One of the beautiful things about Bulloch County is that if you want good chicken, we got it. If you want a good burger, we got it. Looking for a place for you and your friends to catch up with some good music? We got that, too.
There are enough places on the Blue Mile and Downtown Statesboro that have BINGO nights and karaoke to make sure there's never a night with nothing to do here.
Over the last year, we have seen plenty of businesses open in Statesboro. As you'll see below, we made sure that no one is going hungry for years to come, as we have added over 20 new places to eat and/or relax at.
Here is a look at some of the most anticipated openings:
Openings in 2024
3rd Dunkin Donuts
Statesboro’s third Dunkin’ location opened December 19, 2024, on Northside Drive East near Anderson’s General Store. This new location features a tap-to-order system and aims to ease traffic at the Fair Road and Walmart locations. A grand opening with giveaways is set for January 2025.
2nd Popeyes
Statesboro’s second Popeyes location opened on Northside Drive East with a modern design featuring a mobile order pickup window. Located near Dunkin’, Texas Roadhouse and Jim ‘n Nicks, this location offers the same Cajun-inspired favorites while adding jobs and convenience to the Highway 80 East area. Regular hours started December 26, 2024.
Sweet Impact
Sweet Impact, owned by Robert Lucas, opened its doors on April 6, 2024, in the plaza behind Elliano’s. The grand opening drew a crowd that lined up across the parking lot, eager to try Lucas’s signature sweets. Originally envisioned as a baking studio and content creation space, the shop grew out of local curiosity and demand for Lucas’s creations.
The storefront features a bright and welcoming atmosphere, complete with a sprinkle wall, a small lounge area, and an open kitchen where customers can see Lucas and his team at work. The menu includes crowd favorites like cheesecake jars in chocolate and strawberry, cookies, cosmic brownies, and specialty cupcakes in flavors like key lime and strawberry.
Lucas expressed gratitude to the community for their overwhelming support, calling the shop’s opening a dream come true. In addition to the storefront, Sweet Impact remains active in the local farmers market, further strengthening ties with the community. Located at 602 Brannen St., Sweet Impact is open Tuesday through Saturday, offering both in-store and online purchasing options.
Eggs Up Grill
Eggs Up Grill opened on May 28, 2024, at Eagles Corner Shopping Center, bringing a cozy breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot to Statesboro. Owned by Ashley and Nate Pennington, longtime Bulloch County residents, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with a menu full of classics like corned beef hash, made to order omelets, croissant style donuts, and lunch options like burgers and salads.
With seating for 120 indoors and 28 on the patio, Eggs Up Grill has quickly become a local favorite for dining in, carry-out, or delivery. Located at 137 Tormenta Way, it’s open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a taste of home cooking in a friendly, neighborhood setting.
Gators & Gypsies
Gators & Gypsies opened on July 20, 2024, in downtown Statesboro, blending art, music, and entertainment into a unique venue. Located at 19 E Vine St, it features local art for sale, nostalgic arcade games, pool tables, and live music, including performances by up-and-coming and established artists.
Themed events like karaoke and paint-and-sip nights create a lively community atmosphere, while the VIP room offers an exclusive experience with perks like bottle service and drink discounts. With nightly events and private rental options, Gators & Gypsies aims to be a go-to spot for creativity and connection in Statesboro.
3rd Chick-Fil-a
Chick-fil-A Eagles Corner opened its doors on May 8, 2024, at 333 Tormenta Way, offering another location for Statesboro’s college students and locals to enjoy their favorite chicken sandwich and waffle fries. With a dedicated Mobile Thru lane for app orders, this new spot makes grabbing breakfast, lunch, or dinner even more convenient.
Operated by longtime Statesboro resident David Boykin, who also owns the Northside Drive location. Chick-fil-A Eagles Corner employs around 100 team members, supports local charities like Feeding America, and participates in the Shared Table program to donate surplus food to those in need.
Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens opened its Statesboro location on February 26, 2024, at 463 Northside Drive East, revitalizing the former Hardee’s spot at Northside Drive and Lovett Road. Known for their buttermilk-marinated, hand-breaded chicken tenders made fresh-to-order, Slim Chickens offers a fast-casual dining experience with a focus on quality Southern-inspired dishes.
Beyond tenders, the menu includes sandwiches, wraps, and sides, all complemented by a choice of 17 house-made sauces. Their signature mason jar desserts add a charming Southern touch. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Slim Chickens brings fresh flavors and a “better chicken” experience to Statesboro.
Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza opened on November 5, 2024, at 301 Tormenta Way, behind Publix. Owned by Statesboro natives Grant and L.B. Watkins, along with Pete Kelly, the fast-casual pizza chain celebrated its grand opening by giving every in-store guest a free 11” pizza. The event featured live music by Brent Stephens, Rolling Monkey ice cream, and prize giveaways, including a chance to win free pizza for a year.
Blaze Pizza offers a fully customizable experience with over 45 fresh toppings and high-quality ingredients, from Italian sausage to plant-based chorizo, ensuring something for everyone.
Pour House Pub
Pour House Pub opened in March 2024 at 25 West Main St. in downtown Statesboro, bringing a cozy Irish pub experience to the heart of the city. Owned by Tori Zellner and Danielle Dudley, the pub offers classic pub fare like fish and chips, alongside creative twists such as shepherd’s pie eggrolls.
With a focus on preserving history, the restored space features original floors and walls, creating a charming atmosphere. Offering dine-in and delivery options, Pour House Pub has quickly become a go-to spot for food, drinks, and live music, where everyone feels welcome and eager to return.
Oak 45
Oak 45 opened in December 2024 at 45 E. Main St., offering downtown Statesboro a sophisticated bar experience with a blend of modern elegance and welcoming charm. Owned by Daniel Long, Will Daley, Kyle Hadden, and managed by Kyle Garrard, the space features stylish décor and a curated menu of small plates, including charcuterie skewers and marinated olives, with plans to add desserts soon.
Signature cocktails, crafted by mixologist Aaron Phillips, include unique creations like the Spicy Monkey and espresso martinis made with a custom coffee blend. Designed for locals seeking a relaxed, mature atmosphere, Oak 45 provides a refined escape from the typical college-town vibe. Open Tuesday through Saturday evenings, it’s quickly becoming a downtown favorite for drinks and connection.
Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse officially opened on August 26, 2024, at 24024 U.S. Highway 80 East in Statesboro, marking one of the city’s most anticipated restaurant launches. Led by managing partner and Statesboro native Maurice Jackson, the 8,900-square-foot steakhouse brings its signature menu of steaks, chicken, salads, and sides to the community, with a warm hometown touch.
The restaurant will serve dinner Monday through Thursday from 3 to 10 p.m. and offer lunch and dinner on weekends from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The ribbon-cutting event, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, included the unveiling of a new GS Eagle statue named Virginia, in honor of Jackson’s mother, symbolically welcoming guests to the new dining spot. Texas Roadhouse is already making a name as a family-friendly destination for hearty meals and great service.
Five Guys
Five Guys opened its first Statesboro location on November 18, 2024, at 23992 U.S. Highway 80 East, sharing a building with Mattress Warehouse. Known for its customizable burgers, fresh-cut fries, and signature peanuts, Five Guys brings its no-freezer approach and focus on fresh ingredients to the Statesboro dining scene.
This location fills a long-standing gap for burger lovers in the area, with the nearest Five Guys previously in Pooler or Savannah. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant offers over 250,000 ways to customize your burger and more than 1,000 milkshake combinations, making it a go-to spot for casual dining with high-quality food.
Jim ‘n Nicks
Jim 'N Nick's Community Bar-B-Q opened its Statesboro location on January 24, 2024, at 24106 Highway 80 East, near Harbor Freight Tools and Lowe’s. This quick casual design marks a departure from the legacy format, offering counter ordering, a focus on to-go orders, and a double drive-thru for added convenience.
Known for its 12-hour slow-smoked pork and beef, along with made-from-scratch sides, Jim 'N Nick’s blends traditional barbecue flavors with modern service. With no freezers or microwaves, the restaurant prides itself on quality and authenticity, making it a standout addition to Statesboro’s growing dining scene.
Huey Magoos
Huey Magoo’s opened in Statesboro on April 29, 2024, at 141 Tormenta Way, bringing its signature “Filet Mignon of Chicken” to town. The 3,200-square-foot restaurant features a patio, double drive-thru, and a menu focused on hand-breaded, grilled, or sauced chicken tenders made fresh with no preservatives.
Owned by Tom Scarborough and Jeramie Martin, the restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, catering, and delivery through DoorDash and Uber Eats. The grand opening and ribbon cutting, held on May 13, 2024, showcased Huey Magoo’s commitment to quality and community. Open Sunday through Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday until 11 p.m., it’s a welcome addition for locals craving premium chicken in a family-friendly setting.
Happy Wok
Happy Wok opened its doors on December 18, 2024, at 26 Independence Way, bringing a fresh seafood buffet experience to Statesboro. Owned by Tina Lin, the longtime operator of Shogun, this family-run restaurant offers a variety of seafood options, including snow crab, salmon, shrimp, and sushi, making it a haven for seafood lovers.
Open seven days a week, Happy Wok is one of the few Statesboro establishments welcoming guests on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, providing a festive and convenient dining option. Tina and her family bring over 24 years of restaurant experience and are committed to offering high-quality food and a spotless, inviting atmosphere
3rd Starbucks
Statesboro’s third Starbucks opened on February 18, 2024, at 151 Tormenta Way in the Eagles Corner Shopping Center, offering a modern coffee experience in a spacious, purpose-built design. With an expansive interior, outdoor patio, and mobile ordering, this new location is perfect for studying, meeting, or a quick coffee run.
Open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., the store reflects Starbucks’ shift toward serving customer preferences, including customizable drinks and cold beverages, which now dominate orders.
Wingstop
Wingstop opened on June 7, 2024, at 600 Brannen Street, near Gentilly Road and Firehouse Subs, offering Statesboro a new go-to spot for wings. Known for bold flavors and excellent service, Wingstop’s menu features a wide range of wing options, from Lemon Pepper and Garlic Parmesan to Atomic and Mango Habanero.
The menu also includes chicken tenders, sandwiches, and unique sides like Cajun fried corn and Louisiana Voodoo fries. Open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, Wingstop provides something for everyone, whether you’re a wing enthusiast or just looking to try their fan-favorite ranch or Triple Chocolate Chunk Brownie.
Aura Cocktails and Tapas
Aura Cocktails & Tapas opened in downtown Statesboro at 454 S Main Street, offering a refined atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails and a chef-driven tapas menu. Known for its stylish interior and cozy ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for date nights or special occasions.
The menu features creative small plates like bacon-wrapped dates, paired with expertly crafted cocktails. Open Tuesday through Saturday, Aura has quickly become a local favorite for those looking to enjoy a unique, upscale dining experience in the heart of Statesboro.
Sully's Steamers
Sully’s Steamers opened in early 2024 at 1098 Bermuda Run, Ste 7, in the Market District of Statesboro. Owned and operated by lifelong Statesboro resident Matthew Tyson, the restaurant brings steamed bagel sandwiches to the community. Known for their unique preparation, Sully’s sandwiches are steamed to perfection, creating a hot and flavorful dining experience.
Matthew and his wife Larsen were inspired to bring Sully’s to Statesboro after their first taste of the franchise’s signature sandwiches. With a focus on community, Sully’s Steamers has quickly become a welcoming spot for locals, Georgia Southern students, and families alike, offering a casual atmosphere and a menu full of delicious “hot mess” sandwiches.
3rd Little Caesars
This new Little Caesars Express is located at 2823 Northside Dr W, and offers takeout fast and easy pizza options.
Cosmic Cowboy
Cosmic Cowboy BBQ opened in early 2024, bringing authentic Texas-style barbecue to the parking lot of the former Applebee’s at 24087 US-80 in Statesboro. Founded by John Adam, Jim Peery, and Jason Franklin, the team behind Bull and Barrel, the food trailer has quickly become a local favorite, known for its brisket, chopped pork, St. Louis ribs, smoked chicken, and scratch-made southern sides like mac and cheese, collards, and their unique cornbread casserole.
Operating Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out), Cosmic Cowboy’s dedication to quality is evident in every plate. Using Texas oak, traditional smokers, and straightforward seasoning, they let the natural flavors shine. The food trailer reflects the team’s passion for bringing a taste of Texas barbecue to Statesboro, and their meticulous planning ensures every bite is worth the wait.
With plans to expand outdoor seating and a menu built from years of preparation, Cosmic Cowboy BBQ is all about great food, community, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Georgia Ice
Georgia Ice, an Italian ice shop owned by Pastor Chris Holden and his wife Jess, opened in April 2024 at Statesboro Mall. Offering a variety of flavors like classic lemon, strawberry, and mango, as well as layered soft-serve options, the shop quickly became a refreshing addition to the local dessert scene.
Antoinette Café and Kitchen
Antoinette Café and Kitchen opened on August 4, 2024, with a grand opening celebration on September 6. Located at 193 West Main St., this family-owned spot serves up breakfast, brunch, and dinner with southern favorites like fried chicken, fish combos, and homemade sides.
Run by two sisters and their mom, the café offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy hearty meals or a quick coffee. Open Sunday through Friday, it’s the perfect place to relax, eat, and feel at home.
Boro' the Hatchet
Boro the Hatchet opened on August 2, 2024, at 19 E Vine St. in downtown Statesboro, offering axe throwing, pool tables, darts, and an arcade for family-friendly fun. With six interactive target lanes featuring digital games like tic-tac-toe and connect four, it’s the perfect spot for a unique night out.
The grand opening celebration included giveaways from local favorites like Cool Beanz, Boro Bagel, and Tandoor and Tap. Players can enjoy snacks, craft sodas, and a cozy, cabin-themed atmosphere while testing their skills. Open Wednesday through Sunday, Boro the Hatchet is your new go-to spot for entertainment in Statesboro. Don’t forget to wear closed-toe shoes and bring your competitive spirit!
