BY JESSIE DOWD
Spring weather is finally here and that means it's patio season in Atlanta. From rooftop bars to covered verandas and patios galore, local eateries offer plenty of al fresco dining to take advantage of our beautiful weather this time of year. Looking for some outdoor dining in Cobb County? Check out our hit list below!
Credit: Yvonne Zusel
Credit: Yvonne Zusel
Marietta: Common Quarter
Exuding a warm ambiance and welcoming Southern hospitality, Common Quarter in Marietta serves up modern comfort food and unique cocktails . The neighborhood eatery's fully covered patio features heaters (for those chillier nights) and a gorgeous brick fireplace. The rustic, coastal vibes of the patio are inspired by general manager and operating partner Chris Talley's hometown of St. Simons Island. Wood tables and storm shutters add to the relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Kick back on the patio and sip on one of the house cocktails, like the "No Nuts No Glory" made with Cathead Pecan Vodka, Hoodoo Chicory, black walnut and lemon—or opt for one of their many wines by the glass (they also offer a nice variety of beers). Menu items like the "Grown Up" Grilled Cheese, Flat Iron Steak Au Poivre or the Sapelo Island Clam "Chowder" are sure to please. Common Quarter also offers Sunday brunch.
1205 Johnson Ferry Rd., Suite 101 , Marietta, 678-809-4040, www.commonquarter.com
Acworth: Fish Thyme
Specializing in fresh seafood and locally sourced products, Fish Thyme is located in Acworth on South Main Street and boasts a cute patio with greenspace views that are perfect for a casual meal or sipping a crisp glass of wine. To offer the freshest seafood possible, the restaurant goes right to the source, bringing in fresh lobster from Maine, trout from the north Georgia mountains and catfish from Mississippi, among other selections. Fish Thyme even has its own “Farm to Table Garden” right on the property, where the chef harvests a variety of fruits, herbs and vegetables. Whether you opt for a lobster roll, crab cakes or the blackened Texas redfish, there’s something to satisfy every seafood lover.
3979 S. Main Street Acworth, (770) 974-2323, fishthymerestaurant.com.
Smyrna: The Corner Taqueria
Check out the lively atmosphere at The Corner Taqueria , where you can bring Fido to enjoy their patio seating. Located in the Smyrna Market Village, the restaurant features a fun design of rustic wood plank walls and Mexican touches like sombreros, blankets, saddles and skulls for an easy-going, energetic sport bar vibe. An overhead garage door opens to The Corner Taqueria's enclosed patio. The bar pours up more than 40 tequilas, a dozen craft beers and imported Mexican beer. Come here for the plethora of gourmet tacos and fresh salsa made daily (rojo, mango, corn and habanero options).
2860 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna, (770) 805-8204, thecornertaqueria.com.
Kennesaw: Trackside Grill & Patio Bar
Relax away on Trackside Grill & Patio Bar’s enclosed patio, complete with a wood-burning stone fireplace, in historic downtown Kennesaw. The quaint restaurant features a subtle hint of railroad-themed memorabilia, and offers what it likes to call “new South flavor, old South charm.” A menu of comforting classics prepared in their “made from scratch kitchen” includes Southern-influenced starters like the fried green tomatoes with goat cheese and roasted red pepper sauce, crawfish-Andouille hushpuppies, fried pickles and house-made pimento cheese. Be sure to save room for the “Comfort Plates” on the menu, like buttermilk fried chicken, Trackside meatloaf and chicken pot pie.
2840 South Main St., Kennesaw, (770) 499-0874, www.tracksidegrill.com.
Powder Springs: La Parilla
Craving some Mexican fare in Powder Springs? Consider eating at trusty standby La Parilla, where you can get some fresh air on the restaurant’s outdoor patio. The eatery serves up your favorite Tex-Mex dishes such as enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, burritos, nachos and more in festive, family-friendly surroundings. Wash it down with one of their many different margarita options or try one of the tasty concoctions from the “Agua Frescas & Tropical Slush” section of the drink menu.
4090 Powder Springs Rd., Powder Springs, (770) 943-9998, laparrilla.com.
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