Downtown Atlanta is known for its fun and exciting attractions like Centennial Park, The Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola Museum, which honors the city as the birthplace of this popular fizzy beverage. It’s also earned a reputation for being one of the best places to go to have some of the best food and cocktails you’ve had in your life. In fact, Downtown Atlanta restaurants will blow you away with the quality of their food! Plus, the downtown bar scene features a dynamic nightlife. You’re sure to find one of them to fit your taste and budget.
Now, let’s explore the best restaurants in Downtown Atlanta, along with some of the hottest Downtown Atlanta bars, y’all!
Best Places to Eat in Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is a virtual playground of amazing restaurants, from the authentic Chinese eateries on Buford Highway to Michelin-starred destinations. For Southern-style cooking and other fine dining, head to the best restaurants in downtown Atlanta, which includes Buckhead, Midtown, and Downtown.
1. Breakfast at Barney’s
125 Ted Turner Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo Credit: Breakfast at Barney’s
This premier restaurant has been starting diners’ mornings out right for more than four decades. Imaginative and delicious, their menu items like 24 Karat Gold Pancakes with berries, edible flowers, and 24k edible gold topped with bourbon apple cider syrup made in-house have put Breakfast at Barney’s on the map.
Alternatively, if brunch is more your style, try their Fried Catfish Spaghetti, a regional favorite. It’s tossed in rich and spicy puttanesca sauce and topped with crispy fried catfish, arugula, and parmesan cheese.
2. Tyde Tate Kitchen
262 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Photo Source: Yelp
Family-owned Tyde Tate Kitchen serves Thai comfort food with the goal of bringing everyone together. Their menu features street food and snacks reminiscent of those found in Thailand.
This South Downtown eatery offers quick bites like Chicken Satay and Sweet Chili Crispy Tofu, along with Thai staples such as Pad Thai and Basil Chicken. The cozy interior features wicker chairs and ceiling lights, creating a welcoming atmosphere for you and your companions.
You can enjoy ATL United drink specials like 3 for $10 Jello Shots. Stop by for some delicious drinks and food in Downtown Atlanta! Later, take advantage of the short 8-minute walk using the Nelson Street pedestrian bridge to get to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium to watch an Atlanta Falcons game.
3. Polaris
265 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: iStock
The blue-domed Polaris Restaurant and Lounge is a long-standing Atlanta icon known for its fine dining, rooftop bee colony, and 360-degree panoramic experience. The bees produce hundreds of pounds of honey annually, which chefs use in their dishes or jar to sell in the Lobby Market.
Farm-to-table ingredients are found in everything from pan-roasted grouper to their playful dessert the Polaris Blue Dome, a nod to the restaurant’s flying saucer appearance. The delectable confection is made from yummy chocolate mousse, pralines, Polaris rooftop honey, caramel, and chocolate sorbet.
4. Morton’s Steakhouse
303 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Photo Credit: Jay Finesilver
When only a thick and juicy steak will do, upscale chain Morton’s Steakhouse doesn’t disappoint. Signature dishes like Wagyu Filet, Dry-Aged New York Strip, and Tomahawk Ribeyes, along with hulking crustaceans like cold water lobster, grace the menu for fine dining in Atlanta. Wash it all down with your choice of Morton’s spirits and beer while you kick back and relax on the patio.
Located near Atlanta attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the Fox Theater, and the Georgia World Congress Center, Morton’s is the perfect spot for anything from family night to power business meetings.
5. Kwan’s Deli and Korean Kitchen
267 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo Credit: Katie Cahill
Operating in the heart of Atlanta since 2003, Kwan’s Deli and Korean Kitchen has become a beloved spot in the Centennial Park District for dinner in Atlanta. The menu features a delightful mix of traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi, alongside classic American deli fare. Known for its quick service and relaxed atmosphere, Kwan’s is a convenient choice for a fast lunch and casual meal.
Additionally, the food at Kwan’s is praised on TripAdvisor for being fresh, authentic, and flavorful, with generous portions. Customers also appreciate the friendly staff and the clean, bustling environment.
6. Busy Bee Cafe
810 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Photo Credit: Busy Bee Cafe
The Busy Bee Cafe, an iconic soul food kitchen in Southwest Atlanta, has been serving classic, delicious dishes since 1947. Their true taste of southern scrumptiousness has earned them a 2022 James Beard Award. Diners who have “goated” Busy Bee include Kamala Harris, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and Jay-Z. It is one of the most noteworthy places to eat in Atlanta, GA!
Enjoy chicken & waffles, meatloaf, oxtails, and smothered pork chops served over rice. Pair these perfectly seasoned goodies with sides like candied yams, mac & cheese, collard greens, and peach cobbler. Don’t forget the Arnold Palmer, a refreshing drink made with lemonade and sweet tea.
7. Nobu Atlanta
3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Photo Credit: Nobu Atlanta
Nobu, the O.G. of the sushi revolution in the United States, now serves top cuisine in the luxury Nobu Hotel in the Buckhead area. The restaurant design incorporates various wood tones and elements that celebrate nature, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Since its debut in 2022, the authentic and unforgettable dining experience it offers draws Atlanta diners to it in droves. Guests can enjoy bites and iconic menu items like Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi, along with other offerings infused with Atlanta’s regional flavors.
8. Atalian Kitchen & Bar
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo Credit: Sharon Stratton
This elevated Italian restaurant, located in downtown Atlanta’s hotel district, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu inspired by traditional Italian cuisine. Guests can savor dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and grilled meats.
This Atlanta dining restaurant’s beautifully lit interior features wooden tables, fine art, and interesting curiosities like an upcycled Italian roadster. Highlights include the Roasted Eggplant Bruschetta, Linguini and Shrimp Scampi, and Lamb Shank Osso Bucco Style. Atalian also boasts an extensive drink menu, featuring a curated selection of wines and craft cocktails.
9. Ray’s
240 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: Mark Stokes
Ray’s in the City is known for exceptional culinary experiences and attentive service. Its inviting and elegant setting features white linens and an upscale ambiance. The restaurant is perfect for enjoying its diverse menu of charbroiled steaks and fresh seafood that’s flown in daily.
Guests can also enjoy live jazz and piano performances. Just popping in for a power lunch or afternoon break between Atlanta sightseeing? Try Ray’s rotating $20 Blue Plate Special, available for lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:30 pm. Choices include dishes like a Shrimp Roll with house-made chips, Rio Bravo Steak Fajitas, and Fish & Chips.
10. The Original Hot Dog Factory
75 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: Original Hot Dog Factory
This popular casual spot is for hotdog lovers, families, and anyone looking for a quick fill-up. They offer creatively topped “Factory Dogs” like the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Dog, Chicago Dog, Carolina Southern Slaw Dog, and the unique Taco Dog. You can also enjoy these toppings on a hamburger if you prefer.
Their specialty sides are just as tempting, featuring loaded fries, onion rings, and even Fried Oreos and Funnel Cakes. For vegetarian options, the San Francisco Veggie Dog, topped with onions, tomatoes, lettuce, and brown mustard, is a delicious choice. Even if you’re not a fan of hot dogs, they have corn dogs, chicken sandwiches, wings, and more to satisfy everyone. As far as Downtown Atlanta food options go, this is one of the best!
Top Downtown Atlanta Bars
After indulging in Atlanta’s delicious dining options, it’s time to explore the city’s vibrant bar scene. Whether looking for a lively dance floor or a cozy spot to unwind, downtown Atlanta checks all the boxes for a night out you won’t soon forget.
11. Meehan’s Public House
200 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: Meehan’s Public House Downtown
This tasty Irish pub is known for its food and drinks. Although the menu isn’t extensive, you can definitely fill up on favorites such as their Truffled Mac & Cheese and Shepherd’s Pie. The most important part of their menu, however, is their diverse selection of alcoholic beverages. They keep at least 10 draught beers on tap, along with six specialty drafts, and more than 20 bottled or canned beers.
If you’re looking for Downtown Atlanta bars where you can also grab some hearty food, Meehan’s Public House is a good option. Although Google lists their closing time as Midnight from Sunday to Thursday and 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, their website indicates that they reserve the right to close earlier if their manager deems it important.
12. By George Restaurant and Bar
127 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: By George restaurant and bar
If you’d like elegance along with your food and drink, By George is the perfect place to find it! Located at the Candler Hotel, which was originally built in 1906 and then lovingly restored in 2019. An all-service restaurant and bar, By George offers the best of sophisticated cuisine, yet it has also been inspired by Contemporary American cooking.
Pairing your dinner with one of their cocktails, wine, or beer options works nicely, or you can simply grab a table at the bar to toss back one of their house cocktails. Preferred alcoholic beverages include their Crushed Velvet and Southern Heart cocktails, along with Angry Orchard hard cider or an IPA made in Georgia. The bar is open until 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
13. Red Phone Booth
17 Andrew Young International Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Source: Yelp
This retro-themed, prohibition experience invites you to gain entry by dialing a secret phone number on an antique red phone. Before you do this, though, be sure you’re wearing appropriate attire. They’re looking to create and maintain a sophisticated environment, so no ball caps, ripped clothing, or athletic gear, please.
Once you’ve secured entry, you can enjoy one of their 180 whiskeys, 100 cigars, or noteworthy cocktails. Some of their best cocktail choices include Zombie, Aviation, and Bramble. Be aware that it’s necessary to procure a membership in order to drink at this location. They close at 1 a.m. Monday-Saturday and at Midnight on Sunday.
14. Sidebar
79 Poplar St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: Sidebar
Are you looking to watch sports but don’t want to go to a typical sports bar? Sidebar features an upscale environment with all the TVs you could possibly want! You can even choose between three different themed levels and three different bars. Plus, they have a full kitchen, a DJ or live music, special events, and hookah.
Dine on their savory Sidebar Burger (vegan), alfredo pasta, or ribeye steak. You can also try their after-hours menu, which features chicken fingers or an old-fashioned fish sandwich. Delicious cocktail choices such as Blueberry Breeze, The Dungeon, and Pineapple Passion Margarita will cap off the perfect night.
15. Atlantucky Brewing
170 Northside Dr SW Suite 96, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo Credit: chad livsey
So far, we’ve listed bars that also serve as restaurants, but what if you just want to toss back a few brews? Atlantucky Brewing has got you covered! As one of the area’s few black-owned breweries, this Castleberry Hill neighborhood’s bar has comfy seats, a very limited selection of sides, and at least six locally made beers. Their menu currently features:
- Not Just
- Mile High
- J. Kolsch
- OG Wheat
- Atlky Mud
- Ale Ale Cool J
The brews listed above range from $5-$7 each, based on their ABV. Stop by and try one Wednesday-Sunday until 10 p.m.
16. The Beverly
790 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Photo Credit: Phil Lunney
The Beverly presents a more typical sports bar environment. Here you can grab a seat at the bar, sit at a four-top, or opt for one of their long tables. There are TVs no matter where you look, so catching the game is easy! Be aware, however, that they impose a two-hour seating limit during their busy hours.
Start off your night with one of their classic appetizers such as shrimp tacos or chicken tenders & fries. Then grab a burger, sandwich, or entrée and pair it with a cocktail, draft beer, wine, or champagne. You can also get draft beer by the pitcher to share with the entire table. Options include a Blue Moon pitcher, Beverly House pitcher, and XX Amber pitcher. The Beverly is open until 11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until Midnight on Friday and Saturday.
17. RT60 Rooftop Bar
89 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
image Credit: Meka D
Located on top of Reverb by Hard Rock, you can listen to live music here as you look at the Atlanta skyline. No reservations are accepted, so walk-in to drink bottled and draft beer, cocktails, and wine. You and your friends can also partake of some sharables, including the vegetable board and cheese pretzel board.
Choose from all the typical beer choices such as Budweiser, Corona, and Blue Moon, or share a bottle of wine with the table. Options include Seven Falls Cabernet, La Crema Pinot Noir, or Light Horse Chardonnay. Open until 11 p.m., Thursday-Sunday.
18. Rowdy Tiger Whiskey Bar & Kitchen
866 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
Photo Credit: Rowdy Tiger Whiskey Bar & Kitchen
The Rowdy Tiger is Midtown Atlanta’s prohibition-themed bar and kitchen. Their dinner fare features options such as gnocchi, cast iron salmon, and hot chicken sandwiches. Their drinks menu is where this establishment really shines, though.
Classic and contemporary cocktails, wine, whiskey, bourbon, and assorted spirits are all available. Some favorite selections include the Apple Daiquiri, Super Tuscan wine, Sticky Pete Peanut Butter Whiskey, 1792 bourbon, and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum. However, they have so many other options that it’ll take you a while just to look at their drink menu. Discover a fresh twist on Southern comforts here daily until Midnight.
19. Strangers in Paradise
200 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo Credit: Sean and Tenya Biggs
This location has a Jimmy Buffett vibe that brings to mind classic scenes of Miami during the 1980s. Their website also embodies this vibe, although it shares next to nothing about their offerings. Fortunately, we can tell you that some of their favorites include their frozen cocktails, Duval Street Shuffle, Dancing in the Moonlight, and Shark Bite.
This popular club is the place to go if you’re looking for a boisterous atmosphere, Hawaiian shirt competitions, and limbo championships. The party ends at 10 p.m. on Monday-Thursday, Midnight on Friday and Saturday and at 9 p.m. on Sunday.
20. Stats
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo Credit: Evan Guthrie
Stats Brewpub is a huge, upscale sports bar that boasts a multi-level, 16,000-square-foot environment. TV screens are everywhere, and you can’t miss their building due to its Atlanta mural. Grab yourself some tasty comfort food such as chicken tenders, BBQ brisket burger, and everything Bavarian pretzels.
Combine your food option with your ideal alcoholic beverage, including beer, cocktails, and wine like Shooter McGavin Wit, Red Zone Amber Ale, Albatross, 3-Pointer, and ZD Chardonnay. This is truly Atlanta’s best sports bar! Catch the game and chat with your friends here until 10 p.m. Sunday-Friday and 11pm on Saturday.
21. Our Bar ATL
339 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Photo Credit: Our Bar ATL
Our Bar ATL has kind of a dive-bar vibe, but that’s exactly what makes it so fun. In fact, they’ve steered into the skid by dubbing themselves ‘Atlanta’s only dive lounge.’ They offer typical bar fare such as wraps, classic wings, and house fries to help you soak up some of your alcohol. You can also get hookah in 14 flavors. However, it’s their bar, special events, and free parking that make them truly special.
Options include their Peach Drop pitcher, Lemon Drop pitcher, extensive beer list, Margarita pitchers, hookah, etc. As an added bonus, they also occasionally host dodgeball tournaments for the 21+ crowd. Party the night away until 2:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday and Midnight on Sunday.
Choose a Healthy Lifestyle
You can go out to eat or to the bar occasionally and still have a healthy lifestyle! By choosing chiropractic care, along with medical weight loss specialists, you can have the healthy life you’ve always dreamed of without giving up the fun of being alive in Atlanta. After all, life is all about moderation.
Are you looking for a chiropractor to help take away your back, neck, shoulder, or leg pain? Book your appointment today!
FAQs
What food is Atlanta known for?
Atlanta is best known for its soul food staples and Southern classics like fried chicken and catfish, meatloaf, oxtail, shrimp & grits, chicken wings, biscuits & gravy, and good ol’ Southern barbecue.
They are also famous for “sides of 3” to go with these dishes. Must-have side dishes typically include creamed potatoes, field corn and peas, collard greens, squash casserole, and coleslaw. Other offerings include peas, baked mac & cheese, yams, and potato salad.
These tasty plates are usually accompanied by chow chow relish, cat head biscuit, or a slice of cornbread. Polish off your meal with a Southern dessert like pecan pie or banana pudding (if it doesn’t have meringue and “niller” wafers, it’s an imposter). Fresh fruit cobblers are also popular desserts, especially those made with fresh peaches. After all, Georgia is the Peach State!
What is the most famous street in Atlanta?
Hands down, Peachtree Street is the most iconic thoroughfare in Atlanta. That’s for several reasons, too.
For starters, it’s famous because of Margaret Mitchell’s novel, Gone with the Wind. The book helped introduce the city and its most famous street to popular culture. Further immortalizing the street is Celestine Sibley’s 1963 book, Peachtree Street U.S.A.
Moreover, Peachtree Street is often called “Atlanta’s Main Street” because many of the city’s historic landmarks are peppered throughout its 6.2-mile stretch. Be forewarned that there are a bunch of downtown streets with Peachtree in their name, making it easy even for the locals to get lost.
Speaking of essential Atlanta historical landmarks, while you’re downtown, be sure to visit one of the top Atlanta sites that honor the legacy of Nobel-prize winner and civil rights activist, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Anything from the Center for Nonviolent Social Change and National Historical Park Visitor Center that bears his name are wonderful places to visit. You’ll leave enriched and inspired by Dr. King’s enduring message of equality and peace that shaped American history.
What are the three neighborhoods of downtown Atlanta?
Downtown Atlanta includes three neighborhoods, Buckhead, Midtown, and Downtown.
What is the richest part of downtown Atlanta?
The richest part of downtown Atlanta is generally considered to be the area around Midtown and Buckhead. While Midtown offers a mix of luxury residential buildings, high-end restaurants, and cultural institutions, Buckhead is known for its affluent neighborhoods, upscale shopping districts like Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, and prestigious business centers.
Although Buckhead is slightly north of the central downtown area, it is often associated with the wealth and affluence of Atlanta.
Are there any restaurants to avoid downtown?
Some popular attractions and venues in downtown Atlanta often have onsite restaurants that can be hit or miss. In fact, some of them have received many bad reviews for mediocre food and high prices.
Therefore, to avoid disappointment, it’s probably a good idea to eat at one of the scores of excellent restaurants nearby before heading to your event. You can also check unbiased reviews on places like Yelp and TripAdvisor before deciding whether or not to eat onsite.