Midtown Atlanta’s restaurant scene is at once chaotic and consistent — and I love it. It’s not just that the diverse offerings can please nearly every palate, but it’s just that new Atlanta restaurants open nearly every month.
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best Midtown Atlanta restaurants you probably haven’t tried yet. Because there’s so many things to do, you may be wondering this:
Where Can I Dine In Midtown?
You may already know about the food establishments up the main vein of Peachtree Street, or even what’s down Ponce de Leon Avenue, but there’s so much more!
This article is going to show you some of the best Midtown Atlanta restaurants covering a wide range of menus, cuisines and food genres. Let’s jump right into it!
Lazy Betty
999 Peachtree St NE Suite #140, Atlanta, GA 30309
Photo credit: Lazy Betty
Cuisine: New American, Tasting Menu
Why It’s Great: A Michelin-starred gem and James Beard Award semifinalist, Lazy Betty is considered Atlanta’s top restaurant by some, offering a $225 prix fixe tasting menu with innovative dishes like wagyu beef in buttery wine sauce or creamy foie gras with strawberries. The multi-course experience (3.5 hours) is perfect for special occasions, with an a la carte menu available at the bar for a more casual visit.
Price: $$$$ (entrees exceed $30)
Vibe: Upscale, intimate, ideal for date nights or celebrations.
Rumi’s Kitchen
1175 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta Ga. 30361 | 404-777-9807
Located at Colony Square (1175 Peachtree St NE), this Persian gem impresses with flavorful dishes like lamb kebabs and aromatic stews. Chef Ali Mesghali’s pursuit of perfection has made it a Midtown favorite for Mediterranean cuisine.
Lyla Lila
693 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Cuisine: Southern European, Italian
Why It’s Great: A 2023 Michelin-recommended spot near the Fox Theatre, Lyla Lila is a neighborhood favorite for its casually elegant atmosphere and standout pasta dishes, like the crispy duck lasagna (a menu staple) and squid ink spaghetti. Other highlights include tuna crudo and whole wood-grilled fish. It’s praised for its consistency and romantic vibe.
Pizza Relevance: No pizza, but its hearth-fired dishes share a similar artisanal appeal.
Price: $$$$ (entrees often over $30)
Vibe: Romantic, upscale casual, great for date nights.
Atlantic Station
271 District Ave., Atlanta, GA 30363
One of the best spots for foodies in Midtown is Atlantic Station, which has several restaurants you may want to try. Here’s a list of some of the top food spots.
Why It’s Great: A Midtown staple since 1993, this restaurant delivers refined Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, jumbo lump crab cakes, and fried chicken, crafted by chef John Spotkill. Its longevity (over 30 years) and consistent quality make it a go-to for locals and visitors. The bread basket with cornbread and cinnamon buns is a beloved starter.
Pizza Relevance: No pizza, but its Southern comfort food pairs well with casual pizza spots nearby.
Price: $$$ (entrees $20–$30)
Vibe: Warm, welcoming, great for lunch, dinner, or brunch.
Aprés Dìem
31 Monroe Dr NE St C103, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 872-3333
Here’s what one reviewer says about Apres Diem: “Great outdoor seating! Loved the huge patio for lunch and brunch. The sandwiches were tasty. They have a good variety of appetizers. I would go back again!”
Emilio’s Tacos & Tequilas
1105 W Peachtree St NW Suite 5, Atlanta, GA 30309
Photo credit: Emilio’s Taco + Tequila
Another taco joint is strong with the force in Midtown Atlanta: Emilio’s Tacos + Tequila. Check out the menu.
Here’s what one diner says of Emilio’s Tacos and Tequila. “Everything we had at Emilio’s was amazing! We started with the queso and salsa. Y’all… This is the best salsa I’ve ever had in my life! You get two kinds and they’re both so flavorful and come in cute little jars. The queso also had a great flavor. I ordered the frozen margarita flight. You get more than your money’s worth, in my opinion. For lunch I had the Birria quesadilla, and it was on point. Again, so flavorful! We will definitely be back.”
El Viñedo Local
758 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 873-5002
El Vinedo Local opened in early 2021 in Midtown Atlanta. The eatery serves small plates, South American-inspired dishes, wine and coffee. Check them out!
Empire State South
999 Peachtree St NE Suite #140, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 541-1105
Here’s what one customer says about Empire State South: “We had the most beautiful experience in this lovely restaurant. The ambiance was romantic and gorgeous and the server was very courteous. We had the four course meal which was $70. We started off with some very fresh tomato salads and hibachi. Second course consisted of soup. We all opted for fish as the third course and it was delicious and the portion size was pretty good. The dessert, pot du cream was simply delicious. Love the experience and the restaurant. The whole meal was a little over 2 hours. We will definitely come back when we are in the area.”
Oceanaire Seafood Room
1100 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 475-2277
Here’s what one customer says about Oceanaire’s crab cakes: “Wife was craving grilled oysters. She was overjoyed with the flavor. She also loved the crab cakes. They were actually crab compared to a little crab and a lot of filling. I had the shrimp and grits that were perfectly cooked and seasoned. My salmon was fresh and well prepared. The service was great as well as the food. Be prepared to spend some money but it is worth it.”
Pancake Social
675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (678) 609-8696
Pancake Social opened its doors at Ponce City Market in late spring 2019. The 150-seat restaurant and coffeehouse serves breakfast all day and gets rave reviews
Here’s what one reviewer says about Pancake Social: “Very clean inside, all the staff wore masks and were very helpful and polite. The food was so fresh! I had the pancake special and the eggs were generous, and creamy! The mimosa was strong! Very good and the pancake was perfect- they are large and not too thick, so one was just enough to eat. Will be back!”
Patria Cocina
1039 Grant St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 622-3501
Patria Cocina opened in Grant Park’s Beacon development in late 2018. The Mexican-inspired restaurant serves strong Margaritas, righteous tacos and top-notch burritos. Here’s what’s on the menu at Patria Cocina.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Patria Cocina: “Off the charts. Went here with my family for my birthday and everything I put in my mouth was ridiculously delicious. The Cozuela margarita was beautifully presented in a bowl with half a grapefruit, orange, and lime. One of the best cocktails I’ve ever had. Chicken enchiladas and guacamole were both crazy good. First time visiting but definitely not the last.”
Flying Biscuit Cafe
1001 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 874-8887
Here is what one reviewer says about the Flying Biscuit: “The grits here are amazing (and I usually don’t like grits) but they are the best thing that we had. The jelly is great tasting also but unfortunately the biscuits are hard and dry and I only used some of it to get the jelly in my mouth. The restaurant could use a thorough cleaning. Be aware that they do require masks and one of the staff was telling customers to get a mask on. That took a star off for me.”
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is the longest-running chain serving hot chicken. After expanding in the Atlanta market a few years ago with a restaurant downtown, Gus’s has big plans to open up several more locations in metro Atlanta.
Here’s what one reviewer says of Gus’s hot chicken: “Every year I have the pleasure of visiting Atlanta for a cheer competition. Well we stumbled into Gus’s one night when we were starved & it was the best decision we made. Every year I cannot wait to go back to Atlanta just for Gus’s chicken . The chicken is dredged through a heavenly concoction of spices and flour that just set your tastebuds wild. The chicken can be spicy to some lightweights like my daughter, but it barely even sends alarms to me & sister. It is worth the visit any time you are near Atlanta. You will never find better fried chicken. Let’s talk about the Mac n cheese. Oh my gosh, such delicious creamy cheesy goodness. The beans are good as well, but nothing compares to that Mac!”
South City Kitchen
Atlanta Locations:
3350 Peachtree Rd #175, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 815-6677
1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 873-7358
1675 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | (770) 435-0700
Here is what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “If your looking for a great bowl of Shrimp & Grits on a cold rainy day or a sunny day you will not be disappointed at South City Kitchen- Best I have had- Comes with homemade Biscuits & Cornbread- Sweet tea to drink – Makes my mouth water just thinking about it- The help is ready to serve you with a smile- Go by and see them today- Your tummy will thank you!!”
Lure
1106 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
A seafood haven at 1106 Crescent Ave NE, Lure brings coastal vibes to Midtown with fresh catches like oysters on the half-shell, wood-fired fish, and seasonal dishes. Its stylish, recently renovated bungalow setting and Prosecco on tap make it a standout for seafood lovers.
A lot of great restaurants are tucked inside Ponce City Market in Midtown. Let’s explore:
The Old Sears Roebuck Building is Midtown Atlanta’s crown jewel now, when it comes to development. The historic mixed-used development on Ponce De Leon Avenue on one side and North Avenue on the other is full of boutiques and offices.
Some notable places to eat inside Ponce City Market include:
While there are some great places to eat in every corner of Atlanta, Midtown holds a special place. The sheer number of top-quality restaurants per square mile makes it one of the most foodie-centric places in all of the Southeast.
When you’re in Atlanta, your favorite place to eat is never far away, especially if you’re in Midtown Atlanta.
Of course, you may already be familiar with the Atlanta food halls. You may want something a little more distinct. Perhaps you love Chinese food or even Southern-style cuisine. No matter what you decide, give Midtown Atlanta a try.
