Mystic Grill — Restaurant in Covington

We were in Covington last weekend (Oct 3rd-5th) for my birthday. I’m a huge Vampire Diaries fan and would not have taken my first trip to Covington without visiting Mystic Grill. So on Friday night after a tour, we went for dinner. We sat on the first floor just across the wooden railing from the kitchen. I got the Clocktower burger, and my boyfriend got the Mystic Patty Melt. I also got a Vampire Barbie Cocktail. The food was good and generous. Our server that night was a young, tall guy with dark curly hair. He was nice and my only complaint was that I asked if they could change my cocktail to a beer as soon as I realized I’d rather have that with a burger. He ran to see and came back to say, “No.” At my expression, he added, “they’re fast.” I think that could have easily been changed as I’m sure someone else probably wanted that drink but I’m sure tourists can be too demanding sometimes so I almost get that one-the server could have presented the verdict a little better though. Still, he was nice, and we had a pleasant time.

Our next encounter was Saturday night. We wanted to sit on the roof and came in to request rooftop seating. The two ladies working the hostess station greeted us. Both were wearing Harry Potter costumes as there was some kind of a convention there that night. The heavy-set blonde gleefully told us that it would be a two hour wait. Thankfully, the African American Hostess next to her corrected her saying that it would not be that long. They took our number, and we first went to the bar.

At the bar, AJ proved to be a nice bartender, who upon learning that it was my birthday weekend, suggested the birthday shot (pictured with my post). He also suggested dishes for dinner once we got to the roof. Then we went outside and sat in the park, something that was still on my list to do, and we met some fellow fans with whom I was able to exchange numbers. Also, the wait was a little less than an hour. So thanks to whoever the lady was who gave us the more realistic wait time, we got a better total experience.

Then we were called for our turn. I was friendly to the blonde hostess and asked if they dressed up for Vampire Diaries as well. She also seemed gleeful in telling me that no, they don’t because the owner is a Harry Potter fan, and she makes them dress up for Harry Potter events. That’s fine, I have nothing against Harry Potter and intend to finish the books and shows one day and may even become a fan myself. However, you would think an employee wouldn't try to throw shade on a fandom that is a big part of your customer base. And upon learning of my fandom, the bartender AJ did tell us that had it been a Vampire Diaries weekend, he would not have had as much time to talk with us because it would have been standing room only.

Then we were taken up to the roof by a young guy and found a seat in Alexandra’s section. She was very patient with us. I noticed some other reviewers complained about long waits but I’m not sure if we had one or not because we were having so much fun. We met another couple who had driven from Texas and ended up sharing a table with them. Since we were all talking the waits didn’t seem long. I got the pork chop that had been recommended by AJ the bartender and it was good and so was the sweet tea chicken that my boyfriend got. Also, Alexandra was very conversational with our entire group. Then there was being able to overlook the town square and have a great view of the Clock Tower.

So in conclusion, it all comes down to the same thing that almost all service comes down to: the interaction with the person in front of you. This was a landmark birthday weekend for me, and it was wonderful, including my visit to Mystic Grill. I think a rating of four stars is fair, considering all factors, and I definitely hope to...

WHAT AN AMAZING PLACE!!!! My Wife and I, recently moved to Covington, and would ride past this restaurant but not stop. The wait appeared long and the lines even longer. However, today we discovered why! THIS PLACE IS AN AMAZING GEM SITUATED RIGHT IN THE HEART OF COVINGTON! Known for the Vampire Diaries story, it should be changed for their Southern Flair and attention to the smallest of details.

From the moment we entered and were seating, our culinary experience began. We sat and watched the attention that each staff person provided to the customers and was truly impressed. Normally, when one encounters a "tourist attraction," you notice that the attention to the small details can become lost. Not here. It was exactly the opposite. Each plate, that passed by our table, was "a visual smorgasbord," as the portions were HHHUUUGGGEEE!!! Initially, I intended upon ordering the "Clock Tower Burger and fries," but am glad that I didn't. That meat behemoth would've been far too much for me. The salad portions tend to hold this same ideology.

"Missy", our waitress, after learning this was our 1st trip, took the opportunity to welcome us to Mystic Grill and Covington, providing us with suggestions that we should try. My wife, after checking the website, had her heart set on the Chicken Mac and Cheese, but was advised this was not a menu item any longer. Missy, then, provided a way in which she could have this meal, which was right on time!

I chose the Blue Cheese Chicken Pasta and, just as told, it did not have that overpowering cheese taste but was just right with the subtle hints of blue.

However, I must go back a few steps and mention the drinks and appetizer. Not sure as to what to order, Missy suggested the "Bible Belt," for my wife after she explained what type of drink she was seeking. Again, a TOTAL HIT!!! My wife, who generally doesn't experiment, was soooo glad that she did. I ordered the "Drunken Donkey" as was totally satisfied with this choice.

Neither of us had ever had an inkling to taste a fried green tomato, however decided to after it was suggested. Missy explained, "I haven't found anyone that hasn't liked it yet." So, off we went and was truly surprised with the presentation, "A tower of fried tomatoes with a pat of pimento cheese between each layer, resting in a tomato jelly sauce." OH, MY GOODNESS, IT WAS TO DIE FOR!" We are so very glad that we took pictures which we shared with our family, back home, some of whom are fried tomato connoisseurs.

Before leaving, we mentioned to Missy that we tend to try new places so that we can decide if we'd be returning. MYSTIC GRILL, and the fried green tomatoes, received our coveted thumbs up indicating this was a new "regular for us."

Before leaving, as my wife likes to do, we asked for a manager being informed the owner was actually in the restaurant. So many tend to want to speak with management, to complain about some portion of the service, yet we like to give praise where praise is due. "Angi" came over and introduced herself to us and was quite pleased to hear about our experience. When I began this review, I noted, "Our culinary experience began when we were seated," and continued through this entire visit. KUDOS, ANGI AND STAFF, OF MYSTIC GRILL, for your TOP NOTCH FOOD, SERVICE AND PROFESSIONALISM. Each team member served the customers with a smile, truly exemplifying the Southern Hospitality that we have heard so much about.

We can assure you that, if you drop by Mystic Grill, you will experience just what we did. Can't wait for our parents to come so that they, too, can grab a piece of this Covington Charm that is situated right in the Town Square.

Craig and Melissa...

Mystic Grill: A Southern Gem in Covington, Georgia

Visited on: 07/17/24 around 415-545pm

Nestled in the heart of Covington, Georgia, Mystic Grill (Seen on the Vampire Diaries) offers a culinary experience that blends creative Southern cuisine with a stylish, vintage-chic ambiance. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a place where classic Southern charm meets modern sophistication, enhanced by locally sourced ingredients that elevate each dish.

Service

Our visit to Mystic Grill was made exceptional by our server, whose attentiveness and genuine care for our dining experience set the tone for the evening. They frequently checked in to ensure everything was to our liking, valuing our feedback and making us feel truly welcomed. The service was impeccable!!!

Appetizers

We started our meal with the new menu brussel sprouts, which were an absolute delight. These little green gems were perfectly crisp on the outside, with a moist, tender interior. The smoky bacon added a delightful crunch and a savory depth, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that epitomized Southern comfort food.

Entrees

Sweet Tea Fried Chicken

The Sweet Tea Fried Chicken was a masterpiece of Southern cooking. The chicken breast, brined in sweet tea, was incredibly moist and flavorful, with a subtle sweetness that paired beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. The buttermilk mashed potatoes were creamy and rich, providing a perfect counterpoint to the crispy, succulent chicken. Accompanying green beans were tender yet crisp, and the andouille red eye gravy tied everything together with its bold, smoky flavor and a hint of spice.

Mystic Grill Cheese

Next up was the Mystic Grill Cheese, a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of Havarti cheese, applewood smoked bacon, jalapeno, and blackberry jam on grilled sourdough was nothing short of extraordinary. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Havarti balanced the sweetness of the blackberry jam and the smoky, crispy bacon, while the jalapeno added just the right amount of heat. Each bite was a delightful contrast of flavors, making this dish both comforting and exciting.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Mystic Grill is modern with a twist, combining vintage-chic decor with contemporary elements. The stylish setting, paired with the use of locally sourced ingredients, creates an environment that feels both trendy and timeless.

Conclusion

Mystic Grill is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and culinary creativity. From the impeccable service to the thoughtfully crafted dishes, every detail at Mystic Grill is designed to make you feel at home while tantalizing your taste buds. If you find yourself in Covington, a visit to Mystic Grill is a...