Amid the hype, accolades, long lines and social media frenzy, the Central Texas-style barbecue delivers.

Longevity-focused restaurant Azara opened in November, taking over a huge space on Atlanta's Eastside Beltline Trail that was once home to Bazati.

From its perch atop Midtown Atlanta’s Spring Quarter development, Celestia already has a literal leg up in the restaurant scene.

At Mistora, every choice feels calculated to minimize financial loss rather than provide a great hospitality experience.

It has the same chef and is named after Spring, but the two are very different.

It’s easy to understand why Ghee has been quickly embraced. The restaurant is attractive and warm with a buzzing atmosphere and irresistible aromas.

With more than 50 years of history, Nakato has built itself into the rare restaurant that does multiple service styles well, from high-quality hibachi to solid sushi.

AJC dining critics reviewed and rated more than 30 restaurants in 2025 while visiting many more. These 10 stood out as the best new restaurants of the year.

NFA Burger at Avalon in Alpharetta opened in May. Much like the burger itself, the restaurant is a study in simplicity and exactitude.

Peckish, a bootstrapped little restaurant in Pullman Yards where seemingly every table wobbles, is home to an incandescent talent in chef Tamara Hewitt.