Several customers reported long wait times and inattentive service, with some leaving due to lack of acknowledgment from staff.
Food Quality
While many praised the food as delicious, there were numerous complaints about items being unavailable, bland flavors, and inconsistent quality.
Menu Changes
Customers expressed disappointment over recent menu changes, noting a reduction in unique offerings and availability of popular items.
Positive Experiences
Despite the issues, many reviews highlighted excellent service from specific staff members and enjoyable food experiences, indicating potential for improvement.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere received mixed reviews, with some enjoying the live music and decor, while others found it too noisy.
DC
David Clay
Nov 11, 2025
5.0
This place has become a normal stop for me and my girlfriend on our way back to Griffin from our cabin in NC. The food and service are always good and there are games on the TV. Win, win.
DD
David
Nov 8, 2025
1.0
I hate to do this. My wife and I got chili tonstart and it is amazing. I got the trout which is really good and she got the salmon. Hers was raw. Cold and slimy. She didn't want to complain but i convinced her to try a new place and spoke up for her. Our server apologized and took it back to get us a new piece.
What was brought to us was confusing and felt like a prank. It was a third of a piece of fish, not even salmon, on a bed of lettuce instead of the rest of the fish. I tried it and it was foul, i went to the bathroom and spit it out. We gave up and pushed it away. Our server charged half price for my wife's meal (for the sides i guess). It felt like she at least tried.
CC
Cheyney Carter
Nov 3, 2025
1.0
I looked at menu online and decide to try them. Once seated, we were informed the menu is not the one online. Extremely limited bar food. We won't be back. Many tables were upset with the bait and switch.
SN
Sara New
Oct 27, 2025
5.0
I just wanted to share that Kinsey is an amazing host at Big Bear! I came in with a friend for dinner to see my fiancé play (as he often does), and although there was a bit of a wait this time — totally understandable during the busy fall season — Kinsey went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of. After noticing we’d been waiting for a while, she quickly found us a great seat near where he was playing. Throughout the night, she stayed upbeat, attentive, and thorough with our orders, all while managing several other tables. The rest of the staff were also friendly and helpful — you can really tell the team works hard to keep things running smoothly here!
AB
Amy B
Oct 23, 2025
1.0
My son and I tried to eat here for dinner. We waited at the hostess stand for 5 minutes and were not acknowledged by any of the staff including the manager who was standing near the bar looking directly at us. He finally came over as we were about to leave. We went to The Butcher and Bottle instead where we were immediately greeted by a hostess and had a delicious meal. I highly recommend The Butcher and Bottle downtown.
In response to the reply I got… that’s a lie. It was 5 minutes. I didn’t scold anyone and your service and attitude towards potential customers sucks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill
What are the regular operating hours of Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill?
Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill is open Monday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM, closed Tuesday, Wednesday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM, Thursday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM, and Sunday 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
Is Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill open on Tuesdays and Sundays?
The business is closed on Tuesdays, but it is open Sundays from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
What delivery and pickup services does Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill offer?
They offer both in-store pickup and delivery services.
What are the takeout hours at Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill?
Takeout is available Monday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM, closed Tuesday, Wednesday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM, Thursday 11:35 AM - 8:50 PM, Friday 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM, Saturday 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM, and Sunday closed.
Are there any holiday closures at Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill?
Yes, the restaurant is closed on December 25th each year but remains open on July 4th with hours from 11:45 AM to 9:00 PM.
Where is Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill located?
It is located at 29 Highland Dr Suite 109, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA.
Where can I view the menu and place an order online?
You can view the menu and place orders at https://bigbearellijay.com/menu.
Are there any notable nearby restaurants to Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill?
Yes, nearby restaurants include The Honey Baked Ham Company, Jersey Mike's, Il Forno Restaurant & Bar, Pueblo Mexican Restaurant, Wendy's, El Rey Azteca, and Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar & Hibachi.
What nearby services could be convenient during my visit to Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill?
Nearby services include real estate agents like Aly Smith - North GA & Western NC Realtor and Kendall & Jeanie Wiseley, Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, as well as financial services like Liberty Tax and Lendmark Financial Services.
What local shops are near Big Bear Ellijay Bar & Grill for additional shopping or errands?
Nearby shops include Barnes Furniture, North Georgia Diamond jewelry store, Liquid Vapor Outlet, AT&T Store, Dollar Tree, and Sally Beauty for beauty products.