Atlanta Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Atlanta. Your complete guide to dining in Atlanta.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Atlanta! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Atlanta has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Atlanta's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Atlanta like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Atlanta offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Atlanta.
Hungry AF Downtown
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 3549 reviews.
📍 27 Piedmont Ave NE d1, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
TWO urban licks
Highly rated American in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 13867 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 820 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Marcel
Highly rated Steakhouse in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 2052 reviews.
📍 1170 Howell Ml Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Canoe
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 4969 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 4199 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.4 stars from 2388 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1133 Huff Rd NW #D, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Virgil's Gullah Kitchen & Bar West Midtown
Highly rated American in Atlanta with 4.4 stars from 2583 reviews.
📍 822 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
El Viñedo Local
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.9 stars from 6421 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 730 Peachtree St NE Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Ray's In the City
Highly rated Steakhouse in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 6276 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 240 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Whiskey Bird
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 2598 reviews.
📍 1409 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Flavor Rich Restaurant Atlanta
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 552 reviews.
📍 549 Peachtree St NE Apt 6103, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Park 82
Highly rated American in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 815 reviews.
📍 4403 Northside Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30327, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Lazy Betty
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 1047 reviews.
📍 999 Peachtree St NE Suite #140, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Atlanta.
Krog Street Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 9883 reviews.
📍 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Municipal Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.5 stars from 2169 reviews.
📍 209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Atlanta State Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.4 stars from 5005 reviews.
📍 16 Forest Pkwy, Forest Park, GA 30297, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Your DeKalb Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 21532 reviews.
📍 3000 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Buford Highway Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 10973 reviews.
📍 5600 Buford Hwy NE, Doraville, GA 30340, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Ponce City Market
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 15907 reviews.
📍 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
O4W Market
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.9 stars from 141 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 536 Decatur St. SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chattahoochee Food Works
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 2222 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1235 Chattahoochee Ave NW Suite 130, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Atlanta.
Southern Culinary Tours
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 106 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Unexpected Atlanta
Highly rated International in Atlanta with 5 stars from 1035 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Atlanta.
Black Coffee Atlanta
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.9 stars from 1161 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1800 Jonesboro Rd SE Suite C, Lakewood, GA 30315, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Café Intermezzo - Midtown
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.5 stars from 5820 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1065 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
El Viñedo Local
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.9 stars from 6421 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 730 Peachtree St NE Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Mend Coffee & Goods
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 203 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3655 Roswell Rd NE #106, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Foxtail Coffee - Midtown
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 568 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1230 W Peachtree St NW unit 120, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Drip
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 523 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 928 Garrett St B, Atlanta, GA 30316, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Omni Coffee & Eggs
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 705 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 261 Peters St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Peoples Town Coffee Bar
Highly rated Cafe in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 223 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 55 Milton Ave SE Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Atlanta.
Signature Dish
A must-try Atlanta specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Atlanta dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Atlanta with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Atlanta specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Atlanta creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Atlanta classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Atlanta specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Atlanta dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Atlanta with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Atlanta specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Atlanta.
Wicked Wolf Atlanta
Highly rated Restaurant in Atlanta with 4.6 stars from 1360 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1080 Peachtree St NE #7, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Blind Pig Parlour Bar
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.7 stars from 1561 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 128 E Andrews Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Spaceman
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4 stars from 758 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3301 Lenox Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
SkyLounge
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.3 stars from 899 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 The Glenn, 110 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Our Bar ATL
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.8 stars from 645 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 339 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Park Bar
Highly rated Bar in Atlanta with 4.3 stars from 2638 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 150 Walton St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Atlanta's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Atlanta vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Atlanta is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Atlanta offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Atlanta specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!