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105 N Liberty St Harrisonburg, VA

Join us in our in our dining room, at the bar or on our covered outdoor deck!

Virginia ingredients

global flavors

sincere service

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Elephant Head Restaurant brings together unexpected flavors and regional ingredients for a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Chef/owner Colin Auckerman’s journey is represented through dishes which combine flavors & techniques refined throughout his career. The menu at Elephant Head features new American shareable plates with a strong Mediterranean backbone, alongside an extensive bar program featuring creative cocktails & mocktails, wines by the glass and local beers & ciders.

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Our Team

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Colin Auckerman

A native of Harrisonburg, Colin Auckerman has over 25 years in the hospitality industry. Starting at age 15 he started working in a hotel and quickly learned he loved the fast pace of the kitchen. After working in kitchens in from Charlottesville to Charleston, WV, Chef Auckerman returned home with a plan to, one day, open a restaurant of his own. He has spent the last decade living in Harrisonburg and working in Executive Chef roles at Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza and The Local Chop & Grill House, building relationships with local producers and honing his craft.

In early 2026 an opportunity arose for Auckerman to began plans to transform an existing restaurant into his own vision. With Elephant Head, Auckerman aims to bring exciting, honest food that highlights the best that Virginia producers have to offer.

Chef/Owner

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Taylor cosby

General Manager

Bringing years of experience in restaurant leadership, hospitality, and culinary operations. Having managed high-volume restaurants and led teams throughout her career, she is passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences and fostering a strong workplace culture. In addition to overseeing daily operations, Taylor contributes her expertise as a pastry chef, helping shape the restaurant's dessert program and commitment to quality.

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Evryn Garrison

Head of Bar Program

Evryn serves as the Head of the Bar Program at Elephant Head. A career working in craft environments focusing on quality and creativity has inspired the development of an innovative mixology program. Their passion for hospitality leads them to maintain a high standard for a guest centered experience.