Bear’s Den

The Bear’s Den is a small cafeteria that serves Southern, as well as American comfort food. The reason to come here can best be described by two words: “Southern fried.”

The menu varies daily. Fried chicken and chicken tenders are always on the menu, as they are the most popular choices. Pork chops, catfish, and fried chicken livers are on the menu on different days.

If you don’t want fried food, there are some other good choices. The baked chicken is tender and enjoyable. It comes with a tasty homemade dressing. Chicken & dumplings and baked lemon pepper chicken over rice are other good menu options.

The ever-popular macaroni & cheese is always available. The potato salad is enjoyable and is also on the menu every day, as are the buttery green beans. Fried green tomatoes and fried okra are two Southern favorites that the Bear’s Den does well.

The homemade desserts are very good. There is a varied assortment of pies, cake squares, banana pudding, etc. Chocolate lovers will enjoy the brownies. The desserts come in plastic containers that are convenient to take with you on the road.

The major drawback of the Bear’s Den is that it is often crowded and very noisy during the peak lunchtime at noon.

Drinks are self-serve, although friendly waitresses do check for drink refills or other needed assistance. The Bear’s Den is only open for lunch on Monday to Friday, although there is a take-out counter that stays open until 6 pm. It is easy to access from I-75.

The Bear’s Den is located just northeast of Mercer University. Mercer’s sports teams are known as the Bears.

*Original Post by Bill Golladay*