A local caddie’s guide to all things Augusta, Ga.
By Tim Giuliano · November 9, 2019
Editor’s note: Tim Giuliano is a caddie on the PGA Tour. When he’s not out grinding on Tour for 30+ weeks/year, Giuliano lives in Augusta, Ga., home of the Masters. With the season’s first major upon us, we asked Tim for some local knowledge as the city welcomes guests from around the world. As you’ll see, he provided a little something for everyone.
It’s that time of year again and the buzz is about Augusta, Ga., as golf’s greatest tournament – The Masters – is once again set to tee off at Augusta National Golf Club. Golf fans travel from all over the globe and with many different experiences that await them.
For the average fan that comes to town without a fancy chef serving all their meals at the rental house, the greatest challenge of each day may be trying to find a solid place to eat or drink. As someone who spends 30+ weeks/year away from home, I know through plenty of experience that a long day on the course can easily turn into a double bogey with a bad meal or drink to end the evening.
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The following is a collection of some of the best local places in Augusta that are worth battling the crowds and traffic to get to…
Mexican
- Taqueria El Patron*
- Salsa’s Bar & Grill
- Monterrey Restaurant
*Taqueria El Patron is hands down the most authentic and delicious Mexican food in the city. Take note that they do not serve alcohol in the restaurant, but if you are looking for a great takeout/ WAITR/ DoorDash option, this is your place.
Sushi/Asian
- Miyako Sushi & Steakhouse
- TakoSushi
- Wasabi Express
Local Favorites
- Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar
- The Bees Knees
- Oliviana Bar Italiano & Pizzeria
- Sunrise Grill*
*Sunrise Grill is the breakfast Mecca in Augusta. Nothing fancy, but you get great food at a good price. Get there early though because it can get slammed.
A little more “upscale”
- Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar
- Sheehan’s Irish Pub
- Manuel’s Bread Café*
- Frog Hollow Tavern
*Manuel’s Bread Café is actually in N. Augusta, S.C. It is still very close to Augusta National, nestled in a neighborhood it boasts great food, local ingredients and creative menu options.
Quick & easy
- DiChickO’s Organic Peri-Peri Café
- The Boll Weevil Café and Sweetery*
- The Pizza Joint
- Knuckle Sandwiches
*The Boll Weevil Café has good food, but this is your place for dessert if you’ve craving a slice of cake. They have tons of flavors to choose from and the slices are massive.
Bars/Liquor Store
- Cue & Brew Pub*
- Indian Queen
- Stillwater Taproom
- Augusta Liquors
*The Cue & Brew Pub is a real hole in the wall bar off of Washington Road, but it’s a favorite for local caddies, so it deserves to be recognized.
Other Worthy Mentions…
Wedges & Woods Golf Range: Looking to hit some golf balls at a local range or settle a score with your buddies? Head to Wedges & Woods where owner Nick Prokosa maintains one of the best public practice facilities around.
Not only is the grass great, but he offers various covered hitting bays that offer TopTracer Technology so you can get actual, data driven feedback on your shots as well as play games with your buddies such as “Closest to the Pin,” “Longest Drive,” and point-accumulating games.
MORE: Tiger Woods and caddie Joe LaCava arrive early at Augusta National
Nick is a great guy who works hard and prides himself on his business. He’s a very strong supporter of the local military community. Working together with veterans, local foundations and volunteers, he offers adaptive golf clinics that allow someone with physical impairments, that normally would prevent them from playing golf, to enjoy the game and become a part of the Wedges & Woods golf community.
Windsor Jewelers: If you’re away on a trip to the Masters with friends and you left behind that special someone to walk the most prestigious fairways in golf, you may be needing to bring back a special gift to keep you out of the doghouse.
Located across the street from Augusta National on Washington Road is Windsor Jewelers. Known as the best jewelry store in the area, you can find that perfect little gift in any price range that lets your significant other know you appreciate them.
This is also a fantastic place to buy an engagement ring if you all of a sudden get the urge to propose to your significant other at Augusta National while taking the iconic photo in front of the clubhouse or down on Amen Corner.
Ask for Adam Grayson. He’ll be sure to help you find exactly what you are looking for.
Note: This story was originally published in April 2019.
