Home > Table Talk > Archives > 2006 > October > 04 > Entry
Best dining in Atlanta
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The weather is cool, which means it’s time to talk about fall dining. Our Fall Dining Guide includes our list of the 50 best restaurants in the metro Atlanta area. We’ve got more treats in the bag, including audio slideshows of some special dining experiences and helpful tools to get you to the restaurant with ease.
Tell us your favorite restaurants and why you think they belong on the list.
Permalink | Comments (57) | Post your comment | Categories: Dining, Southern Food




DEL.ICIO.US

Comments
By Rodney
October 4, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this
The Food Studio - at its pricepoint (not counting such superb restaurants as Bacchanalia/Quinones and Joel) I always have a great meal, in a fab location, with very capable service.
By L.D.
October 4, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this
Dllard’s Barbeque, corner of Buford Highway and Suwanee Dam Road in Suwanee. Out of the way BBQ joint that not many have heard of, but everyone should know if you’re a serious BBQ eater.
By Pete Lindstrom
October 4, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this
Pestos in Historic Roswell is just superb and very reasonable. Also for the best BBQ in Atlanta you have to go to SLOPES in Roswell on the corner of Crabapple Road and HGWY 92
mmmm it’s sooooooo gooooooood
Enjoy.
Peter Lindstrom Crabapple, GA 30004
By Steve
October 4, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this
Cheetah’s Lunch Buffet. The atmosphere is nice too.
By Grady
October 4, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this
Rathbuns http://www.rathbunsrestaurant.com/
We’ve been there twice, most recently just last Saturday. Food is among the best in Atlanta. Atmosphere is very nice but can be a bit loud in the main room, request to be seated in the wine room if you prefer things to be quiet. The wait staff is very knowledgeable and fun.
By LiasMom
October 4, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this
Best BBQ is Sam & Dave’s. Real barbeque with a true smoke ring and no need for sauce (although the sauce is yummy, too).
Sugo is amazing for tapas and mediterranean - they have a real passion for food and it shows! But, you have to go to the original location in Roswell to get the true passion of “Mr C” and his staff.
Aspen is a great OTP location for steaks, although the big painting of the cow over the fireplace in the East Cobb location kind of freaks me out when I’m eating. :-)
By JustMe
October 4, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this
My mom’s kitchen!!!!
By Jean
October 4, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
Ritter’s on Lower Roswell Rd. just off Johnson Ferry in Marietta. Crab cakes are wonderful!!!!!
By Jason
October 4, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this
The best I’ve had recently are Rathbuns (IMO, the BEST in Atlanta), I agree with Rodney’s comment on The Food Studio. I also really still like One Midtown Kitchen - It’s just a fun place to go and the prices are reasonable. Since BBQ seems to be on everyone’s mind, my pick is Pig & Chik.
I have not visited Ecco yet - any opinions?
By Scott
October 4, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this
Ecco is great, and the atmosphere is very warm and inviting. Dined at BluePointe on Friday night, for the second time, and the peanut crusted grouper was amazing. But, one of my favorites in the city is the Rustic Gourmet - on Zonolite. It’s often overlooked, and is always quiet, intimate with perfect presentations. Give it a try!
By Rodney
October 4, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
LOVE Rathbuns too - TFS just has an ambiance that, combined with what comes out of the kitchen gives me that special tingly, you know?
Or maybe it’s the lemon basil bombe … wow, what a dessert!
(LOL @ Cheetah response - I guess ‘best’ is up for personal definition)
The Globe has really been enjoyable, especially in the cooler months when sitting outside is doable. Last I was there, the watermelon salad (sweet watermelon, crumbled (I think feta but maybe a pungent goat) cheese, micro-basil and sesame oil) was FANTASTIC as a small plate. And the steak frites maintains its place as my favorite dish at The Globe.
By Alton
October 4, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this
I think Muss and Turner’s is incredible. The people are great, they’ve still got the great sandwiches that put them on the map and the new dinner menu is awesome.
By Pam
October 4, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this
Little River Grill in Lawrenceville and Scoops Filling Station in Lawrenceville. Both great restaurants!
By abgroove
October 4, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this
For Chinese, I recommend The Orient Express in Vinings. For BBQ, my favorite is Bennett’s Bad to tha Bone BBQ on Johnson Ferry. Bella’s in Smyrna for Pizza.
By ZAP
October 4, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this
946 South in historic Roswell district on roswell rd is a great place with great food and great atmosphere. Wonderful place to sit outside and watch the world go by.
By markscottmusic.com
October 4, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
I like The Globe in Midtown, Agave in Cabbagetown, the Flat Iron and Blue Frog in East Atlanta and Sabroso Tapas Bar in Little Five Points. Check ‘em out!
By Alexa
October 4, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this
The new Chocolate Pink Cafe on 905 Juniper St in Midtown is AMAZING!! The desserts are not only delicious, but gorgeous and very well presented. You should give it a try!! www.chocolatepinkcafe.com
By Lizzie
October 4, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this
Murphy’s in Va Highland area is awesome! Food is great, atmosphere is quaint and calm, prices are reasonable!
By Chris in VAHI
October 4, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this
For a special dinner, you can’t beat Antico Posta. Having been to Florence, Italy on vacation, eating there really takes me back to the wonderful meals we had there. Krog Bar is great for a glass of wine, or three, but bring your big wallet! Food 101 has become a family favorite with a great wine list and good shrimp ‘n’ grits. Can’t beat fine Southern cooking!
By Lolo
October 4, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
One of my favorite restaurants is Gumbeaux’s in Douglasville. The food is good and inexpensive. If you like Pappadeaux’s you will LOVE Gumbeaux’s
By Laura
October 4, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
I echo the opinions on Rathbun’s & Sugo. Both are wonderful places to dine. I must admit that my one trip to The Globe was lacking. Rodney - it sure sounds like you lucked out with your dishes.
By BUCKEYE MAN
October 4, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this
FLYING BISCUIT CANDLER PARK
D MORGANS CARTERSVILLE
WESMANS WHITE,GA
By Gwinnettian4life
October 4, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this
It’s hard to beat Sotto Sotto for Italian and Kyma and Oceanaire are fantastic for seafood. Greenwood’s on Green is excellent for Southern food. Bachannalia is hands down the best place I’ve eaten at over the past three years.
By wes
October 4, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this
favorite spot is the treehouse in peachtree hills. cant beat their french fries and cold beer on the huge wrap around deck. hands down best place
By Brian
October 4, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this
Greenwoods in Roswell and Bell’s BBQ Street in Kennesaw are both noteworthy.
By Rodney
October 4, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this
Laura - I’ve enjoyed The Globe on several occasions. The service can be sometimes a little spotty, but in general it serves up (at least, in my experiences) decent bistro-esque food. Is it my favorite? No way - my prior posts tell the story of my love for The Food Studio - but I’ve enjoyed The Globe.
I have to agree with Gwinnettian4life (if not on choice of residence) with a Sotto Sotto pick - fantastic! The seasonal risottos are always a hit with me!
It sounds like I really MUST try Chocolate Pink! I’ve seen it, but haven’t been - maybe tonight … hmm …
By Johnnie Wilson
October 4, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
I must agree with Lolo about Gumbeaux’s in Douglasville. It is absolutely the best seafood in the Metro Area. (Trust me I have tried them all) Another suggestion would be Taurus on Peachtree. They serve brunch on Sundays. The kitchen closes at 2:30 … so church goers have to move quickly. The smoked salmon BLT and whole wheat pancakes with fresh fruit, honee syrup, and a piece of banana nut bread will make your taste buds say Thanks!
By ABS
October 4, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this
The Woodbridge Inn in Jasper….restaurant is fabulous and you can get great weekend packages!
By ABS
October 4, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this
Oops, sorry. The Woodbridge Inn in Jasper isn’t Metro Atlanta, but it’s not that far of a drive and the food is absolutely worth it!
By Jeff
October 4, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this
For those OTP on the North side, Sia’s on Hwy 141 in Duluth is consistently great.
By sarah
October 4, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this
Sotto Sotto is incredible. The service is excellent and the food is outstanding. I love their fall menu- especially the capellacci, which is pasta stuffed with sweet potato and butternut squash in a butter sage sauce. AMAZING!!!!
By monteal
October 4, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this
Ive heard of the flying biscut but my favorite place is the blue rooster cafe and bakery…..located in old town lilburn a great sandwhich shop and the cakes are incredable ….go in and have a club sandwich with a side of fresh fruit and a piece of old fashioned strawberry cake.or a plate of southern fried chicken real mashed potatoes and finish it off with a iced brownie that could feed two. it has a real small town feel.
By Tom
October 4, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this
I would echo comments about Rathbun’s Kyma,The Globe and Sotto Sotto, all are excellent. The rest of my favorite list: Wisteria, Babbette’s, Murphy’s, Woodfire Grill, Soleil and Six Feet Under. Each of these resturants are consistent in food quality and value. Soleil is one of the best kept secrets and a great patio dining place in Buckhead. Six Feet Under is just plain good food and a fun place to people watch. Wisteria, Murphy’s and Babbette’s are excellent neighborhood resturants. I really like the Woodfire Grill for their diverse menu and relaxed atmosphere.
By lawrencevillemom
October 5, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this
Our family favorite pizza place is Cosmo’s on the square in Lawrenceville. It is a little hole in the wall but has AWESOME NY style pizza.
By Debbie
October 5, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this
If you happen to be on the south end of Metro Atlanta, there is a great family Italian/Pizzeria in Peachtree City called Partners!
Terrific Restaurant! Best pizza around, wonderful salads, great food in general! Very affordable!
And the atmosphere is as good as the food! The type of place that’s always busy and you can usually count on running into someone else you know.
If you’re ever in PTC, make it a point to have lunch or dinner at Partners.
By Just_Hungry!
October 5, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this
My husband made the mistake of taking me to Rolling Bones….and now he’s created a Rolling Bones junkie!
Since he’s responsible for creating this habit, he also is charged with taking me there at least 2 times a month!
By asudst1992
October 5, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this
Michon’s!
By sushi lover
October 5, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this
Minato’s on Spring Road (right off Cobb Parkway) has the best sushi in town.
This thread has made me hungry…
By RK
October 5, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this
I can’t trust reviewers that are more concerned with the scene than the food. Read the Two Urban Licks review, for example. It is a example of what I find wrong with Atlanta, on the whole.
By Love Simple Food
October 5, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this
Funny when you ask Atlanta about food and BBQ is the first thing that comes up! Best BBQ is at Swallow in the Hollow/Roswell. Rathburns is good but not worth all the hype. I believe most people like saying they have been there…Best Mexican is Mexico City Gourmet/Emory area, Best Italian is La Strada/East Cobb, Best Seafood is no doubt, Atlanta Fish Market, best steak is Garrisons or NY Prime. A foo-foo attitude can ruin many of the so called top restaurants in Atl. Just bring me wonderful food and a cool but not pretentious atmosphere. Also, South City Kitchen is wonderful. Best overall restaurant is Murphy’s. ‘Been going there for years and still love it. Bon Appetit!
By Love Simple Food
October 5, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this
Funny when you ask Atlanta about food and BBQ is the first thing that comes up! Best BBQ is at Swallow in the Hollow/Roswell. Rathburns is good but not worth all the hype. I believe most people like saying they have been there…Best Mexican is Mexico City Gourmet/Emory area, Best Italian is La Strada/East Cobb, Best Seafood is no doubt, Atlanta Fish Market, best steak is Garrisons or NY Prime, best Chinese is China Cooks/Sandy Springs - ah!. A foo-foo attitude can ruin many of the so called top restaurants in Atl. Just bring me wonderful food and a cool but not pretentious atmosphere. Also, South City Kitchen is wonderful. Best overall restaurant is Murphy’s. ‘Been going there for years and still love it. Bon Appetit!
By resse'scup
October 5, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this
Pizza by far has to be Rosa’s down town! The only REAL New York style Pizza. Only open during the week. Cheap,large slices.
Then you have Ann’s Snack shop on Memorial Drive. You talkin bout a “hellified” BURGER! Ann’s burger will make you slap yo mama! It’s called the Ghetto Burger. If you don’t believe me try it! I’ve been here all my life and read the article in Atlanta magazine about her burgers. She has been there for over 20 years! I never knew it was there. I went there, now I am hooked!
By Gastronomical G
October 5, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
ditto to the comments regarding sotto sotto - i had the special thats pictured along with this story - it’s their burnt scallop, baked bean and bagged spinach offering - just joshin, it looks delicious - best chinese in the city is Little Szechuan on buford hwy near shallowford
By Amanda Miller
October 5, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
REPAST www.repastrestaurant.com great service, atmosphere. The food was incredible. I’d definately recommend it!
By RK
October 5, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this
Season du Provence is a very good restaurant, and worth the trip up Acworth. However, the menu is seemingly starting to get a bit more Americanized, which would be unfortunate.
More importantly, Five Guys (burgers) from DC recently started franchising, and is now open in this area — including Lindbergh, which I just called to verify. The best burger I’ve ever had (Vortex coming a close second, though).
By Elaine
October 5, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this
I totally agree with Liasmom about Sugo and Aspen. We’ve repeatedly had spectacular experiences at both these locations.
The only hitches—make reservations at Aspen WAY in advance and if it’s on a weekend, don’t be late! And to the people at Sugo: please stop asking us to “keep our fork”. For your caliber cuisine and your pricepoint, we’d rather not have to put our dirty flatware on the table between courses and use it again. Please, please bring new flatware with the new course! (This is a peeve of mine. The food’s so good there I’ve put up with it. It’s a pretty “low budge” practice for an otherwise uppder-midscale place.)
By trent
October 5, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this
Franks House of prime rib in south fulton is great,palmetto area right off 85 at collinsworth.
By Jo
October 5, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this
For those of us in Cumming (or willing to drive there): Tam’s Backstage. Located beneath the Cumming Playhouse in the renovated Old Cumming Schoolhouse, you get great food in a unique space, and, if you want, a short walk to a show. It’s really an unexpected pleasure. If pizza is your love, try Sal’s. It’s ticky tacky, Elvis on black velvet atmosphere reminds you of all the joints in the neighborhoods up north. You’ll find it hard to ignore the pizza but the dinners are drool-inducing too.
By Bob
October 5, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this
Dreamland BBQ AND Williamson Brothers BBQ are tied.
By kph
October 5, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
Teds Montana grill in the Avenue at West Cobb. Good service very friendly staff and wonderful manager, Bruce. The food is very tasty and Bison is the feature meat which is lower in fat and cholesteral than beef or chicken and most fishes. They will cook your food to order in a healthy manner also. Try it you will enjoy! We eat there every Friday night and I am glad its Thursday so I am just a day away from my red meat fix for the week.
By Shooter
October 9, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this
It’s obvious most of these people are limited to Marta,or there would have been a mention of The Blue Willow, Fresh Air BBQ or Dillards.For Burgers Marta will take you right to the door at Ann’s snack bar,the neighborhood is…..EDGY? the atmosphere is absent, the burgers..twice as good as the best you’ve ever had.While you’re in the hood, across the corner from Ann’s there is a BBQ stand, I’m sorry I don’t remember the name but its yellow, we picked up a couple of Lbs.of BBQ it was great.If you need atmosphere and pretty pictures these are not for you, go to the high museum and have some sissy food,but if you want the worlds best burger and some really good Q put your Flak jacket on and come on down.
By markscottmusic.com
October 10, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
The Graveyard Tavern in East Atlanta Village is awesome. When it first opened it was horrible, but they’ve got a new chef and manager and a whole new menu of great comfort type food like burgers, sandwhiches, sweet potato fries and more. Great cozy atmosphere for a nice fall night. And if it’s a little warmer then usual, they’ll open the big front windows so you can watch the crowds in the village go by. A great little neighborhood restaurant.
By broodie
October 11, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this
Just had brunch at Food 101’s new location in Morningside this past weekend. It was desolate, which meant attentive service and flexibility in the kitchen. I had an egg-white omelet with some very tasty grits. Check out the whole wheat pancakes. They were a knock-out!
By fullofsecrets
October 11, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
For semi-casual dining, Five Seasons Brewing is good.
Woodfire Grill has dependable quality: the great service and their commitment to fresh, organic food keeps me coming back.
Restaurant Eugene is the best meal I’ve had in 2006.
The most overrated restaurant I’ve visited in the last year has to be Swallow in the Hollow. My father is a barbecue connoisseur — indeed, he just placed second in his first-ever ‘cue competition — and I really can’t believe that this place is so popular. I’m still searching for the best metro Atlanta barbecue, but I can say that I’d choose Williamson Bros. over SitW any day of the week. A cute name is no substitute for good food.
By Tom
October 11, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this
For great Chinese food try New Paradise on Buford Highway. Doesn’t look like much on the outside but the food is always wonderful. The whole lobster fixed either deep fried or Hong Kong style with ginger and scallions is amazing and a bargain. The staff are friendly and fun as well.
By Lizzy
October 12, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this
Tom, what part of Buford Hwy is New Paradise located - inside 285 or outside? Would love to check out the lobster!!
By D D Hawk
October 18, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this
The Silver Grill on Monroe in ATL is closing after 61 years… I love the food and people there… real comfort food…Now, the lost there lease