Hapeville, the charming city just outside Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, has quietly built one of metro Atlanta’s most appealing food scenes.
Best restaurants in Hapeville
Once known mainly as a convenient stop for travelers and Delta employees, this historic community now offers everything from soulful Southern cooking and serious barbecue to Thai favorites, wine-focused bistros, and international flavors—all in a walkable downtown and nearby spots that feel like true neighborhood gems.
Here are some of the standout places locals and visitors keep returning to.
Volare Wine & Bistro
603 N. Central Avenue, Hapeville, GA 30354
Located at 603 N. Central Avenue in the heart of downtown Hapeville, Volare consistently ranks among the top-rated spots in the area. This relaxed yet polished wine bar and bistro serves American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting with outdoor seating. Standouts include pan-seared or crusted fish options (such as mahi or branzino), grilled lamb chops, crab dishes, chickpea cakes, and a solid wine list that pairs beautifully with lunch or dinner. It’s a favorite for date nights, business meals, or a refined meal before heading to the airport.
Paper Plane
816 S Central Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354
This Hapeville staple brings authentic Thai flavors with a lively bar atmosphere and a fun patio ideal for both date nights and family outings. Signature dishes like Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles with Thai basil, peppers, and your choice of protein) shine, and the spot pairs well with local beers and craft cocktails. It’s frequently praised for consistent quality and a welcoming vibe.
Lickety Split Southern Kitchen & Bar
1155 Virginia Ave Ste F, Hapeville, GA 30354
At 1155 Virginia Avenue, Lickety Split delivers fresh, soulful Southern food that hits the mark. Expect crispy fried chicken, smothered pork chops, fried green tomatoes, catfish, solid sides (mac and cheese, collards, cornbread dressing), and desserts like sweet potato pie. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a smart go-to for comfort food done right.
Pit Boss BBQ
800 Doug Davis Dr, Atlanta, GA 30354
A local barbecue institution at 800 Doug Davis Drive, Pit Boss specializes in properly smoked meats—ribs, pulled chicken, brisket, and wings that spend real time on the smoker with wood flavors (pecan, oak, hickory). Counter-service style with solid sides, it’s popular with airport workers and travelers seeking authentic pit-style BBQ without the airport-terminal markup. The larger location keeps the quality high.
FolkArt Restaurant
637 N Central Ave, Atlanta, GA 30354
FolkArt offers all-day breakfast and Southern-leaning American fare in a warm space decorated with Atlanta and Georgia memorabilia. Don’t miss the Crab Cake Benedict (lump crab cakes with poached eggs and hollandaise) or other brunch classics like sweet potato waffles. It’s a reliable, no-fuss option that works for morning, midday, or “breakfast for dinner.”
Other Notables
- Grecian Gyro (Virginia Avenue area): A decades-old reliable for made-to-order pitas, gyros, and Greek favorites that have kept fans coming back for over 30 years.
- Weepa: A compact spot serving standout Puerto Rican food that has earned strong local praise.
- Mami’s La Cubana: Solid Cuban classics including sandwiches, plantains, rice, and beans.
- Hapeville Corner Tavern: A popular hangout known for elevated bar food, including standout Brussels sprouts with bacon, goat cheese, honey, and balsamic.
- Historic touch: The original Chick-fil-A Dwarf House in Hapeville remains a fun, unique stop with menu items exclusive to the location (including a memorable chocolate pie).
Hapeville’s dining scene benefits from its proximity to the airport while retaining a genuine small-city character—many spots are independently owned and rooted in the community. Whether you’re grabbing smoked wings before a flight, lingering over wine and seafood downtown, or craving Southern comfort, these spots deliver. Check current hours and reservations, as popular places can fill up, especially on weekends or during travel peaks.
Next time you’re south of the city or heading to ATL, skip the terminal food court and explore what Hapeville has cooking. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.
If you’re a health nut and want more local healthy food choices, perhaps you’ll be interested in our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.
We also have special coverage of Black Farmers In Atlanta as well as How To Keto In Atlanta.
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