Universal Joint Clayton

Would give 3.5 stars if I could. The food was decent. The wings barely had any Buffalo sauce on them, but ranch was good. I had the brisket dip sandwich. All I could taste was smoke, like it was kinda overpowering. I couldn't taste the cheese or au jus really. Sweet potato waffle fries were great though. Overall, okay place but won't be making a point to visit again.

This is a great place for families or couples. DJ is an awesome waiter. He was very knowledgeable of the menu items and very friendly. I ordered the smokehouse burger, and my wife ordered the mushroom quesadilla. They were both awesome.

Stopped for lunch. Didn't want anything heavy, so we ordered the smash burger sliders. They were 4 oz goodness with a side perfectly fried tots. Add to that the great beer selection, it was a perfect lunch before a hiked at Tallulah gorge. Drove from the Midwest for the trip. We will hit this place up next time we come.

My husband and I love to take a ride to UJ, whether it is just the two of us or our family. The atmosphere is always very relaxed and friendly and the staff is responsive and kind. We love to take our youngest dog with us to give him exposure to new sights, smells, and sounds, and UJ is the perfect place to do that. They are a dog-friendly establishment and even offer dog bowls for your convenience so your pup can have water while you enjoy your food. Great place to go and such a relaxing atmosphere!

Food was excellent! The staff weren’t overly friendly and our appetizer was forgotten and when I asked about it after they brought our food she apologized and said they would bring it out and take it off our check for the mistake but they didn’t take it off the check. Which is fine but I know that would bother some people. Also love that it’s dog friendly for outside seating BUT the tables are very close together and there were several dogs so if your fur baby doesn’t do well around crowded environments or other dogs, this probably isn’t your place.

Amazing place dog friendly. Great food and atmosphere. Comfortable outdoor seating tables and live music stage. 10/10 recommend the Brisket Nachos and the U Joint Burger and the Buffalo Quesadillas

Great place waiters were as attentive as possible as this seemed to be a very popular location. Dog friendly and they provide water for the puppies. We made the mistake of being there in the middle of the day at the hottest time. But that's not the restaurants fault. Outside seating is cozy but umbrellas could be a little bigger as they only cover really 2 out of 8 seats at a bigger table. Other amazing food would recommend

My wife and I stopped by for dinner, again as we have several times. She got my usual Gyro with salad which is great as usual. I had my other favorite the BBQ burger with tater-tots. Which was incredible as usual. We will be going back again and again. Great atmosphere, good and good service.

We came to Clayton as a stop and had lunch at this place, that is located right on Main Street. It is a casual vibe and we were attracted to the large outdoor seating area they had. It is covered and there are fans as it was pretty hot the day we were there. Our server was attentive, but took some time getting to us as it was pretty busy. The menu has some great options and I ended up going with the Brisket Dip. The sandwich was hearty and was cut in half, making it easy to dip. The roll was nice and soft and it came with a side, which I chose to be tater tots. You got a lot of those with your meal, which came out quickly. The bathroom was clean as well and we were in and out in a decent time.

Was fairly busy for a Monday at lunchtime! Service was scarce but it was definitely busy, our waiter had tables inside and out so he was running around. Chicken tacos were delightful. In and out quickly.

Our party of 6 was surprisingly seated quickly at 7pm on a Friday, probably because it was rainy and the main draw is the outdoor seating area. I regret not getting pics of the food, but the quesadilla, turkey pita, and grilled chicken salad we ordered were all presented well and delicious. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive, and made sure that our glasses stayed full and we had everything we needed. Meals were in the $13-$20 range, so very affordable for ballin' on a budget. We also enjoyed playing some songs on the remote jukebox app. Will stop back in again to try out some drink specials.

We ate here for dinner. It was raining so we ate inside. They have a nice outdoor dining area. Reviews looked good. My wife and I had hamburgers with sweet potato fries. The food was okay. It was bar food and nothing special. I felt like there was an excess of smoke flavoring added to the burger. The service was okay but slow. There was one person waiting tables and when we got there the crowd was picking up. The music was too loud and varied from good rock to head-banging screaming. They have one of those TouchTune systems. Would not eat here again.

This restaurant has an interesting menu. Lots of burgers and salads as well as few unique dishes. Service was ok and so were the prices. I had a Greek side salad that was small in size but did have a lot of variety in toppings. I also ordered the pimento cheese plate. It was a lot more than I expected. It had a great flavor and the seasoning on the cucumbers was great. I would definitely order it again. At the table an order of tacos and a burger were also ordered and enjoyed. The table loved their tater tots. The overall experience was pretty good. I would likely come back.

The brisket nachos were ultra delicious! And I loved the "vintage garage" aesthetic.

Service = outstanding! Burger & fries = mediocre at best I've heard the fish tacos are really good. Maybe try that next time

Stopped here after a hike to pinnacle knob. It's in downtown Clayton and you would need to find street parking. They have a great draft selection with local beer, craft beer and also German beer like paulaner and my favorite Guinness at fantastic prices. My friends tried their burgers and they were all happy with the brisket and Swiss mushroom options.

The burgers are amazing! Unfortunately I didn't get a burger. The BLT with pimento cheese was not bad, but not a burger. The tots are pretty amazing and the staff is very friendly!

We have dined at this location before. Unfortunately this last time was a giant disappointment. The server acted like she didn't want to be there. She took our order and then disappeared. Only half of our meals came out. We had to follow up with another waitress to get the rest of our order. No apologies. No compensation. Food was horrible. Very disappointing.

We ordered salads, kids burgers and chicken salad sandwich. All were great and came out super fast. Kids enjoyed games on the stage.

Flounder tacos are out this world. Grilled tacos and the burgers are awesome too. Service is excellent. Good vibe. If the weather is good, beautiful outdoor seating.

They were very busy, as it was July 4 week. But we were able to get a seat inside as soon as we walked up. Our waitress was extremely busy, so one of the hostesses helped her out and took our order. Everyone was very nice, our food came quickly, and it was delicious. We loved the fact that it was a refurbished gas station. Great location. Highly recommend. I also love that they honor Veterans.

Our family came here for dinner while visiting Black Rock mountain. There is plenty of parking in the public lot right behind the restaurant. Came on a Monday evening and wasn't crowded at all and was immediately seated. There's tons of seating outside. Prices were very reasonable and portions are good. Food was also all tasty. Service was also on spot. Glad we stopped by and will definitely come back next time we visit Black Rock mountain again.

So good! The food is amazing, they allow dogs on the porch and the bathroom was pretty clean. I had the nachos, with brisket on the side and the arugula salad. Very fresh ingredients.

Insanely AWESOME!!! Delicious food and fast service!! I highly recommend this restaurant. I also loved the outdoor seating.

This place has a great burger with reasonable prices on their menu options. It is rare that a burger joint will serve them up pink, just the way I like it. I came here multiple times with friends and no one left disappointed. We ordered 20 wings which were also great we tried all three flavors. The cocktails were on point as well, I had an amazing Old Fashioned. Service was top notch, didn't have to ask for anything. Staff here are mindful and remember what you ask for. Fun environment as they have reclaimed an old gas station with plenty of outdoor seating and a fire pit to boot. Next time I am in Clayton, GA I will stop in for food and drinks again.

Usually pretty good food, both this time, not sure what has changed, will give it CAA another try

Stopped in to this refurbished gas station because Yelp said it was good. Food was ok. I had the fish taco's. Blackened does not mean dried out!! My husband said the burger was great. Don't expect anything fabulous with the tots. Have no idea why there are so many reviews that they are great. Service was fair. The bathroom is what did it for me. I have never seen anything, including gas station bathrooms, that looked so disgusting. I'll neve return. Take care of your bathrooms!!!

Bartender was good. The atmosphere was good. The food was either an old order that no one picked up, or the kitchen didn't care how they send food out. I was disappointed in the chicken tacos...and the fries were warmed up and hard, stale. I give out great reviews when deserved. I usually don't give bad reviews even when deserved, but this was an exception in the difference from the good floor to the lacking kitchen. Thank you reading.

Located in Downtown Clayton. You will need to find street parking or parking in a lot available kind of behind them. The food was really great. I recommend stopping here right after some wine tastings. The PBAT is what I got and it's a sandwich with pimento, tomato, bacon, and arugula. It's really great. Staff is really nice but a bit slow paced. You can sit inside or outside. Dogs are welcomed on the patio! It's a very casual place to grab lunch at with live music. It's a great place to stop while in town!

This place is so cute and has great food. The pimento cheese appetizer is awesome and comes with crunchy homemade pickles. Fish tacos were light and fresh for a hot summer day. We love that it's dog friendly - It's always great to see the dogs that come to sit with their owners here also. Friendly and attentive service, and great tap list.

Food was great. Service was good. Pretty crowded for indoor seating. I got the wrong side but they adjusted our bill quickly. .

First time there. Just picked the perfect day. It was cool for a June day, outside tables and the servers and everyone was great. Good time.

What a gem! Right in town... super dog friendly. If we were in Clayton longer we would have returned. As they had live music there often. Great service- gorgeous location Food was delicious and perfect price. Give it a try!

Stopped there for lunch there food is ok nothing special but the setting is pretty and friendly Nice place for a quick bite on the patio Nice flowers and trees Friendly servers

Excellent menu, well executed items. My husband and son both had burgers, I had the blackened flounder tacos which were delicious! Very cool vibe and location. Glad we went

Burger, queso and were good. Order the buffalo quesadilla if you want your mouth to be so hot you can't finish half of it.

We've stopped in twice now on the way to OTTO, NC. Very hipster, chill vibe restaurant. First time was on a Friday (it was busy and we had a wait) and last night on a Thursday. We did not have to wait, thankfully because we were hungry! Both nights had music- Friday being live I believe. Food is good and tasty, my man had the Brisket Dip and loved it, fries were ok. Paired with Beer and Sweet tea makes for a great pre weekend evening! I had the buffalo chicken sandwich with ranch, and tator tots. He liked my tots more! The chicken sandwich was really good too, I love a toasted bun!

Universal Joint has great burgers and beer. Our family of 4 enjoyed our meal. The only reason it didn't get 5 stars was because my husband ordered the cucumber salad as a side with his meal and got a bowl of cucumbers that had been soaked in apple cider vinegar. That's not exactly what he was expecting. And, our service wasn't great. Our beers came in plastic solo cups while those sitting near us had glasses. Our server didn't come check on us either. So, good food. Sub par service.

They pour a proper Guinness and are very friendly. Food was good too and staff is professional. Nice atmosphere and consistent service.

The food and service are awesome. But I'm not happy with craft beers being $8.00. As a Homebrewer, I know that malted barley prices have not changed in 15+ years (I have receipts back to the 1990's) Yes, hop prices have tripled. Ok, I'm done venting.

This place looks pretty neat on the outside. There was a lit up gas pump behind the host stand, and some art on the window outside. There is an extensive outdoor seating area. We had dog with us so we sat outside for late dinner. My sister is gluten intolerant, so she ate off the gluten-free menu. She had the impossible burger firecracker style with tater tots. She said it was delicious! I had the Buffalo chicken sandwich which came on a brioche bun. I like that the chicken was grilled, but there wasn't much of it compared to the bun. It was still pretty good, though. My mom had the blackened flounder tacos with corn tortillas, and she thought it would have been better as a salad. The tortillas were floppy and fell apart quickly. There was a nice beer list and the drinks sounded good though we did not partake. The menu is online, but be aware that the draft beer was priced differently online than in store.

This is a must in Clayton! I got the PBAT (pimento cheese, bacon, arugula & tomato) and it was excellent either way their yummy tots. This UJ doesn't have Brussels which is sad but the service is excellent and the atmosphere is very enjoyable!

Came in after 8 pm. Asked if we could sit at one of the two empty high top tables. Young lady said no. They are reserved for large groups. They are still sitting empty except for one lone man half hour later.

Great dog friendly patio. Burgers are always solid choice. I had the brisket tacos. The meat was tender and plentiful and the slaw on the tacos was tasty. Felt like they were missing something though. Some cheese would be a good addition, maybe some cotija or Mexican crumbling cheese

great brisket sandwich. atmosphere was great and service too. Happened in on a Saturday and got a table. Highly recommend

OMG.. .this place is da'bomb. In an old gas ration with soooooo much charm. Inside and outside seating. Service is 150% some of the best I've ever had. Sara P. was incredible. She made great recommendation and was there for us exactly when needed So perfect! Everything is quick. Seating, drinks, appetizer and meal came out lickedity split even though they were almost at capacity inside (too cold for outdoor seating). Parking is on the street and we found plenty as. We tried the BBQ brisket nachos which is an appetizer for about ten (not really but it is huge). You can then split your favorite entree. We went with a burger and tots. Everything was perfect and reiterating the service was fabulous. We traveled all the way from Tallulah Gorge and were so glad we did. Great recommendation by the ranger there!

Size Matters!!! Don't be fooled!! These idiots try to serve a 2 OZ burger and call it a 4OZ!! It's a Slider!! For $8!!!! It should be 2-3 sliders for $8! Rude manager woman, and rude man who works there, possible owner. False advertisement with "4OZ Smash Burger"! Small town gouging!! Losers, never again

On a trip camping & looking for a locally owned restaurant. Chose this restaurant for the open patio seating and looked like a good many people were already there (usually a good sign). We ordered a bacon cheeseburger & pita wrap. The food was good; not great. Service was a little slow. Nothing negative to say & nothing extraordinary to say either.

Universal Joint is in Clayton, Georgia. The buildings around it seem kind of sophisticated and interesting. My dad and I went after visiting Tallulah Gorge State Park and more landmarks around the area. We are originally from Tampa, Florida and the December cold was frisky. It was an excellent experience. The atmosphere of the restaurant was packed. All the seats were full because college football was playing. Apparently, it is a good place if somebody wants to watch a game of football. I remember the inside of the restaurant was cozy. The walls are made from bricks. There were some cool neon signs on the wall that can generally be described as colorful. Altogether the restaurant gives off 80's or retro vibes, in my opinion. I remember ordering the PMB sandwich. The way that I described the PMB is that the bread was well toasted. I liked the taste of the bacon in the sandwich. The pimiento cheese was more on the salty side, however. If someone were to want to circumvent some of the saltiness maybe order less pimiento cheese. Also, adding more lettuce on to the sandwich could balance the saltiness, in my opinion. The sandwich could also be eaten vegetarian if ordered without the bacon. I especially liked how the fries were cooked. The exterior was crispy and soft on the inside. The fries also had a spicy or tangy taste to them. The last thing that we ordered were the honey wings. The honey wings were a blend of sweet with doughy chicken. It was a lucid vacation with plenty of fun memories. Universal Joint only added to the memories.

Good food. Bar was busy but service was good. Would have been a 5 star rating had they had Southern Comfort at the bar!!

The place we wanted to try had a long wait so we settled for universal joint after a day of hiking. The food was pretty bad and the service was worse. I don't recommend this place unless you're interested in being rushed and over paying for poor quality food in a dingy restaurant/bar.

It's a burger restaurant. Had a hangout for people. They sale burgers and beer. Certain times of the week it gets crowded. Food is hot and miss. I know people that love going there. But I think the burgers are dry and for the price don't have much to offer. The staff is over run with to tables. So order you drinks in multiples. So you want have to wait in staff.

In Clayton for a wedding. Chose UJ because they were dog friendly. Food was great, our server, Rene M must of ate a bag of lemons. Very pushy, got upset when we only ordered an appetizer, no napkins or silverware offered. I actually addressed her attitude with her, grunted, frowned and walked away. Otherwise a great experience ! Joe S

I ordered a beef brisket taco. It was chuck roast with liquid smoke on it. Garnished with diced up scallions. Service was slow , server was friendly , almost rude. I will not go back there.

We had a party of 5. Our wait was minimal but this is a hopping place with a steady stream of people. They do text ahead seating but we found that out after our arrival. Robbie was our waiter and was attentive but not overbearing, he was pleasant to deal with and made great recommendations when we couldn't decide. The brisket nachos both my mom and I had were awesome. My mom got the universal margarita w added jalapeños and said it was delicious. My niece got the arugula & mushroom quesadilla (first time having arugula) - said she would have it again. My sister (in-law) got the impossible burger. That's 2 great options for vegetarians. My aunt got the chicken salad (grapes and pecans in it) sandwich and loved it.

The service was outstanding I have food was exceptional Burgers cooked perfectly fresh ingredients outstanding service. PBAT BLT pimento & arugula was Exceptional on sourdough bread French fries were homemade well seasoned & fresh

When two indecisive socially consequence friends dine out during Covid, they come here. And you know what? They walk away full having made a perfect decision! Haven't been in Clayton since before "the rona," and desperately missed this small town charm. With Christmas right around the corner, shopping and dining were on the agenda (#shoplocal). Universal Joint was simply splendid. We did what two indecisive women do, we split and shared our order. With a Gyro and Buffalo Chicken Nachos, it might seem like an off pairing but it was warm, spicy, and filling. The restaurant was clean, less than half full, everyone wearing masks. We felt safe and well cared for. Thank you, Universal Joint for giving this extravert a taste of what life was life pre-rona!