Atlanta’s dining scene continues to show incredible growth, especially with the FIFA World Cup preparations in areas like South Downtown. There are several highly anticipated restaurants that have slated to open in early 2026.

I’ve compiled a list of new Atlanta restaurants that grows regularly and you should send me ones I miss.

Check out these new food spots that have opened or are planning to open in Georgia’s largest city.

What New Atlanta Restaurants Are Opening in Early 2026?

This article will explore some of the best new eateries that have opened recently and what’s on the menu, including any favorites you should order.

The Busy Bee (Third Location)

Owner Tracy Gates inked a deal to expand The Busy Bee at The Mitchell residential development at Centennial Yards. The eatery is set to open later this year. Read about the third Busy Bee opening.

Norifish and Okiboru (Ponce City Market)

Ponce City Market says two Japanese eateries will open in spring 2026: NoriFish, a premium sushi concept, and Okiboru, a beloved ramen spot. Read about Norifish and Okiboru.

Babygirl (East Lake)

An all-day café and bistro from chef Hudson Rouse (Whoopsie’s, Rising Son), Babygirl in East Lake will focus on lighter breakfast and lunch items like smoothies, salads, and limited biscuits.

Sugar Loaf (Reynoldstown)

Southern-inspired with global influences (Ethiopian and Albanian heritage), featuring biscuits, granola, yogurt bowls, and toasts.

Sammy’s Boba & Coffee

Sammy’s boba shop is targeting mid-January to late January, with the buildout in final stages and awaiting final inspections.

Busy Bee Cafe (second location)

The iconic soul food spot known for its fried chicken is expanding to Atlantic Station. Read up on when Busy Bee is opening.

Koshu Club

From Castellucci Hospitality Group and chef J. Trent Harris (of Mujo), this Japanese supper club featuring slow-grilled meats and seasonal dishes is coming to Buckhead.

Broad Street BBQ

A new barbecue concept from the team behind Sammy’s sandwich shop, opening in South Downtown.

Sozou

A Japanese restaurant from the chef behind Umi, completing a trio of concepts in Midtown’s Ten Twenty building.

Bellwood Coffee (relocated location)

The coffee shop is moving its East Atlanta Village spot to a new home in Grant Park, taking over the former Bennett’s Market space.

Heritage Supper Club

Chef Demetrius Brown’s brick-and-mortar version of his popular supper club, focusing on creative dishes like West African-inspired plantains, in Summerhill. Read up on Heritage Supper Club’s opening.

Mule Train

A Southern restaurant emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients, from Michael and Shyretha Sheats , the creators of The Plate Sale pop-up, in South Downtown.

Seahorse Advisors

A potential members-only sushi spot from the team behind Muss & Turner’s and Roshambo, in the Borghese building.

The Jagger Suite

A rooftop lounge atop the new Moxy Hotel in Downtown Atlanta.

Other spots like Shake Shack in South Downtown and various concepts in Ponce City Market (e.g., Terminal 26 Thai seafood) are also eyed for 2026 openings, though some may lean later in the year.

Final Bite

If you’re a fan of crab cakes or even fried fish, Atlanta’s diverse dining scene has just what you need and more. And you can find a new food spot just about every weekend in Atlanta.

New Atlanta restaurants continue to pop up around Atlanta. The good news is that this has been a banner month for buzzworthy debuts, with a mix of Michelin-caliber spots, casual gems, and neighborhood glow-ups.

Aside from dining at the best new Atlanta restaurants, there are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.

Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

Ultimate Guide: Where To Eat In Atlanta

Midtown’s pedestrian-friendly streets, centered around Peachtree Street and 10th Street, make it easy to hop between eateries, bars, and cafes. It’s a social hub where locals and visitors mingle, enhanced by proximity to cultural spots like the Fox Theatre and High Museum of Art.