A guide to Atlanta restaurants

This article discusses and reviews the best Atlanta restaurants, covering a wide range of food types for any budget. From those looking for a cheap and quick bite to eat to those looking to dine on something extravagant and luxurious, there is something for everyone in this guide.

The best cheap Atlanta restaurants

For cheap American style cuisine, Fat Matt's Rib Shack offers top quality barbecue food adored by the locals, and Ria's Bluebird, famed for its breakfasts, pancakes and idiosyncratic owner, provides an experience that should not be missed. The Nuevo Laredo Cantina, meanwhile, has a reputation for excellent Mexican food - especially its lobster tacos. Cheap international menus are also aplenty in Atlanta. Surin of Thailand and Doc Chey's Noodle House represent the best Asian offerings, while the French bakery Alon and Italian restaurant Figo Pasta make up the European contingent. Fine budget vegetarian food can be found at the Cafe Sunflower, which creates vegetarian versions of classic dishes from all around the world, including a quinoa paella and Chinese-style steamed vegetable dumplings.

Mid-range deliciousness

For medium budget local food, a visitor should look no further than The SHED at Glenwood, which, with its impressive wine list and gourmet-style menu, is a real bargain. The Highland Bakery also makes great coffee and cakes, and is perfect for an afternoon rest. The Mali Thai Restaurant, which specialises in many varieties of Asian cuisine including sushi, is ideal for a romantic evening meal. The restaurant also renews its exceptional special dishes every week, so there is always something to come back for. Other average-priced international menus can be found at Atmosphere, which offers French food, and Ecco, which has a general Mediterranean selection. Travellers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport should also not miss the excellent mid-range sushi restaurant One Flew South, which has a wider menu beyond sushi, including fantastic steaks.

Luxury

If you are looking to really splash the cash, Atlanta has several options for you. Chops presents the finest quality American food with careful and attentive service, and Rathbun's produces impeccable food in continually changing menus reflecting local seasonal produce. Atlanta also has a few international flavours for high-end spenders. Fogo De Chao is a Brazilian-style rodizio which provides top-notch food and service for meat-lovers, while Bluepointe and Savu have menus inspired by the cuisines of Asia and the Pacific Rim. The fantastic Greek seafood restaurant Kyma also deserves a visit, with its regular live Greek music and renowned kalamari appetisers. A special mention should be reserved for the Livingston Bar, which, housed in one of the few historic buildings of Atlanta, provides a unique and elegant dining experience.