Universal Joint Clayton

A very cool place. Really nice outdoor seating area with a stage I assume for music in season. It was a cool October evening but there was one long table with folks at it. Two heat made it nice. Inside is a horshoe bar which is sharp. A number of tables are also inside. Football games were on the TV's. Music was being played but not to loud. We sat off to the side and was easy to chat. Very informal setting A very simple menu. Burgers and such. Full bar. There were 3 of us. One ordered the brisket nachos which were loaded. Very good. Another had a basic burger which was cooked to order just right. Came with a large slice of red onion and a slice of tomatoe. For a side he had the fruit cup which was very fresh and good. I ordered the 4 Oz smash burger with water tots. Burger was excellent Tots were Luke warm. When I told the server he brought me a fresh hot plate of tots. NICE. Two of us also ordered the cucumber salad which was very tasty. Prices seemed very fair as none of us paid more than $20. For a Sunday night place was busy and the service was quick and good. Found a parking place outnfeont. Very happy with our meal here. Hope to come back

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Universal Joint is the definition of a small-town hidden gem. My wife and I stopped in on our anniversary and couldn’t have picked a better place. The food was phenomenal—she ordered the brisket tacos and they were packed with flavor, perfectly cooked, and downright addictive. I had the gyro with cucumber salad, and it was hands-down one of the best gyros I’ve had anywhere. Fresh, flavorful, and made with care. The bar was great, the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and it felt like one of those places the locals want to keep to themselves. If you’re looking for amazing food, a great drink, and a laid-back vibe with real character, Universal Joint is a must-stop. We’ll absolutely be back—anniversary or not! 🍻🌮

A cool place to hang, get a brew and some eats. Had the Gyro which was very good. Friendly and prompt service. Clayton is just a hip town to visit now!

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.

Very cozy, laidback burger joint with eclectic decor. It was a little crowded - obviously a very popular spot. Our server was attentive and quick to meet our needs. The food was fantastic - the house-made black bean burger was a godsend to a vegetarian such as myself. Portions were very generous for the price. We’d come back again if we were local!

Cool place, good food, good atmosphere. People bring dogs of all sizes. If you have a little weenie dog I'd leave it at home.

Nice outdoor setting with a decent selection of beers. Good burger with a tomato that nobody should eat. Fries were nice. On a good day this is probably a nice restaurant, it certainly is popular. Understaffed, maybe because Sunday afternoon, but people wait while staring at unused tables. Management seemed non-existent. Very, very short pour on a glass of wine, the waiter stared blankly when mentioned. Asked if we could get the chips and salsa that accompanied an entree before the meal. Supposedly not a problem but never arrived. Also did not arrive with the actual meal until we said something. Not nearly enough salsa in the tiny to-go cup, and they charge .50 for an extra. Check arrived without requesting it, never asked if we wanted dessert or anything else. Maybe they should upsell the menu instead of squeezing profits out of wine and salsa.

Universal Joint in Clayton is always a good place to go enjoy a nice meal. Food is always good. Service is always good and prices are fair. Parking is street parking or parking behind the restaurant. This place is usually pretty busy. You can eat indoor or outside. Pets are welcome outside. They do have a small stage for music but we have never been there when there was music. Great atmosphere. Fun place to join friends or take friends who are visiting from out of town.

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.

Our server was good, but she was very busy so sometimes we didn't see her. Our food came out hot and it was very well seasoned. Our drinks were pretty good and we met some of the locals even met the owners of hunkers vodka. Overall nice place, especially to stop and eat. Sports bar for sure. We enjoyed our visit.

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.

Decent burger, decent brisket sandwich (skimpy on meat amount on our sandwich) great mix drinks: casual atmosphere. Good dive bar vibe with decent food.

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.

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!

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

Everything was great! Wings were hot and tasty. Friends shared a nacho plate and enjoyed it.

My wife, daughter and I drone to the Clayton location for dinner last evening. We have frequented the Lawrenceville and Claytons due to the excellent food and service. Unfortunately the food was well below par on our visit. We ordered 3 burgers and all were overcooked, Additionally 2 of the 3 side dishes (tots & fries) were undercooked were cod when served. While service was attentive the poor food quality will makes me question returning given the quality restaurant offerings in Clayton.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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!

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 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.

Good atmosphere, vibe, food, and staff. Family friendly with games for kiddos. Dog friendly too.

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.

Decent bar service, not so good food. Chicken tenders were not homemade, and definitely frozen. Brisket nachos had no toppings other than brisket, queso and a few red onions. Ambiance was good. I would recommend this place if you're wanting a bar and substandard bar food.

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!!!

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

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!

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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