In 1963, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Jones decided to start a business that would last a lifetime. They were a young family with a vision.
Browns Bridge Road was a main thoroughfare in the state of Georgia during that time. The Jones family decided to build a restaurant. Mr. Jones purchased a trailer in Atlanta and brought it to Gainesville. It was called “The Big Chief Drive-In”. After the move, Mr. Jones renamed it “The Lantern Inn”.
Mr. Jones converted the entire trailer into a kitchen. The diner was built around the trailer. Food was passed through an open window to waiting patrons. Burgers and Sandwiches were served for lunch and dinner. Breakfast was very popular, and at that time “The Lantern Inn” was open 24 hours a day.
The Jones family raised their children through the years and they all worked for the business. Pictures have been found during the renovation of laughter and joy!
Over the years, the restaurant hours decreased until 1984 when it was only opened on the weekends. It was at that time “Elvis” began performing. People made reservations and a seafood buffet was served. Breakfast was served on the weekends as well. People would come off the lake, secure their boats, and enjoy the show.
The years flew by and “The Lantern Inn” closed its doors in 2006. It was time for Mr. and Mrs. Jones to retire and enjoy life. I thank the Jones family for visiting and supporting us since we have opened.
I also had a vision. As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I knew we could make it a happy and fun place again. I had a vision of a place you could bring your family for dinner and a place to have cocktails and enjoy our nightlife. We decided to name the restaurant so it was easy to be found on the lake. We named it Pier 29 after the mile marker on beautiful Lake Lanier.
It is my ultimate goal to provide excellent service and great food. Now, everyone can enjoy our Diner atmosphere as well as our Nightlife. We provide lunch and dinner seven days a week and breakfast on the weekends. Come in for our hand-spun milkshakes, fresh fish tacos, and juicy burgers. My staff and I have the knowledge and work ethic to make your visit to Pier 29 a memorable one. Thank you for your support!