By Abigail Woods By Abigail Woods | June 30, 2022 | Food & Drink Feature Drink
Everyone knows that the only thing better than dining at a top-notch restaurant, is dining at a top-notch restaurant where the reservation was harder to get than parking in downtown Atlanta. Some may say it can’t be done, but we say if there’s a will, there’s a way, and at these restaurants, the way in may just be booking before the sun comes up. Whether you’re aiming for brunch, lunch or late-night dinner, these Atlanta hot spots are the hardest to get a reservation at.
2637 Peachtree Road Northeast / Website
Located in the heart of Buckhead, La Grotta is serving up authentic Italian cuisine in an upscale, yet intimate setting. Family owned and operated, this spot’s ingenious menu is cooked up by none other than chef Antonio Abizanda. With an extensive wine list offering spirits from around the world, as well as a menu that boasts favorited classics and fresh twists, it’s no wonder this spot has been voted ‘Best Italian Restaurant’ in Atlanta for 18 consecutive years.
33 S. Main St. / Website
Situated on the rooftop of Liberty Hall in Downtown Alpharetta lies UP on the Roof, a spot that has quickly become a crowd favorite. With a wrap-around outdoor terrace, the rooftop offers guests 360-degree views of North Atlanta, which is perfect, because what’s dinner without a view to snap the perfect Instagram pic? Whether you’re stopping in for the signature bottled cocktails and hand-crafted libations, looking to relish in a lively atmosphere with an upscale bar vibe or wanting to dine on small plates and shareable portions, UP on the Roof is sure to please.
691 14th St. N.W. / Website
Fish flown in directly from Japan? Say less. Mujō, an omakase-only menu tasting experience, is offering a dining venture as delicious as it is aesthetically pleasing. The Modern Edomae style menu changes daily to reflect the best ingredients available so that each and every small plate and progression of seasonal nigiri is a reflection of what the restaurant is all about. In addition to the tasting menu, guests are served a secondary menu of supplements showcasing the chef’s daily features, and if you’re feeling extra, request the wine and sake beverage pairings to complete an already ideal experience.
693 Peachtree St. NE / Website
Something about the words “southern European restaurant in the heart of Midtown Atlanta” sounds right up our alley. Lyla Lila maintains a constantly evolving menu based on seasonal options to ensure everything they prepare is as fresh as possible. Along with a tasteful menu comes the hardest decision yet —what drink will be best? From crafted cocktails to a carefully curated wine selection, you’re guaranteed to find a complimentary match.
3050 Peachtree Road NW / Website
Whether you’re from Atlanta or just visiting, one thing is for certain: you’ve heard of Umi. Renowned for elegant, yet simple interior, Umi offers a modern Japanese cuisine with a menu boasting the most fresh fish from around the world and only the highest quality ingredients. Alongside hot ticket items such as sautéed foie gras, black cod miso, baked lobster tempura, traditional hand rolls and a selection of “aburi,” this spot is also offering a multitude of beverage pairings including exclusive craft sake, select wine and beer, handmade cocktails and pressed, artisan roasted Lamill coffee.
1530 Dekalb Ave. NE / Website
What do you get when you combine the likes of three siblings' love for food and community? So named after the mother of Howard, Anita and Ron Hsu, Lazy Betty is truly taking the cake when it comes to dining experiences. Executive chef Ron leads the team as he brings to the table his experiences he developed while working in kitchens across the world, not to mention the time he spent as creative director at world-renowned NYC restaurant, Le Bernardin. Ron, with the help of second executive chef, Aaron Phillips, have curated an exclusive dining experience where oncomers can watch their meal being prepared. Here, it’s all about coming together and eating well, and, though we could tell you more, you’re just going to have to try and snag a reservation to see what the hype is really all about.
924 Garrett St. / Website
From the cocktails prepared tableside to the open kitchen made for your viewing pleasure, Gunshow knows how to please a crowd. Owned by chef Kevin Gillespie, Gunshow is offering a bold take on the traditional dining setting. At this spot, dishes are prepared right where you can see them and are then delivered to your table by the chef who prepared it. Additionally, Gunshow boasts a unique environment as they decided to do away with many of the kitchen walls so that viewing is made easy as guests are sat at communal tables, because what’s better than a restaurant with full transparency? Try cocktails like The Peach Pit and Below Deck or have a taste of old fashioned banana pudding, but don’t get too attached, because the menus do change day-to-day to ensure you’re getting the most out of your meal.
303 E Howard Ave. / Website
If it’s caviar you want, it’s caviar you’ll get. Kimball House in Decatur, GA is serving up food and drinks that mirror the seasons, farms and personalities of the people preparing them. Backed by attentive hospitality, humility and a passion for their craft, the team behind the scenes provide service filled with love and a welcoming spirit. From an extensive raw bar selection and caviar to hors d’oeuvres and steak options, the menu promises satisfaction down to the last bite. And of course, no meal is complete without libations, and Kimball House offers more than a few to choose from.
88 West Paces Ferry Road NW / Website
Escape from the monotony of everyday life and step into a lush experience unlike the rest. Welcome to The Garden Room where subtlety is pushed to the side as florals and tasteful greenery take center stage. At this Atlanta hot spot, it’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the unmatched dining and brunch menus. Choose from under the sea options such as oysters and Chilean sea bass, go for something hot and crispy such as the chicken royal or take a deep dive into the cocktail and wine choices.
Suite 55, 2700 Apple Valley Road / http://arnetteschopshop.com/
Let us set the scene on the restaurant where modern expression meets the likes of a classic American steakhouse. ARNETTE’s Chop Shop showcases an interior which exposes the reclaimed warehouse while also blending classic, vintage and modern design elements. Split into 2 levels, the restaurant hosts a main level offering a jaw dropping dining room setting and open kitchen concept, while the second level invites guests to the luxurious upscale bar providing contemporary ambiance and an open air terrace. Here, executive chef Stephen is stepping up to the plate to bring hungry oncomers a selection of modern American cuisine with an innovative twist.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by The Playa Pig - Tropical Jungle Pop Up (@theblindpigparlourbar)
128 East Andrews Drive / Website
Located at the back entrance of sister concept Chido & Padre’s, The Blind Pig Parlour Bar is proving to be the speakeasy we’ve always dreamed of. Step into a magical scene giving jungle disco vibes as you're transported to the tropical setting of Tulum, Mexico. Here, refreshing, colorful cocktails await you as the menu offers specialty drinks such as the ginger watermelon margarita, the jungle revival, the Yucatan spritz and many more. Whether you’re feeling feisty or just coming in to enjoy a relaxed drink with friends, The Blind Pig is at your service.
Photography by: Kevin Kelly/unsplash
