurant management expertise to Lake Oconee Bistro. He focuses on operational excellence and guest satisfaction, ensuring every visitor enjoys the buildings historic charm and modern culinary offerings.
Questions
What are the restaurant's operating hours?
We serve lunch and dinner daily. Weekend brunch runs 11 AM–3 PM. Specific hours vary; check our website for current details.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full-service catering for off-site events with customizable menus and staffing options.
Are private event spaces available?
Yes, we have two private venues: The Magnolia Room (40 guests) and The Sandbar (100 guests).
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash and major credit cards for all goods and services.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code. We recommend casual attire that reflects our relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.