Atlanta Good Food category interest

Atlanta’s food scene is a must-experience for any traveler looking to explore the city’s rich culinary offerings. Known for diverse flavors and innovative chefs, these restaurants blend Southern hospitality and global influence. Whether you're indulging in a classic, down-home dish with a modern twist or tasting fresh flavors from around the world, the ATL’s food spots, from farm-to-table establishments to upscale seafood spots, will impress.

Dining in the 404 isn’t just about the food—it’s about seeing the city's vibrant culture and community through its culinary arts. Many top spots incorporate Georgia-grown ingredients and sustainable practices, bringing a local touch to every plate. So, if you're seeking an interactive dining experience or a laid-back atmosphere with a top-tier menu, here are some of the best places to dine in Atlanta.

East Atlanta

Here, visitors can expect a dining experience like no other. Chef Kevin Gillespie's bold, interactive restaurant turns the traditional dining model on its head by allowing chefs to present their creations directly to your table. With a communal dining setup and an open kitchen, the energy here is as much a part of the meal as the food itself. The menu changes regularly, but you can always count on creative, Southern-inspired dishes and tableside cocktails crafted right before your eyes. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a show, and one you won’t forget anytime soon.

Buckhead

Tucked into the Chastain Park neighborhood, this restaurant brings an elevated yet welcoming farm-to-table dining experience to North Buckhead. Savor seasonally inspired dishes, many made with ingredients from the restaurant’s on-site culinary garden. Whether you're stopping in for a leisurely coffee and pastry in the morning or indulging in an elegant dinner, the refined atmosphere makes this restaurant a neighborhood gem. Menu highlights include the herb-roasted chicken and the house-made sourdough, both of which pair beautifully with the tranquil garden views. The Chastain seamlessly marries sophistication with comfort, making it a must-visit in Atlanta.

West Midtown

Twisted Soul Cookhouse andamp; Pours, helmed by Chef Deborah VanTrece, reimagines Southern soul food with a global twist. The innovative menu includes dishes like pimento cheese-stuffed fried chicken and Creole seafood jambalaya, blending traditional Southern flavors with influences from around the world. The cocktails are just as playful, crafted with seasonal ingredients and a little bit of flair. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to expand their understanding of what soul food can be while enjoying a fun, inviting atmosphere in West Midtown.

Marietta

For those willing to venture a bit outside Atlanta, Spring in Marietta delivers the flavors of New American dining like none other. Chef Brian So's commitment to using unique ingredients results in a small but impeccably curated menu. Expect dishes like seared duck breast or roasted vegetables, all prepared with French techniques and paired with natural wines. The rustic-chic atmosphere and the emphasis on sustainability make Spring a destination dining experience worth the trip.

Midtown

The Optimist transports you to a coastal escape with its fresh, sustainable seafood offerings right in Atlanta. Located in an old ham-aging house, this Ford Fry spot channels a laid-back fish camp vibe with dishes like whole roasted Georgia trout and Maine sea scallops. The standout oysters, served raw or roasted, and the hickory-roasted fish keep seafood lovers coming back. Beyond the food, the restaurant’s breezy, coastal decor and inventive cocktail program make it feel like a seaside getaway even in the heart of the city.

College Park

Located in historic College Park, The Corner Grille serves up hearty American fare with Cajun flair in a relaxed setting. Whether you're craving perfectly cooked steak or crave-worthy chicken and waffles, the made-from-scratch dishes and Southern hospitality make this a favorite among locals. The cozy aesthetic adds a touch of charm, making The Corner Grille an easy go-to for a flavorful meal.

Poncey-Highland

Set inside the trendy Hotel Clermont, Tiny Lou’s offers a playful take on classic French brasserie fare. The decadent menu features dishes like escargot, steak frites, and rich crème brûlée, all prepared with a contemporary twist. The intimate setting and French-focused wine list make it a romantic destination, while the quirky history of its namesake, a 1950s dancer, adds a dash of intrigue. Tiny Lou’s is an experience you’ll want to savor.

West Midtown

Marcel is Ford Fry’s take on the classic steakhouse, and it doesn’t disappoint. The old-school class of the restaurant is matched only by its expertly prepared steaks, which are the star of the show. From dry-aged ribeyes to butter-poached lobster, Marcel’s menu caters to the indulgent diner. The dim lighting, plush booths, and top-tier service make this an ideal spot for a special night out, offering a taste of timeless luxury in the heart of Atlanta.

Downtown Atlanta

Poor Calvin’s is where Asian fusion meets Southern comfort in a stylish Downtown Atlanta spot. Chef Calvin Phan’s menu is full of inventive dishes like lobster mac and cheese, curried duck, and crispy Brussels sprouts with an Asian twist. The intimate atmosphere and creative cocktails make Poor Calvin’s an ideal spot for a date night or a special celebration. Be sure to save room for dessert—Phan’s in-house creations like the Suspension Cake is something you have to taste.

Downtown Atlanta

Located in the iconic Candler Hotel downtown, By George is a Contemporary American restaurant with a nod to the past. The grand Beaux-Arts dining room sets the stage for beautifully plated dishes like seared scallops and short rib pappardelle. Overseen by award-winning chefs, this restaurant combines modern cooking techniques with a sense of history, making it a dining destination for visitors and locals alike. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a selection from the expertly curated wine list.

Multiple locations

Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen andamp; Bar brings the rich flavors of Gullah Geechee cuisine to the forefront. Specializing in rice-based dishes and seafood, the restaurant honors this unique Southern tradition with dishes like shrimp and grits and Gullah rice bowls. The vibrant atmosphere, paired with friendly service and a menu full of Southern comfort food staples, ensures a memorable meal. Virgil’s also boasts a laid-back bar area where you can sip on signature cocktails while soaking in the lively vibe.

Downtown Atlanta

An Atlanta institution since 1947, Busy Bee Café is where you go for a taste of authentic Southern soul food. The fried chicken is legendary, and you can expect classic sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread to round out your meal. Beyond the food, Busy Bee holds a significant place in Atlanta’s civil rights history, once serving as a meeting spot for leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr. Come for the fried chicken, stay for the history—and leave with a full belly and a full heart.

Various locations

For a culinary trip overseas without leaving Atlanta, Desta Ethiopian Kitchen delivers with its bold, authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features traditional Ethiopian dishes like injera, tibs, and lentils, all designed to be shared. Desta’s unique blend of authenticity and modern flair has made it a staple for Ethiopian cuisine lovers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime fan, Desta’s focus on fresh ingredients and hospitality will have you coming back for more.

Buckhead

For sushi enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience, the omakase-driven O by Brush is a must-visit destination. Chef Jason Liang brings a blend of Edomae-style sushi and his Taiwanese-American heritage to each dish, offering a unique take on traditional sushi. The meticulously crafted omakase menu takes diners on a culinary journey with fresh, seasonal fish flown in daily. O by Brush’s intimate, exclusive setting makes it perfect for special occasions or those looking for an unforgettable sushi experience in Atlanta.

Westside

Palo Santo, located in the Westside’s bustling King Plow district, brings a fresh take on modern Mexican cuisine, blending Mexican flavors with Georgia’s ingredients. The restaurant offers the perfect dining experience, centered around a wood-fire kitchen. Dishes like the Roasted Miso Cauliflower, citrus-infused branzino, and smoked scallops with black truffle exemplify the creativity behind the menu. The restaurant’s sleek, chic ambiance is elevated by its rooftop bar, where guests can enjoy stunning city views and curated mezcal cocktails from a roving mezcal cart, making Palo Santo one of the best around town.

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