Cleveland, Georgia
Featured photo by Jimmy Jacobs.
End of the Line
By Jimmy Jacobs
July 2021
It is always a treat to discover a bar and eatery that has an outdoor sporting motive and is situated conveniently near some great fishing water. On recent trips to sample the trout waters of northeast Georgia, the On The Fly South crew stumbled across just such a venue. Clyde’s Table & Tavern on the square in Cleveland fits the bill perfectly.
Photos by Jimmy Jacobs & Polly Dean.
Upon entering, an angler likely first notices the huge rainbow trout hanging on the left wall. But more pervasive are the photos and paintings of bird dogs, and especially English setters. That is only fitting, since the establishment is the namesake of a dog of that breed named Clyde. As you might expect, the name has a back story as well.
During the financial hard times beginning in 2008, owner and founder Ward Gann and some partners acquired multiple buildings on the Cleveland square. For several years, he then sought someone to open a restaurant in the Clyde’s building, but with no luck. Having grown tired after 24 years in the corporate insurance business, Gann decided he would give running an “eatin’ joint” a try Thus, after almost two years of remodeling, Clyde’s Table & Tavern opened its doors in 2018.
The dinner hour at Clyde’s Table & Tavern. Photo by Jimmy Jacobs.
“I’ve always enjoyed entertaining and cooking for many, so why not use all my resources to bring to Cleveland a much needed gathering place for good friends, great food and fun times,” he explained.
While mulling over possible names for the new venture, he noticed the family pet / hunting dog Clyde sitting patiently nearby. Soon the logo of the business sported a silhouette of Clyde. Though the dog does not visit the main dining area, he does have his own space for visiting the downstairs area.
The setter had joined the family in 2012, and has accompanied Ward to many quail fields in Alabama and Georgia.
Clyde at work in the field. Photo courtesy of Clyde’s Table & Tavern.
Of course, it takes more than a good mascot to make a successful eatery. That depends on the food and service. Even in these days of short staffing brought on by the recent pandemic, the latter has been excellent on both our visits.
Once seated, the food speaks for itself. The restaurant’s motto is “Where fresh comes to the table.” They definitely deliver with an array of chicken, chops and sandwiches that meet that standard. They also offer a variety of “puppy plates” for youngsters.
The intimate bar in Clyde’s. Photo by Polly Dean.
But before you begin the meal, you’ll want to peruse their specialty drink menu from their full bar. It features Irish whiskey in the Irish Setter drink, lemon vodka in a Golden Retriever and crème de cocoa in the Chocolate Labrador. Needless to say, the namesake dog is not neglected, as you can order a Clyde’s Cosmo or Clyde’s Bloody Mary, as well.
Clyde’s Table & Tavern is located at 5 East Jarrard Street on the town square in Cleveland. The restaurant is open 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, as well as 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday for brunch.
