Atlanta’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending traditional Southern cuisine with innovative twists from around the globe. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or haute cuisine, Atlanta’s top restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience. Let’s explore the ten establishments that have earned the highest accolades from locals and visitors alike.
1. Bacchanalia
Bacchanalia is a beacon of fine dining in Atlanta, renowned for its elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
- Location: 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.
- Highlights: The restaurant boasts a seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine list.
- Special dishes: Don’t miss their signature dish, the Herb Roasted Rabbit.
- Phone: (404) 365-0410.
2. Staplehouse
Staplehouse combines exquisite cuisine with a commitment to social good, as the profits support The Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit organization aiding restaurant workers in need.
- Location: 541 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
- Highlights: The intimate atmosphere and ever-changing menu make each visit a unique gastronomic journey.
- Special dishes: Try the Bone Marrow with Oxtail Marmalade for a rich and indulgent starter.
- Phone: (404) 524-5005.
3. Miller Union
Miller Union is celebrated for its farm-to-table ethos, showcasing the best of Southern ingredients in a relaxed yet refined setting.
- Location: 999 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.
- Highlights: The restaurant’s open kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand, while the welcoming ambiance fosters a sense of community.
- Special dishes: Savor the Farm Egg baked in celery cream, a beloved dish that perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s ethos.
- Phone: (678) 733-8550.
4. Gunshow
Gunshow offers a dining experience like no other, with a rotating menu of inventive dishes presented tableside by the talented chefs themselves.
- Location: 924 Garrett St SE, Atlanta, GA 30316.
- Highlights: Diners can interact directly with the chefs, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere reminiscent of a culinary theater.
- Special dishes: Indulge in the Bone Marrow Bread Pudding, a decadent treat that embodies the restaurant’s playful approach to cuisine.
- Phone: (404) 380-1886.
5. The Optimist
The Optimist transports diners to the coast with its fresh seafood offerings and nautical-inspired decor, earning its place as one of Atlanta’s premier seafood restaurants.
- Location: 914 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.
- Highlights: From raw oysters to wood-roasted fish, every dish at The Optimist celebrates the bounty of the sea with expert preparation and bold flavors.
- Special dishes: Dive into the Whole Roasted Georgia Trout for a taste of Southern hospitality with a seafood twist.
- Phone: (404) 477-6260.
6. Aria
Aria has established itself as a bastion of contemporary American cuisine, drawing inspiration from global culinary traditions to create dishes that are both inventive and approachable.
- Location: 490 E Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305.
- Highlights: The restaurant’s elegant dining room provides the perfect backdrop for Chef Gerry Klaskala’s innovative creations, which are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
- Special dishes: Sample the Pan-Roasted Duck Breast with Foie Gras Mousse for a decadent culinary experience.
- Phone: (404) 233-7673.
7. Atlas
Atlas seamlessly combines art and gastronomy, with a museum-worthy collection of 20th-century artwork adorning the walls and a menu that is equally inspired.
- Location: 88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305.
- Highlights: Diners can enjoy a multi-course tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and artisans.
- Special dishes: The Seared Diver Scallops with Cauliflower Puree and Black Truffle Vinaigrette are a standout on the menu.
- Phone: (404) 600-6471.
8. Restaurant Eugene
Restaurant Eugene is a beacon of Southern hospitality, offering refined cuisine rooted in the traditions of the South with a modern twist.
- Location: 2277 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30309.
- Highlights: The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere and attentive service ensure that every dining experience is memorable.
- Special dishes: Indulge in the Chicken Liver Pate with Brioche and House Pickles for a taste of classic Southern comfort.
- Phone: (404) 355-0321.
9. Empire State South
Empire State South celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the South, with a menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and traditional Southern flavors.
- Location: 999 Peachtree St NE #140, Atlanta, GA 30309.
- Highlights: The restaurant’s vibrant ambiance and communal dining tables create a convivial atmosphere perfect for sharing dishes with friends and family.
- Special dishes: Don’t miss the Shrimp and Grits, a beloved Southern classic with a modern twist.
- Phone: (404) 541-1105.
10. Canoe
Canoe offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its picturesque location along the banks of the Chattahoochee River and a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients.
- Location: 4199 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339.
- Highlights: Diners can enjoy panoramic views of the river while indulging in Chef Matthew Basford’s farm-to-table creations.
- Special dishes: The Grilled Georgia Trout with Corn Pudding and Tomato Relish is a highlight of the menu.
- Phone: (770) 432-2663.
These ten restaurants represent the pinnacle of Atlanta’s dining scene, each offering a unique culinary experience that celebrates the city’s diverse flavors and traditions. Whether you’re seeking innovative cuisine, Southern comfort food, or fresh seafood, Atlanta’s top restaurants have something to satisfy every palate.
