Augusta's Crown Jewel: Why Abel Brown Should Be on Every Local's List

I'll be honest — sometimes it takes a national spotlight to remind you how lucky you are to have something special right in your own backyard. That's exactly how I felt when I heard that Chef Todd Schafer of **Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar** was named a **2026 James Beard Award Semifinalist**. If you haven't been yet, that news alone should be enough to get you to make a reservation. Tucked inside Surrey Center at 491 Highland Ave, Abel Brown doesn't look like it's trying too hard from the outside — and that's part of the charm. Inside, it's warm and upscale-casual, the kind of place that feels equally right for a date night or a celebratory dinner with family. The menu changes daily based on what's fresh and local, which means every visit genuinely feels different. Chef Schafer's approach to modern Southern cuisine is ingredient-driven and thoughtful — you can taste the care in every dish. And then there's the oyster bar. Whether you go cold water or baked, the oyster program here is seriously impressive. This isn't an afterthought — it's a destination in its own right. Food Network and Yelp have both recognized Abel Brown as one of Augusta's top seafood and Southern dining spots, and the 4.7-star average rating from diners pretty much says everything. [YOUR MEMORY HERE] A couple of pro tips before you go: **always ask your server about the off-menu specials**. Abel Brown is known for rotating items that often turn out to be the star of the evening, and you don't want to miss out just because they weren't printed on the menu. Also, **make a reservation** — especially on weekends or if you're planning a visit during Masters Week. You can book through OpenTable or call (706) 738-6491. Trust me, showing up and hoping for a table is a gamble you don't want to take. Augusta has some genuinely great restaurants, and Abel Brown sits right at the top of that list for me. If you haven't experienced what Chef Schafer is doing here, it's time to go.