Restaurant Guide: Where to Eat in Atlanta this Summer
Whether it’s ladies night, brunch time, date night or a solo evening, here’s where to dine this summer.
There’s something about the shift to warmer weather that always has me itching to try new restaurants. Maybe it’s the allure of a sunset view from a gorgeous, city rooftop, or the thirst for a deliciously crafted cocktail, either way summertime is the perfect time to start crossing off some of those ‘to visit’ restaurants on your list.
Below I share what’s on my list of both new places to try and old favorites to revisit. From patio brunches, to whimsical cocktails, to dining with books, or enjoying premium cut meats slathered in a chef’s special sauce that takes days to make, here are some of the best places to eat this Summer.
Photo: Foundation Social Eatery
Foundation Social Eatery
A beautifully crafted menu featuring savory, intricate dishes such as confit lamb neck, lightly smoked salmon belly, and salted caramel panna cotta served in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere ideal for casual dining.
55 Roswell St Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30009. (678) 691-0028. foundationatl.com.
Photo: Hartley Kitchen and Cocktails
Hartley Kitchen and Cocktails
Located inside Midtown’s Kimpton Shane Hotel, Hartley touts a hearty menu full of Southern favorites for a satisfying respite in the city. A communal environment with popular dishes like braised beef short rib hash and brioche french toast on the menu, makes it ideal for a summer brunch reservation.
1340 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. (404) 446-3717. hartleykitchenatl.com.
Photo: Marcel
Marcel
A beautiful American steakhouse offering a salivating menu of meats, seafood, and wines presented with the utmost care and prestige, from the reservation to dessert. A special experience ideal for dates, momentous occasions, or a simple treat.
1170 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318. (404) 665-4555. marcelatl.com.
Photo: STK Atlanta
STK
The Atlanta outpost of the NY Steakhouse is a reliable favorite, where the tuna tartar, lil brgs, and wagyu flat iron are delightful every time. While the dining room is fitting for large groups or special occasions, try the bar towards the tail end of the night for a more intimate, reserved evening.
1075 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. (404) 793-0144. stksteakhouse.com.
Photo: La Grotta
La Grotta
For those evenings you’re craving classic, authentic Italian La Grotta in Buckhead has been serving mouthwatering dishes for over 30 years. Dine assured you’re in trusted hands. Their cozy atmosphere and charming courtyard garden will have you feeling warm and welcomed. Wonderful for dates, family meals, or dinner with the ladies.
2637 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305. (404) 231-1368. lagrottaatlanta.com.
Photo: Lucian
Lucian
Where literature and gastronomy collide. Is it a restaurant, a wine bar, or a bookstore? Try all of the above. Come to browse for a book on art or design, and stay for an intriguing menu that touts carefully curated dishes drizzled in mouthwatering sauces and accompanied by a truly thoughtful wine menu.
3005 Peachtree Rd Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30305. (404) 549-2655. lucianbooksandwine.com.
Photo: Dirty Rascal
Dirty Rascal
Less classic Italian, more Italian-American with sauce and cheese heavy dishes catered toward a hearty appetite, think of of it as your guilty pleasure night. Located inside the Thompson Buckhead hotel, Dirty Rascal is ideal for a playful evening of dinner and drinks with the ladies before heading out to enjoy the night.
415 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305. (470) 600-3500. instagram.com/dirtyrascalatl
Photo: Bar Margot
Bar Margot
When in doubt, a reservation at Bar Margot is an undeniable crowdpleaser. Cocktails with the ladies? After work meetings? Business meetings? First date? You’ll find any occasion worthy of a table here. This favorite spot inside the Four Seasons, hosts an impeccable menu with something for everyone, accompanied by a plush, cozy, communal atmosphere that can sway lively or relaxed depending on the evening.
75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. (404) 881-5913. www.fourseasons.com.
Photo: Eclipse di Luna
Eclipse di Luna
A longtime city favorite, this Spanish restaurant and tapas bar is known for their entertainment calendar that always boasts such a lively atmosphere. Live music, painting classes, salsa lessons, you never know what a night (or brunch!) here will bring.
764 Miami Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30324. (404) 846-0449. eclipsediluna.com.
Photo: Holeman & Finch
Holeman & Finch
Their burgers are arguably the best in the city, but don’t let that prevent you from exploring the rest of their rich, savory menu this summer. Their newly opened space in Colony Square touts small plates such as heirloom radicchio, chicken liver pate, butter roasted oysters, and winter radishes to name a few. Ideal for the explorative eater with a curious palette.
1201 Peachtree St NE Building 400, Suite #160, Atlanta, GA 30309. (404) 948-1175. holeman-finch.com.
Photo: Mr. Everything Cafe
Mr. Everything Cafe
A true Atlanta neighborhood favorite. For years Mr. Everything has been serving up a salivating, flavorful menu of rice bowls, subs, burgers and franks, that always leaves ATL satisfied. With multiple locations, and delivery options, it’s perfect for a casual lunch when you’ve craving something filling and fulfilling.
899 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314. (404) 521-9903. mreverythingcafega.com
Photo: Taqueria Tsunami
Taqueria Tsunami
Another crowd favorite, Taqueria Tsunami is a casual spot with consistently good eats. Serving Asian-Latin fusion, you’ll find uniquely seasoned dishes that intertwine the best of both worlds. Absolute must orders? Their classic margarita, poke tacos for the table, and Asian nachos with short rib. Actually, anything on their menu with their short rib (thank us later).
915 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316. (678) 310-1084. taqueriatsunami.com.
Photo: Yalda
Yalda
A newer addition to the ever-expanding Sandy Springs area, Persian and Middle Eastern restaurant Yalda brings a much needed flavor to the scene. Inside you’ll find a beautifully welcoming space to enjoy some of the freshest, aromatic dishes {and all the tahdig you could ever want!}.
6500 Aria Blvd Suite 500, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. (470) 355-0195. yaldaatl.com.
