22 Unique Restaurants in Georgia: The Peach State’s Most Extraordinary Dining Spots Revealed

314

Embark on a journey through Georgia’s extraordinary dining scene with our guide to hidden gems in Georgia. From secret garden dining to innovative Southern cuisine, these spots promise unforgettable meals and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Welcome to Georgia, where warm hospitality meets out-of-this-world flavors. Picture dining inside an old train car at The Whistle Stop Café, indulging in soulful barbecue at Southern Soul Barbeque on St. Simons Island, or stepping into a storybook setting at The Garden Room in Atlanta. This Southeast US gem offers far more than just food—it’s about creating memories with every bite.

Whether you’re craving historic charm, quirky atmospheres, or a fresh twist on Southern classics, this guide is packed with hidden gems to wow locals and visitors alike. Ready to explore? Let’s dig in!

👉 Pro Tip: The Savannah Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour is a foodie dream! You’ll hit up local spots, try some amazing eats, and get a taste of Savannah’s history along the way. Show up hungry and ready to walk—you’ll be snacking your way through the city. Bring a little cash, too, in case you want to grab extra treats to take home. It’s the perfect way to spend the day in Savannah!

Unique Restaurants in Georgia: 22 Incredible Georgia Eateries

Discover the magic of Georgia’s unique restaurants, where dining becomes an adventure. Each spot tells a story, serving up dishes that are as memorable as they are delicious. Let’s explore these culinary treasures and see what makes them stand out in the Peach State.

1. Orient Express

• 📍 Location: Vinings (Atlanta area)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Chinese / Japanese / Sushi / Hibachi
• 🔥 Standout Features: Dining inside vintage Orient Express train cars, hibachi grill tables.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Quirky date nights, train enthusiasts, and enjoying hibachi with a side of history.

All aboard for a culinary journey at the Orient Express in Vinings! Dine inside actual vintage Orient Express train cars, beautifully restored. The ambiance is pure old-world travel charm. Opt for a cozy booth for Chinese or sushi, or head to another car for a lively hibachi grill experience.

For hibachi, the steak and shrimp combination is a crowd-pleaser. From the Chinese menu, the General Tso’s chicken is a popular choice, and their fresh sushi rolls, like a classic California or spicy tuna roll, are also highly rated. It’s a wonderfully unique meal!

2. Poor Hendrix

If you crave a local hangout that balances style with comfort, Poor Hendrix in East Lake might just become your new go-to. The split-concept space has a bar on one side and a laidback restaurant on the other, which gives you options depending on your mood. Their Korean fried chicken wings are legendary – messy, sticky, and perfectly crispy. Regulars also rave about the rotating beer and wine selection, plus the steamed bun sliders that always hit the spot. The vibe is artsy and unfussy, with string lights and patio seating that gets lively as the sun sets. Bonus: Oakhurst’s indie shops and breweries are just a short stroll away. I left Poor Hendrix with that rare “I can’t wait to come back” feeling – both for the food and the warm, neighborhood energy.

3. Southern Soul Barbeque

• 📍 Location: St. Simons Island
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern Barbecue
• 🔥 Standout Features: Converted 1940s gas station, legendary smoked meats.
• 🎯 Perfect For: BBQ purists and laid-back island meals.

Get ready for soulful ‘que at Southern Soul Barbeque on St. Simons Island! This legendary spot, in a cool converted 1940s gas station, serves some of the best smoked meats in the South. The air is thick with the aroma of slow-cooked pork and hickory smoke.

Trying their incredible pulled pork sandwich is a must. A rack of their fall-off-the-bone ribs, or their flavorful smoked chicken wings, are also essential. Their Brunswick stew is a classic side. It’s a no-frills, finger-lickin’ good experience.

4. Bacchanalia

Dining at Bacchanalia is like being let in on Atlanta’s best culinary secret. Expect a chic, candlelit setting with clean lines and an open kitchen – ideal for a romantic date or an epic foodie night out. Their multi-course tasting menu is the main event: don’t miss the impeccably fresh crab fritter or the dreamy caramelized foie gras. Each dish is almost too pretty to eat, but the flavors are even better than the presentation. Service is top-notch, and you can watch chefs plating up creative courses right in front of you. Located in West Midtown, it sits near fun art galleries if you want to make an evening of it. I’m still thinking about my perfectly paired wine flight – this is truly one for your Atlanta dining bucket list.

5. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville (Atlanta area)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $80+ per person (Dinner & Show)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Medieval Feast / Dinner Theater
• 🔥 Standout Features: Live-action medieval tournament with jousting knights and horsemanship, utensil-free dining in a castle setting, family-friendly.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Family outings with medieval themes and interactive dinner shows.

Hark, lords and ladies! Prepare for a feast and battle at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament! Cheer on your knight as they joust and sword fight, all while you devour a utensil-free, four-course medieval-style meal. The castle setting creates an electrifying atmosphere.

The fixed meal typically includes roasted chicken, sweet corn on the cob, herbed potatoes, and a castle pastry. It’s a full-blown spectacle where you eat with your hands and shout for your champion!

6. Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

Twisted Soul Cookhouse rewrites Southern comfort food with global twists and serious soul. Chef Deborah VanTrece is a legend and her creativity shows in every corner of the menu. The chicken and waffles comes with housemade vanilla butter and bourbon maple syrup – an upgrade on the classic. For something photogenic, try the deviled eggs flight, each topped with ingredients like smoked salmon or candied bacon. The dining room’s reclaimed wood, vibrant artwork, and cozy booths make it feel like both a trendy hotspot and a second home. The bar is well-stocked with Southern-inspired craft cocktails, and the Atlanta BeltLine’s nearby trails are perfect for a post-brunch stroll. I always leave Twisted Soul feeling well-fed in more ways than one.

7. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room

• 📍 Location: Savannah
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $40 per person (Fixed price, family-style)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / Home-Style / Family-Style
• 🔥 Standout Features: Family-style Southern boarding house, communal tables with shared platters.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Southern hospitality and home cooking, meeting fellow travelers, and iconic Savannah meals.

Get ready for true Southern hospitality at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room in Savannah. This legendary boarding house-style experience has you at large communal tables, passing heaping platters of incredible home-style Southern cooking. The menu changes daily but the quality is constant.

The star is always the fried chicken, crispy and juicy. Expect to also enjoy biscuits, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and numerous other classic Southern sides. The line forms early, but it’s a Savannah rite of passage.

8. Kimball House

Half vintage train depot, half modern oyster-and-cocktail bar, Kimball House is dripping with old-school glamor and cozy charm. Located in Decatur, this spot is famous for an ever-changing selection of oysters from both coasts – order them by the dozen and don’t skip their punchy mignonette. Fans swoon over the absinthe service and the creative, expertly-crafted cocktails (the signature Kimball House Old Fashioned is no joke). Stained glass windows, dim lighting, and antique barware set the mood, making it a romantic haven or a cool retreat for a night out. Decatur Square’s indie shops and coffeehouses are just steps away, so it’s easy to make a whole afternoon of it. The first time I sipped a martini at their marble-topped bar, I felt transported to a different era.

9. The Marietta Diner

• 📍 Location: Marietta
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / Greek Influences
• 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic 24/7 diner with a massive menu, chrome and neon decor, towering cakes in a revolving display case.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Late-night eats or early breakfasts, classic diner fare (with a Greek twist!), and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Step into a gleaming beacon of 24/7 deliciousness at The Marietta Diner! This Georgia landmark is a massive, shiny diner that never sleeps, serving a huge menu of classic American comfort food with fantastic Greek specialties. The dessert case is legendary.

You should try their hearty Greek omelet or a classic patty melt on rye. For something sweet, a slice of their towering strawberry cheesecake or the rich chocolate layer cake is a must. And whatever you do, save room for dessert!

10. Miller Union

Miller Union’s farm-to-table ethos is the real deal – think rustic elegance with a Southern backbone. Set in a converted warehouse in Atlanta’s Westside, it features exposed brick, warm lighting, and a vibe that manages to feel special yet not at all stuffy. The stand-out starter is their super-creamy farm egg baked in celery cream, served in a tiny Mason jar. The grilled pork chop, when available, is locally sourced and unforgettable. Cocktails lean on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s just a short walk from Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, making it the perfect start (or finish) to a creative day out. I was genuinely wowed by the service – they hit that sweet spot of friendly but not intrusive.

11. The Consulate

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Midtown)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Global / International / Rotating Menu
• 🔥 Standout Features: Globally rotating menu (focusing on a different country every few months), worldly decor, creative cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous palates seeking international flavors and a stylish night out.

Embark on a culinary world tour at The Consulate! This sophisticated Midtown spot has a unique concept: their menu rotates every few months to feature the cuisine of a different country. One visit might be authentic Peruvian ceviche, the next rich Hungarian goulash.

Recent popular “visa stamp” menus have featured flavorful Moroccan tagine, spicy Thai green curry, or delicate Japanese sashimi. The “Resident” menu always offers favorites like their Consulate Burger. The cocktails are just as creative. It’s an exciting adventure!

12. The Deer and The Dove

This woodsy-chic newcomer in Decatur is just begging to make your weekend brunch epic. The open kitchen puts on a show, and the menu dives into seasonal, ingredient-driven fare that surprises at every turn. Their sourdough pancakes get a lot of love, and I highly recommend anything from the wood-fired oven – especially the roasted chicken, which arrives smoky and juicy. The décor feels like a stylish mountain lodge, with lots of natural light, leafy plants, and a lived-in, creative vibe. Right across the street you’ll find Decatur’s beloved indie bookstores and coffee shops. Leave room for the house-made pastries; I’d drive across town for another bite of their canelés.

13. Home Grown

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Reynoldstown)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / Comfort Food / Breakfast & Lunch
• 🔥 Standout Features: “Slow-cooked, Southern, and local” motto, affordable home-style cooking.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Classic Southern breakfasts, and budget-friendly, feel-good meals.

Get ready for serious Southern comfort at Home Grown in Reynoldstown! This unpretentious neighborhood gem lives by its motto: “Slow-cooked, Southern, and local.” The vibe is super laid-back and friendly, like eating in your grandma’s kitchen.

Trying their famous Comfy Chicken Biscuit, a massive, flaky biscuit topped with fried chicken and sausage gravy, is essential. Their classic meatloaf plate with two sides, or the pimento cheese sandwich, are also fantastic. It’s soulful and satisfying.

• Read Next: 12 Enchanting Places in Southeast USA to Add to Your Bucket List

14. South City Kitchen Midtown

If you want Southern classics with a sophisticated twist, South City Kitchen in Midtown is a can’t-miss. The airy space pulls off being both casual and date-night worthy, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary art. The fried green tomatoes with goat cheese are iconic, and the shrimp & grits has a secret touch of spice that’s pure comfort. The front porch seating is especially dreamy at sunset. Nestled near Piedmont Park and the High Museum, it’s easy to pair your meal with a scenic walk or a culture fix. I love how their service feels genuinely welcoming – like you’re grabbing a meal at a friend’s stylish house.

15. TreeHouse Bar & Grill

• 📍 Location: Buckhead
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Pub Grub
• 🔥 Standout Features: Restaurant with a large tree, quirky treehouse atmosphere, and classic pub fare.
• 🎯 Perfect For: A fun family meal with drinks in a unique setting and a laid-back vibe.

Dine amongst the branches at TreeHouse Bar & Grill! This unique spot is built around a massive tree, with its trunk and branches incorporated into the quirky, multi-level design, giving it a fun, grown-up treehouse feel. The menu features classic American pub grub.

Grabbing a juicy TreeHouse Burger with all the fixings is a good plan. Their crispy chicken wings tossed in your choice of sauce, or the loaded nachos supreme, are also popular choices. It’s a fantastic and memorable spot for a casual meal.

16. The Grey

Set inside a beautifully restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal in Savannah, The Grey is a stunner inside and out. Chef Mashama Bailey’s menu pays homage to coastal Georgia while drawing from global inspiration – the country captain fried chicken is sublime, and the Sunday suppers carry serious comfort vibes. The art deco interior is jaw-dropping, with original tiling, moody lighting, and a curved marble counter that’s perfect for sipping a smoky Old Fashioned. Walk a few blocks and you’re in Savannah’s historic district, with live oaks and Spanish moss all around. The last time I dined here, I was floored by both the flavors and the sense of history in every detail.

17. Canoe

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Vinings, on the Chattahoochee River)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $90+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Southern / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Beautiful riverside setting with gardens, lodge-like ambiance, seasonal cuisine.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic occasions, upscale dining with a view, and Southern hospitality.

Prepare for an enchanting dining experience at Canoe, nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. This place is pure magic, with beautiful gardens, tranquil riverside views, and an elegant yet rustic lodge-like atmosphere. The cuisine is sophisticated New American with Southern influences.

Ordering their perfectly seared Georgia trout with roasted vegetables is a great choice. The slow-roasted rabbit with savory bread pudding, or their famous smoked salmon appetizer, are also exceptional. For a romantic evening, Canoe is an Atlanta icon.

• Read Next: 10 Best Airlines to Fly to Atlanta in 2025

18. 9 Mile Station

If “dinner with a view” is your thing, 9 Mile Station should be your plan for sunset. Perched atop Atlanta’s Ponce City Market, this rooftop beer garden offers sweeping skyline views, especially dazzling at dusk. The menu updates comfort food favorites – the Duck Poutine is a crispy, rich showstopper, and the burger is just next-level. There’s an impressive beer and cocktail menu, and the patio seating comes with retractable glass for year-round sky-gazing. If you have time, explore the curated shops of Ponce City Market below, or walk the BeltLine trail. My pro tip: book your table around golden hour and don’t miss the photo ops on the rooftop swings.

19. Gunshow

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Glenwood Park)
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $120+ per person (Dim sum-style service)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Global / Small Plates
• 🔥 Standout Features: Dining format featuring chefs serving dim sum-style from rolling carts, creative flavors.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous foodies trying innovative dishes in a high-energy, interactive meal.

Get ready for a culinary shootout at Gunshow! This innovative Atlanta restaurant from Chef Kevin Gillespie offers a dining experience unlike any other. Chefs roam with rolling carts, presenting unique, globally inspired small plates dim sum-style – you choose what looks good!

Recent highlights include Korean-style short ribs with kimchi, wood-fired oysters with spicy butter, or inventive pork belly preparations. The energy is high, the flavors are bold, and the interaction with the chefs is fantastic.

• Read Next: Top 12 Hidden Gems in Atlanta You Won’t Believe Exist

20. Lazy Betty

Tucked away in Midtown, Lazy Betty hits that rare mark of being both inventive and inviting. The multi-course tasting menus change constantly, but always pack in bold, contemporary flavors – think sous vide duck, and egg yolk “Fettuccine” you won’t find anywhere else. The decor is sophisticated without being intimidating, with velvet banquettes, modern art, and a cool, ambient soundtrack. The open kitchen lets you watch the action, which adds excitement to the meal. I was genuinely awe-struck by how each dish looked like a modern art piece – and delivered just as much wow-factor in flavor.

21. The Garden Room

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Buckhead, St. Regis Atlanta)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person (Primarily drinks & small plates)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Lounge / Small Bites / Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Floral and garden-themed decor, sophisticated cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Glamorous night outs and romantic drinks and bites.

Step into a breathtaking floral wonderland at The Garden Room, within the St. Regis Atlanta. This place is a feast for the eyes, with stunning, over-the-top garden-themed decor that feels like an enchanted forest. They offer sophisticated cocktails and elegant small bites.

Sipping on a beautifully crafted rose-infused gin cocktail or the signature “Garden Room Spritz” is a good idea. For food, share some delicate tuna tartare, oysters on the half shell, or their mini lobster rolls. It’s an incredibly glamorous and enchanting escape.

• Read Next: 12 Must-Try Places to Eat in Atlanta for Food Lovers

22. R. Thomas Deluxe Grill

• 📍 Location: Atlanta (Brookwood Hills)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic Healthy / American / Juice Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Garden-like setting with live parrots and eclectic decor, 24/7 service, fresh, healthy, and organic options.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Healthy eaters, enjoying fresh juices and wholesome meals.

Get your healthy hedonism on at R. Thomas Deluxe Grill, an Atlanta institution! This 24/7 spot is a vibrant oasis, with a lush, garden-like patio, eclectic decor, and even live parrots! They focus on fresh, healthy, and often organic fare, with plenty of vegetarian options.

Trying one of their amazing fresh-pressed juices or a hearty quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables is a great plan. Their chicken pot pie (made with a healthy twist) or the Thai express bowl are also fantastic. It’s a wonderfully unique and vibrant spot.

• Read Next: 12 INSANE Things to Do in Atlanta at Night

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Georgia

In the FAQ section of our Georgia restaurant guide, you’ll find answers to all your burning questions about where and what to eat in the Peach State.

What is the most famous food in Georgia?

Georgia is famous for its peaches, but when it comes to a dish, nothing beats a classic Southern peach cobbler. This dessert captures the essence of Georgia’s rich agricultural heritage. Made with juicy, ripe peaches and a flaky, buttery crust, it’s a favorite at family gatherings and local diners. Peach cobbler is a testament to Georgia’s love for simple, delicious food that brings people together.

What food is unique to Atlanta?

Atlanta is known for its diverse culinary scene, but the chicken and waffles dish stands out as uniquely Atlantan. This soul food classic combines sweet, fluffy waffles with crispy, savory fried chicken, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a popular brunch item and a must-try for visitors. Atlanta’s innovative chefs often add their twists, making it a culinary adventure.

What city has the best food in Georgia?

Savannah takes the crown for the best food city in Georgia, making it one of the top places to live and visit in Georgia. Its historic charm and coastal location influence a culinary scene rich in seafood and Southern classics. From cheap eats in Georgia to upscale dining, Savannah offers a variety of experiences. The city’s food festivals and farmers’ markets showcase local ingredients and dishes, making it a food lover’s paradise.

What is the state dish of Georgia?

The official state dish of Georgia is grits. A staple of Southern cuisine, grits are versatile and can be served as breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re often enjoyed with cheese, shrimp, or as a creamy side to a hearty meal. Grits embody Georgia’s culinary traditions, emphasizing comfort and simplicity.

Where can I find cheap eats in Georgia?

Cheap eats in GA are plentiful, especially in some of the best places in Georgia like Athens and Macon. These spots offer delicious meals without breaking the bank. Look for local diners, food trucks, and family-run establishments. They often serve generous portions of Southern favorites like barbecue, biscuits, and gravy. Farmers’ markets are also great for fresh, affordable produce.

Which restaurants offer fine dining in Georgia?

Fine dining in Georgia can be found in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood and Savannah’s historic district. These restaurants often feature chef-driven menus, local ingredients, and elegant settings. They’re perfect for special occasions, offering dishes like seared scallops, filet mignon, and artisanal desserts. Reservations are recommended, as these spots are popular for their exquisite culinary experiences.

Can you recommend hidden gem restaurants in Georgia?

Hidden gem restaurants in Georgia are tucked away in small towns and rural areas. Places like the Blue Ridge Mountains and the outskirts of Savannah hide cozy cafes and bistros. These spots offer unique dishes, local charm, and a break from the usual tourist destinations. Discovering these beautiful spots in Georgia is part of the adventure, offering a taste of the state’s diverse culinary landscape.

What makes a restaurant one of the fun restaurants in Georgia?

Fun restaurants in Georgia often feature themed decor, interactive dining experiences, or live entertainment. Places like themed diners in Atlanta or seafood shacks on the coast provide not just a meal but an enjoyable outing. These restaurants are great for families and groups looking for a memorable dining experience beyond just the food.

How do I find the best seafood in Georgia?

To find the best seafood in Georgia, head to the coastal areas like Savannah and the Golden Isles. These regions offer the freshest catches, from shrimp to oysters. Look for waterfront restaurants or local seafood shacks for an authentic experience. Many places serve seafood caught the same day, ensuring a delicious and memorable meal. Farmers’ markets and seafood festivals are also great places to enjoy Georgia’s seafood bounty.

Final Thoughts On Unique Georgia Restaurants

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the flavors and experiences offered by the Peach State with our GA restaurant guide. From the bustling streets of Atlanta to the charming squares of Savannah, Georgia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape.

Whether you’re craving sweet peach cobbler, savoring fresh seafood by the coast, or discovering hidden gems in small towns, there’s always something new to taste and enjoy. Remember, the best way to experience Georgia is through its food, so don’t be afraid to try something new on your next visit.