21 Best Restaurants in Atlanta
For years, Atlanta sat back and watched Charleston and New Orleans play tug of war for the title of “Culinary Capital of the South.” Not anymore. Restaurants in Atlanta are grabbing the rope—and pulling hard. Hotspots such as Spring routinely soar to the top of national best-restaurant lists, and places like Sushi Hayakawa and Masterpiece are changing how the James Beard Foundation—and the world—sees Atlanta cuisine. No longer is this simply a town for hearty and deep-fried Southern fare (though no one does chicken and waffles better); it’s a culinary powerhouse where big-name chefs are showing off their skills—and proving Atlanta is ready to play. We hope our list of the best restaurants in Atlanta can be your entry point.
An Ode to Culinary Finesse: Miller Union
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Miller Union, an innovative culinary establishment situated in a repurposed warehouse on Atlanta's Westside, is where the magic of James Beard Award winner Steven Satterfield's kitchen comes to life. His food is a celebration of local produce composed artistically, turning each dish into a visual and edible poetry. The highlight of the menu is arguably the farm egg appetizer. This masterfully-crafted dish features a baked egg immersed in an indulgent celery cream, accentuated with slices of crisp grilled bread.
A farm-to-table focus defines Satterfield’s work and this is evident in his much-loved seasonal vegetable plate. On any given day, expect to find a blend of locally-sourced vegetables that could include heirloom tomatoes paired with basil and regional feta cheese, crunchy fried okra, and pickled beets infused with a hint of ginger. For the meat lovers, your cravings are well-catered to with a range of sumptuous meaty mains.
A meal at Miller Union won't be complete without tasting their decadent dessert. Crown your culinary journey with their brown-butter bourbon cake - a perfect satisfying conclusion to your meal. It's an impressive dish that beautifully encapsulates the restaurant's philosophy, combining traditional Southern elements with a twist of culinary brilliance.
On The Map: The Phenomenon of Lazy Betty
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No gastronome in the lively culinary scene of Atlanta would skim over the name Lazy Betty when discussing local dining trends. The culinary mastery behind Lazy Betty is none other than Chefs Ron Hsu and Aaron Phillips - two veterans hailing from Le Bernardin. Positively disrupting the restaurant landscape, they started their culinary journey with a lineup of pop-up events that were rapidly booked to capacity. The media exposure amped up notably with the involvement of Hsu, an Atlanta-bred culinary delight himself, as he starred in Netflix’s competitive cooking show, The Final Table. Audiences across the globe marvelled at his unwavering calmness even amidst highly pressurised circumstances. As expected, the official launch of Lazy Betty with its exclusive tasting menu was an immediate culinary sensation among food lovers.
Experience GunshowArrow
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In the world of restaurant dining, Gunshow stands apart, pushing boundaries beyond traditional standards. Renowned chef and Top Chef sensation, Kevin Gillespie, is the mastermind behind this unique setting in Glenwood Park. Food on wheels is the concept borrowed here; the servers roll out trolleys loaded with bite-sized delights or tapas, which patrons are free to pick or pass. Adding to this immersive dining experience, an array of cocktails, not just a couple but half of the menu, are crafted right beside your table. A vibrant ambiance pervades the restaurant with its dazzling bright lights and the pulsating rhythm of hard-rock music. The transparent kitchen design offers a thrilling spectacle as you catch glimpses into the walk-in cooler. Gillespie, the chef and owner of this place, describes the experience as intense and lively. "Eating here feels more like being at a live gig than a conventional dining place," he owns up.
A Culinary Journey at BoccaLupoArrow
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Meet the culinary mastermind behind BoccaLupoArrow - Atlanta's own Bruce Logue. With a sterling culinary background as sous chef at New York's Babbo and executive chef at the renowned Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad, Bruce brings the subtlety, richness, and authenticity of Italian cuisine into every dish. Becoming a Master Italian Cooking certificate holder was just another feather in his hat as he prepared to transform the local dining landscape with his acclaimed eatery 'La Pietra Cucina'. Situated along a serene residential street in Inman Park is where you'll find his current gastronomic adventure, BoccaLupo.
An impressive testimonial for his culinary creativity comes from none other than The New York Times, appointing Bruce Logue as the sovereign of his very own "neighbourhood pasta kingdom". The signature dish, undeniably, is black spaghetti. The ingenious blend of hot sausage, red shrimp, and scallions is truly transcendent in this pasta delicacy. Bruce effortlessly marries Italian tradition with influences of Southern cuisine, exemplified by the unique 20-yolk tagliatelle. A tempting combination of wild mushrooms and Tuscan kale kimchi accompanies this decadent dish.
BoccaLupoArrow is a gastronomic testament to Bruce Logue's culinary journey, transforming the meaning of Italian cookery in Atlanta. Exploring these dishes, alongside other gems the menu has to offer, guarantees a unique and captivating dining experience.
The Exquisite Dining Experience at BonesArrow
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Relish the lavishness of a classic steakhouse environment at BonesArrow, frequently known as the gem of Buckhead since its establishment in 1979. The restaurant's menu - a veritable feast of timeless favorites - is integral to its lasting popularity. Commence your meal with a delectable platter of seafood served cold - think shrimp, crab legs, and tender lobster. If you're eyeing a lighter option, their piquant lobster bisque offering, enveloped in a rich, creamy soup base is a noteworthy choice. It’s a crowd-pleaser worth experiencing. Be sure to sample their renowned steaks - the dry-aged bone-in ribeye is an absolute cannot-miss. Accompany your main course with a variety of shareable sides such as the decadent sautéed mushrooms and subtly fragrant truffle-butter mashed potatoes. BonesArrow is steeped in local tradition, so end your gastronomical journey with a sumptuous bite of Georgia's traditional warm pecan pie. Its indulgent praline sauce and creamy vanilla ice cream is a perfect tribute to the restaurant's locale.
A Culinary Journey at Kimball House
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Kimball House, an establishment that has consistently been nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award, has earned its distinguished reputation for more reasons than one. Pioneered by the passionate Bryan Rackley, it prides itself on having the most enviable oyster resource in Atlanta, with some even daring to claim it as the finest in the Southeast. There's an appealing proposition for all oyster lovers to visit between 5 pm and 7 pm to partake in their unique oyster happy hour, offering high-demand bivalves at enticing discounts. Head Chef Brian Wolfe doesn't fall behind with his delicacies. His signature dish, the Georgia trout embellished with deliciously piquant fermented chile grits, continues to receive rave reviews. The succulent duck breast paired with flavorful shishito peppers and okra is another culinary masterpiece to savor. After relishing the hearty meal, diving into the dessert menu by Pastry Chef Yesenia Justiniano is a necessity. The frozen peanut-butter bombe is famous for leaving taste buds dancing with delight.
A Gastronomic Journey at Table & Main
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Nestled in the heart of Roswell, Table & Main offers a refreshing twist on Southern classics, intricately crafted by the genius of Chef Woody Back. Forget the traditional pigs in a blanket; here you'll encounter an innovative dish named 'hogs ‘n’ quilts' - a succulent blend of barbecue pork shoulder elegantly wrapped in a chive crepe.
Trading the tried-and-true combination of pimento cheese and crackers, Chef Back presents an equally tempting counterpart: golden-crisp chicken skins paired with pimento cheese. Despite these creative renditions of age-old recipes, he wise enough to leave the revered Southern fried chicken untouched. Critics argue it could just be the star of Atlanta’s food scene.
No dining experience would be complete without a hint of sweetness. To cater to this, Table & Main features a mouth-watering dessert—the sour cream pound cake. It is brilliantly paired with honey-roasted Georgia peaches and topped with a quenelle of lemon-basil sherbet. This delightful combination pays a sweet homage to local produce, leaving diners with a memorable aftertaste of Georgia's rich culinary heritage.
8ArmArrow: An Unconventional Epicurean Gem
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Tormenting uncertainty loomed over 8ArmArrow's future following the untimely demise of founding chef Angus Brown in 2017. Despite this, the cutting-edge restaurant remarkably preserved its uniqueness, thanks to the gallant arrival of Chef Maricela Vega in March of the same year. Presenting a bold menu with 13 avant-garde, largely vegetarian culinary creations, Vega has caused quite the stir in Atlanta's gastronomical sphere. The restaurant, housed in an intimate white-brick edifice, is happily nested under Ponce City Market, in the culturally rich Poncey-Highland locale. It's a popular haunt for locals, who regularly flock here in large numbers, drawn by Chef Vega's ingenious culinary offerings.
A Journey to Umi
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Umi, an exciting culinary destination tucked into the heart of Buckhead, brings a fresh, global perspective to its seafood dishes. Its lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere makes it a prime venue to see and be seen. Gabe Bowen, the skilled bar manager, stirs up intriguing and personalized cocktails; the gin-centric Tomu Kat O is a recommendation worth indulging. Following your cocktail, allow your server to enhance your dining experience by proposing ideal wine or sake pairings. Kickstart your culinary voyage with an appetizer reminiscent of Nobu’s inventive style; exquisite slithers of yellowtail, adorned with jalapenos, cilantro, and a tangy ponzu drizzle. The parallel to Nobu continues with the delightful, taste-bud-tingling spicy tuna atop crispy rice. Your palate will be tantalized by a rich tapestry of nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls. Conclude the evening with a glass of aged Japanese whisky, such as the distinct 12-year Yamazaki. Umi, where the food, ambience, and company create a matchless setting, could be your perfect location to delight your companion or even meet someone special.
Culinary Delights at Aria
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Even after reigning over the eating scene for well over a decade and a half, Aria continues to be a beloved dining destination in Atlanta. In 2016, its long-standing chef and owner, Gerry Klaskala, gave the establishment a vigorous makeover to draw in a relaxed, everyday crowd without losing its initial allure as an exclusive spot for extra-special dinners. Klaskala's make-over was designed to bring in a younger, more urban crowd without sacrificing the traditions and most-loved dishes that have kept Aria popular for so many years. The refresh has been a great success, and to the delight of Atlantans, the signature dishes remain on the menu. In particular, food lovers will continue to relish the mouth-watering slow-cooked short ribs which are complemented with hakurei turnips, crisp snow peas, glazed carrots and luscious potato puree. Did you know that the term Hakurei, often referred to as salad turnips or Tokyo turnips, is a Japanese turnip that adds a sweet, yet delicate flavor to the dish? It's a little detail that makes this dish unforgettable.
Renowned Bacchanalia
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In 2017, the much-celebrated Bacchanalia caught the Atlanta gourmand scene by surprise when it decided to relocate a short 1.5 miles from the Westside Provisions District, settling at its new location on Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard. Despite the shift, the masterful chef-owner Anne Quatrano, often praised as a doyenne of the southern city's culinary world, continues her streak of successful feats. Harmlessly navigating the move, Bacchanalia's star dish, the delectable crab fritter, remained a fixture on the $95 prix fixe menu—make that your commencement point. Then transition smoothly into the second course: Rohan duck of unparalleled flavor. A rich cheese platter forms the perfect segue to the finale, a tempting slice of succulent cherry cheesecake.
Highlight: SolArrow Taqueria
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Be it morning, noon, or night, you can easily distinguish SolArrow Taqueria's flagship outlet on the bustling Westside, recognized by the crowd of eager diners gathering in the parking space, their anticipation setting the tone. This portrayal is consistent across all four corners of Atlanta where these renowned eateries are set. Patrons stroll into the heart of the dining scene, the bar, pick up a zesty margarita, and then join the vibrant outdoor queue. An undeniable must-try from their menu is the famous Eddie Hernandez’s cheese dip–a recipe so delicious, it invades your nighttime fantasies. Additionally, though it might take second place to the dip, their guacamole surely deserves a taste. Their primary speciality, a mélange of Southern-Mexican-style tacos, offers a wide array of delectable choices, but one can't help being drawn to the shredded beef-brisket taco. Topped with a mild yet punchy pico de gallo, it's a dish that wins over even the most discerning palate.
A Remarkable Discovery: Masterpiece
Nestled within an unassuming strip mall on Buford Highway in Duluth, you'll come across a hidden gem known as Masterpiece. Though its location might seem paradoxical, its reputation in Atlanta's culinary world is far from it. This venue has secured its position as the top Chinese restaurant in the city, with some even touting it as the best in the entire South. Chef Rui Liu, the mastermind behind the menu, was honored as a nominee for the prestigious 'Best Chef in the Southeast' award by the James Beard Foundation in 2018. Upon entering the restaurant, you are greeted by humble tile floors, a comfortable array of seating options, and an intimate glimpse into Chef Liu's personal life via framed photographs of his family, who co-run the restaurant. This not only showcases his culinary prowess but also his commitment to providing a warm and familial environment for his customers.
Unearthing the Culinary Gem: Tiny Lou's
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At Tiny Lou's, renowned chef Jeb Aldrich continues to uphold the gastronomic finesse of classic French cuisine, unimpeded by its non-traditional location within Atlanta's hottest nightlife zone. Don't let its unusual precincts dissuade your visit; it's situated above an entertainment club. Offering a culinary symphony of popular French delicacies, Aldrich's signature dishes such as the black cocoa-tinged foie gras torchon, and steak frites featuring top-grade Angus culotte garnished with crispy homemade frites, unquestionably steal the spotlight. If you thought that was an impressive lineup, wait until you try the uniquely christened 'Ode to Blondie'. This upgraded version of the classic blondie a la mode dessert comes with a side of intriguing narrative - it's named in tribute to the most celebrated entertainer at the Clermont Lounge, the club operating on the ground floor beneath the restaurant.
Sushi Hayakawa Unpacked
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Situated in an unassuming shopping center on Atlanta's famed Buford Highway, the less-is-more aesthetic of Sushi Hayakawa separates it from Atlanta's generally glitzy sushi scene. The minimalist decor of the establishment, with its raw green walls and a scattering of tables around an imposing wooden sushi counter, creates a haven for purists seeking a genuine sushi experience. Behind this revered counter, you'll find chef Atsushi Hayakawa, instantly recognizable by the iconic red towel rolled deftly around his head as he meticulously slices through succulent abalone flown in straight from the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. On account of his exemplary skill, chef Atsushi was recognized by the James Beard Foundation, earning him a nomination for 'Best Chef in the Southeast' this past year.
The odds of securing a reservation at his coveted omakase table any time soon are slim, as eager gastronomes have appointments scheduled several weeks ahead. Keeping in line with a traditional sushiya, Sushi Hayakawa's menu features only authentic Japanese cuisine -- what you don't typically see in Japan, you won't see here. However, Sushi Hayakawa goes above and beyond to satisfy their wide variety of customers with delicious crowd favorites, such as the generously sliced fatty tuna nigiri, which is delicately laid on warm rice with a single dot of full-bodied wasabi adding that zing to the experience.
The Unassuming Glory of SpringArrow
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Upon first glance, it might be challenging to affirm if you have indeed arrived at the much-talked-about SpringArrow restaurant. The establishment resides within an old, intimate 1,000-square-foot railway depot just a stone's throw from the heart of suburban Marietta Square. A modest green canopy hanging above the entrance is adorned solely with the word 'Spring', spelled out in a minimalist white sans-serif typeface. Within, a total of 14 tables lie, each one softly lit by lonesome Edison bulbs, all staged in front of a backdrop devoid of a bar. Could this low-profile setup have genuinely earned the accolades from Bon Appétit as one of the finest new dining spots in America in 2017? Indeed, it has.
Chef Brian So, an artist in the culinary world, utilises timeless French methodologies to immaculately create Southern-infused gastronomy that consistently lures both local residents and cosmopolitan clientele. Moreover, SpringArrow is renowned for its impressive collection of wines, offering a discerning variety to please your palate. It also proudly features a selection of local Atlanta brews, including the coveted Creature Comforts Tropicalia IPA, a tribute to the nearby vibrant college hub of Athens (click to read more about this lively college town).
Discovering the Taste of Atlanta at Arnette's Chop ShopArrow
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Renowned for its mastery in perfecting the quintessential steakhouse experience, Arnette’s has built its reputation for whipped up exceptional martinis. Their signature offering, the Carnivore concoction, features an imaginative blend of olives filled with blue cheese and bacon, speared cunningly. Here, each steak pairs gloriously with a robust cocktail or a dependable pour of cabernet, creating an unparalleled dining experience. The kitchen at Arnette’s is famed for serving 10 variations of Prime steaks, with the standout being the colossal 36-ounce Old World Tomahawk. However, the under-the-radar, velvety eight-ounce Spinalis — a ribeye cut uncommon on Atlanta’s gastronomic scene — is a must-try. Complement your steak with authentic sides: the roasted mushrooms originated from the nearby Ellijay and a pleasing fusion of sweet-and-spicy jalapeño cream corn. Arnette’s has rightly earned its accolades and patron love. Experience the hype firsthand and savor the flavors that make them a local favorite.
Experiencing Little Rey
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Prepare yourself for a remarkable culinary journey as you approach the lively Little Rey, a commercial hub for Tex-Mex delights in Atlanta. Even the ever-present line of eager patrons is not a setback as the service is remarkably smooth. This fast-paced eatery, boasting an attractive ambiance, was born out of the genius of Ford Fry, a respected name in Atlanta's dining scene with two other popular gastronomic ventures - Superica and El Felix. Drawing on his rich expertise, he launched Little Rey in 2019, making it a hotspot for mouth-watering fare from south of the border that keeps guests coming back for more.
One of the factors that sets Little Rey apart in the Atlanta dining landscape is its enticing breakfast menu, which has earned considerable acclaim city-wide for its spectacular tacos. Designed to kick-start your day perfectly, these breakfast tacos bear a reputation for being among the best locally. Regardless of whether you land there for lunch or dinner, the sumptuous wood-roasted chicken dish is non-negotiable; it combines garden-fresh smoked onions and jalapeños, nourishing ranch beans, and zesty cilantro rice. As a delightful endnote to your gastronomic adventure, relish a cone of their freshly churned soft-serve ice cream, a delectable darling of the dessert menu.
A Culinary Journey at Nina & Rafi
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With a grand opening in the dawn of 2019, Nina & Rafi has carved its name as one of Atlanta's crème de la crème. The wizard behind the magic is the culinary genius, Anthony Spina, who is renowned in the world of culinary delights for his revolutionary groundwork in Duluth's O4W Pizza. Particularly, his creation, the Grandma’s Pie has taken pizza lovers by storm. In keeping up with his reputation, he created the exemplary Detroit Red Top, a pizza extraordinaire with a delightfully chunky crust, coated with marinara atop the cheese, with a ring of baked cheese gracing the edges. The Detroit Red Top has since then held the crown as the sensation of Atlanta’s glorious pizza culture.
Notwithstanding, Spina has taken a temporary backseat from Nina & Rafi to engineer another pizza marvel. Yet, the Detroit Red Top simply refuses to lose its charm and continues to reign supreme in the hearts of Atlantans. But don’t let just this pizza distract you. The menu also boasts of alternative pizza delights (including the thin-crust Old Fashioned and the Neapolitan-style round pizza) as well as some satisfying appetizers like the risotto rice balls and a refreshing chopped pizzeria salad.
Coming to Nina & Rafi is an affair of indulgence for the pizza admirers. The monumental Detroit Red Top stands high as the star of the meal and the remaining dishes can sometimes feel like an extension to this treasure of a dish. When planning a visit to this heavenly place, be sure to bring a big appetite, wear your most comfortable attire, and set aside enough time to savor the taste and atmosphere.
A Culinary Journey to Cuba: Cubanos ATL
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Atlanta was graced by the introduction of an authentic Cuban eatery, thanks to Miami-raised Ozzy Llanes. With roots in Cuba, Llanes was dissatisfied with Atlanta's offerings of genuine Cuban sandwiches after relocating there for his finance career. Worn out from a fruitless search, he hatched a plan to fill the gastronomic gap himself. The entrepreneur's inventive method saw him constructing a compact house in his driveway as the pandemic emerged globally. This unique eatery was eventually moved to a Sandy Springs shopping precinct, with the center's blessing.
The grand opening of Cubanos ATL in August 2020 garnered significant attention, attracting 4,000 fans before the inaugural bell even rang. The demand was so high that within the first 45 minutes, the eatery was completely sold out of sandwiches. It goes to show that the market craved, and appreciates, an establishment serving authentic Cuban fare.
Cubanos ATL might not have a license to sell alcoholic beverages, however, its four-ounce serving of potent colada - a type of Cuban espresso - is so robust, it practically demands identification. Llanes, looking to deliver a full Cuban experience, also offers unique Cuban sodas on his menu, including the rare tastes of Jupina, a pineapple-infused drink, and Ironbeer - a soda akin to cream soda, to wash down the delectable sandwiches lined with Cuban tradition and flavor.
El TesoroArrow
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Sometimes, pretty days call for great tacos, strong margs, and a perfect patio. El Tesoro has all three. The restaurant’s owners have found a star in Cristina Lugo Soto, who runs the kitchen with her daughter Mayra. Born in Mexico’s Guerrero region, Soto has no formal training but knows exactly how to make killer tamales (the secret is her homemade masa). El Tesoro also offers items rarely seen in Atlanta, such as comforting mulitas—two corn tortillas stuffed with chihuahua cheese and rajas, then griddled with more cheese on the outside. Order it with a side of the refried black beans. Weekend mornings, sample the brunch menu (find more of Atlanta's best brunch, here): There are tacos stuffed with migas and burritos filled with scrambled eggs and salchichon hot dogs.
