Discover Andalusia: A Taste of Southern Spain in Downtown Macon

When Wes Griffith and his wife, Betsy, honeymooned in Andalusia, southern Spain, in 2007, they were captivated by the local culture of tapas and communal dining. Griffith, the owner of the Moonhanger Group—which includes popular Macon establishments like the Rookery and H&H—saw an opportunity to bring that vibrant Spanish dining experience to downtown Macon.

The Birth of Andalusia

Fast forward to the acquisition of the former Kinjo Kitchen + Cocktails space, where Griffith and his culinary director, Brad Stevens, began brainstorming a new restaurant concept. The idea of introducing authentic Spanish tapas resurfaced, leading to the creation of Andalusia, set to open on July 28, 2026, at 497 Second St. Reservations can be made through Resy.

Griffith expressed his excitement about offering something unique to the local dining scene. “There’s not going to be anything else like it,” he said. “We’re excited to share this tapas Spanish theme and restaurant style with everybody.”

What Are Tapas?

Tapas, which translates to “top” or “lid” in Spanish, have an interesting origin. According to Stevens, about 150 years ago, bar owners in Andalusia began placing plates on top of their guests’ drinks to keep dust and insects out. Eventually, they started serving food on those plates, giving birth to the tapas culture. This communal way of dining encourages socializing and sharing, which is a core philosophy at Andalusia.

A Shared Dining Experience

Andalusia aims to create a relaxed, family-style atmosphere where diners can share a variety of dishes. The menu will feature:

• Charcuterie: An assortment of Spanish-cured meats and cheeses.
• Cold and Hot Tapas: Options like marcona almonds, tuna crudo, serrano ham croquettas, and pan con tomate (tomato bread).
• Wood-Fired Steaks: Cooked on a Josper Grill, known as the “Cadillac of wood-fired grills,” which adds a unique flavor to the dishes.

Stevens emphasizes the importance of sharing: “We want to encourage family-style sharing at tables,” he said. Diners can expect to start their meal with a selection of wines or house-made cocktails, followed by tapas, and then move on to their main courses.

The Culinary Experience

Guests will be treated to an open kitchen experience, where they can enjoy the aroma of charcoal while watching chefs prepare their meals. A special chef’s table will be available for those who want a front-row seat to the culinary action, making it a coveted reservation in town.

The menu will also include a few desserts, such as the Basque cheesecake, a unique take on the classic dessert that promises to be a game-changer for cheesecake lovers.

A Beautiful Setting

The interior of Andalusia has been designed to be inviting and beautiful, striking a balance between casual and elegant. Griffith collaborated with Carrie Robinson, founder of Robins Home, to create a space that encourages good food and good times.

A Nod to Literature

Interestingly, both Griffith and Stevens share a fondness for Flannery O’Connor, the renowned author who lived in nearby Milledgeville. Griffith has a personal connection, as his grandfather was an acquaintance of O’Connor. He plans to display a letter between them in the restaurant, adding a literary touch to the dining experience.

Operating Hours and Future Plans

Initially, Andalusia will open for dinner only, with plans to expand hours in the future, potentially adding lunch service. The restaurant can accommodate about 80 guests and will operate from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The Menu Awaits

With a diverse menu featuring Spanish wines, cocktails, and a variety of tapas, Andalusia is set to become a culinary hotspot in Macon. The staff will be well-trained to assist diners in pairing wines and cocktails with their meals, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

Andalusia is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Spanish culture and cuisine, inviting the community to gather, share, and enjoy.