Photograph: Sheeka Sanahori for Time Out | Chuchorro tataki at Umi
Photograph: Sheeka Sanahori for Time Out
From Southern fare to Korean comfort food, these restaurants will fuel your stay in ATL.
Wednesday June 11 2025
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Atlanta’s restaurant scene is finally receiving the recognition it deserves as a standout culinary city. With the introduction of the Michelin Guide in 2023 and the surge of food influencers drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant dishes, Atlanta’s food resume is impressively well-rounded. And with a thriving bar scene and nightlife that doesn’t quit, this city knows how to keep things exciting.
There are plenty of…
Photograph: Sheeka Sanahori for Time Out | Chuchorro tataki at Umi
Photograph: Sheeka Sanahori for Time Out
From Southern fare to Korean comfort food, these restaurants will fuel your stay in ATL.
Wednesday June 11 2025
Share
Atlanta’s restaurant scene is finally receiving the recognition it deserves as a standout culinary city. With the introduction of the Michelin Guide in 2023 and the surge of food influencers drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant dishes, Atlanta’s food resume is impressively well-rounded. And with a thriving bar scene and nightlife that doesn’t quit, this city knows how to keep things exciting.
There are plenty of options to fuel your way through the city, whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast after a long night out, or a creative take on sushi to tell your friends about. And in a place where Southern food is king, there’s no shortage of opportunities to indulge in fried chicken dishes, shrimp and grits and more. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, the city offers plenty of chic spots where the food is as innovative as the ambiance. From farm-to-table eateries to menus crafted by James Beard Award-winning chefs, these are the best restaurants in Atlanta right now.
***June 2025: *For this Atlanta restaurant guide, we’ve done our best to cover it all, from hearty, cheap eats to showstopping fine dining. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to get you outside, now that the weather is warming up (for real this time) and since the A’s culinary scene is constantly changing.
Best restaurants in Atlanta
What is it? A delightful, one-Michelin star restaurant with a tasting menu featuring dishes that are as charismatic as they are delicious.
Why we love it: If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening in Atlanta’s top restaurant, Lazy Betty is the place to go. Pace yourself for six or eight courses of dishes that engage your senses and taste buds, like the Chilean seabass swathed in sea foam, as if it just washed ashore. Other dishes—like the roasted duck— have been dry-aged for two weeks, so you know they’re willing to go the distance to achieve perfection. When you go, there’s a good chance the menu will have changed in some way (they like to keep things fresh), but there are a few services you can rely on always being there, such as expert wine pairings and caviar service. Mocktails like the Blueberry Mist—with its smooth blueberry and lime, followed by a warm kick of ginger—are just as unique as their alcohol-infused counterparts, so you truly can’t go wrong.
Time Out Tip: If the tasting menu is out of your budget, go for the small plates served at the bar. You’ll still get to indulge in all the artful vibes both in the space and on your plate.
Address: 999 Peachtree St NE Suite #140, Atlanta, GA 30309
Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5-9pm; Sun, Tue 5–8pm
Expect to pay: $200+
2. Umi
Photograph: Sheeka Sanahori for Time Out
What is it: A dark, moody dining room that serves as the modern backdrop to some of the best sushi Atlanta has to offer.
Why we love it: Atlanta is surprisingly rife with Omakase restaurants, and you can count Umi among them, as it offers an option to leave your order up to the chef’s discretion. Most Umi diners take a more direct approach, choosing rounds of sushi, sashimi and cocktails for an upscale date night, or a luxurious dinner after work with friends. No matter which way you go, you’re guaranteed to enjoy inventive dishes from the creative mind of Chef Todd Dae Kulper. The Charred Chutoro Tataki, which combines fatty slices of tuna with a sweet sauce and thinly sliced jalapeños, became so popular that it was added to the menu as a permanent fixture. Looking for something other than traditional sushi? Butter poached lobster and scallops in a uni and truffle butter emulsion is another favorite you’ll have to think twice about whether you want to share or keep all to yourself.
Time Out tip: This dish has some French culinary influence, but the caviar toast starter is a must-try. The milk bread is pillowy-soft and topped with crème fraiche and a mild caviar. It’s the perfect way to set the scene for more delicious courses to come.
**Address: **Two Buckhead Plaza, 3050 Peachtree Rd, Suite #1, Atlanta, GA 30305
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9pm; Thu–Sat 5–10pm
**Expect to pay: **$100+
What is it: Modern American cuisine all dressed up in a cozy, yet chic dining room.
Why we love it: Aria has been a staple of Buckhead fine dining for 25 years, and just as it’s made the shortlist for a 2025 James Beard award for Outstanding Hospitality, the restaurant has also announced the retirement of its longtime chef and owner, Gerry Klaskala. As the restaurant searches for a new head chef, new owner and longtime general manager Andrés Loaiza promises to keep the same formula in place: an elegant setting, comfortable vibe and unmatched hospitality with a menu to match. Dishes like lump crab cakes, slow-braised pork, pan-seared scallops, and bourbon-glazed Chilean salmon not only impress with their flavors but also with their visually striking presentation. When your eyes aren’t dancing around the dishes, use them to enjoy the quirky artwork found throughout the Buckhead dining room.
Time Out tip: Aria’s wine list has been regarded as one of the best in the country. Just like the food, the wine list is always making incremental upgrades, but that’ll keep you coming back for your new favorite bottle of red and white.
**Address: **490 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5:30–9pm; Fri-Sat 5:30–10pm
**Expect to pay: **100+
What is it? A Michelin-starred, French-inspired fine dining restaurant with an exceptional tasting menu, plus wine pairings.
Why we like it: If casually spotting a Monet or Picasso painting in the middle of an Atlanta dining room is on your bucket list, then Atlas is the place to go. The owner rotates art from his personal collection throughout his restaurants, so this upscale Buckhead dining room feels like an art gallery, sometimes even showcasing the masters. Chef Freddy Money is known for his eight-course tasting menu; it’s artistic without taking itself too seriously. For example, there’s a starter salad course named Here’s Another Beet Salad. It’s sweetened and served cold, accompanied by a congealed plum sauce and crumbled goat cheese. Later courses include striped sea bass, wagyu steak and quail. But the most delightful treat? A post-dessert snack to bid diners adieu: a pecan fudge candy wrapped in an edible rice cake wrapper.
Time Out tip: For a more casual vibe, head next door to their sister restaurant, The Garden Room—a lively, leaf-adorned spot with a sizable bar. The restaurants share a kitchen, so rest assured that at either establishment, your meal will be prepared by the same talented hands.
Address: 88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, 4th floor
Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5–11pm
**Expect to pay: **200+
**What is it? **A Michelin-starred restaurant offering white-tablecloth dining with a prix fix menu that highlights delectable new American fare, all set in a sleek, modern-industrial dining room.
Why we like it: Dress up. Wear a tie. Learn which fork is the salad one. Bacchanalia is the ultimate spot for luxe dining. Despite venturing off from its original location, the signature dishes remain the same. The four-course tasting menu will surprise you in the best possible way, with innovative combinations of chestnut and truffle honey infused in a triple-cream cheese, as well as Thai essence and crab fritter. Seeing that the food delights tastebuds, Bacchanalia is the place to celebrate a happy occasion with family, close friends or that special someone.
Time Out Tip: Baccanalia translates to a wild party for the Greek god of wine, and the restaurant asks that you dress the part, describing its dress code as Bacchic chic. If you’re scratching your head trying to figure out what that means, it’s business casual, but you’re free to dazzle it up from there.
Address: 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Suite 1, Atlanta, GA 30318
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 5:30-9:30pm
Expect to pay: $100+
**What is it? **An upscale Japanese restaurant with a semi-casual dress code, serving amazing sushi, sashimi and sake. The Omakase style means you trust the chef to pick out the evening’s dishes, but we’re confident you’ll be delighted with the choices.
Why we like it: Hayakawa is a must for sushi lovers. The serene space accommodates just eight guests at its sushi counter, where they enjoy an unforgettable 16-course omakase tasting menu that spans two hours. Featuring the finest selection of fish sourced from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market and personalized service, James Beard-nominated chef Atsushi "Art" Hayakawa is on hand to tell stories of his dishes and hometown, Hokkaido, Japan. This is a sushi experience rarely found outside of Japan. It’s no wonder it’s earned a one-star placement on Atlanta’s Michelin Guide.
Time out tip: Best to save the family outing for another time; Hayakawa is for grown folks only. Patrons must be 10 years or older, and a reservation is required for your party, so plan ahead.
Address: 1055 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318
**Opening hours: **Wed–Sat 6–10pm
Expect to pay: $100+
What is it? A buzzy Midtown restaurant that delights with southern European dishes, specifically pasta and seafood.
Why we like it: As you get settled in your seat, the first thing your waiter will likely ask you is, “Are you dining before a show?” That’s because this trendy restaurant is within a block of Atlanta’s iconic Fox Theater. Whether you’re catching a meal before showtime or dining in for a nice dinner, we recommend giving yourself enough time to enjoy everything Lyla Lila has to offer, from the classic pasta dishes to the whimsical monstera leaves and paper lanterns adorning the walls. Don’t sleep on entrees like the squash-wrapped snapper adorned with currants, and roasted chicken with tangy Castelvetrano olives and capers. Next time, make a point to hang out at the beautiful horseshoe-shaped bar for a Monk’s Repose cocktail—the lemon-based gin drink is a light and refreshing way to cap the night.
**Time Out Tip: **Lyla Lila doesn’t validate parking, so arrive early to locate a nearby parking lot or metered street parking spot.
**Address: **693 Peachtree St NE Unit 118, Atlanta, GA 30308
Opening hours: Sun-Mon 5–9pm; Tue–Thu 5–10pm; Fri–Sat 5-11pm
**Expect to pay: **100+
What is it? A charming tropical hideaway in Reynoldstown that offers some of the city’s most delicious plant-based fare.
Why we like it: For decades, Atlanta has been known as a meat-and-three town, but several restaurateurs are boldly bucking tradition, bringing plant-based delights to the forefront of the city’s cuisine. Co-owners Sophia Marchese and chef Reid Trapani are at the forefront of that trend with La Semilla. Their forward-thinking menu celebrates Cuban classics and timeless Latin dishes, with rum and agave-infused cocktails to liven up your meal. The setting is playful, featuring vintage decor and hand-painted banana leaves that adorn the bar.
Time Out Tip: We recommend ordering the vegan Cubano, made with house-made seitan and jackfruit lechón. However, the true highlight might be the bistec de palomilla, which is made with locally sourced lion’s mane mushrooms.
Address: 780 Memorial Dr SE Unit 4A, Atlanta, GA 30316
**Opening hours: **Tue–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm; Sun 5-9pm
Expect to pay: $50
9. Yeppa & Co.
**What is it? **Italian cuisine inspired by the coastal town of Rimini is served in a bright dining room that may be just as well known for its lively bar.
**Why we love it: **When the waiter approaches your table with a “How ya doing– we doing shots this evening?!” you instantly understand the festive vibe of Yeppa & Co., if it even took you that long to suss out. Plenty of people congregate at the massive, oval bar that seats more than 40 people, which provides plenty of space to celebrate the end of a work week or just hang around and meet your neighbors. What Yeppa & Co. does take seriously is its approachable take on Italian cuisine. Classics like cacio e pepe and ricotta gnocchi are represented on the menu, but there’s also steak and potatoes for those not in the mood for pasta. The rosemary sea-salt focaccia is a delightful way to start any occasion, as are the branzino skewers, whether you’re looking for a light bite or to get some courses started right.
Time Out tip: The Buckhead Village location features highly coveted seating on its patio, which is a more relaxed space compared to areas closer to the bar. However, make a reservation or plan to arrive early, as those seats fill up quickly.
**Address: **Multiple venues, inc. 306 Buckhead Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305; 667 Auburn Ave, Suite 120
**Opening hours: **Sun–Thu 11:30am–11pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–midnight
**Expect to pay: **$60
What is it? Housed in the former Decatur train depot, Kimball House offers elevated New American fare in a laid-back setting.
Why we love it: The award-winning cocktails speak for themselves, but if you need a nudge to stay for dinner, consider this your sign. You won’t be disappointed, as local fish, top-notch steaks and impressive desserts—like the saffron ganache and coconut-stuffed éclair and honey rum tart—can all be found on the menu. If you fancy oysters, don’t skip the fine quality ones sourced from Florida’s Oyster Bay.
For those who don’t want to imbibe, the mocktails are just as wonderful, made with fresh ingredients that’ll light up your tongue. No matter what you choose, there’s room to devour (or sip) its creations inside or outside on the patio.
Time Out tip: Parking is a bit tricky in this historic depot-turned-fine-dining establishment. If you don’t get there early enough to park on Howard Ave, consider the paid parking deck on East Trinity Place (next to Dairy Queen). It’ll set you back $10, but it’s a short walk across a main thoroughfare in and out of downtown Decatur.
Address: 303 E Howard Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
**Opening hours: **Tue–Thu, Sun 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm
Expect to pay: $100+
What is it? Persian and Middle Eastern cuisine shines at this Atlanta fave, which got its start in Inman Park and has since spread across the metro area.
Why we like it: Dishes are best shared with friends, especially the kashk bademjoon, a fried eggplant dip with mint and fried onions. It spreads deliciously across flatbread and is the perfect way to start a meal. The grilled seabass is a standout; it’s basted in an onion saffron wash to make it moist with a mild, buttery flavor. The lamb neck is also a treasure, but there are plenty of kabobs and grilled veggies to go around for people who aren’t a fan of lamb. The weekend brunch menu adds a few new options with the same great flavor profile. Dishes like shakshouka and chinjeh—a prime beef sirloin cooked in saffron—are exactly what’s needed to get your weekend started.
**Time Out tip: **If you can’t wait for dinner, check out the latest location in Buckhead. It’s the only one that offers lunch service.
Address: Three locations: Inman Park, Buckhead and Milton
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 4–10pm; Fri 4–11pm; Sat 11am–11pm; Sun 11am–9pm
Expect to pay: $75
What is it? Named after the old stockyards in Atlanta’s former meatpacking district, this modern restaurant puts southern food and locally sourced ingredients on full display.
Why we like it: Miller Union isn’t just a staple of Atlanta’s dining scene, it’s a great utilitarian place to pick no matter your occasion. Celebration with friends? Yup. Date night? Of course. Client dinner? They’re good for that, too. Appetizers, like the beloved farm eggs baked in celery cream, have been on the menu for the restaurant’s decade-plus tenure. They’re joined by newcomers, such as the delightful rabbit and ricotta dumplings and collard greens, which are paired with red grits and packed with a slight kick of heat. You could say the restaurant is fortunate to have executive chef Steven Satterfield, who won the 2017 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast, a region renowned for its exceptional talent. The restaurant prioritizes sustainability wherever possible, sourcing ingredients from local farmers and collaborating with small producers who embody sustainable farming practices to curate its wine list.
Time Out Tip: Valet is complimentary—a rare find in the city, but if you’d rather keep your keys to yourself, hourly street parking is available nearby.
Address: 999 Brady Ave NW Ste 106, Atlanta, GA 30318
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm
Expect to pay: $75
What is it? Located in Inman Park, this Italian-American spot is both a neighborhood favorite and a must-try for visitors to Atlanta.
Why we like it: Chef Bruce Logue’s ‘pasta kingdom’ serves fresh noodle dishes, many of which have become instant classics. Don’t miss the 20-yolk tagliatelle with wild mushrooms and Tuscan kale kimchi, or the black spaghetti with hot sausage, red shrimp and scallions. Pair one of your dishes with an equally impressive glass of wine.
Time Out Tip: Order à la carte, or opt in for a four-course prix fixe menu. No matter what, you’re in for some good food.
Address: 753 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5:30-10pm
Expect to pay: $75
**What is it? **A Suwanee restaurant whose brunch delights caught on quickly, it soon expanded, opening locations in Midtown and out of state.
**Why we like it: **Soul food staples come alive with classic brunch fare. You can’t go wrong with the flavorful shrimp and grits or the blackened shrimp and cherry tomatoes, served atop creamy grits in a bed of lobster sauce. Flavor Rich brings a celebratory vibe, especially for weekend brunch, so enjoy the music and order a mimosa tower to share at the table. The dining room fills up fast, so expect a 30-minute wait or longer unless you have a reservation. If you prefer a less-stimulating dining experience, consider visiting during the week when the wait is shorter and the atmosphere feels a bit quieter. Bonus: You’ll have the opportunity to order the French toast flight, which isn’t offered during the weekend rush.
**Time Out tip: **Gratuity is automatically added to parties of four or more, and to checks over $100. The restaurant doesn’t split the bills, but there are plenty of apps to help you sort that out.
Address: 549 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Opening hours: Tues-Fr 9am–4pm; Sat, Sun 8am–4:30pm
Expect to pay: $50
What is it? This New England-style tavern in Krog Street Market fosters the conviviality of a social club sans membership fees. Is it a fabulous bar with a restaurant or the other way around? The answer is yes, no matter which way you say it.
Why we like it: Settle in for comfort fare ranging from fried Ipswich clams to vegan noodle bowls and Gulf shrimp risotto. The crispy veal sweetbreads are a standout, as are the scallops and the giant chuck wagon. Pair any with a drink or two from the exceptional cocktail list—many declare it the best in the city. Don’t miss the club’s riff on a mint julep: the Ticonderoga Cup includes aged rum, French brandy, Sherry, pineapple, lemon and mint.
Time Out tip: If you happen to be looking for a unique plate on a Monday evening, you’re in luck! Ticonderoga Club is open when many other restaurants of its caliber are closed on the weekend. They’re closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays to keep an even pace with all the other food options at Krog Street Market.
Address: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
**Opening hours: **Fri-Tues 5-10pm
Expect to pay: $75
What is it? An East Atlanta Village joint serving seasonal American dishes in a modern, unstuffy dining space. Bring a date to impress or a group of friends who have a taste for the finer things.
Why we like it: Banshee’s vibe is to take food seriously without being pretentious about it. The pillowy gnocchi melts in your mouth, and yellowedge grouper with Pommes Anna looks just as delicious as it tastes. The menu is seasonal, so new dishes are always popping up, but expect to find a variety of pasta, vegetarian and seafood dishes to satisfy your cravings. Looking to order out? The fry bread starter with pepperoni butter is a must; it’s so popular that it sells by the pint for to-go orders.
Time Out tip: Banshee goes the distance on the weekends. Chill on the back patio on Friday or Saturday nights to enjoy a next-level hot dog with ever-changing toppings like curry and toasted coconut or parmesan cheese and chorizo. It’s a great option after bar hopping in EAV or for prioritizing your love of premier hotdogs.
Address: 1271 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-2:30am
Expect to pay: $75
What is it? Bright and airy Thai-fusion restaurant located in Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood.
Why we like it: Talat Market celebrates the flavors of Northern Thailand by melding Thai cooking techniques with local Georgia ingredients. With its vibrant ambiance and bold aromas of dishes like krispy rice salad and boat noodles, you’ll be transported to the streets of Chiang Mai. Led by Chef Parnass Savang, a James Beard Semifinalist for Best Chef in the Southeast, and Rod Lassiter, Talat Market crafts dishes that pay homage to tradition while pushing boundaries. That’s why no menu is the same—it changes daily.
Time Out tip: Stop by for happy hour, featuring a range of specials and unique cocktails like a piña colada with a Thai twist. And don’t skip dessert; they’re likely to have put a fun spin on your trusty faves.
Address: 112 Ormond St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
**Opening hours: **Wed-Sat 5-10pm; Sun 5-9pm
Expect to pay: $75
18. Quoc Huong Banh Mi Fast Food
What is it? A small restaurant with seating for 36 diners in Buford Highway’s Asian Square. The menu might be streamlined, but it overdelivers on flavor on some classic Vietnamese dishes, specifically the pho and banh mi.
Why we like it: Here, the bánh mìs are made with the perfect loaves; they’re crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. We love the chicken bánh mì, which features a slightly sweetened sauce that amplifies the savory flavor. There are also plenty of varieties to keep people coming back, like the classic pork and three vegetarian options: fried egg, tofu or veggie.
Time Out tip: If you don’t feel like waiting out the lunch rush for a table, make use of their fast-moving to-go order stand.
Address: 5150 Buford Hwy NE Doraville, GA 30340
Opening hours: Fri-Wed 9am-7pm
Expect to pay: $20
What is it? A casual, family-owned spot for the best Korean food in town.
Why we like it: Jang Su Jang, which translates to “the meeting place” in Korean, is a fitting name for its Duluth location. Although it’s nestled on a busy street, the interior feels like a friend’s kitchen, with Korean comfort food at its heart. Start with a crunchy seafood pancake filled with squid and scallions, then enjoy the ribeye bulgogi, marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, paired with a side of refreshing kimchi cucumbers. Hot pot, seafood stew and Korean BBQ round out the classic staples we love. Bonus: The food has that homey, made-with-love quality.
Time Out tip: If you’re new to Korean family-style dining, don’t be intimidated when the staff brings an array of small plates to your table. These delicious sides are meant to be shared and come with every entree.
Address: Two locations in Duluth and Alpharetta
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10am-9pm
Expect to pay: $30
What is it: This casual spot serves up flavorful Texas barbecue with some Georgia influences across multiple locations in Atlanta, including the original barbecue joint in Candler Park.
Why we like it: Thanks to two grill-happy twin brothers from Texas, Atlanta is home to one of the best barbecue joints in the south. They missed Texas-style ‘cue when they moved to Atlanta, and long story short, their wistfulness turned into a W for all of us. Tuck into rib sandwiches, juicy brisket and bacon burgers or all the other meaty options that your meat-loving heart could desire. Are you a beef ‘cue or a pork ‘cue kinda person? Doesn’t matter because they have both on the menu, and they’re all slow-cooked to perfection.
Time Out tip: Grab a cup of Brunswick stew for a taste of the Georgia coast, as well as pimento cheese and the city’s best smoked wings.
Address: Six locations, including Brookhaven, Candler Park and Buckhead.
Opening hours: Sun–Thu 11am–10pm; Fri, Sat 11am–11pm
Expect to pay: $40
What is it? A 1927 establishment that has been serving meat and three courses to hungry locals and visitors in some form and location for almost a century.
Why we like it: It’s not a fancy or trendy restaurant by any means, but it is an Atlanta favorite. Put your name down on the list and spend some time hanging out at the popular bar among a slew of diverse patrons, from bikers to elderly folks. Once your table is ready, order a steak or the fried chicken, and choose from a long list of old-school sides, such as fried okra or mac and cheese.
Time Out tip: If you’re dining with Atlanta locals who’ve been eating at the Colonnade for decades, settle in for a monologue about what this staple used to be versus what it is now. The restaurant has only changed ownership a couple of times, most recently in 2024, but the regulars swear they can tell when anything changes here. No matter what, though, we still appreciate this old favorite.
Address: 1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5-9pm; Sat noon–9pm; Sun noon–8pm
Expect to pay: $40
What is it? A classic Texas barbecue joint that melds Korean spices in a tiny, communal setting.
Why we love it: The lines tend to be long, the parking situation can get ridiculous and there’s no actual seating, but this Korean BBQ fusion joint is so good nobody seems to care. Serious BBQ scholars rank Heirloom Market among the best barbecue spots in Atlanta, and it’s easy to see why. The tender Korean pulled pork and kimchi sandwich is a firm favorite, and it’s topped with one of five different sauces. But the real shiner is the sides. Diners will travel great distances to get the kimchi coleslaw, the cheesy mac and cheese, and the sweet and spicy tofu. Don’t forget to save room for dessert; the butterscotch pie is an absolute stunner.
**Time Out tip: **When you arrive, scan their QR code to place your order, then wait on the patio until someone calls your name. Everything will be packed to go, but there are a few small bar tables you can stand around if you can’t wait to dig in.
**Address: **2243 Akers Mill Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
Opening hours: Tue–Sat 11am–8pm
**Expect to pay: **$25
What is it: Politicians, presidents, celebrities and hungry locals craving authentic soul food have all passed through this Downtown Atlanta institution. Even though the restaurant switched to carry-out only since the pandemic, the food is still classic Atlanta.
Why we like it: No trip to ATL is complete without a trip to Busy Bee Cafe. This is ‘The South on a Plate,’ after all. Like any self-respecting soul food restaurant, they have daily specials to keep you on your toes. But you’ll never have to plan ahead to get some of their delicious fried chicken. If you’re as particular about mac and cheese as we are, rest assured you’re in good hands with their casserole-style classic. When the time is right, deploy your third stomach for some peach or blackberry cobbler.
Time Out tip: You can place an order online through a delivery service, but we still think the fastest way is to place a to-go order. Your food will be hot and at peak deliciousness.
Address: 810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Opening: Mon–Sun 11am–7pm
Expect to pay: $30
What is it? A casual wing spot that knows how to commit to a theme: The decor inside and out of this restaurant in a shopping center screams “abandoned building,” but there’s nothing forsaken about the way they’re serving flavor.
Why we like it: These might be the best wings in Atlanta. Since the A takes its wing game seriously, you’re bound to hear some hot takes, but we’re sticking by our decision. The lemon pepper wings are fried hard, drenched in a light sauce and include lemon pepper sprinkles—a winning combination in this city. The Bando doesn’t shy away from more creative wing flavors either, like strawberry habanero and honey-glazed jerk. Plus, there’s more to love, namely their chili hot dogs topped with bacon, onions and mustard. If you can’t decide, get them both in a glizzy combo that comes with a hot dog, wings and fries.
Time Out Tip: The Bando has a small dining room space, but it appears to be focusing on its takeaway business, so plan to order your wings to go and enjoy them from the comfort of your own home.
Address: 3050 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW suite M, Atlanta, GA 30311
Opening hours: Sun, Wed, Thu 11am–9pm; Fri, Sat 11am-10pm
Expect to pay: $30
25. The Breakfast Boys
Courtesy Sheeka Sanahori
What is it? Brunch done right in a cozy College Park restaurant with a sidewalk patio.
Why we like it: All. Day. Brunch. Need we say more? You’ll be craving these brunch darlings all day long for the subtle ways they add onto the classics. For example, the shrimp and grits get gussied up with additional fried catfish nuggets and a delicious lobster sauce; sweet tea’s infused with basil to cut through the sweetness; and your typical fried chicken and waffles is elevated with four thick Belgian waffles made of sweet potatoes. Those of you who find love in the details will be delighted to find edible flowers garnishing your waffles. The Breakfast Boys were doing it before Meghan Sussex made it chic.
Time Out tip: Just a five-minute drive to Atlanta’s airport, Breakfast Brothers is a convenient first stop before checking into your hotel or a final hurrah before catching your flight. They offer counter service with four stools in front of the kitchen or to-go options if you’re really in a rush. If you have the time, dine on the patio to soak in all of the flavors.
Address: 3387 Main St, College Park, GA 30337
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8am-4pm
Expect to pay: $40
26. Jerks Caribbean Grill
**What is it? **After the success of Chef Rob’s Cafe & Bar, the popular Jamaican restaurant in Sandy Springs, chef Rob Gayle just opened a new fast-casual concept in the Town Brookhaven shopping center off Peachtree Road.
Why we like it: Jamaican classic dishes customers are familiar with from Chef Rob’s original restaurant are still on the menu, including fried red snapper, jerk pasta, and braised oxtails, but this new eatery offers something new in Jamaican cuisine-inspired bowls—think the Jamaican version of Chipotle. Rice and peas form the base of bowls like 2 Jerks, which features grilled shrimp and chicken doused in a piquant jerk sauce. The One Love bowl, featuring fried tofu, offers options for plant-based customers, and people can also choose their own ingredients in a custom bowl.
**Time Out tip: **Jerks has a vast drink selection, from seltzers to Prosecco, but for a traditional taste of the island, opt for Ting, a sparkling grapefruit soda, or Sorrel, a health-conscious, saccharine-free drink made from the roselle hibiscus flower.
Address: 705 Town Blvd, Brookhaven, GA 30319
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 11am–10pm
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