Here to Serve
Why We Built This Place
A letter from our owner, J Cornelius.
You know the food. You might know my face from the dining room. But unless we've shared a table, you probably don't know why this place exists.
In February 2024 we opened Lucky Hare & Night Train Pizza under one roof, across from the Big Canoe North Gate. The reason was simple: the people who live here deserved more options to enjoy themselves. A neighborhood place where the kitchen makes everything with care, the bartender knows your name, and dinner doesn't need a plan.
Fresh & Local.
The dough gets made fresh every morning. We work with local farm partners as much as possible: Ellijay Mushrooms, Riggin Farm, Circle A Farms, Reece’s Orchards, Tom's Awesome Seafood, and Sourdough Forge to name a few. We support local artists. We donate time and money to non-profits and charities (though we don’t talk about the specifics of our donations publicly).
We listen because we care.
More than 2,000 of you have filled out a comment card, and every one gets read by me. The team talks through them each week. My mobile number and email are printed on every receipt. They're real, and I answer.
If you've been in, thank you. If you haven't, or haven't in a while, come to dinner. Ask for me.
We want this to be the neighborhood place you wish you'd always had. That only works if you're in it. Hope to see you soon.
J. Cornelius, Owner
Lucky Hare & Night Train Pizza
How it Started
Life is funny sometimes. Opportunities arise and you have to decide what to do about them.
In late 2023, the opportunity to create a new neighborhood gathering place came up. The community wanted it, so we decided to make it happen. Now Lucky Hare & Night Train Pizza are here to add value to the place we call home.
But why call it “Lucky Hare”? That story begins in the late 1800’s.
You’re the Reason We Exist
People like you who value scratch-made food and honest service are what keeps us going.
It’s wonderful to see you enjoy the flavors of a dish and share a laugh with good friends.
You are why we show up every day.
Our Pledge to You
Culinary excellence. Our team prepares each dish from scratch using high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms whenever possible. No frozen or pre-packaged shortcuts—just honest, fresh cooking that highlights true flavor.
Outstanding hospitality. Everyone on our service team is dedicated to ensuring you’re met with warmth, professionalism, and genuine care throughout your visit.