Top 10 Best Atlanta Restaurants

The Atlanta food scene is famous for Southern comfort food classics like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits. The city is also known for its lemon pepper wings, a specific style of chicken wings tossed in a buttery lemon pepper sauce, which has become a local signature. Other notable foods include Brunswick stew, a tomato-based stew with meat and vegetables, and peach cobbler, a dessert made with Georgia's official state fruit. The Varsity, a landmark drive-in, is famous for its chili dogs and Frosted Orange shake.

The average cost of a meal in Atlanta depends on the restaurant type, ranging from $15 to $200 per person or more. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs between $15 and $25. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant averages between $60 and $100. At fine-dining establishments, tasting menus or multi-course meals can cost $100 to over $200 per person. Breakfast at a casual spot is $10 to $20, while a fast-food meal is under $15.

The most popular fast-food restaurants in Atlanta, which many consider the best fast food in Atlanta, are listed below:

• Chick-fil-A: Founded in a suburb of Atlanta, this chain is extremely popular for its chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and milkshakes.
• The Varsity: An Atlanta institution and the world's largest drive-in restaurant, it is famous for its chili dogs, onion rings, and Frosted Orange shake.
• Waffle House: Headquartered in Georgia, this 24-hour diner chain is a Southern icon known for its waffles, hashbrowns, and classic breakfast fare.
• Krystal: A fast-food chain known for its small, square hamburgers called Krystals, which are often ordered in multiples.

The best new restaurants in Atlanta are listed below:

• Breaker Breaker: A seafood restaurant and bar located on the Eastside BeltLine, offering fried fish baskets, lobster rolls, and cocktails in a casual, beach-themed setting. Located at 921 Wylie St SE, Atlanta, GA 30316.
• The Dinette at The General Muir: A new counter-service sandwich shop inside The General Muir in Emory Point, serving a menu of classic deli sandwiches. Located at 1540 Avenue Pl, Suite B-230, Atlanta, GA 30329.
• Fritti: A pizzeria and bar that reopened in Inman Park with a focus on Neapolitan-style pizzas, appetizers, and Italian cocktails. Located at 309 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307.
• Omakase by Yun: An intimate 16-seat sushi counter in Doraville offering a 23-course omakase experience from Chef Yun. Located at 6035 Peachtree Rd, Suite C-210, Doraville, GA 30360.

Yes, there are many trendy restaurants in Atlanta, with a growing number located in the northern suburbs. The areas of Roswell, Alpharetta, and Sandy Springs have many popular dining spots. Some of the trendy restaurants north Atlanta has to offer include Table & Main and Little Alley Steak in Roswell, which provide upscale Southern food and steakhouse experiences. Alpharetta is home to The Cape Restaurant & Beach Bar, known for its South African-inspired menu, and the bustling food hall at Avalon. Sandy Springs features spots like The Select, with its art deco design and American menu.

Yes, there are many fun places to eat in Atlanta for adults. Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market are food halls with multiple vendors, making them some of the most cool places to eat in Atlanta for a lively atmosphere. The Painted Pin is an upscale bowling alley and restaurant with lane-side service. Trader Vic's, located in the Hilton Atlanta, is one of the more unique dinner restaurants here offering a retro tiki bar experience with Polynesian food and strong cocktails. For a unique outdoor setting, Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall on the BeltLine has a campfire vibe with food and drinks.

The most romantic restaurants in Atlanta for an anniversary are listed below. These establishments are celebrated as premier destinations for fine dining Atlanta, known for their intimate settings and exceptional menus:

• Canoe: Located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Canoe offers a serene setting with garden paths and waterfront views, paired with a refined American menu.
• Atlas: Situated in The St. Regis Atlanta, Atlas provides a luxurious experience with a world-class art collection adorning the walls and an elegant menu.
• Aria: This Buckhead restaurant is known for its sophisticated atmosphere, attentive service, and modern American food, making it a classic choice for special occasions.
• Bacchanalia: As one of Atlanta's most acclaimed restaurants, Bacchanalia offers an intimate setting and a four-course prix fixe menu for a memorable anniversary dinner.

Atlanta offers a large selection of restaurants serving vegan food, including SluttyVegan, Planted Soul, and Cafe Sunflower. SluttyVegan is a nationally famous spot known for its indulgent, plant-based burgers with playful names. Planted Soul offers vegan comfort food with a Southern and Caribbean influence. Cafe Sunflower is a long-standing Atlanta institution providing upscale, international vegan dishes in a more formal setting.

Many Atlanta restaurants serve gluten-free food, including Arepa Mia, Biltong Bar, and True Food Kitchen. Arepa Mia specializes in Venezuelan arepas, which are made from corn flour and are naturally gluten-free. Biltong Bar, located in Ponce City Market, offers South African street food with many gluten-free options. True Food Kitchen is a health-focused restaurant with a menu designed around anti-inflammatory ingredients, clearly marking all gluten-free items.

The most famous cuisines in Atlanta are listed below:

• Southern & Soul Food: This is the city's bedrock, with dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens found everywhere.
• New American: Many top restaurants offer modern American menus that focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
• Korean: The Buford Highway and Duluth areas are hubs for authentic Korean BBQ, tofu houses, and bakeries.
• Barbecue: Atlanta has a strong barbecue scene, with many restaurants specializing in smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.