Atlanta Iconic Restaurants to Visit at Least Once
Atlanta is one of the top metro destinations in the south, and with that comes a reputation for good food. Not only do local chefs and business owners showcase the richness of the area, but many have been featured in movies and TV — and attract celebrities. To see some Atlanta iconic restaurants, check out the selection below.
Atlanta Iconic Restaurants: Famous Spots for Food and Memories
Colonnade Restaurant
Since 1927, Colonnade has served Southern food with family-friendly vibes. Upon entering, visitors will feel like a member of the family as they sit down for dinner.
To try the signature dish, order the Southern fried chicken. Other classics include pot roast, salmon croquettes, house battered tenders. In addition, Colonnade serves burgers, salads, steak, liver, fish, shrimp and scallops. Sides range from fried okra and fries to dressing with gravy.
Majestic Diner
Majestic Diner serves breakfast and lunch, and has welcomed hungry guests since 1929. It also ranks among the top landmarks in Atlanta.
Those craving breakfast food will find egg dishes, omelets, pancakes, waffles, and sides such as bacon, ham, sausage and hash. Not feeling breakfast? Then try a burger or sandwich. Majestic special is a double with cheese, veggie burger is plant-based, and Greek is made from lamb. Sandwiches include gyros, grilled cheese and tuna melts.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
Mary Mac’s Tea Room ranks among the top Atlanta iconic restaurants because it is the last remaining tea room in the city. Around 1945, 16 tea rooms dotted the area. Today, the restaurant serves as a must for Southern food and hospitality.
Come here for lunch and dinner. Start with a soup or salad. For the main course, order meatloaf, burgers, fried chicken, fresh seafood, and meat and threes. Other favorites include chicken and dumplings, barbecue ribs and seafood combo. To complete the experience, pair the meal with sweet tea, Georgia peach cobbler or banana pudding.
Silver Skillet
In 1967, Silver Skillet began serving local fare in a fun atmosphere. It’s so fun the restaurant has appeared in movies and TV shows, and hosted celebrities who want breakfast and lunch favorites.
For breakfast, two egg plates, country ham with biscuits and gravy, and pancakes all top the list. Lunchtime brings country fried steak, fried catfish, burgers, pimento cheese, and turkey with dressing. Many come with sides such as pinto beans, collard greens, and mac and cheese.
The Varsity
Located downtown, The Varsity is one of the top Atlanta iconic restaurants and the largest drive-in restaurant in the world. This restaurant covers two city blocks and accommodates hundreds of people at once.
Pick a classic combo with chili dogs, chili cheese burgers, slaw dogs or bacon cheese burger. All chili and hot dogs are made with 100% beef. Burgers can also come without chili, with cheese, doubled or tripled. Or try hot dogs with nothing or add chili, cheese, and slaw. For the ultimate Varsity experience, pair them with an orange drink.
Bones
For an elegant evening out, head to Bones. Since 1979, the restaurant has become one of Atlanta’s top steakhouses. Expect to come business casual and not use the phone in the dining area.
Start with fresh seafood, soup or salad. Seafood entrees showcase crab cakes, broiled lobster, red snapper and salmon. Land options include filet mignon, lamb chops, mignon, ribeyes, New York strips and veal. For side items, guests can select from grit fritters, sauteed veggies, bakes potato, corn pudding and greens with bacon.
Busy Bee
For more than 74 years, The Busy Bee has served soul food made with love. Today, the restaurant provides a gathering place for lunch and dinner.
Southern favorites include the signature half-chicken, pork chops, chicken and waffles, and ribs. Or try some fried shrimp and catfish. Combine the main entree with mashed potatoes, cornbread dressing, potato salad, yellow rice and baked beans. Top it all off with blackberry cobbler or banana pudding.
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