The Laurel Bar

Came in for a drink, anticipating that we would move on for dinner somewhere else. Wifey had some basil grapefruit martini here a year ago, and wanted another one. The place apparently turned over 100% of staff in December, so Ginger was no longer there. Jonathan was our bartender, and took great care of us. Made mojitos for girls, old fashions for guys, both very good.
After drink, we wanted another one, and didn’t want to go somewhere else for dinner, so we stayed. Jonathan made second mojito round for girls, whiskey sour (w egg white) for friend, and bourbon for me. We ordered seafood dip, seafood bisque & scallops entrée. Friends ordered burger & stuffed trout. Our food was very good, scallops were a home run. Seafood dip could use less green/​red pepper — or none actually. Bisque was right on, wifey didn’t like spicey/​old bay-​like finish, but I did.
We had excellent service — Jonathan was attentive and conversational — 5^th generation Rabun Co native, with some life experiences. Really nice to accidentally land here and stay here, check it out.

We stopped in here for a drink one Saturday while visiting Clayton. I was blown away from the minute we came in. This is a small spot, but absolutely gorgeous from top to bottom. We sat at the bar and marveled at the nature/​forest inspired décor and the beautiful fireplace with armchairs positioned in front. They were the only restaurant in town offering live music on this early March evening. We tried a few microbrews (bottles) and snacked on an absolutely delicious warm seafood dip. The folks next to us devoured the «lamb three ways» and raved about it. Staff was warm, friendly and welcoming. Can’t wait to come back for a full meal on our next trip!

The word «extraordinary» may be overused but such an accolade is earned by The Laurel at White Birch. The establishment possesses multiple personalities — spacious, inviting bar with hand-​hewn furnishings and wood-​burning fireplace; hideaway restaurant for the getaway-​private dinner; several rooms for overnight lodging. To say the place is well-​appointed is an understatement. The classy consistency shows in the cuisine —Trout dip with crispy crackers and crostini, filet and lamb entrees cooked precisely to order, plus an interesting variety of beers, wines and spirits. As lively or, if you prefer, cozy experience as you will find in the territory. A «must» return.

My sirloin, potatoes, broccoli, were barely lukewarm, ¼ of the steak was grizzle/​fat, and scoop of ice cream was hollow so barely ½ of a scoop. On the plus side, the atmosphere is GREAT!

Laurel Bar went so far beyond my expectations, I would give them six stars if I could. Their food is fantastic, the service was great, the staff was warm and friendly, the décor was very nice, the drink list was thorough, prices were reasonable and portions were perfect. This place is an absolute gem. If you’re near by, I can’t imagine you could possibly find a better option for dinner.

Ginger the bartender is a true mixologist and the different seating areas indoor and outdoor along with the charm of this place make it a must stop. Good food and service… we will be back.

The cheese plate and Caesar salad were both something special. Had a weird experience when I first got there that no one seated me, asked if I needed something, etc. until I went to the bar to ask «how things work here.» Would still come again because the entrée list is something that I need to experience.

Excellent. Ambiance was tasteful yet cozy, wine delicious and food surprisingly inspired. Traditional food selections done well. 3oz filet could have easily been overdone, but was cooked perfectly to temperature. Ice cream and desserts are all made in-​house and you can taste the difference. Top 3: 1) herringbone wood ceiling, 2) steak filet/​beet arugula salad (tie), 3) leather saddle chair/​raw cotton wreath (tie)
Great place in Clayton and frankly a great place anywhere! Makes me want to stay the night and see what the accommodations are like.

This is a amazing restaurant. The atmosphere, service and food were phenomenal. If you are in the area do not miss an opportunity to dine there.

What a find! Great ambiance, wonderful drinks, excellent service and delicious food.

5 Stars, through and through. My mom just bought a place down here for the summers, and boy has this tapas bar/​bed & breakfast increased the class and aesthetic of the charming town. The location is prime right in the center of the town, so you can either stay for dinner, or have a drink and hop to the next place.
First things first, the cocktails are amazing. I don’t know who these bartenders are, but someone’s training some mixologists down in the south!
Second, the décor reminds you of a chic cabin. I met the owners, Brenda and Chuck Patterson, and they apparently gutted the whole building and redecorated and designed the place from scratch.
Third, the food. Amazing. Fresh vegetables from local farmers. I could eat the shrimp and grits all day.
Lastly, the rooms upstairs… if you have a chance, ask to check them out. They are each designed with a different and unique theme. All equally beautiful.
It’s a mama and pop sort of place, so the service is 100% all about the customer. If you are driving through or planning a visit, I highly recommend this place!

There’s no better place to relax with friends over a couple of cocktails. Hands down the best ambiance in the area. Food is delicious, staff is warm and friendly, and their scotch and bourbon selection is very impressive.

Flew in from Chicago yesterday to check out the area and ended up having dinner here. Wow! Great food and no expense was spared on the décor.

Will be back many times. Awesome tapas and drinks. Service was wonderful.