12 Must-Try Places to Eat in Atlanta for Food Lovers

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Atlanta’s food scene is where Southern charm meets bold, global flavors, making it a foodie’s paradise. From classic fried chicken and soul food to innovative fusion dishes and farm-to-table creations, this city has it all. Picture cozy spots serving peach cobbler that melts in your mouth, trendy rooftop bistros with skyline views, and lively markets dishing out tacos, barbecue, and everything in between. Known for its hospitality and diverse influences, Atlanta’s restaurants are as dynamic as its culture. These 12 must-try spots will take you on a flavorful journey, showcasing why Atlanta is a top-tier destination for food lovers. Come hungry and ready to taste the best the city has to offer!

👉 Pro Tip: Escape to Georgia’s wine country with the North Georgia Wine Country Tour! This full-day trip from Atlanta takes you to top wineries for award-winning tastings while sharing the region’s rich wine-making history. Perfect for wine lovers, it’s a relaxing way to sip and explore stunning vineyards. Cheers!

Unique Restaurants in Atlanta, Georgia: 12 Incredible Atlanta Eateries

Are you excited to explore the most unique restaurants in Atlanta? As previously mentioned, Atlanta is a treasure trove of dining options that cater to every culinary preference. Keep reading to find out where to eat in Atlanta, Georgia for a distinctive dining experience.

Are you looking for Southern comfort food with an innovative twist? Or perhaps a fusion dish that melds traditional Southern flavors with global influences? Whatever your taste desires, Atlanta has an array of unique culinary offerings. Here’s your detailed guide to the most unique restaurants in Atlanta.

1. The Consulate

• 📍 Location: Midtown
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Rotating Global Small Plates / Modern American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rotating global menu, “passport” concept, travel-themed decor, craft cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Global cuisine explorers, unique dining themes, adventurous eaters, and cocktail drinkers.

Grab your passport for a culinary world tour at The Consulate! This chic Midtown spot whisks you to a new country every few months with its rotating menu focused on a specific global destination. One quarter Italy, the next Peru – it’s a delicious guessing game!

Stamp your menu “passport” as you explore. Recent menus featured delights like Peruvian ceviche with leche de tigre, flavorful Italian arancini with marinara, or spicy Thai beef salad. Their “Diplomat’s Tonic” and other globally-inspired cocktails are excellent.

2. The Third Door

• 📍 Location: Marietta (OTP – Outside The Perimeter)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $25 per drink
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Craft Cocktail Speakeasy
• 🔥 Standout Features: Speakeasy in historic bank building, hidden entrance, bank vault lounge, craft cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Speakeasy seekers, craft cocktail lovers, and date nights.

Unlock Marietta’s best-kept secret behind The Third Door! Tucked away in a historic former bank building, this speakeasy exudes cool, clandestine charm, complete with cozy nooks and seating inside the original vault. History and hooch, perfectly paired!

Once inside, let the expert bartenders craft you a perfect Old Fashioned. A unique house creation like the Marietta Mule with local ginger beer, or a classic Sazerac, are also highly recommended. It’s a top-shelf escape for serious cocktail appreciation.

3. Kamayan ATL

• 📍 Location: Doraville (OTP – Outside The Perimeter) / Pop-Ups
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $80+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Filipino Kamayan Feast
• 🔥 Standout Features: Communal Filipino feast (eaten by hand!), banana leaf table setting, authentic dishes
• 🎯 Perfect For: Communal dining lovers, Filipino food explorers, and unique group meals

Ditch the forks and dive hands-first into a glorious Filipino feast at Kamayan ATL! This unique experience centers around a massive spread of traditional dishes piled high on banana leaves, designed to be eaten communally with your hands. Get ready to get messy!

Gather your crew for a flavour explosion. Expect crispy lechon kawali (fried pork belly), savory lumpia (spring rolls), and grilled seafood like tilapia or shrimp. Garlic rice and various dipping sauces complete this vibrant, interactive celebration.

4. No Mas! Cantina

• 📍 Location: Castleberry Hill, Atlanta
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Mexican / Regional Specialties
• 🔥 Standout Features: Huge artisan market attached, vibrant hacienda-style decor, extensive tequila list, authentic regional Mexican dishes, beautiful patio.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Mexican food lovers, shoppers seeking Mexican crafts, margarita enthusiasts, festive group dinners, and experiencing a slice of Mexico in Atlanta.

Step into a vibrant Mexican hacienda at No Mas! Cantina in Castleberry Hill. More than just a restaurant, it’s a destination, complete with a massive artisan market next door filled with imported crafts. The colorful decor and lively atmosphere instantly transport you.

You should definitely try their authentic cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork). Their sizzling fajitas, or fresh guacamole made tableside, are also fantastic. Don’t forget to explore their impressive tequila and margarita selection. ¡Salud!

5. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

• 📍 Location: Multiple (e.g., Doraville OTP)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Revolving Sushi Bar / Japanese
• 🔥 Standout Features: Conveyor belt sushi delivery, touch-screen ordering, prize system (“Bikkura Pon”), various sushi/rolls.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Fun sushi experiences, casual Japanese dining, and families with kids

All aboard the sushi train at Kura Revolving Sushi Bar! Watch plates of colourful sushi and Japanese bites glide past your table on a conveyor belt – just grab what looks good! Plus, order specific items via touchscreen and maybe even win a prize!

Stack up plates of classic nigiri, like salmon or tuna. Try fun specialty rolls, such as the “Dragon Roll” or “Rainbow Roll”. Hot items like takoyaki (octopus balls) or tempura are also popular. It’s a fun, interactive, and affordable way to enjoy sushi.

6. R. Thomas Deluxe Grill

• 📍 Location: Buckhead / South Buckhead
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic Healthy American / Global Influences
• 🔥 Standout Features: Garden patio setting (live birds!), health-focused menu, 24/7 operation
• 🎯 Perfect For: Late-night/early-morning eats and healthy food seekers.

Step into a lush, quirky oasis that never sleeps at R. Thomas Deluxe Grill! This Buckhead institution stands out with its vibrant garden patio filled with plants and live birds, offering a healthy, eclectic menu 24 hours a day. Where healthy meets funky!

Fuel up anytime with unique dishes. Trying their popular Thai Express Bowl with brown rice and lots of veggies is a good idea. Hearty breakfast burritos (served anytime!), or one of their many vegetarian/vegan options like the “R’s Raw Plate”, are also excellent.

7. Polaris

• 📍 Location: Downtown (Hyatt Regency Atlanta Rooftop)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40+ per drink/small plate
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Rooftop Lounge / Small Plates & Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rotating rooftop lounge (blue dome!), panoramic downtown skyline views, cocktails/bites.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic drinks/dates and pre/post-event cocktails.

Take a spin back in time with stunning views at Polaris! This iconic rotating lounge atop the Hyatt Regency offers breathtaking panoramic views of the downtown Atlanta skyline from its famous blue dome. It’s retro cool meets sky-high views!

Settle into the retro-chic space as it slowly turns. Sip on classic or signature cocktails, like their “Polaris Peach”. Enjoy sophisticated small plates such as charcuterie boards or flatbreads while watching the sunset or the city lights twinkle.

8. Battle & Brew

• 📍 Location: Sandy Springs (OTP – Outside The Perimeter)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person (Food/Drinks); Game time extra.
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gastropub / Gamer Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Gamer bar (PC/console/tabletop), themed cocktails/shots, elevated pub grub, geek culture.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Gamers (video/board), fun group activities, and themed drink lovers.

Level up your night out at Battle & Brew! This Sandy Springs spot is Atlanta’s premier gamer gastropub, offering tons of video games, board games, and themed nights alongside delicious food and creative drinks. Where Player 1 meets plate one!

Grab a controller and order geek-themed cocktails like a “Mana Potion”. Chow down on surprisingly good pub fare like the “Castle Crasher Burger” (a massive burger). Their loaded tater tots or crispy chicken wings are also great.

9. The Garden Room

• 📍 Location: Buckhead (St. Regis Atlanta)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50+ per drink/small plate
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Lounge / Small Plates & Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Floral garden setting (indoors!), Instagrammable decor, craft cocktails, lounge bites.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Instagram backdrop seekers, romantic drinks/dates, and stunning ambiance.

Step into an absolute floral fantasy at The Garden Room! Located within the St. Regis, this bar is less a room and more an immersive indoor garden overflowing with blossoms and enchanting decor. Prepare for peak Instagrammability! It’s like drinking inside a fairytale!

Surrounded by stunning floral arrangements, sipping on beautifully crafted cocktails like the colourful “Lavender Haze” is a must. Enjoy elegant small plates such as delicate tuna crudo, fresh oysters, or mini lobster rolls perfect for sharing in this breathtakingly beautiful setting.

10. Lips Atlanta

• 📍 Location: Buford Highway Area
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70+ per person (Dinner + Show)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Dinner Show / Drag Queen Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Drag dinner show, flamboyant performances/costumes, high-energy party atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Drag show enthusiasts, group celebrations, dinner + entertainment combos, and party seekers.

Get ready for dinner, drinks, and divas galore at Lips Atlanta! This place serves up fierce drag performances alongside American fare in a high-energy, glitter-filled atmosphere. Where the only thing bigger than the hair is the fun! Start your engines!

Enjoy dinner entrees with sassy names like “The Diva Burger”. Sip on colourful “Sassy Cocktails” and get ready to cheer for incredibly talented drag queens. Their chicken parmesan or a classic steak dinner are popular choices. Lips offers a full-blown entertainment spectacle.

11. Rooftop L.O.A.

• 📍 Location: West Midtown (The Interlock)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $45+ per person (Drinks/Poolside Fare); Restaurant higher.
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Rooftop Pool/Bar/Restaurant / Coastal European
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rooftop pool (21+), skyline views, resort-style atmosphere, coastal European-inspired food/drinks.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale pool/bar experiences, staycation vibes, and stylish gatherings.

Ascend to Atlanta’s chicest escape at Rooftop L.O.A. (Leave of Absence)! This stunning West Midtown destination boasts a resort-style rooftop pool, bar, and restaurant offering incredible skyline views and sophisticated vibes. Your luxurious ATL getaway awaits!

Lounge poolside sipping on refreshing Coastal Spritzes. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired bites like grilled octopus or fresh oysters at the Grove restaurant. Their wood-fired pizzas are also a great choice. Rooftop L.O.A. is ultimate for stylish socializing.

12. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville (Sugarloaf Mills – OTP)
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $80+ per person (Dinner + Show)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Feast / Dinner Tournament
• 🔥 Standout Features: Medieval dinner tournament, jousting knights/horses, utensil-free feast, castle setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families, themed dining lovers, medieval fantasy fans, and unique group outings.

Huzzah! Travel back to the age of chivalry at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament! Cheer for your knight while witnessing thrilling jousting, horsemanship, and swordplay inside a castle arena, all while devouring a four-course meal – no utensils allowed!

Get ready to eat with your hands! Enjoy a hearty feast typically including roasted chicken, tomato bisque, sweet corn on the cob, and herbed potatoes. It’s a fun, immersive, and action-packed dinner show perfect for families.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Unique Places To Eat In Atlanta

Curious about where to find the most distinctive dining in the city? Our FAQ section unravels the wonders of unique restaurants in Atlanta, answering all your culinary queries.

What food is unique to Atlanta?

Atlanta is known for its soul food and Southern cuisine. One dish you can’t miss is the classic Atlanta-style lemon pepper wet wings. They’re a city favorite. For a unique twist on local dishes, many restaurants in Atlanta offer their own signature flavors and ingredients.

What restaurants do celebrities eat at in Atlanta?

Celebrities often visit Atlanta and when they do, they look for places with great food and a cool vibe. Many choose unique restaurants in Atlanta that offer privacy and top-notch service. Spots like The Garden Room and Polaris are known for attracting famous faces with their standout menus and ambiance.

Do any Atlanta restaurants have Michelin stars?

Currently, there are nine restaurants in and around Atlanta with a Michelin-star rating.

What type of food is Atlanta best known for?

Atlanta is best known for its diverse food scene, especially its barbecue, fried chicken, and peach cobbler. These Southern staples are a must-try for visitors. For those looking for something out of the ordinary, unique restaurants in Atlanta also serve up international cuisines with a Southern twist.

Are there any unique dining experiences for families in Atlanta?

Yes, Atlanta has many family-friendly restaurants that offer fun themes and interactive dining experiences, complementing the array of things to do for families in Atlanta. From medieval tournaments to dining with tropical birds, there’s a unique restaurant in Atlanta for every family to enjoy.

Can I find international cuisine at unique restaurants in Atlanta?

Absolutely! Atlanta is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its food. You can find everything from authentic Italian to traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Many unique restaurants in Atlanta specialize in bringing flavors from around the world to your plate.

Where can I find a unique restaurant in Atlanta for a special occasion?

For special occasions, Atlanta has many unique restaurants that offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just a night out, you can find a place that provides a memorable meal with a special touch.

What are some unique restaurants in Atlanta for vegetarians?

Vegetarians have plenty of options in Atlanta. Many unique restaurants in Atlanta are dedicated to plant-based cuisine, offering creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes that even meat-lovers would enjoy.

Final Thoughts On Unique Atlanta Restaurants

Atlanta’s dining landscape is as diverse as its history and people. In this city, food lovers can embark on a culinary journey that spans the globe without ever leaving the comfort of the South, discovering hidden gems in Georgia. The unique restaurants in Atlanta are a testament to the city’s innovative spirit, offering everything from interactive dining experiences to meals that are works of art.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city’s eateries provide a chance to explore flavors and settings that are out of the ordinary. With chefs who are as creative as they are skilled, each restaurant brings its own story to the table. Atlanta invites you to taste its distinctive blend of tradition and innovation, and to make dining out an experience you’ll remember long after the last bite.