Campfire Gather Round in Helen, Georgia, is more than a restaurant; it is an experience.
Like a campfire, the smoky flavors and warm and inviting atmosphere are designed to bring people together.
The long-time dream of owner Matt Boggs finally came true when Campfire Gather Round opened its doors in early August of 2024.
“I’ve always dreamed of owning a restaurant. With around fifteen years in cooking and the service industry, I’ve gained a lot of experience. I even worked selling groceries to restaurants, which allowed me to peek behind the scenes and understand things like margins and products,” the former U.S. Marine confessed.
“It also gave me insight into how others in the industry operate. Through it all, I started putting the pieces together to make it happen.”
Located at 8160 S Main St B-6 in the charming city of Helen, GA, the restaurant blends a rustic yet contemporary atmosphere with a menu that celebrates wood-fired cooking and locally sourced ingredients. It is one of the must-visit destinations for food lovers exploring the region.
The effort has been grassroots, with Boggs selling chicken wings out of his kitchen, slowly piecing it all together. The three restaurant partners (Boggs, James Garity, and Kaitlyn Garrett) know what it took to get where they are now. They also have a vision for the restaurant’s future.
It all centers around hard work and giving the customer a feeling of belonging and comfort—just like what a campfire brings to any occasion. Collectively, the three have about 35 years of experience in this industry.
This trifecta brings together a restaurant idea like no other, always focusing on the initial intent of the food and environment – bringing people together. You’re greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance as you enter Campfire.
The interior design combines elements of a cozy mountain lodge with modern touches, creating a relaxed yet stylish environment. Wooden beams, dim lighting, and open kitchen spaces evoke a sense of intimacy, making it the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a night out with friends.
“James and I started with probably a $1,000 a piece,” Boggs chuckles. “We took every opportunity we could find, putting every dime we made back into the restaurant. We’ve now evolved into what we have and continue to plan for expansion.”
Boggs jokes about where the name of the restaurant came from. They were three weeks from opening and still didn’t have a name.
“My idea originally was to name my first restaurant after my grandpa. He was my mentor. But it didn’t fit this environment,” Boggs reflected.
“We got stuck for a little while, and then we got to thinking about where comraderie started – what eating and sharing a table with others mean to us.”
Boggs said that throughout human history, events have occurred around a campfire. “There is a lot of symbolism around a campfire. It provides safety and warmth and brings people together. The second the fire is lit, the aura changes.”
Campfire’s menu is a testament to Boggs’s magic in the kitchen. Every dish is prepared with an emphasis on smoky flavors, tender textures, and the artistry of fire-based cooking. Whether you’re a fan of hearty meats or fresh vegetables, there’s something for everyone to savor.
During our interview, a customer who visits Campfire regularly shouted to the porch where we sat, “Do you have any of the fried deviled eggs this week?”
“Fried Deviled Eggs?” I asked.
It is a coveted favorite, and customers wait to enjoy it. Boggs likes variety. He designs his Menus, photographs his food, and does all the graphic designs.
Monday nights are trivia nights. Tuesday nights offer a unique opportunity to make a reservation and enjoy a four-course meal with others, like a family gathering of sorts. On Thursdays, he designs a new hamburger with flavor and texture like no other. The French fries are seasoned with a perfect blend of mouthwatering tanginess. You can also enjoy live music on weekends.
Whether you’re visiting the picturesque town of Helen for a weekend getaway or a local looking for a special place to dine, Campfire is a must-try destination. It’s the perfect place to savor delicious food, relax with a drink, and enjoy what Northeast Georgia has to offer.
