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This is a city known for its food; many a trip to Atlanta is planned around meals in its barbecue shacks, upscale diners, and chic urban eateries. Traditional Southern fare—including Cajun and creole, country-style and plantation cuisine, coastal and mountain dishes—thrives, as do Asian fusion, traditional Ethiopian, creative vegan, and mouth-scorching Indian food. Catch the flavor of the South at breakfast and lunch in diners and other modest establishments that serve only these meals.
Many restaurants will accept you just as you are; dress codes are extremely rare in this casual city, except in the chicest of spots. Although many restaurants accept reservations, some popular spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis on weekends. Waits at some hot dining locales can exceed an hour, especially if you arrive after 7 pm.
Small-batch ice cream is made on-site at this old-school ice-cream-parlor in downtown Decatur. Batches of seasonal and inventive flavors accompany the classics, as well as brownies, cookies, and killer ice-cream sandwiches, like the East Pole Coffee ice cream on a double chocolate cookie.
A coffee shop, restaurant and market all in one, Le Bon Nosh is all elegance and French flair. As soon as you step into the stunning, open space, you’re immediately transported. The aesthetics wow, but the service, food and drinks are memorable as well. Everything is simple yet dynamic, made with the freshest local ingredients. Pastries are made in-house, ranging from savory to sweet, and the espresso bar is a must.
With three locations around Atlanta, Little Tart’s flagship store in Grant Park is beloved for many reasons. The first being the multitude of pastries and drinks offered, and the second being its prime location convenient to everything from Zoo Atlanta to Oakland Cemetery. With a humble start at local farmer’s markets, Little Tart now offers everything from classic croissants to galettes and scones. And, of course, tarts, their namesake. Pair a pastry with one of the many coffee and tea options offered, including the summer favorite iced strawberry matcha drink.
You haven't really lived, or at least tested the limits of your heart's health, until you've tried the Heap: a sizzling skillet full of eggs, buttery veggies, and potatoes. Add a fluffy biscuit on the side, and this is one of the city's best breakfasts. Thumb's Up also has good lunch options, including tamari-flavored tofu served on a bed of raw spinach.
Dark wood and a welcoming vibe make this cavernous bar with above-average food and a well-curated beer menu feel like a place you can sink into and stay awhile. Ask for their favorite bottled or on-tap brews, or take them up on an offer to sample one that's piqued your interest.
Pull out your phone, scan the QR code menu, and decide what you want in your tacos; bartaco offers everything from falafel and fish to cauliflower and chorizo. You'll want at least two, even though it's easy to fill up on the unforgettable guacamole. The chopped salad tossed with lime vinaigrette is also a great choice, especially if you ask to have some seasoned shrimp added in.
Scrappy and lots of fun, this bar has a hearty menu of classic pub food. A favorite here is the Greenie Meanie Chicken, a grilled chicken breast topped with roasted poblano peppers and salsa verde. In the back bar you'll see the country's best up-and-coming indie acts.
There's a long wait on weekends at this spot, which is famous for its biscuits served with cranberry-apple butter. Dinners may include roasted chicken or turkey meat loaf with pudge (mashed potatoes). There are also plenty of vegetarian options. Next door is a bakery serving biscuits to go, as well as freshly baked muffins and cookies; but be aware, the bakery closes at 2 pm.
Southern comfort food at its finest can be found at this bright, old-school diner. Cheese grits with a good cheddar bite, fluffy biscuits that can be stuffed with anything from sausage and gravy to perfectly fried chicken, and hunks of made-from-scratch cake are just a few of the reasons locals flock to Home grown. Before you leave, browse the in-house thrift store—an appropriate backdrop to the eclectic atmosphere and crowd at this restaurant. Arrive before 11 for the shortest wait, or grab a seat at the counter.
Revolution” refers to their dedication to doughnuts made by people, not machines. Every hand-crafted doughnut is made with natural, organic ingredients, from the glaze to the filling. With each bite of these artisanal baked goods, you can taste the difference in craftsmanship and care. Hard work goes into every doughnut, as well as a breadth of creativity and uniqueness.
Don't let the long lines outside this counter-service eatery discourage you. They move quickly, and once you get in you'll be rewarded with a full bar, a wide selection of tacos and enchiladas, and unusual sides like spicy collard greens and jalapeño coleslaw. You can also sample a fabulous trio of salsas and not-to-be-missed chunky guacamole. Don't grab a table before you order or you'll get glares from those waiting in line.
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