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When one thinks of Brunswick stew, beef might not immediately come to mind, but that's precisely what sets this soup apart. Despite traditional recipes omitting beef, the roots of this stew trace back to two places: a town in Southern coastal Georgia and a county in southeast Virginia. Both claim to be the birthplace of the stew, leaving the decision to the diner. However, the focus now shifts to some of the best places to enjoy Brunswick stew, none other than in Brunswick, Georgia!
For some background: Brunswick stew is a hearty combination of meat and vegetables simmered slowly in water. While the original recipe is a topic of debate, it likely featured rabbit and other game animals commonly hunted by early settlers in the 1800s. Originally a survival dish, it gained popularity over time. "Make a Brunswick stew" was once a common directive for cooking the day's catch. As ingredients became more accessible, variations emerged, with beef and seafood becoming popular substitutes for game meat.
Despite these variations, Brunswick stew remains a comforting blend of meat and veggies cooked to perfection. Every batch is a unique interpretation of the original, which has been claimed by both Georgia and Virginia. As a resident of Georgia, the preference naturally lies with the state's claim, particularly enjoying seafood in the stew. The encouragement is extended to everyone to give it a try and decide for themselves which version they prefer and which state they believe deserves the title of Brunswick Stew Originator. Here are some places we recommend you try it for yourself!
First on the list is Twin Oaks Barbecue, located on Norwich Street. The restaurant explains themselves to be a "no-frills lunch joint with Southern bbq food, battered fries, and optional drive in service." They have been up and running since 1943! Their menu has grown since opening, now serving steaks, burgers, salads, traditional side dishes and more. However, what's most impressive is the restaurants's reasonable prices. If you are looking to indulge in a personal Brunswick stew it will cost you less than just $6. On the other hand, if you are wanting to cater for a larger group you can get up to a gallon for just $30! They also offer bulk ordering for some of their other dishes as well.
The next top pick on our list is Marshside Grill, proudly serving the Golden Isles, GA! Whether you're a local, a frequent visitor, or just passing through on I-95, they're excited to welcome you.
Marshside Grill boasts an extensive lunch and dinner menu, with new weekly specials to keep things exciting. From land to sea, and even vegetarian options, there's something for everyone. Their Brunswick stew, available year-round in a cup or bowl, is a must-try. Plus, you can opt to pair it with a salad as part of their lunch special for a great deal.
One standout feature is that everything is made to order, ensuring freshness in every bite. Set against the backdrop of the water, Marshside Grill offers picturesque views to complement your dining experience. So whether you're craving pasta, a chef-crafted sandwich, or a seafood platter, you can expect nothing but the best at Marshside Grill.
Last but not least, we stumbled upon Willie's Wee-Nee Wagon, famous for their delicious gourmet hotdogs and combination sandwiches. Founded in 1975 by Arnell "Willie" and Yvonne Chambers, Willie's started as a humble hot dog cart on Norwich Street before finding its permanent home at 3599 Altama Avenue, Brunswick, GA 31520, right across from the College of Coastal Georgia.
Since 1975, Willie's has been specializing in hot dogs, burgers, steaks, and pork chops.
We highly recommend trying their signature local Brunswick Hot Dog, topped with Brunswick stew fixings, and pairing it with their Hot & Spicy fries. It's a delightful twist on an American classic dish with a touch of Southern charm.
