Category: Restaurants

Three longtime LongHorn Steakhouse grill cooks in the metro Atlanta area have officially joined an ultra-exclusive club: they’ve each grilled more than one million steaks over their careers.

Sammy Cisic from the Alpharetta location, Artemio Mendoza in Cornelia, and Rara Segundo at the McDonough restaurant were surprised this week with LongHorn Steakhouse’s highest grill honor — the title of Grill Master Legend. Only 35 cooks across the entire chain have ever reached this million-steak mark.

Sammy Cisic (Alpharetta)

Known for his intense pride in every steak that leaves his grill, Sammy is a fixture at the North Point Parkway LongHorn and a mentor to younger cooks. Alpharetta foodies, take note!

Artemio Mendoza (Cornelia)

The steady “rock” of the Cornelia team, Artemio brings unmatched passion and consistency to every shift in the mountains northeast of Atlanta.

Rara Segundo (McDonough)

Famous among southside regulars for lightning-fast, perfectly cooked steaks, Rara keeps the McDonough location firing on all cylinders even during the busiest rushes.

Each Legend was honored with a surprise celebration that included their families, restaurant teammates, and corporate leaders. They received:

• A custom gold chef coat with “Grill Master Legend” embroidery
• A $5,000 cash award
• $1,000 every year for as long as they stay with LongHorn
• A personal visit and congratulations from president Laura Williamson

LongHorn says its Grill Masters go through rigorous training to master the chain’s signature seasoning blends, never-frozen steaks, and nailing every temperature from rare to well-done.

Only the very best earn the official Grill Master title — and reaching one million steaks cooked is the ultimate proof of mastery.

The newly minted Legends say they plan to keep the grills hot for years to come.

Next time you’re enjoying a perfectly grilled Outlaw Ribeye or Flo’s Filet in Alpharetta, Cornelia, or McDonough, there’s a good chance one of these million-steak masters had a hand in it.

Final Word

When it comes to steakhouses in Atlanta, Longhorn is up there. And I’m glad there are so many of them.
In the metro area, one of the best places to eat in West Midtown.

The best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.

The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.

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In a bittersweet farewell to a quarter-century of Southwestern flavors and family hospitality, Agave Restaurant—a cherished staple in southeast Atlanta—has announced its permanent closure at the end of January 2026.

The family-owned eatery, known for its vibrant dishes and warm community vibe, cited the challenging economic landscape as the driving force behind the tough decision.

Agave Atlanta Set To Close Doors in Early 2026

The announcement, shared on the restaurant’s Facebook page, comes just months after Agave celebrated its 25th anniversary.

“This decision was not made lightly, but as our family looks toward a new chapter, we find it is time to say goodbye,” the owners wrote. “From the bottom of our hearts, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, laughter-filled dinners, and the privilege of being part of your celebrations and everyday moments for a quarter of a century. Thank you for the honor of serving you at the original and first Agave in the country.”

Nestled in the heart of southeast Atlanta, Agave has been more than just a spot for tacos and margaritas—it’s been a neighborhood anchor since its founding, drawing locals for everything from casual weeknight meals to milestone gatherings.

The closure underscores a broader trend plaguing Atlanta’s restaurant industry in 2025: soaring operational costs, fluctuating customer traffic, and an unforgiving economic climate that has forced dozens of beloved spots to shutter their doors.

As Agave prepares to serve its final plates on January 31, the owners are rallying the community to support their dedicated staff. They’re urging patrons to visit through the end of the month and have launched a GoFundMe campaign to provide financial aid to employees navigating this transition.

Agave’s exit is a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Atlanta’s independent eateries. From West Midtown’s cluster of closures to heartfelt goodbyes across the metro area, 2025 has been a year of farewells for many.

What Atlanta Restaurants Have Closed in 2025?

Below is a table highlighting some of the most notable restaurant closures in the Atlanta area this year, based on reports from local outlets like Eater Atlanta and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. These losses reflect a mix of economic pressures, health challenges, and shifting market dynamics.

This table captures a snapshot of the year’s toughest hits, with West Midtown emerging as a hotspot for closures—over a dozen in recent months alone, according to Eater Atlanta.

Areas like Midtown and Inman Park have also felt the pinch, as rising rents and ingredient prices squeeze margins for even established spots.While the news is somber, Atlanta’s food scene remains resilient, with new openings like expansions from local favorites offering glimmers of hope.

Final Word

For now, though, let’s raise a glass (or a margarita) to Agave and the countless memories it leaves behind. If you’re a fan, head over before Jan. 31—your support could make all the difference for the team.

Interested in dining outside (under a heat lamp)? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.

If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.

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In a bittersweet farewell to one of Atlanta’s most storied barbecue joints, Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt, the funky, no-frills haven on Memorial Drive, will serve its final plates by the end of December.

The closure marks the end of an era for the 35-year-old institution, known for its hickory-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and cameos on national TV—though owner Christianah Coker-Jackson vows it’s not goodbye forever.

Daddy D’z Is Closing This Month

The news, shared with employees last Friday, stems from the sale of the building at 264 Memorial Drive SE, a spot that’s been Daddy D’z’s home since founder Ron Newman fired up the brick pits in 1993.

Coker-Jackson, who took the reins in late 2017 after years as a devoted customer and chef at spots like Charlot’s Creole Cafe, said the decision came down to timing and circumstance.

A government shutdown years ago delayed a crucial loan, paving the way for the property’s new owners to pull the plug.

“Daddy D’z was the first barbecue place I visited when I moved to Atlanta … and I loved it,” Coker-Jackson told local reporters, her voice carrying the weight of both nostalgia and resolve.

What started as a personal passion project evolved into a family affair, with her children pitching in alongside longtime staff.

The restaurant’s eclectic vibe—think metal pig sculptures on the roof and a sign declaring “I’m Dyin’ for Daddy D’z”—has drawn everyone from Food Network fans to Hollywood heavyweights. Just days ago, Tyler Perry wrapped filming a scene inside its graffiti-adorned walls.

For Atlanta’s barbecue faithful, Daddy D’z wasn’t just a meal; it was a ritual.

Tucked in the Summerhill neighborhood, the spot specialized in slow-smoked meats over hickory wood, paired with Southern staples like creamy coleslaw, baked beans laced with brisket bits, and towering slices of sweet potato pie.

Yelp reviews rave about the “fabulous” fried okra and “smoky” chicken wings, while Tripadvisor diners call it a “true hole-in-the-wall” with “excellent flavor” that rivals Kansas City legends.

It’s hosted Super Bowl watch parties, Mardi Gras feasts, and private bashes, cementing its role as a community anchor amid the evolving Grant Park and Mechanicsville scenes.

The closure hits hard in a year that’s seen other local favorites shutter amid rising costs and economic pressures—a trend echoed in crowdfunding pleas from the restaurant’s social channels earlier this year.

But Coker-Jackson remains optimistic. “We hope to find a new home and continue to be a part of Atlanta history, but this particular location is no more,” she said, urging loyalists to swing by for one last round before Dec. 31.

Delivery and catering remain available through the end, with online orders encouraged via the restaurant’s site.

As Atlanta’s dining landscape shifts—with newcomers like Lewis Barbecue eyeing a debut elsewhere in the city—the loss of Daddy D’z underscores the fragility of our culinary touchstones.

Yet in true Joynt fashion, it’s going out with a saucy send-off. Grab those extra bottles of house barbecue sauce on your way out—because who knows where the next pit stop might be?

For updates on a potential relocation, follow Daddy D’z on Facebook or visit daddydz.com. Got a Daddy D’z memory? Share it with us at cj@atlantafi.com.

The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.

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AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for restaurant openings, closings, and everything in between. Stay tuned for more on the local food scene.

After an extensive renovation, Atlanta-born Mellow Mushroom is bringing its trippy vibes back to Decatur.

The West Ponce de Leon Avenue location reopens its doors this Monday, December 8 as a company-owned store featuring a completely refreshed interior and exterior.

Decatur Mellow Mushroom Re-Opening

The redesigned space includes brand-new murals by local Atlanta artist Ben Janik, an upgraded bar and patio, and a dedicated to-go entrance and pickup area for easier online orders.

New kitchen technology, including a Kitchen Display System (KDS), has also been added to speed up service and improve the overall guest experience.

“We’re an Atlanta original, and Decatur has always felt like home,” said Ahsan Jiva, Executive Vice President of Strategy at Mellow Mushroom. “This location is special to us, and we’re excited to come back stronger, reconnect with the community, and deliver the best Mellow experience yet.”

Opening-Day Giveaway

The first 25 guests in line on Monday, December 8 will receive a limited-edition Mellow Mushroom tote bag stuffed with a t-shirt, keychain, and a bounce-back card for a future visit.

Decatur-Exclusive Menu Items

The refreshed Decatur store will serve as a testing ground for new menu concepts before they potentially rolling them out nationwide. Launching on opening day:

New Signature Salads

• Southwest Chicken – shredded Romaine, avocado, white cheddar, tomatoes, pickled red onions, bell peppers, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime & chipotle aioli dressing
• Apple Harvest – shredded Romaine, Fuji apples, white cheddar, feta, dried cherries, candied pecans, pepitas & balsamic vinaigrette

New Craft Cocktails

• Dill Tripper – Tito’s Handmade Vodka + Grillo’s pickle juice
• Moonbeam Margarita – Espolòn Blanco Tequila, dragonfruit, pineapple, orange bitters & lime
• Blackberry Whiskey Sour – Jameson Irish Whiskey, fresh blackberries, lemon & bitters

Since opening its first location in Atlanta in 1974, Mellow Mushroom has grown to more than 160 restaurants nationwide while staying true to its counterculture roots, local art, and stone-baked pizza made with the brand’s famous “secret dough” recipe.

The Decatur Mellow Mushroom is located at 340 West Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur, GA 30030. Doors open at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 8.

Final Word

Pizza is awesome, especially when you’re dining outside (under heat lamps, of course). Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.

If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.

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Atlanta’s dining scene is bidding a bittersweet farewell to one of its longtime favorites as Dantanna’s, the beloved Buckhead steakhouse and sports bar, prepares to close its original location this weekend.

Nestled near Lenox Square since 2003, Dantanna’s has been a go-to spot for generations of locals and visitors alike, dishing out prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a lively atmosphere perfect for cheering on the Falcons or catching a big game.

Dantanna’s To Close Its Doors in Buckhead

But after more than two decades of sizzling success, the restaurant will pour its final drinks this Saturday night, timing the goodbye to coincide with the college football conference championships.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the owners expressed deep gratitude to the community that made Dantanna’s a Buckhead staple.

“It is humbling to look back now and reflect that our amazing team has provided millions of great experiences,” they wrote. “With absolute sincerity, we thank our friends, guests, and amazing team members who have defined Dantanna’s culture of hospitality which built and inspired our guests’ loyalty.”

While the closure comes as a heavy-hearted decision—though no specific reasons were shared—the spot’s legacy endures.

Dantanna’s first made its mark in 2003, quickly earning a reputation for its upscale yet approachable vibe and menu highlights like the signature filet mignon and crab cakes.

The chain briefly expanded downtown to the CNN Center in 2018, but that outpost shuttered amid the challenges of the 2020 pandemic.

For many Atlantans, Dantanna’s wasn’t just a restaurant—it was a backdrop for birthdays, business deals, and bracket-busting watch parties. As the final weekend approaches, loyal patrons are encouraged to swing by for one last toast to the memories.

The eatery joins our list of shuttered Atlanta restaurants.

Final Word

Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more on how this closure fits into the evolving Buckhead dining landscape, and check out our app for real-time updates on the city’s food scene.

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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Downtown Atlanta’s dining scene is about to get a lot spicier. Khao Thai Isan, a new Thai tapas restaurant highlighting the bold, punchy flavors of Thailand’s Northeastern Isan region, will open in 2026 at The Mitchell – the first ground-up residential tower completed within the massive $5 billion Centennial Yards development.

The restaurant comes from sisters Niki and Tanya Pattharakositkul, the Thai-born duo already behind popular local concepts 26 Thai Kitchen & Bar, Pink Lotus, Blackjack Bar Tapas, and the upcoming Terminal 26 at Ponce City Market.

Khao (which simply means “rice” in Thai) will be their first venture in Downtown proper.

Khao Thai Opening in Centennial Yards

Expect shareable small plates packed with the sour, salty, spicy, and funky street-food staples of Isan – think larb, grilled meats, som tam, and sticky rice – all served with sleek, modern plating.

The drink menu will feature Thai-inspired cocktails and towering beer towers perfect for groups.

“In Thailand, when people meet each other, rather than saying ‘hi’ or ‘how are you,’ they say ‘Gin Khao Mai,’ meaning ‘have you eaten yet?’” said Niki Pattharakositkul, founder of Khao Thai Isan. “We wanted to bring that same sense of welcoming and community to anyone who dines at Khao Thai Isan. The restaurant is our way of saying ‘hello’ to Downtown Atlanta.”

What To Expect at Khao Thai Isan

The nearly 5,000-square-foot space sits at the base of The Mitchell, a new 19-story, 304-unit luxury apartment building with 16,000 square feet of street-level retail.

Khao Thai Isan will boast a large outdoor patio designed to channel the chaotic energy of Isan night markets, while the interior and logo draw inspiration from the region’s iconic “kratip” woven sticky-rice baskets.

“Centennial Yards will be a place for everyone to enjoy unique dining experiences,” said Brian McGowan, President of Centennial Yards Company. “Khao Thai Isan aligns perfectly with the neighborhood vibe we are curating for the district.”

Timed to open ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the restaurant will be steps from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, and the future Entertainment District at Centennial Yards – a growing hub that already includes confirmed heavyweights like Live Nation and immersive venue Cosm.

• Khao Thai Isan
• The Mitchell at Centennial Yards (street level)
• Downtown Atlanta
• Opening: 2026

Downtown has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.

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Atlanta’s dining scene is a melting pot of global flavors, and few cuisines capture the spirit of communal feasting quite like Brazilian barbecue, or churrasco. The best Atlanta steakhouses include the Brazilian variety.

Rooted in the traditions of Southern Brazil’s gauchos—cowboys who slow-roasted meats over open flames—churrasco has evolved into the rodízio-style dining we know today.

Where To Get Brazilian Churrasco in Atlanta

Picture this: skilled servers wielding skewers of sizzling premium cuts like picanha (top sirloin cap), linguiça (sausage), and frango (chicken), carving them tableside while you flip a colorful disc to signal “more” or “enough.”

Paired with a lavish salad bar bursting with feijoada (black bean stew), grilled pineapple, and fresh salads, it’s an all-you-can-eat extravaganza that’s equal parts indulgent and interactive.

In the Peach State, our Brazilian community has brought authentic churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses) to life, blending smoky, garlicky meats with Southern hospitality.

Whether you’re a carnivore craving unlimited skewers or seeking a family-friendly spot with bakery treats, Atlanta delivers.

We’ve scoured reviews from locals and visitors alike to spotlight the top spots for Brazilian BBQ. From upscale chains to hidden gems, here’s where to skewer your next meal.

1. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

3101 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 266-9988

Tucked in the heart of upscale Buckhead, Fogo de Chão is the gold standard for churrasco in Atlanta.

This international chain elevates the experience with soaring wine cases, private dining rooms, and a Market Table that’s a feast for the eyes—think imported cheeses, prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella, and seasonal salads.

The gauchos deliver a parade of 16+ meats, from tender filet mignon wrapped in bacon to garlicky leg of lamb, all roasted over an open flame. Diners rave about the picanha’s perfect char and the caramelized grilled pineapple that cuts through the richness.

Pro tip: Go during happy hour for discounted rodízio and caipirinhas (Brazil’s lime-infused cocktail). It’s pricey (around $60–$70 per person), but the ambiance and endless flow make it worth every bite.

Price: $$$$ | Must-Try: Bacon-wrapped chicken, chimichurri sauce

2. Passador Brazilian Steakhouse

1190-1198 Old Alpharetta Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (770) 837-3919

For a more intimate vibe, head to Alpharetta’s Passador, where tradition meets affordability.

This family-run gem channels the soul of Southern Brazil with gauchos in full regalia slicing premium cuts like ribeye and pork loin right at your table.

The salad bar is a standout, loaded with Brazilian staples like hearts of palm, quinoa salad, and housemade pão de queijo (cheese bread).

Reviews highlight the juicy fraldinha (flank steak) and attentive service that keeps the skewers coming without overwhelming you. At about $45 for all-you-can-eat, it’s a steal compared to bigger chains, and the cozy dining room feels like a backyard asado.

Bonus: They offer a lunch special that’s lighter on the wallet.

Price: $$$ | Must-Try: Leg of lamb, grilled plantains

3. Rio Steakhouse & Bakery

1790 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062 |  (770) 952-9556

Marietta’s Rio Steakhouse & Bakery is a local favorite for its no-frills authenticity and unbeatable value.

This spot nails the rodízio with a rotating selection of meats—think top sirloin, chorizo, and chicken hearts—served alongside a bakery case of Brazilian sweets like brigadeiros (chocolate truffles) and coxinha (chicken croquettes).

Reviewers call it “the best bang for your buck,” praising the flavorful seasonings and the way the meats stay tender without being overcooked. The attached bakery doubles as a grab-and-go for pão francês or pastel pastries, making it ideal for families. It’s cash-only for some items, so hit the ATM, but at under $30 per person, you’ll leave stuffed and smiling.

Price: $$ | Must-Try: Chicken hearts, brigadeiro dessert

4. Sabor Do Brasil

5390 Buford Hwy NE, Doraville, GA 30340 | (770) 541-2625

If you’re after a casual, market-style BBQ fix, Sabor Do Brasil in Doraville delivers big on flavor and small on pretense.

This strip-mall staple offers churrasco by the pound or all-you-can-eat rodízio, with skewers of beef short ribs, Italian sausage, and tri-tip grilled to smoky perfection.

The sides shine here: creamy polenta, farofa (toasted cassava), and a killer feijoada on weekends. Diners love the “hole-in-the-wall charm” and generous portions—perfect for takeout or a quick lunch. It’s a go-to for Brazilian expats seeking homey vibes, and at $20–$25, it’s the most budget-friendly on our list.

Price: $ | Must-Try: Tri-tip steak, farofa.

Final Word

Whether you’re toasting with cachaça or simply savoring the sizzle, these spots offer more than a meal—they’re a celebration of flavor and fire.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, so grab your spot and let the feasting begin. What’s your go-to skewer? Share in the comments below—we’re always hungry for your tips!

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