A short drive from Atlanta, Augusta, and Athens, Georgia, Thomson makes for a great day trip or affordable weekend getaway. While you may choose to visit based on Thomson's outdoor offerings or unique history, the culinary scene is one of Thomson's biggest draws. From Italian to Mexican and Barbecue to traditional Southern cooking, Thomson has it all. Here are 7 great restaurants in Thomson, Georgia.

1. Deep South Cheese And Grill

This local restaurant brings cheese curds and poutine to the South. Choose from five different types of poutine, Classic (French Fries, Cheese Curds, Homemade Gravy), Dearing Favorite (plus Smoked Sausage, Grilled Onions, Crumbled Bacon), Cattleman's Poutine (add Ground Steak Burger, Grilled Onions), Sausage & Cheese (plus Smoked Sausage), or Italian (Marinara Sauce instead of Homemade Gravy), or opt for "Squeaky Cheese" Cheese Curds (made in-house with fresh, locally sourced milk). Burgers, Smoked Sausage Dogs, and Soups are also on Deep South Cheese and Grill's menu.

2. Fernanda's Grill And Pizzeria

Fernanda's Grill and Pizzeria is a New York style pizzeria and Italian restaurant in Thomson. The menu includes appetizers like Mozzarella Sticks and Bruschetta Abruzzo, Insalata, Hot and Cold Subs, New York Style Pizza, Calzones, Strombolis, and Pasta dishes. You are sure to have a delicious meal no matter what you order!

3. Habaneros Mexican Grill

If you are in the mood for Mexican food, look no further than Habaneros Mexican Grill. With the best Mexican food in town, good service, and a nice atmosphere, it's easy to see why Habaneros is a favorite of Thomson locals and visitors alike.

4. Highrail, Southern Eatery

Highrail serves the freshest and highest quality food in Thomson. Enjoy Surf & Turf, Comfort Foods, and a wide variety of wine, beer, and cocktails from this casual eatery. Daily specials are offered during lunch and dinner, there is a "Dinner And A Movie" promotion Monday through Thursday, and Highrail serves Sunday Brunch. There's something for everyone at Highrail!

5. Hogie Joe's Sports Grill

Hogie Joe's Sports Grill specializes in hand-pattied, fresh hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, and hand-cut steaks. The menu is huge but you will probably want to order one of Hogie Joe's Signature Burgers--they've been voted McDuffie County's best burgers since 2010. Although it's not the star of the show, you will definitely want to save room for dessert here. With seven flat-screen TVs throughout the restaurant, this is the perfect place to watch your favorite sporting events.

6. Poppa's Finest BBQ

The recipes and traditional Bar-B-Que at Poppa's have been passed down through three generations. Poppa's Finest BBQ specializes in beef, pork, chicken, ribs, and rib tips. What's Bar-B-Que without a fantastic side? Pair your meal with Green Beans, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, or Corn on the Cob.

7. Sweet T's Restaurant

Enjoy a lil country in every bite at Sweet T's. This local eatery serves true southern cooking for lunch, just like your grandma made it. The menu at Sweet T's includes a large selection of vegetables, like mashed potatoes, cream corn, turnips, macaroni and cheese, broccoli and cheese casserole, and sweet potato casserole.

Eat Local

No matter which of these 7 great restaurants in Thomson you choose to dine at, you are sure to have a good meal. Enjoy Thomson, Georgia's culinary scene!

If you need more help planning your Thomson adventure, stop by the Thomson-McDuffie County CVB in the heart of downtown.

Taylor Pittman Hardy of Wherever I May Roam Blog wrote this article.

7 Great Restaurants In Thomson, Georgia