Discover Augusta Eats: A Downtown Cafe and Taproom Celebrating Grandfather’s Culinary Legacy

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Discover Augusta Eats: A Downtown Cafe and Taproom Celebrating Grandfather’s Culinary Legacy

Walk into Emil’s, a fresh spot in downtown Augusta, and you’re instantly greeted with warmth and humor from one of the owners, Emilie Moseley. It quickly feels like you’ve made a new friend.

Emil’s Early House opened just a month ago at 902 Broad St. The vibe? A blend of café, coffee bar, and self-pour taproom. It’s a fantastic place to unwind, catch up with friends, or even meet someone new over an impressive selection of beers.

The menu features tasty dishes like exotic Far East Meatballs and the crowd-pleaser Vindaloo Creamed Corn—corn mixed with spicy curry, scallions, and crunchy cornbread croutons. And don’t skip dessert; the coffee offerings and Sweet Things list promise something special to end your meal.

During a recent visit, we tried The Farmer, a stunning charcuterie board stacked with flavorful cheeses and meats, including Maplewood smoked cheddar and prosciutto. It was so generous that it served as a delightful meal for one, with plenty left over for later!

Emilie takes charge in the kitchen, crafting each dish from scratch, while her husband Shawn ensures everyone feels welcome. The space itself is cozy, featuring plush leather sofas and a mix of small and large tables, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Some other menu highlights include:

  • Devils on Horseback: Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with gorgonzola and drizzled with a fruit glaze.
  • Brave Little Taters: Roasted potatoes tossed in a flavorful three-paprika sauce, served with lemony garlic mayo and quinoa crunch.
  • Caprese Piccolo: A fresh take on the classic, featuring grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and balsamic nuggets.

The couple bought the two-story building at the corner of 9th and Broad streets six years ago, and it took over a year to renovate, including adding apartment units above. Emilie, a corporate designer by trade, fashioned both the restaurant and its second floor.

What makes Emil’s truly special is its rich history. The walls feature old family photos, showcasing the story of Emil Claeys, Emilie’s grandfather. His family immigrated from Belgium before the Great Depression and rooted themselves in Detroit. After serving in the Army as a cook at Fort Gordon, he shared his love for food with his granddaughter.

“What he taught me was about love and connection through cooking,” Emilie recalls. “He was a feeder, and now I carry that legacy forward.”

Emil passed away in 2007, but his legacy lives on at Emil’s, where food brings people together in a joyful setting.

Emil’s is open Wednesday through Sunday, with hours varying throughout the week. For more information, check out their website at www.emilskitchen.com.

With the rise of social media food trends, many patrons have been sharing their experiences at Emil’s on platforms like Instagram, showcasing mouthwatering photos of dishes and the cozy ambiance. It’s clear this restaurant is already becoming a beloved part of the Augusta dining scene.



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Emilie Moseley, Augusta, Emil