Best restaurants in Atlanta

Bacchanalia

★ Michelin$$$$american

Dark wood, a black industrial ceiling set with a constellation of Edison bulbs, and brown leather banquettes give Bacchanalia a handsome sophistication, yet there's nothing too precious about this longstanding spot where Georgia produce shines. The multicourse prix fixe involves a bit of flair, with some dishes arriving on carts or nestled inside glass cloches. Choices are plentiful on the four-course menu, allowing diners to create their own bespoke tasting menu, and most courses features an excellent wine pairing. Crab fritter has been on their menu since the very beginning, though chilled l

Mujō

★ Michelin$$$$japanese, sushi

Located in West Midtown, Mujō is an intimate setting with a moody elegance. A U-shaped counter crafted of Southern cypress pops in this square room with dark walls and low lighting. This is the domain of Chef J. Trent Harris and his skilled team who make all feel well cared for. Here, tradition has been replaced with a rollicking good time, where the always-surprising interpretation of omakase begins with an array of zensai like a morsel of Florida cobia grilled over binchotan, dressed with a red miso sauce and some local pattypan squash. After some cooked bites, it's time for the raw. Nigiri

Hayakawa

★ Michelin$$$$japanese

Located in a sparkling office structure, local legend Chef Atsushi Hayakawa's slick lair hosts a mere handful of diners per seating. His stage is a backdrop of dark-streaked stone and a silken wood counter; and his banter with guests displays Hayakawa's buoyant personality.Rotating with the seasons and changing weekly, the meal is a procession of small courses and hews toward the structure of kaiseki. After items such as a delicate and classic chawanmushi with sweet scallops to start and octopus with seaweed in a piquant vinegar sauce, it's time for sushi. The chef crafts nigiri from imported

Lazy Betty

★ Michelin$$$$american

Chef Ron Hsu and Chef/co-owner Aaron Phillips oversee this contemporary tasting menu with clever combinations that highlight regional ingredients with subtle Asian influences. The tuna roll is a stunner, made with feuille de brick and filled with lemon, crème fraîche and wrapped in paper-thin sheets of bluefin tuna. Ellijay Farms mushroom chestnut doppio with vidalia onion vichyssoise and potlikker, a two-segment ravioli, with earthy mushroom filling one and a nutty chestnut filling the other. Crown-roasted duck with a honey lacquer and brown butter jus is another strong savory course. The Asi

🕐 Mo-Tu off; We-Su 17:00-21:00

Atlas

★ Michelin$$$$American

When the night calls for a grand celebration, few places fit quite like Atlas. Snuggled inside the posh St. Regis Atlanta, this restaurant from London-born Chef Freddy Money is impossibly elegant. Fine art graces the walls — it's home to rotating installations in partnership with a local gallery, showcasing works from local, national, and internationally acclaimed artistsv — but it's not just the artwork that impresses. Order à la carte from this seasonal American menu with European influences or celebrate with the tasting menu for dishes like tender lobster plated with smoked paprika butter s

O by Brush

★ Michelin$$$$Japanese, Sushi

Brush Sushi is located in a swish shopping center, but step inside this stylish space to discover O by Brush, a separate omakase counter helmed by Chef Jason Liang. The extensive procession will begin with several starters before moving into nigiri such as beautifully rich shima aji, warayaki sawara that is hay smoked over coals then sliced and filled with rice, and anago tempura temaki finished over binchotan coals. A tasting of dry-aged hirame and kanpachi is a delightful surprise, as is the tamago tasting, featuring the classic style alongside a tender, cake-like version. The wide-ranging s

Omakase Table

★ Michelin$$$$Japanese, Sushi

Here at this serious counter-focused setting, find Chef Leonard Yu and his small team presiding over a multicourse experience that leans traditional while offering a nice balance of variety and seasonality. A smattering of otsumami begin the evening on a strong note with shaved wagyu beef lightly poached in sukiyaki sauce with a quail egg. The chef's signature dish, uni gohan with otoro, is decadent, while corn potage delivers an impressive depth of flavor. Meanwhile, nigiri showcases character without any flash: Kawahagi is topped with flash-frozen liver paste that melts on the tongue, while

Spring

★ Michelin$$$$Contemporary

Find your way to this small but well-appointed restaurant in Marietta where exposed brick and a vaulted ceiling done in dark wood create an endearing charm. Chef Brian So oversees a tightly edited, contemporary American menu with a strong focus on seasonality. Skillful but simple cooking is the dictum here, where ingredients speak for themselves, and plates are stunning without ever being showy. The house-made sourdough with garlic chive butter is delicious, but don't fill up, as the pan-seared wild king salmon topped with Hollandaise sauce and trout roe is equally appealing. A maple-glazed cr

Antico Pizza Napoletana

Bib Gourmand$pizza

Owner Giovanni Di Palma's Antico Pizza Napoletano promises exactly that. Walk through two sets of doors right up to a counter with the menu posted overhead—it's where you'll decide between rosso and bianche pizzas or calzoni. Can't choose? The Sophia, a decadent version topped with soft cippolini onions, mushrooms fragrant with white truffle oil, bufala and garlic, is a house special.After picking your preference, find a seat at the communal table in the cavernous dining room which shares space with the prep kitchen. It's lively here, as the dough is shaped and baked in one of three ovens. The

🕐 Mo-Fr 11:30-22:00; Sa 12:00-22:00; Su 12:00-21:00

The Busy Bee

Bib Gourmand$$Southern

In the hospitality business, restaurants often come and go, but not The Busy Bee. Open since 1947, it's an Atlanta institution. Everyone has come through these doors, including Martin Luther King Jr. It may be big on heart, but this spot is tiny, and most importantly, it's takeout only. Still, they're making a big impression with old-fashioned Southern/soul food. Plenty come time and again for their favorites, but daily specials are worth a try. Pick a protein, like the fried chicken that's oh-so-crispy and juicy, then order a slew of slides, including the tangy-sweet beans. Wash it all down w

🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-19:00

Little Bear

Bib Gourmand$$Contemporary

Chef Jarrett Stieber pulls inspiration from around the globe at this restaurant, nestled within the Summerhill area. It's a popular spot with locals, who often stop by with their dogs to procure a biscuit from the bar (Little Bear is the nickname for the chef's beloved late dog), so be sure to make a reservation or find a seat at the buzzy bar. Stieber presides over an open kitchen where an eclectic, contemporary menu is frequently changing, and a prix fixe offering includes dishes not found on the à la carte. You may dine on items such as earthy chicken liver custard with corn cakes or lightl

Bomb Biscuit Co.

Bib Gourmand$Southern

Once a pop-up and a food stall, this popular breakfast and brunch restaurant has moved down the street from their original brick-and-mortar location in Grant Park. The new space may be larger and more contemporary, but that freshly baked vibe remains. The menu shows off simple but successful plates ranging from breakfast sandwiches to brunch plates with fried chicken and other staples. Baked goods, like cinnamon rolls with a thick, tangy cream cheese glaze, are exceptional, but given the name, biscuits, ranging from traditional to jalapeno and cheddar, are an absolute must. Go for broke with a

Superica

Bib Gourmand$$mexican

There's nearly a dozen of these popular spots around, but it's this original at Krog Street Market that started it all. There is a contemporary industrial feel here, with high ceilings, a large bar, and an open kitchen. A buzzy vibe adds to the amiable ambience, but it's the food that lures the crowds—Tex-Mex cooking that is as enjoyable as it is approachable. Start with the paper-thin tortillas and salsa that arrive almost immediately before moving on to shareable queso fundido that can be pumped up with vegetables, shrimp, or chorizo. Saucy, cheesy enchiladas served with rice and beans are a

Fred's Meat & Bread

Bib Gourmand$sandwich

Located in the Krog Street Market, what this contemporary space lacks in size it makes up for in charm. The concept is straightforward: sandwiches of all varieties from burgers and oyster po'boys to bahn mi and cheesesteaks. Each one is messy-delicious and over the top in the best possible way, as in the pimento cheese club with house-made pimento cheese, roasted poblanos, fried green tomatoes and bacon sandwiched between bread and seared. Meanwhile, the Italian grinder with all the meats, melty provolone cheese, garlic aioli and cherry pepper relish knocks it out of the park. Of course, there

🕐 Fr-Sa 11:30-21:30; Su-Th 11:30-20:30

Estrellita

Bib Gourmand$$Filipino

It's a tiny space, but Owners Hope Webb and Walter Cortado have fashioned a likable space with a modern bent at Estrellita. Equally small but mighty is the kitchen, which turns out Filipino classics and meat-forward dishes. There are always specials to keep an eye out for, and patience is key, as the kitchen team is often handling to-go and catering orders simultaneously. It's walk-in only, so pull up a chair to enjoy roasted pork belly lechon cooked Cebu-style, with crispy skin and rolled with lemongrass, green onion and garlic. Vegetable and beef versions of lumpia are available; the beef de

Fishmonger

Bib Gourmand$$seafood

It's part fish market, part casual spot here, where a single communal table and stools lined up at the windows await guests. Order at the back counter from a compact, seafood-focused menu listing oysters, crudos, sandwiches and soups. This is not your typical fried fish shack, though, and many of the dishes have a Southern slant to them. Peel and eat shrimp is a good standby, while tuna melts are leveled up. Specials driven by the daily catch are always a good bet, but the house staple—the blackened grouper sandwich—is a winner. A thick piece of generously spiced, blackened grouper is draped o

🕐 Mo off; Tu-Sa 11:00-19:00; Su 11:00-17:00

Heirloom Market BBQ

Bib Gourmand$$Barbecue

Co-Chefs Cody Taylor and Chef Jiyeon Lee have cooked up something entirely new at Heirloom Market. Blending their Southern and Korean heritage and flavors, they've created a mash-up that's nothing short of fantastic inside a small spot that happens to share space with a liquor store. What it lacks in size it makes up for with a buzzy vibe and standout flavor — it's easy to see why the Korean pork, smoked and braised in a sweet-spicy sauce, is a signature dish. BBQ traditionalists will want to dig in to the brisket that's unfussed with but oh-so-tender and tasty. For a clever take on a Southern

Whoopsie's

Bib Gourmand$$american

Make no mistake— Whoopsie's is a fun, quirky spot where you'll yearn to be a regular. If you do, you won't be bored, as their menu is a constantly evolving mix of cold dishes, hot dishes that also work well as sides, and a daily changing protein (think prime rib one day and roasted chicken thighs with golden-brown skin another), plus a sandwich of the day. You won't leave hungry, as the portions are generous, and the cooking is humble but well executed. Kick things off with the Southern snack tray, served on a plastic cafeteria tray with the various compartments filled with a collection of Sou

🕐 Mo 09:00-24:00; Tu-We off; Th-Su 17:00-24:00

Arepa Mia

Bib Gourmand$$Venezuelan, Small eats

Founder/owner Lis Hernández dials up the charm at Arepa Mia in Avondale Estates. Warm hospitality is a hallmark here, where bright walls and colorful metal chairs and tables instantly boost your mood. The Venezuelan menu is all about the namesake arepas, grilled and filled with everything from yucca and plantain flour-encrusted chicken to pernil with caramelized onions. Other items include patacones and cachapas. The cooking and ingredients are quality driven, and the portions are generous. Feast on selections like the hearts of palm and avocado salad to start, then tuck in to a fried chicken

Table & Main

Bib Gourmand$$Southern

Head to Roswell to find this gem, located inside a converted home, then step inside for Southern charm at its very best. It's packed with a host of well-heeled guests, all chatting and celebrating.Chef Woolery “Woody” Back mans the stoves in a kitchen that focuses on seasonal, elevated Southern food. Cornbread or hogs 'n quilts make for ideal openers, but if you're leaning into the seasons, opt for dishes like asparagus bisque, a piping hot bowl of spring-minded goodness. Fried chicken brims with flavor and is impossibly delicious, and it's a good thing the portion is overly generous, as you'l

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

$$$southern, brunch

Grab a seat at the bar, a free-standing table or slide into one of the banquettes for a taste of local chef Deborah VanTrece's Southern and soul food. Just don't expect your grandmama's cooking. Instead, Southern staples are showcased in unique ways. Try the spread sampler with pimento cheese fondue, black-eyed pea salsa and a creamy collard dip. Other starters include crawfish deviled eggs and fried green tomatoes, served with a drizzle of their comeback sauce and a corn and pepper relish. Fried chicken is always a good choice, especially when served with three-cheese mac and cheese and a col

Little Sparrow

$$$French

We'll forgive you if you're looking through rose-colored glasses after a meal here. After all, Little Sparrow was singer Édith Piaf's nickname, and this très French bistro hits all the right notes from its design to its dishes. The menu, though compact, features all the favorites albeit with a little Southern flair. Meals begin with a warm baguette and delicious butter before moving on to a fragrant and hearty onion soup and beef tartare. Entrées run the gamut from pork belly to chicken schnitzel with a mound of seasonal greens. Of course, there must be fries, and these house-made delights are

Marcel

$$$$french

Here on the west side of town, take a step back in time at this vintage steakhouse named for French boxer, Marcel Cerdan. From the low lighting to the red leather banquette, Ford Fry has created a speakeasy-style space that checks all the boxes. It comes with a high price tag, certainly, but who cares when you're having this much fun? The menu features a few French and European elements in addition to classic dishes. Start with a salad or go big with steak tartare with bone marrow and sourdough. The many steaks include a bone-in côte de boeuf or 60-day dry-aged ribeye. Don't skimp on the sides

🕐 Su-Th 17:00-22:00, Fr-Sa 17:00-23:00

Miller Union

$$American

Miller Union is named after the former Miller Union Stockyards that once encompassed a full city block in the old meatpacking district. Nestled within the refurbished warehouse on the former site, the restaurant from Steven Satterfield and Neal McCarthy is a perennial favorite. It's likely because of their seasonal American menu with a Southern flair. Start with cornbread panzanella with heirloom tomatoes, perfectly ripe peaches and basil in a creamy poppyseed dressing before a main dish of seared duck breast with corn pancakes, creamed collard greens and a delightful blueberry mostarda. It's

Avize

$$$$European, Contemporary

Atlanta's food scene is reaching new heights with Chef Karl Gorline's alpine-accented restaurant, where boho and rustic vibes create the sense of being in a cozy Swiss cabin. Avize features a modern take on traditional alpine cuisine, drawing from the culinary traditions of France, Italy, Germany and Switzerland. Decadent dining begins with an array of starters such as frog legs, venison tartare and foie gras parfait, to a caviar service featuring berliners filled with elderflower crème fraîche. Main dishes include duck, fermented carrot Bolognese and American wagyu; seared scallops sided by c

Lucky Star

$Taiwanese, Taiwanese contemporary

Lucky Star, located inside the lobby of Atlanta’s Star Metals office complex, is a two-in-one concept kitted out with green velvet couches and a stylish appeal. By day, it's a café pouring coffee and serving pastries and Taiwanese fare. Then, when the sun goes down, it flips into a cocktail bar with a focused à la carte menu. Breakfast sandwiches, noodles, French toast and house-made pastries make appearances on the brunch menu, while oyster omelets and rice bowls, along with a small but fun dessert section that includes mochi “dumplings” and a strawberry cheesecake cookie, show up throughout

Xi'an Gourmet House

$$noodle, chinese

You won't get a lot of fuss at this Midtown spot, an offshoot of the original in Duluth. You'll order at the counter and then pick up a paper plate, but what they may lack in niceties, they make up for with dialed-in cooking. Spotlighting the Xi'an region of China, the menu focuses on biang biang noodles and as well as boiled dumplings and dishes featuring plenty of cumin and other spices. Noodles are the way to go, though it’s never a bad idea to supplement with the boldly flavorful cucumber salad, and there must be dumplings, of course. Here, they are available on their own or with soup. Cho

🕐 Mo,We-Su 11:00-21:00

Ryokou

$$$$Japanese

This Adair Park restaurant is a bit of a discovery. Tucked in an industrial building and behind a hidden door, it's the definition of minimalism in look and feel, with counter seating for just under a dozen diners. Ryokou, or journey, isn't just the name, it's the ethos, with Chef Paul Gutting taking guests on a culinary journey across Japan. He spotlights different regions and specialties, using high-quality products as the backbone for this highly original tasting. Somen, with a bold broth brimming with noodles, shrimp and scallop, is served with ice for a fresh take on cold noodles, while t

Lyla Lila

$$$italian

It bears repeating that Chef/owner Craig Richards' Lyla Lila is a good find. Sharing a contemporary design with a darker, moody color palette, the focus is on southern Europe with pasta as a focal point. They're a must, with house house staples like the crispy duck lasagna with a cocoa béchamel as well as seasonal dishes like the ricotta-miso gnocchetti. They're also available in appetizer portions, though their starters deserve equal billing. Don't fill up too much, as there's roast chicken, veal Milanese or snapper topped with pistachio pesto to be had. End on a sweet note with chocolate ora

🕐 17:00-23:00

Storico Fresco Alimentari

$$Italian

Located in a chic Buckhead shopping center, the vibe is rustic and convivial. The generously sized dining room boasts cement flooring, metal-framed wood seating and open shelving, while the ample sidewalk seating provides an al fresco perch to enjoy a sbagliato or espresso martini. Pasta is the thing here with nearly a dozen offerings of house-made strands, as well as stuffed and baked preparations. The cacio e pepe is a nicely portioned mound of spaghetti alla chitarra tossed with a creamy pecorino cheese sauce hit with coarse-ground toasted Sarawak peppercorn. The lunch menu offers appetizer

Staplehouse

$$American Contemporary

Located in the Old Fourth Ward, Staplehouse is a charming, casual spot. Order, grab a drink if you'd like and then find a seat either inside or in their backyard. It's a limited menu with a few varieties of pizza, several sandwiches and salads listed on a board behind the counter. Small or large charcuterie boards are ideal for snacking with friends but don't overlook the specials, designed around what's seasonal and available. Desserts include treats like cookies and blondies.

Talat Market

$$$thai

Located in the Summerhill neighborhood, Talat Market is equal parts industrial and vintage, with colorful design elements adding a decorate punch. This trendy no-reservations spot from Chefs/owners Parnass Savang and Rod Lassiter is all about traditional Thai flavors, utilizing the best of Georgia produce, and the bar echoes that ethos. The menu begins with a section devoted to oysters and crudo, then progresses into small plates like crispy rice salad and som tum. Yum phonlamai is a refreshing fruit salad tossed with sesame dressing—perfect for chasing the spicier dishes. Other plates like ga

Ticonderoga Club

$$$Contemporary

This restaurant from Chef David Bies is located in the Krog Street Market. There's a slight tropical vibe, evidenced by the multicolored lights and vintage, mismatched stools at the bar. It's a contemporary menu split between house classics and seasonal dishes, and most are designed for sharing. Creative but uncomplicated with global touches throughout, the cooking draws a loyal following. Steak tartare is a classic, and a good beginning before moving on to mussels steamed in a flavorful sake broth. Go smaller with a plate of wok vegetables or go big with a bone-in pork chop with a pan gravy a

Delbar

$$middle_eastern

This Middle Eastern spot from Fares Kargar is all about bringing people together over flavorful and authentic food. There is a generous spirit here, where the name translates to "heart, captured." The menu, a nod to the dishes Kargar grew up with, is designed for sharing, with spreads and small bites to start, an entire section dedicated to tahdig, that festive Persian crispy rice dish, and meats. Add the dill labneh to the house bread opener, then go for the lamb neck that is falling-off-the-bone tender, and sabzi polo, a basmati rice dish flavored with scallions and herbs and topped with cri

🕐 Mo-Th 16:00-22:00; Fr 16:00-23:00; Sa 11:00-14:30,16:00-23:00; Su 11:00-14:30,16:00-21:00

BoccaLupo

$$$Italian-American

What's not to love about a place that doesn't take itself too seriously yet cares deeply about their food? Chef/owner Bruce Logue is at the helm of this endearing and casual spot where smart cooking and modern takes on Italian-American classics lure a steady stream of regulars. It's comfort food at its best (think Southern fried chicken parm with pasta and creamy collards). Order a la carte or tuck in to a four-course tasting menu, with pasta tagging along on the savory courses. Adam's focaccia is worth the ask, brushed with honey and served with house made butter and a top notch balsamic. For

Southern Belle

$$$Contemporary, Regional Cuisine

Southern Belle isn't just this restaurant's name—it's a description. It's oh-so-charming here, where a neon blue "Bless Your Heart" sign anchors the bar. It's also a showcase of Southern-inflected food, thanks to Chef Joey Ward and the passionate team who dole our creative dishes like gazpacho with strawberry relish and a goat milk feta foam. Seasons are played up with local vegetables taking center stage, and each course is better than the next. Roasted lamb loin is braised for hours before hitting the grill, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. Don't miss the Georgia olive oil cake with

Georgia Boy

$$$$Contemporary, American

You don't just walk in off the street to Georgia Boy. First, it's secreted away within Southern Belle. Then, if you're one of the diners with reservations, you'll be seated in the "library" for drinks, snacks and a hint of what's to come. Find the chef's favorite book on the shelf and voila!, a secret door opens, revealing an open kitchen. Chef Joey Ward enjoys teasing diners, and while some courses are highly experimental, others are interesting and fun. Milk and cereal is a perfect example of his creative styling, with seared snapper presented alongside a box of cereal containing puffed rice

Madeira Park

$$$Contemporary

This stylish place in Atlanta's Poncey-Highland neighborhood is first and foremost a wine bar, so expect an impressive and interesting list with a wide variety of reserve wines and even a section for aged Madeira, but with Chef Ollie Honderd in charge of the kitchen, the food is far from an afterthought. Take a seat indoors or out to enjoy a buzzy vibe along with a variety of shareable dishes sporting a seasonal, contemporary flair. Start with a smattering of snacks from olives and ham and cheese beignets to crispy panisse or a selection of cheese, while in the evenings, full plates like bistr

The Chastain

$$$$American

Set on the verdant edges of Chastain Park and surrounded by trees, this restaurant feels like a modern oasis with charming details (think butterscotch leather booths, exposed brick elements and gas lamps). The setting is stunning, reminding one of a restored carriage house, but Chef Christopher Grossman's seasonally focused American menu with Southern nods is a solid match. Wondering what to order? You won't go wrong with the crown roasted Green Circle chicken with Brussels sprouts delicata squash and pine nut aioli. Mac and cheese is a perfect side, and don't skip dessert, especially the choc

🕐 Mo 07:00-14:00; Tu-Fr 07:00-14:00,17:00-22:00; Sa 08:00-14:00,17:00-22:00; Su 08:00-14:00,17:00-21:00

Home Grown

$$American, Southern

Located in the Reynoldstown neighborhood in East Atlanta, Home Grown is a classic all-day breakfast and lunch spot complete with knotty pine paneling and booth seating. While it has a retro feel to it, don't assume you know everything on this menu. Instead, expect oodles of Southern charm and definitely ask about the daily specials, since you may come across items like house-made tamales, Gulf red snapper tacos, lasagna or even a pu pu platter with frog legs and crab claws. The focused menu stays largely local in both theme and sourcing, delivering country cooking that never disappoints. Case

Nàdair

$$$$Southern, Contemporary

From the pops of plaid and the jade-green painted wood panels to the rugs inspired by the tartan worn by the chef's grandfather in the Scottish Royal Regiment during World War I, there is no mistaking the inspiration behind Chef Kevin Gillespie's restaurant. It's a tribute to his heritage in more than just looks, though. The Scottish-leaning, contemporary prix-fixe is at once clever and approachable with dishes such as Northeastern mussels with spicy 'nduja or peach-lacquered duck breast. For dessert, the Southern-influenced peanut butter chess pie brings it all home.

Gunshow

$$$$American

It's almost a decade in, but this spot from Top Chef contestant Chef Kevin Gillespie is firing on all cylinders. It's fun and lively, making it ideal for groups, while the multicourse menu served family-style gives the place a dinner party vibe. The cooking here is experimental and creative—you'll always discover something new.A mini tart filled with green garlic and strawberry, then topped with radicchio whipped cream and strawberry pop rocks shows off an ingenious sweet-savory blend and is proof positive that this meal is far from standard. Melting-off-the-bone pork ribs with a tamarind and

Tomo

$$$$Japanese, Sushi

This spot, at the bottom of the chic and modern Ritz-Carlton Residences, is a contemporary space where floor-to-ceiling windows make a big impression. In addition to tables and a sushi bar, there are four seats reserved exclusively for the omakase, arranged well in advance of your visit. Slightly Americanized, the chef's tasting menu offers eight plated courses before progressing into sushi. One dish, chu-toro nuta, presents three pieces of lightly seared tuna in a miso and rice vinegar sauce, balsamic reduction, crumbled pistachio and seared scallions for a rich and satisfying plate. Sushi, s

Banshee

$$$American

This East Atlanta restaurant is equal parts hip and lively with a quirky New American menu to boot. Inside, wood floors and whitewashed brick walls set an upbeat tone while the kitchen delivers on its promise of creative contemporary cooking. The menu is tightly focused, offering a handful of small plates and main dishes along with seasonal vegetables in a supporting role. Start with the fry bread, served piping hot with a pepperoni butter that's so good they sell it by the pint. Chilled beets sided by sweet blackberries with an aquavit vinaigrette, rye “soil“ and shaved beet chips is a riot o

🕐 Tu-Th 17:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 17:00-02:00

The General Muir

$$$Deli, American

The General Muir is a looker; light filled and clean with a comfortable retro-chic style. The walls are adorned with black-and-white photos from another era—yet another reminder that this style of food has a deep history. Both a market and a sit-down restaurant, it's the kind of place you'd see every few blocks in New York but not as often in Atlanta. Come as you are for a bowl of matzoh ball soup with its flavorful broth that cures all ails. The Lower East Side platter comprises a bagel, a schmear of cream cheese and thin shavings of that inimitable smoked Nova with its unmistakably buttery t

Poor Hendrix

$$Contemporary

While it looks like your average corner restaurant, Poor Hendrix is so much more. It's all about the vibe at this intimate, slightly quirky spot. It’s first come first serve, and the menu changes daily with new specials that you'll want to check out (seared trout over couscous, perhaps?). Expect contemporary, updated bar food with Southern and Asian elements. Don't expect a fuss, since they don't take themselves too seriously. You'll feast on dishes like shrimp skewers dusted with a barbecue rub and served with a white Alabama-style barbecue sauce, and refreshing cold spicy peanut noodles with

Chai Pani

$$Indian, Regional Cuisine

Decatur's Chai Pani is a festive place, where strings of lights and colorful artwork keep things high spirited, and the kitchen looks to locally sourced ingredients to create the seasonally minded South Asian dishes. The versatile menu is detailed with enticing descriptions that may just to convince you to try one more dish, and there are plenty of options for family-style dining. Whether dining a deux or with a group, enjoy the likes of butter chicken, that deliciously rich staple of boneless chicken in a tomato-cream butter sauce, or fried okra, with its ever so easy to eat lightly seasoned

The White Bull

$$$American

Chef Pasquale Pascarella has created a contemporary space in the heart of Decatur. There are subtle nods to Ernest Hemingway, who famously said the blank page was his "white bull," though this is far from a theme park. This New American, seasonally minded menu has an array of small dishes, house-made pastas and main dishes, all displaying subtle and thoughtful cooking. From churning their own butter to milling their own flour, they take extra steps to ensure freshness. Kick things off with mahi crudo, then tuck in to tortelli in a butter sauce with roasted corn, fresnos, pickled enoki and parm

Fawn

$$$$Seafood

There are two ways to experience Decatur's Fawn. Those who want to stop in for a bite and a drink will discover an interesting amaro selection and wine list alongside a seafood-focused à la carte that tempts with everything from fritto misto and crudos to dry-aged fish. However, the tasting menu is where this place really shines. Creative, unexpected and often bold, this is where the kitchen does its best work. House-made spaghettini with a hazelnut miso and uni is finished with caviar, shaved cured egg yolk and summer truffle for a spectacular dish, while hiramasa is dry-aged for 14 days and

The Deer and the Dove

$$$$Contemporary, Southern

Chef/owner Terry Koval and his talented team create memorable dishes at this restaurant with a lovely, rustic feel. First up? House-made salted yeast rolls, served hot alongside garden herb butter, then the harvest plate with a beautiful display of vegetables, that's perfect for sharing. House-made pappardelle tossed with morels, whipped lemon ricotta and parmesan is an elevated dish of comfort, while the smoked duck hits the spot. Crisply skinned duck served alongside duck leg pâté en croûte with Hudson Valley foie gras and a glossy duck bone jus is just right. Cocktails are especially fun, a

Kimball House

$$$$Contemporary, Shellfish Specialities

Tufted leather booths, a carved bar and dark wood set a swanky tone at Kimball House, an elegant spot located in a renovated rail depot. It's the place to sip well-crafted cocktails and snack on more than 20 types of oysters (tasting notes make it easy to choose). Beef tartare with sweet-onion jalapeño chips, capers and green olives, crisp garlic and a confit egg yolk is excellent. Grouper crudo is prepared with a tomatillo and pineapple "agrodolce," for a very refreshing dish. Dessert is always a highlight. Butternut crunch cake is layer upon layer of deliciousness, with brown butter-almond s

Nam Phuong

$$Vietnamese

Chef/owner Du Nguyen and co-owner Hoa Phan have created a welcoming spot at Nam Phuong, tucked inside a blue-roofed building on the side of Buford Highway, but comfortable booths aside, all eyes are on the large menu. Staples like vermicelli noodles and fried rice are on offer, and you'll never go wrong with a bowl of pho (try pho gâu, which bobs with tender brisket and bouncy noodles). However, it's the Vietnamese street food section that demands attention with treats like bôt chiên, pan-fried rice flour cubes with egg and a sweet soy dipping sauce. No matter your selection, the dishes are pr

The Alden

$$$$American, Contemporary

Warm, attentive service and a sexy, upscale dining room make The Alden a natural choice for a night out. It's the kind of place where plush leather banquettes invite guests to linger a bit longer. Atlanta native Chef Jared Hucks is running the show, and his vision internationally inspired cooking is unique. Some dishes might not read regional, but local ingredients and flair ensure pride of place. Case in point? The deliciously gamey knobs of lamb bathed in a white gravy with pink peppercorns. Hot and sour red snapper is Asian inspired but locally sourced, resulting in an elegant but approacha

Best BBQ

$$Chinese, Cantonese

Don't let the name fool you: Best BBQ isn't your typical Southern barbecue spot. Instead, this casual eatery is located inside Chamblee's Ba Hue Market. It's simple and straightforward, with ducks and roast meat on display and walls lined with large photos of the food, making it easy to order by number at the counter. Come hungry or with a crowd, as the portions are large and shareable (though you might want to keep those leftovers all to yourself). The casual Cantonese cooking includes dim sum, barbecue, roast duck, noodles and fried rice with standout dishes including quarter roast duck, hon

Food Terminal

$$Malaysian

Chef/owner Amy Wong's Food Terminal may have multiple locations, but the Buford Highway original will always stand out from the rest. Located within a cavernous space that sports a contemporary feel (think exposed ducts, charcoal-gray walls and metal chairs), it's designed to resemble a night market. As for the food, it's Malaysian at its core. The massive menu is matched only by the portions, perfect for enjoying family style. It's a celebration of the cultural mash-up that is Malaysia with dishes like garlic noodles, made in house and tossed in a garlic sauce with spinach and mushrooms. It's

Kamayan ATL

$$Filipino

You'll see the sign, but the crowd out front will signal that you've arrived at Kamayan ATL. Once a pop-up, this place from owners Mia Orino and Carlo Gan has a serious fan base, so reservations are a must. The tables are tight but it's homey, and the busy cadence, coupled with the tropical island decor, adds to the vibe. Tagalog for "by hand," kamayan is the traditional Filipino form of dining. Choose from a menu of family-style dishes, with a good dose of classics mixed with regional items. Lumpia are always a hit, while the sinigang, with tender pork ribs bobbing in a tamarind-based broth,

LanZhou Ramen

$$Chinese, Regional Cuisine

Located on Buford Highway in a busy shopping center, LanZhou is both the name of a Chinese city and a type of hand-pulled noodle that just so happens to be this spot's main attraction. Those delicious noodles are available in hearty soups with a variety of proteins, and also come broth-less. From there, broad Sichuan-leaning dishes tempt diners. Fried pot stickers sport a beautiful crispy, lacy base and delight with a savory goodness. Roast duck hand-pulled noodle soup is pure, unadulterated satisfaction, slurp by glorious slurp. Served in a massive bowl bobbing with bouncy noodles, baby bok c

Han Il Kwan

$$Korean

Located on Buford Highway in Doraville, the setting stands out with its standalone structure and pagoda roof. The large dining area is bright and well maintained, and offers a variety of seating areas including a section with tabletop grills. Tiled flooring, wood furnishings and a beamed roof produce a pleasant arena.The menu covers the delights of Korean cuisine, from appetizers like haemul-pajeon, the crispy pancake studded with vegetables and seafood; to stimulating stews like the kimchi jjigae served bubbling hot with strips of pork belly and cubes of soft tofu. And then there's barbecue,

Woo Nam Jeong

$$Korean

Anchoring the corner of a shopping center along Buford Highway, this busy spot features an expansive Korean menu. With so many options, it may be difficult to pick just one but start with a seafood or kimchi pancake or their seared mandu and you won't go wrong. Then, plenty of specialties tempt but you're here for one in particular: the house specialty "stone bowl" bibimbap. Take a peek at the neighboring tables and nearly everyone is tucking into one of these signature dishes. Bulgogi, or tender beef, is the classic order, and it arrives in the stone bowl sizzling long after it is set atop th