There’s a restaurant nestled in the Gallatin Marina on Old Hickory Lake that’s been part of the community’s story for more than 10 years. Awedaddys Bar & Grill has been inviting customers into its lakeside establishment every April through October since 2011.
The anticipation on opening day is palpable. For Michelle Gentry, who’s owned Awedaddys since 2023, there are always nerves as they prepare to open the doors.
Michelle says, “Once the familiar faces start rolling in, it's like we never closed.”
Nerves turn to excitement as Awedaddys welcomes customers back with familiar favorites, as well as new additions to keep each season feeling fresh. This year, the restaurant debuted a tiki merch hut.
On opening, Michelle says, “I love getting back our veteran workers who are always so excited to come back home, as they say, and all the new faces who are experiencing Awedaddys for the first time.”
It’s that sense of home and belonging, along with famously-loved dishes and drinks, that has made Awedaddys an essential community establishment.
The Bushwacker is one of those irresistible, boozy beverages renowned among customers. With real ice cream and customizable toppings like snickerdoodle, peanut butter, and salted caramel, it’s no wonder the Awedaddy secret recipe has won best bushwacker on the lake.
Michelle says, “Laid back and Bushwacked is our slogan for a reason.”
The hand-breaded Cheese Styx stand out as another classic staple. Their classic menu line, “Often imitated but never duplicated,” does justice to the signature, cheesy delight.
The weekday specials are a big draw, featuring dishes not on the regular menu. Taco Tuesday offers fish, shrimp, pork, beef and chicken tacos, as well as nachos, chips, queso, guacamole and a two-for-one special on all Mexican beers. On Wing Wednesday, customers can get eight smoked wings with a 16-ounce draft. Thursday features All You Can Eat Catfish served with french fries, cole slaw and hushpuppies.
Sunday Brunch is a popular time to visit Awedaddys. Customers can enjoy a breakfast buffet, a special menu with items like stuffed strawberry french toast and hot chicken and waffles, plus a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar.
Awedaddys is also growing, with a pizza kitchen now open on weekends at the gas dock, and a food truck coming soon to keep the summer flavor going year-round.
Whether you’re coming with family for a weekday special, gathering with friends for happy hour or enjoying live music on the lake, Awedaddys sets the scene for summer experiences.
Michelle says, “Awedaddys has lasted because it has always been more than just a restaurant — it's a place where people make memories.”
Michelle’s personal story encapsulates the heart of the Awedaddys name. The late Vern Benke hired her as a server at Grandstands in 2000. Michelle says she knew then that it was more than work, it was purpose. She worked with Benke for more than 23 years.
“He was like a father to me, and I loved him dearly,” Michelle says.
When Michelle purchased Awedaddys from Benke, she wanted to continue the legacy of rich relationships and high-quality food he had begun. Benke passed away shortly after she became owner.
“If these walls could talk, there would be many stories to be told about how someone has a core memory of an experience here at Awedaddys,” says Michelle. “What stands out the most to me was in 2023 when I took over the restaurant, and so many of our regulars and people in the community reached out to tell me that they were so thankful that I was able to keep the place open and a part of all their lives.”
Michelle says, “I love this place and the customers and crew, and I learn something new every day, and will continue to carry the torch for my family to have their own legacy one day. I want Awedaddys to be a longstanding staple of Gallatin for many years to come.”
615.452.4777
Awedaddys.com
727 Marina Private Rd, Gallatin, TN
Awedaddys has lasted because it has always been more than just a restaurant — it's a place where people make memories.