The Bears Den

This used to be one of my favorite restaurants. I visited a couple of days, ago. Customer service was excellent. Food was horrible. The vegetables tasted, as if it came straight out of a can. With no seasonings and boiling meat flavor added. The chicken was fried too hard. Sweet tea was bitter.

Oh my goodness!!! This food reminds me of Sundays around my grandmas table. It’s truly yummy! I can’t believe I waited this long to try it. So worth every penny! I’m so picky and the squash casserole is delicious, tender fried chicken, buttery cornbread, crispy okra, sooooo yummy 😋

Homemade food and phenomenally good! Favorite of our family with large portions.

A great little down to earth mom and pop restaurant. The food was great, hot, and fresh!!! There were 5 of us and we ALL enjoyed our meals. The fried Chicken was great and the Beef tips and rice were just like my grandmother's.

Great customer service , very welcoming atmosphere. Food was disappointing. Rice and gravy had no flavor (most disappointing), chicken was kinda pink in the middle , cabbage tasted like water. I give the food -10/10 atmosphere is very nice and all workers was very nice but they need a new cook for sure.

Really enjoy this place. Home cooked style food. Service was great. Very friendly and welcoming. Surprisingly as busy as it was, being lunch time, had no problem getting a table.

We found this place on Google and wanted to try it. I will tell you it did not disappoint. We were greeted even before we went inside by a waitress that was cleaning a table. When we went inside, everyone was smiling and super nice. The food was delicious. I had the chicken tenders with fried green tomatoes and cream corn. My wife had the baked chicken with dressing and also the fried green tomatoes. It was awesome. I can't say enough about this place. I love it!!!

Bear's Den, like many college dining halls, serves a fundamental purpose: to feed a large student body with diverse needs and preferences, multiple times a day. It is with this understanding that I offer this review. The Basics: Variety: Bear's Den generally offers a reasonable variety of food options. There are usually stations for hot entrees, a salad bar, a sandwich station, and some form of dessert. Efforts are made to include vegetarian and vegan options, though consistency in this area can vary. Quality: Food quality is, as expected, a mixed bag. Some dishes are well-prepared and flavorful, while others can be bland, overcooked, or otherwise unappetizing. The salad bar is usually a safe bet, and certain "comfort food" items tend to be reliable. Atmosphere: The dining hall is a large, often crowded space. Seating can be challenging to find during peak hours. Noise levels are high, making it difficult to have quiet conversations. The general ambiance is functional rather than inviting. Cleanliness: Cleanliness is generally adequate. Staff members work to keep tables and food service areas tidy, but the sheer volume of students makes it an ongoing challenge. Areas for Improvement: Consistency: The biggest issue is the inconsistency in food quality. Improving this would significantly enhance the dining experience. Atmosphere: While it's unrealistic to expect a fine-dining experience, small improvements to the atmosphere, such as better lighting or more comfortable seating, could make a difference. Communication: Clearer labeling of food items, especially regarding allergens and dietary restrictions, would be beneficial. Overall: Bear's Den fulfills its primary function of providing sustenance. It's a place of necessity rather than a culinary destination. Students will likely have a range of experiences, from satisfactory to disappointing. Management and staff face the difficult task of serving a large and demanding population, and while there is room for improvement, they generally succeed in providing the basics. For a college dining hall, it's within the range of what one might expect.

First and last time coming to this place! The food is a solid 3.5 but service brings it down. Order: Fried chicken Mac n cheese Collards Cornbread Banana pudding When I called in, I had asked for peach cobbler and was told they don't make make it everyday and didn't have it. I then asked, "so what do you have" (had a gut feeling they were out of multiple things) and I was told they have everything else, so I ordered banana pudding. They told me my order would be ready in one minute. I had someone pick up my food for me, and when they told me the total, I quickly figured out that my dessert was missing and when I opened up the bag, sure enough, it was. You would think common sense and courtesy would make them CALL right away or at least tell my friend at pickup they were out of banana pudding and if we wanted something else, but nurp! Nothing was said. I called and asked if they were out of banana pudding for my order and she said "yes". I said, "well why didn't you at least tell us so we could choose an alternative?" and she just sat there with nothing to say. I mean, at least say sorry, or something, but radio silence and I just said ok and hung up. I'm going to be nice and just leave my thoughts about the girl to myself. Then, I open the package and there are no utensils, no ketchup, no hot sauce and my friend wasn't asked if we needed any of that. I had to eat dry chicken. The food: 1. Fried chicken was extremely salty and I took off most of the skin. A little dry but bearable 2. I didn't like the cornbread bc it was too dry 3. Collards were decent but too salty 4. Mac and cheese had a decent taste but remind me of cafeteria style creamy mac n cheese and not traditional southern mac n cheese. I also think there was too much roux. Overall, I will not be back. -

Great Meatloaf And Fish! Great Soul Food! Love The Mac And Cheese! The Baked Beans Are Great But They Will Make You Fart!

No pictures because I was too busy eating. This place did not disappoint. Polished the plate and the table service refilling my sweet tea was top notch. Even the customers made my experience. Great soul food.

Excellent food and service!!! This is real southern soul food. The lowest point was the Lasagna. But everything else is on point!

Food: slaps every time!!! Tenders were tasty (albeit slightly dry the most recent visit) and the beef tips were AMAZING. Mac and cheese is salty but so good. Service: cafeteria style and so efficient during lunch!

Great southern cooking. I enjoyed everything that I tried. Like to sit in the room that is full of windows and lets in so much light.

I saw that this place closed at 6:00PM so I got there about 5:15 as I didnt want to miss it. At that time many of the dishes were gone but they they were very patient with a first timer there explaining whats left. I got the lemon pepper chicken, 2 big breasts on a huge pile of rice plus 2 sides for $11 something incl tax. Not bad. The place is a bit confusing as on the left is I think is the regular eat in side and then there is to the right a to go side that stays open 3 hours after the other side close. The lady was nice enough to let me sit in an area already closed off as I hate to eat in the car and I was staying at a very cheap and gross hotel and I never want to eat in those. Overall this looks like a very good place to get the usual Southern Cooking. Help was very helpful and friendly.

Bear's Den remains awesome just like it was when we were students at Mercer. We stopped in to grab dinner to-go yesterday after attending homecoming events at Mercer. We loved it. I had the fried chicken, Mac and cheese, green beans, and side of cheese grits. I also grabbed some carrot cake to-go. The food is always flavorful, hot, and delicious. I'm glad to know they are still around. Parking is free and easy on the street outside. They have dine-in and outdoor options are well. The staff here are always awesome.

Fantastic food and great service. The meatloaf on Wednesdays is my favorite and the mac n cheese is amazing!

Food is pretty good and they give you a decent amount of it. Hopefully you can park on the street because their parking lot is terrible. I guess the lady misheard me when I advised I wanted green beans collards and Mac and cheese. I didn't take notice until I got home that I had squash casserole instead of green beans. It was still tasty but that was way too much cheese for one meal. Also it's best to go earlier in the day as they were out of just about everything I wanted including banana pudding :(

Food like your mama would make! It's served cafeteria style, so don't expect a cloth napkin dining experience. Clean place, friendly staff, happy customers.

This is an hidden gem in Macon. The food is delicious and served hot. The service is excellent. The staff ready to serve you. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Macon

The shelter lunch..or urban ministry...step up ya....everything.this is a basic homeless shelter halfway eaten meal

I cannot say enough great things about The Bears Den. I use them for catering, and it is always a big hit and the highlight is the office's week. I personally eat there (maybe more than I should?????). I am trying to eat my way through their menu. Staff could not be nicer!!! Sweetest people!! And they all work together so well. Go in the take out side sometime and watch how great they all work together!! You can get such a great meal for LESS than fast food!!!

Found this gem because it said bear Everything we had was great, and i passed on some of my favs to try new things. Mashed potatoes, Mac and cheese, cornbread, chk&dumplins, lemon chicken, rice, banana pudding... Worth your time and money. Not sure if i would classify it as soul food or southern fare.... But it's fabulous either way and i would go back if i pass thru Macon again. Limited hours though... check website before you go.

It was delicious ribs and sides tender didn't really need sauce mustard sauce was good greens and pasta salad tasted good when in Macon this is my Rib stop

Southern fried oily high calorie/ high carbohydrate meals. Chicken tastes fine, and food tastes like butter.

I have been here a few times. I come when ever I visit Macon. Great food, great service. This place has never let me down. Good portions for a good price. Highly recommend.

On my way out from a business meeting and I had a taste for good southern cooking. I've heard great things about the Bears Den so I dropped in for a bite. I went through take out bc it was after 3 and the dining hall closes at 3. The line was hanging out the door. I was like oh my how long is the wait! The guy in front of me said it's not long and at the time he was saying that a server took my order. I like the way they take your order - it's written on the back of the to go plate w/name. The take out area is small but the lines move quick. The cashier was very nice and I'm sorry I didn't get her name or photos but I'd be certain the next time. I ordered green beans , turnips and white meat chicken (fried). Total $8.23... I didn't order tea bc I had a gallon of water in the car. It was all tasty! Chicken fried to perfection - golden crispy juicy. Green beans and turnips were well seasoned. The cornbread had a hint of sweetness to it which made it delicious . Kind of tasted like jiffy mix with extra butter or oil . The bag is oily Of course there are no seats in take out but there are seats and tables outside. Parking is on the front street which is shared with the Townhouses across the street. There is parking in the rear. If you're in the area and you're in the mood for southern cuisine, stop by you won't be disappointed. Oh I did glance in the dining hall and it's a decent size maybe seat 200 or 250. It's buffet style as you walk through you're served. I didn't get dessert but they had red velvet cake, fruit , strawberry shortcake, pound cake, etc Enjoy!

Very nice place. However the food was very bland. The rice was hard. The good had no flavor. When you think of southern food you think of flavor. I would eat there again. Just know there's not a lot of flavor. The Banana pudding it's amazing.

They aren't open on weekends and close at 3pm, there's it first clue. Take out until 6. A very small but very clean place. I'm a food snob and rarely does everything that I order satisfy me. I think they cloned my mother and have her cooking the food. Everything is ridiculously fresh and tastes amazing! If you grew up in the South, then you'll think they cloned your mom or grandmother. If you didn't, we'll, that's ok, you'll still love it. 6 out of 5 stars. Don't miss eating here. The price for what you get is amazing as well.

The fried chicken is lip-smacking good and the Mac and cheese - oh, my, GOOD! The cornbread is beyond excellent.

While driving on the interstate today I wanted something other than what is offered on the exit signs. Found this restaurant from Yelp and saw the positive reviews. If you are looking for fine dining then look elsewhere. If you want good comfort food and friendly people then don't hesitate to go here. I arrived to a smaller restaurant and walk inside to a cafeteria type service. I came in on a Tuesday and each day has different offerings to choose from. I went with the Chicken and Dumplings, Sweet potatoes, creamed corn, and for dessert some banana pudding. I have to say everything tasted excellent and really hit the spot. If I lived close this place would be dangerous for me because I'd be here all the time. From start to finish the staff were all very friendly and accommodating. When I finished my food it was quickly picked up and removed. I was checked on to see if I needed anything else as well. Overall it was a very good experience and if I'm driving back through I will return for sure. I would definitely recommend if anyone is thinking of going.

Tasty home cooking southern style! Cafeteria type meals with quick service and lots of good down home choices. Try the sweet potatoes! The fried chicken is a popular selection but there are a number of others as well. Convenient free parking in back. Definitely recommend the Bear's Den for a hearty meal!

Just sitting here enjoying my favorite restaurant in Middle GA. The Bear's Den is the most amazing little place and the food is outstanding always. My preference is the Beef Tips on Rice and they never disappoint. The staff is friendly and the owner is a wonderful lady, entrepreneur and employer. The Bear's Den catered my oldest daughter's wedding in October and it was perfect...just like sitting down inside the restaurant on Oglethorpe St. So many of our guests were introduced to this phenomenal restaurant and the consistently great food! If you are ever in Macon or surrounding area, it's worth a drive to find the Den and enjoy a great home cooked meal! Thanks Kristi and staff for always providing a stellar experience.

After reading great comments about fried chicken, I finally got to try it. I'd rather go to Walmart or Kroger and buy their chicken. Chicken was very dry and red velvet was too sweet.

Delicious food (main meal and dessert) Polite and friendly staff Clean area We called home about this place and continue to talk about it often.

Really good soulfood. Found it on a whim traveling through the area. I ordered the fried pork chops, collards, mashed potatoes and keylime cake, the Monday menu. The chops were a little dry, but we came in late and about 30min before closing. The potatoes and greens were fantastic. My husband got fried chicken and mac and cheese, both excellent (I was a little jealous). Keylime cake was wonderful as was the banana pudding. I suggest to anyone stopping by or visiting the area.

Best place to eat in Beall's Hill (between Mercer University and Navicent Medical Center) in Macon, GA. If you're a local, you know exactly how awesome the food, the staff and the people who patronize this fabulous establishment all are! You can dine in or carry out. We usually dine in for lunch and then use the pick up window to the right of the dining room for take out dinner. The main dining room closes around 3pm and then take out is available until 6pm. When you walk in, there's usually a line that wraps around the door and sometimes down the sidewalk. The good thing is that the food is always hot and ready. The Bears Den is definitely one of those places that you MUST experience if you visit Macon.

Delicious home cooking and great service. Wish they were located in either Peach or Houston county. I am sure they would be busy!

I'm in town for training and I wanted to try some food food in the city of Macon. So as always I use Yelp to guide me to my next location to try out. The food was very good and staff was friendly. I can see myself eating here again.

Omg..... the best soul food in town hands down the cornbread dressing is my favorite as well as the butter beans and lemon aide! The sweetest servers they are so kind and helpful I really love and appreciate the help with me and my mother and her limited mobility to walk and handle her food and drinks ! Let's just say the food is like the team here outstanding.... Great job Bears Den

Good southern cooking. Good portions and price. Selection changes daily. Friendly service.

The food is delicious. The beef tips are my favorite. You can't go wrong with chicken fingers either. Not open on the weekends. You should not leave Macon without a meal from here.

Absolutely the best food in Bibb County- Hands Down!!! It's reasonably priced, great portions, and has the most friendliest employees around. If you haven't tried them you're missing out on the best comfort food this side of South Georgia. Please support The Bear's Den. It's obvious the management has a winning recipe for success- Delicious food, Friendly staff, & Affordable prices with adequate portioins of food. Go- Bear's Den!!

Great place for soul food- we had smothered pork chops & fried chicken, both were awesome- sides were delicious, the Mac & cheese is very cheesy - quick service for an easy in & out- we definitely recommend

Was driving through and wanted to try this out because of previous reviews. Hands down worth it! This place is like going to your grandmas for a good filling home cooked meal. The staff is so very friendly and attentive. If we ever come through this area again we will definitely be stopping by!

Awesome food!!! Best dressing besides my own and very clean. Prices are just right if you have to feed the family or coworkers.

Amazing Southern food, great service! My two girlfriends and I were on our way to Hilton Head after meeting up at the ATL airport from our three different cities and we just happened upon this place. So happy to have gotten the chance to experience this wonderful restaurant. Highly recommend he fried fish if you find yourself there on a day when you find it on the menu.

Some of my favorite country food in south GA. The fried chicken doesn't play! Everything is excellent. Never really had a bad experience ans ive eaten there 20 times or so.

The place was so good, I need to find excuses to go visit Macon again! The best baked chicken I ever have! I think it was called the Lemon pepper chicken. Can't wait to go back to try their fried chicken and fried pork chop.

Ok went here yesterday 10-19-2018 had fried chicken Breast,wing with pineapple casserole,and butter beans. Ice tea.It was Delicious!!!. This place is clean, nice folk.Never had pineapple casserole but it was the Bomb!!! Reminds me of a tiny S & S. Will be back soon.

Quite amazing, the "best home cooking" cafe in Macon, GA for sure. The staff was very friendly, but it's the South so no points there. I'm a Texas boy and had never had country chicken fried steak with brown gravy and onions in my life so I gave it a shot. I'm more used to the white creamy gravy on my chicken fried steak, but this dish at Bear's Den changed my mind. Not only was it moist, the brown gravy had a creamy texture which surprises me. Definitely recommend this dish. I had turnips and mash potatoes on the side to stay safe, but it was quite delicious. These side dishes were Not much better than home cooking ones, but it made me feel like home. I also had the corn bread. Though it was not the best, not many corn breads out there are better. Overall, great experience. If you are in Macon, GA and want to feel like eating at home, Bears Den can give you that feeling.

Excellent! The food and service were top notch! I will definitely return and letting others know about this gem of a place!

Southern soul food at its best. Each day they have a new special so happens I came on the lemon pepper chicken day which was amazing. Real true southern food. Staff was super friendly place was packed I came at lunch so it was busy. If your traveling in the the area I highly recommend this this southern restaurant. A true southern meal and hospitality.

Food is good, meat & three. Only problem is their hours are awful.

On my search through my yelp app I came across this restaurant which I had heard about it somewhere. I believe it was on television. Well nonetheless my mom and I entered the restaurant and was greeted with a friendly greeting. The lady's serving the food were so patient and kind as it was our first time at this restaurant. It made me feel welcome. Needless to say the food was very delicious and tasty you can tell it was prepared with a lot of flavor and love . Our dining experience was tasteful as my mom and I so graciously savored every bite. Last but not least I can't remember her name but she was so kind as we began to depart the restaurant and take the remaining of our food with us she was so gracious to serve us with a lot of love and kindness you can tell that she has a passion for the job she does. I will definitely return to this restaurant in the future.

The Bear's Den is buffet/cafeteria style meat and sides joint with homestyle Southern finger lickin' goodness. Mac n cheese is always on my plate here, with varied meat options depending on which day of the week. I like their collards and creamed corn, and the desserts are worth saving room for or grabbing for a treat later on! It gets crowded, as popular and good places do. It's one of the authentic soul food meal experiences you've gotta have in Macon.

Was working in the area and close to the hospital, so I decided to grab a bite. Food was alright but a change of pace from typical fast food, portion size was a bit small for price point. Will give it another visit if short on time, being close to hospital.