Grits Cafe

Grits Cafe is located in Forsyth, Georgia, approximately 60 miles south of Atlanta, directly off the I-75. The town was established in the late 1800s when a classic red brick court house was built, serving as the nucleus of a quaint town square. Today it is home to 5,000 residents, many of whom work in the area, or commute to nearby Macon or Atlanta. Grits Café inhabits one of the original store fronts on the square, and opened its doors on June 18, 1999. Wayne Wetendorf, chef-owner of Grits Café, graduated from the Culinary Arts program at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada in 1984. Wayne had always dreamed of having his own place, and for years he and his wife Terri collected ideas and fantasized about being restaurateurs together. Then one day opportunity came knocking. Terri and Waynes vision was to provide upscale, casual dining, in a friendly, comfortable environment. They transformed the 125 year old building into a rustic yet sophisticated oasis of southern charm. In the dining room the glimmer of gas lanterns soften the mood, and texturized oil paintings by local artists attractively enhance the gently distressed pumpkin colored walls. Service is informal but proper, and service staff are hospitable and gracious. Grits Cafés menu focus is traditional southern food, not exactly like Mom used to make, adding creativity and flair by fusing old and new ideas. Many appetizers and entrees spotlight local produce, seafood and cheeses, with a touch of Cajun, Southwest and Asian influence thrown in to keep things interesting. The flavors are trendy and unique, and closely rival the artistic detail paid to the presentation of each plate. The wine list features a number of handcrafted boutique wines produced in limited quantities, many not readily available in other areas of the country. Terri, Wayne and the entire Grits Café team understand the connection between a region, its history, its people and its food. Their commitment to providing great food in an up