Atlanta’s fried chicken scene continues to thrive in 2026, blending deep-rooted Southern soul food traditions with bold hot chicken, Korean-style crunch, and modern comfort food twists.
From no-frills institutions serving perfectly seasoned, juicy birds with collards and mac & cheese to airport spots and trendy newcomers, the city delivers crispy, flavorful fried chicken without pretension.
Whether you’re craving classic buttermilk-fried, spicy Nashville-style, or something with global flair, these spots represent the best of ATL’s fried chicken game right now.
There’s also quite a variety of fried chicken offered in Atlanta, from Buttermilk fried chicken, spicy fried chicken, the divyersit go on and on. But when you want some savory and flavorful fried chicken in Atlanta, Georgia, where do you go?
Who Has The Best Fried Chicken In Atlanta?
That’s a question that all five of your senses has to answer. Let’s show you our results around the city:
Buttermilk Kitchen
4225 Roswell Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30342 678.732.3274
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about Buttermilk Kitchen: “With an ever changing menu based on what’s fresh and available, Buttermilk continues to be my go-to spot and recommendation for brunch in Atlanta. Their homemade Chicken Biscuit with red pepper jam is a keepsake that, if the option is available, is a must try.”
Gus’s Fried Chicken
The Mall, 231 Peachtree St., Atlanta, Ga. 30303
This Memphis-based chain’s Atlanta location keeps earning raves for its spicy, crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Many 2026 roundups rank Gus’s among the city’s top for that signature peppery kick. It’s great for a quick, high-quality fix downtown.
Mother’s Best Fried Chicken
Location: 406 Church Street, Decatur, GA 30030
A standout in recent guides, Mother’s Best brings elevated Southern fried chicken with seasoned buttermilk, flour, and even fryer oil (turmeric gives it that beautiful golden hue).
It’s worth the short drive to Decatur for what many call some of the crispiest, most flavorful chicken in the metro area. Perfect for lunch or casual dinners.
Busy Bee
810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 | (404) 525-9212
This Westside soul food institution (open since the 1940s) remains a James Beard America’s Classic and Michelin Bib Gourmand honoree.
The fried chicken—marinated for hours, hand-breaded, and fried to golden perfection—is legendary, often served with smothered gravy. Pair it with collard greens, candied yams, or the signature iced tea. It’s quintessential Atlanta soul food that locals and visitors swear by year after year.
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about the fried chicken at Busy Bee: “This time the wait wasn’t too long. The fried chicken and iced tea, were on point, as usual. I can never tire of the excellent service, personable staff and exquisite soul food. YESSSSSS!”
Chicken+Beer
Concourse D, Gate D5, Atlanta, GA 30337
Travelers at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (D5) love them some Chicken+Beer. Co-owned by Jackmont Hospitality and rapper, actor and businessman Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Chicken+Beer is helmed by Executive Chef Josh Lee with help from Culinary Director Chef Todd Richards.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Chicken+Beer: “You have to come here. Amazing food! Amazing music! Amazing SERVICE! Came here with a girlfriend of mine and Akisha took care of us. First time guests turned lifelong.”
Chicken Or The Egg
800 Whitlock Ave, Marietta. 678-388-8813 | (678) 388-8813
The Chicken Or The Egg is open for online orders right now. One Facebook reviewer says: “I love this place. The food is always fresh and great. the staff is amazing.”
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint
200 Peachtree St L05, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 230-5853
Harold’s Chicken Shack
5495 Old National Highway, Ste C3, Atlanta, GA 30349
In one of the most lively and revitalized areas in all of Atlanta, Harold’s Chicken Shack on Old Nat stands out for its outstanding eats.
What’s on the menu at Harold’s Chicken Shack? Fried Chicken, lots of it. There’s also catfish, shrimp, perch and gizzards.
JJ Fish & Chicken
1959 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 (404) 763-0008
1192 Pryor Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 343-3149
Here’s what one reviewer says about the fried chicken at JJ’s: “Just good hot fried chicken and fish. The season that’s sprinkled on both the fish and the chicken takes the fare to another level. Does not take them long to complete an order inspite of the long lines.”
Lickety Split Kitchen Southern Kitchen & Bar
1155 Virginia Ave Suite F, Hapeville, GA 30354 | (404) 963-5009
Here’s what one reviewer says about Lickety Split: “My family and I visited this place today. We never heard of this restaurant but my husband was eager to try it. I’m glad we did because the food was delicious, fresh, and authentic. The fried chicken was cooked to perfection. The collard greens and deviled eggs were also tasty. Everything was flavorful. The customer service was also great. I loved the atmosphere as well. I highly recommend this spot.”
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
224 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 876-1800
A quintessential down-home Southern eatery and a must-stop for anyone visiting Georgia. Huge portions of tender fried chicken come with your choice of sides in a friendly, nostalgic setting. It’s affordable, welcoming, and consistently delivers that comforting, crispy classic.
Mary Mac’s is the quintessential downhome Southern eatery and a must-stop for visitors looking for a great Georgia dining experience.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Mary Mac’s. “Delicious and affordable southern food. The service was super friendly as well. Come hungry because the portion sizes are huge. Got the fried chicken and was not disappointed. While the green tomatoes were good, I’d recommend getting a different side. Just some better options on there that I wish I’d chosen!”
3009 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 | (404) 481-5915
Chef Virgil Harper mans the kitchen at Roc South Cuisine, one of the best eateries in Brookhaven.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Roc South Cuisine: “A nice place for a socially distant meeting on the patio. Food was good comfort. Young vibe the day I went. Staff Covid-19 compliant with masks and wiping down tables. Can’t remember if they had cute disposable plates though.”
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
1133 Huff Rd NW D, Atlanta, GA 30318
Here’s what one diner says about Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours. “Twisted Soul Never Disappoints when it comes to down home Soul food with a twist! Collard greens and Fried Chicken was the best!”
South City Kitchen
Atlanta Locations:
- 1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 873-7358
- 3350 Peachtree Rd #175, Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 815-6677
- 1675 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Smyrna, 770-435-0700
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about the fried chicken at South City Kitchen: “I can only imagine how many plates of fried green tomatoes and fried chicken that must get served here daily! Both were delicious and i really liked the addition of the goat cheese with the tomato, yum. Fried chicken was perfectly seasoned and moist with really creamy mashed potatoes. I missed the recommendation for the spicy oil for the greens, I won’t make that mistake next time. Shrimp and grits was also perfect and my cocktail was crisp and refreshing.”
The Colonnade
1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 874-5642
| Curbside Takeout | √ | No-Contact DeliveryX | Dine-In | √ |
Since 1927, this discreet-looking place has served the masses a simple plate typical of two pieces of chicken, some cornbread and green beans. And it’s been a hit ever since.
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Colonnade: “The Colonnade is a main stay when you’re going out to eat. This was my first time dining (out). I ordered to go. The restaurant hostess was so kindhearted and friendly. The food is so delicious. Great food, family atmosphere and real community. The Colonnade is a great comfort food living room.”
The Real Milk & Honey
3719 Main St, College Park, GA 30337 | (404) 458-5500
Want some great seafood and Southern goodness? The Real Milk and Honey is one of the best restaurants in College Park. They have day parties on the weekend, so plan accordingly.
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
1133 Huff Rd NW #D, Atlanta, GA 30318
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours is run by Executive Chef and Owner Deborah VanTrece has become a culinary force in Atlanta. She also runs her own catering company Catering by VanTrece. Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours has become known as an eatery that offers creative versions of Southern classics such as Jack Daniels Pecan Honey Chicken Wings and Sweet Tea Baby Back Ribs. Their Blue Plate Specials are great.
What Is The Best Fried Chicken Among National Chains?
We’ve talked about some of the best restaurants that serve fried chicken locally, now let’s list some of your favorite national chains.
Chick-Fil-A
Chick-Fil-A is Atlanta’s #1 market, especially because it’s headquartered here. Let’s hear it for the home team!
Popeyes
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is the undisputed king of fried chicken in the Deep South. Their chicken sandwich has changed the game.
Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s always has a line in the drivethru, meaning that it’s extremely popular with customers who enjoy fried chicken over salad and paired with Texas toast.
KFC
Few restaurants can match the 11 herbs and spices that KFC has become known for. They also offer crispy chicken that crackles and pops in the mouth!
Wingstop
Wingstop, many of them in the Atlanta area owned by rapper and entrepreneur Rick Ross, is building quite the chicken wing empire. We approve!
Church’s Chicken
If you want big, hearty pieces of fried chicken, Church’s offers some of the largest portions you can buy at a fastf-food spot. As a bonus, their apple pie is a tasty treat.
Final Thoughts
So, we’ve gone through some of the places with the best fried chicken you can buy. You’ve seen wings, thighs, leg quarters and more all fried to perfection.
Fried chicken is just one of many facets to Atlanta’s dining scene. Aside from fried chicken, “hot chicken” is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
Read more: 20+ essential soul food spots in Atlanta
Patrons typically order off a menu board like they would at a burger joint, but the convenience of sitting down to leisurely enjoy their food has made the segment a popular one with the restaurant industry.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz explosion in recent years.
More AtlantaFi.com Restaurant Articles:
- Where To Eat In Atlanta Right Now
- How Many Food Halls Are In Atlanta?
- The Best Cajun-Style Restaurants in Atlanta
The best places to get fried chicken in Atlanta are those most downhome restaurants you’ve come to love throughout the city. No pretentiousness, just great food.
Pro tip for 2026: Look for Busy Bee Cafe’s expansion (a second location is planned for Atlantic Station), which will make their iconic fried chicken even more accessible.
Atlanta’s fried chicken scene in 2026 mixes cherished institutions with fresh energy. Whether you prefer mild and classic, blazing hot, or globally inspired crunch, you’ll find a winner. Come hungry, bring napkins, and don’t forget the sides—collard greens, mac & cheese, and biscuits make every meal complete