The Swanson was honored by Garden & Gun magazine for being the only Georgia restaurant selected as one of “THE BEST CHICKEN JOINTS IN THE SOUTH”, July Edition 2010.
A SOUTHERN DINING EXPERIENCE
Come and join us, immerse yourself in over 200 years of history and enjoy some of the best southern food in middle Georgia. Keeping in harmony with our forbearers we encourage everyone to dress casual, take your time, and indulge in good conversation and enjoy your family.
HISTORY
In 2002, Mike and Kim Sheridan purchased The Cox-Swanson home with the dream of serving southern food. Throughout the years, The Swanson has become famous for white tablecloths, charming ambience, fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, and those “little biscuits”.
The Cox-Swanson home was famous long before its doors were opened as one of the south’s best southern dining destinations, in 1790, Mr. Bennett constructed and began a livery stable. In the 1880’s, a three-room house was added to the property and was the home of the former mayor of Perry, Mayor Cox. The home was purchased in 1903 by Nora Singleton Cox, Ms. Norine Swanson Jones’ grandmother. In 1909 two bedrooms and a large hall were added transforming the structure into the house we know today.
The restaurant was honorably named for Ms. Norine Swanson-Jones. Ms. Norine played both the organ and piano for downtown churches, and was very active in community plays. She also established Perry’s very first kindergarten in her home in the 1930’s. Many locals remember attending kindergarten here and have signed our guest book with the years of their attendance.
Whether it’s enjoying lunch on the porch, or dinner with friends in one of our beautifully decorated rooms, The Swanson is now a must for great food and excellent service, paired with an inviting atmosphere and southern charm.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to serving our many friends, family, and guests in the future.
MIKE AND KIM SHERIDAN