Welcome to Lakemont, Augusta’s delightful neighborhood nestled near the crossroads of Washington Road and Pleasant Home Road. While Lakemont is best known for its leafy streets and family-friendly parks, it holds a secret: a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene that rivals any in the city. Whether you’re a longtime local or just stopping through, Lakemont’s constellation of standout restaurants, cozy cafés, and inventive food trucks make it a must-visit dining destination. Here’s your ultimate foodie guide to eating your way through Lakemont!
Where Breakfast is a Celebration
Breakfast in Lakemont is serious business—here, you’ll find locals lining up as early as sunrise for fresh coffee and homemade pastries.
- Sunshine Bakery & Café (Washington Rd & Boy Scout Rd)
A cherished spot for morning gatherings, this bakery’s cinnamon rolls and flaky croissants are legendary. Their breakfast sandwiches—especially the bacon, egg, and cheese on a homemade biscuit—are a hearty start to the day. Plus, their cozy back patio is a neighborhood morning ritual spot.
- Java Junction (Near Pleasant Home Rd)
For those who take their caffeine seriously, Java Junction is a hidden gem. Locally roasted beans, laid-back baristas, and a rotating cast of scones and muffins make this a must-stop for morning commuters and students alike. Their cold brews and caramel lattes are community favorites.
Lunch Hotspots: Quick Bites & Local Legends
On a busy weekday or lazy Saturday, Lakemont’s selection of lunch spots brings together old Augusta charm with flavors from across the world.
- Mighty Mo’s Deli (Washington Rd shopping strip)
This retro-diner-style deli is a crowd-pleaser—think towering pastrami sandwiches, crisp Reubens, and house-made potato salad. With friendly counter service and fast turnaround, it’s perfect for a quick lunch, whether you’re on the go or taking a leisurely midday break.
- El Puente Taqueria (Corner of Washington Rd & Pleasant Home Rd)
A local favorite for authentic Mexican eats, El Puente’s food truck is parked near the busy intersection almost every day. Their tacos—especially the al pastor and barbacoa—draw loyal fans from all over Augusta. Try the homemade salsas and the sweet horchata to round out your meal.
Dinner Destinations: From Family Feasts to Foodie Adventures
When evening falls, Lakemont lights up with eateries that make dinner into an event, whether you’re seeking comfort food or culinary adventure.
- Verde Vida Italian Kitchen (Pleasant Home Rd near the lake)
An unassuming storefront hides one of Lakemont’s best-kept secrets: fresh, hand-tossed pizzas, artisanal pastas, and classic tiramisu. Families love the kid-friendly vibe and the generous portions, while couples flock to the patio for date night dinners.
- Augusta Pho House (Washington Rd)
Bringing the bright, fragrant flavors of Vietnam to the neighborhood, Augusta Pho House is renowned for steaming bowls of pho—rich broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked proteins. Their vegetarian options, spring rolls, and Vietnamese iced coffee are not to be missed, and prices are wallet-friendly for any budget.
- Southern Oak BBQ (Shaded corner near Boy Scout Rd)
For those craving classic Southern barbecue, Southern Oak delivers slow-smoked brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and sides like creamy mac ’n’ cheese and tangy slaw. Come early—the crowds gather especially on weekends, and their smoked turkey sells out fast. With picnic tables under towering oaks, this is laid-back Augusta dining at its best.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Stops
Lakemont’s bakers and dessert shops ensure that your meal always ends on a high note.
- Lakemont Creamery (Pleasant Home Rd behind the shopping center)
Whether you’re after a classic butter pecan cone or a daring scoop of honey-lavender gelato, this small-batch ice cream shop has your cravings covered. Local teens and families flock here in the evenings, especially for their famous sundae specials.
- Sugar Magnolia Bakeshop (Inside Sunshine Bakery & Café, mornings only)
For something sweet with your coffee, Sugar Magnolia’s selection of house-made muffins, iced cupcakes, and seasonal pies is irresistible. Their blueberry muffins go fast—get there early!
Sips & Socials: Where to Grab a Drink
Sometimes the best way to experience Lakemont’s food scene is by pairing good food with a good drink.
- Lakefront Wine Bar (Near Pleasant Home Rd & the lake)
This intimate wine bar offers a curated selection of global wines and locally sourced cheeses. Their small plates—like charcuterie boards and marinated olives—make this the perfect spot for a relaxing evening with friends.
- Craft Taproom (Washington Rd near the shopping plaza)
Beer lovers rejoice! With a rotating tap list of Georgia microbrews and classic pub grub, this lively space attracts everyone from craft beer aficionados to after-hours coworkers. Their pretzel bites and house-made beer cheese are not to be missed.
Can’t-Miss Food Traditions in Lakemont
Part of what makes Lakemont so special is its sense of tradition. Don’t miss out on these unique annual or seasonal eats:
- Lakemont Food Truck Fridays
Held every first Friday of the month at the Pleasant Home Rd park, this gathering brings a rotating lineup of food trucks—from wood-fired pizza to Asian fusion tacos. It’s a local social highlight, with lawn games, live music, and a packed picnic area.
- Spring Strawberry Festival at Sunshine Bakery
Each spring, Sunshine Bakery celebrates local strawberry season with shortcakes, strawberry lemonade, and fresh berry tarts. A true neighborhood event!
Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
Lakemont is full of surprise spots only locals know:
- Little Bangkok Express
Tucked behind one of Lakemont’s shopping centers, this family-run Thai eatery serves spicy green curry, crispy spring rolls, and fragrant jasmine rice at unbeatable prices. The chef’s special, pad see ew, is the most flavorful in Augusta.
- The Cookie Cart (Mobile food cart on Washington Rd)
Operates only on weekends, but fans swear by the warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies and cold milk sold right out of the window. It’s a nostalgia trip and a Lakemont tradition for kids and adults alike.
Conclusion: A Neighborhood Feast for Every Appetite
From piping-hot breakfast biscuits to international flavors, decadent desserts, and lively food events, Lakemont has firmly established itself as a go-to neighborhood for unique and delicious eats. Whether you stumble upon a favorite newcomer or rediscover an old standby, every meal in Lakemont feels like you’re dining with friends. So next time you’re in Augusta, make a detour to Lakemont—and bring your appetite!