15 Best High-End Restaurants in Atlanta

Atlanta is a fantastic city with many unique attractions. Other names for Atlanta include "The Big Peach", "ATL", and "The City in a Forest". The capital of Georgia has a fascinating culture thanks to its youthful population and vibrant city center. Filled with urban parks and amenities, and well-known walkable neighborhoods Atlanta is a go-to spot for rich history, culture, and cuisine.

Soul food cuisine favorites like black-eyed peas, mac & cheese, sweet potato pie, collard greens, fried chicken, and banana pudding are among the ravishingly delectable options available in Atlanta. You might be astonished to learn that Atlanta is home to more than a dozen high-end restaurants despite being recognized for their soul cuisine.

When it comes to luxury restaurants and fine dining, Atlanta has everything you could possibly want, from upscale Asian cuisine to Italian fine dining and everything in between.

1. Bacchanalia

Credit: Bacchanalia

Address: 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Suite 1, Atlanta, GA 30318 

‍Phone number: +14043650410

Bacchanalia raises the bar for excellent dining to new heights. You will not find greasy fries and cheap hamburgers here. This restaurant is literally named after Bacchus, the Roman god. Bacchus was a god associated with wine, freedom, and pleasure.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Since it first opened its doors in 1993, Bacchanalia has steadily risen in the ranks to become one of Atlanta's most highly regarded dining establishments. Consequently, they fully deserve the title of being the most celebrated restaurant in the city.

Plates at Bacchanalia are airy and inventive. When you visit the restaurant will dish out contemporary American cuisine prepared by Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison. Likewise, the pair own the business and serve as chefs.

The seasonal menu at Bacchanalia relies solely on organic foods, much of which is derived from Anne and Clifford's farm. Henceforth, this ensures that each dining experience at Bacchanalia is both new and distinctive.

Choose from delectable options such as pasture-raised lamb, Maine lobsters, and New York strip steaks. Come in and have a royal feast by chef Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison.

WHAT TO EAT AT BACCHANALIA:

Lamb, lobster and steak.

• Website: Bacchanalia
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Gulf Crab Fritters
• Cuisine: American

2. Nan Thai Fine Dining

Credit: Eric Meadows Photography

Address: 1350 Spring St NW #1, Atlanta, GA 30309 

‍Phone number: +14048709933

When they first opened their restaurant, the Niyomkul Family had a single objective in mind. They aimed to provide Atlanta with the very best Thai dining experience possible. What’s extremely impressive is that this restaurant has won the Four Diamond Award not once, not twice, but 15 times.

Nan Thai in Midtown offers a sophisticated yet genuine excursion into the world of Thai cuisine. You can't miss the restaurant that draws upon generations' worth of culinary expertise. This place is one of the best in Atlanta for a variety of reasons.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

While you dine on some of your favorites like beef short ribs, scallops, and lamb, you can relax in the luxury dining area. You'll notice that the dining area has been decorated in a traditional Thai style.

Chef Nan Niyomkul, a Bangkok native, originally discovered her love of cooking while working with her mother. Her mother was a street vendor in Thailand who preserved the authenticity of Thai cuisine.

Nan persistently started working in fine dining and hotel facilities as soon as she arrived in New York at the age of 19. She moved her family to Atlanta after winning the tastebuds of Americans with her first restaurant, Tamarind.

From Manhattan to Atlanta she has continued to satisfy the dining scene with her award-winning establishment Nan Thai Fine Dining.

The culinary master herself has received numerous prizes and recognition. Niyomkul has also served up delectable dishes at The Miss Universe Dinner and The FedEx Cup Dinner. In addition, she’s created meals for the PGA Tour Championship Dinner and The Master's Champion's Dinner.

Thai cuisine is certainly given a special, warm, and aristocratic touch by Chef Nan, delighting palates everywhere.

WHAT TO EAT AT NAN THAI FINE DINING:

Authentic Thai food with ribs, scallops and lamb.

• Website: Nan Thai Fine Dining
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Kung Pad Thai
• Cuisine: Thai

3. The Optimist

Credit: The Optimist

Address: 914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 

‍Phone number: +14044776260

The Optimist is a monument to chef and owner Ford Fry's dedication to serving only the freshest, highest-quality fish. This lovely eatery is without a doubt one of Atlanta's best seafood establishments. While dining, you'll enjoy an upscale seafood experience.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Enjoy halibut, scallops, swordfish, and any other top-notch seafood you can think of.

The cuisine at this restaurant isn't inexpensive, as you might expect from a place run by a chef who has been named an Empire Builder of the Year by Atlanta magazines.

Ford Fry was a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation Outstanding Restaurateur Award and named Restaurateur of the Year by the Georgia Restaurant Association.

WHAT TO EAT AT THE OPTIMIST:

Swordfish and halibut.

• Website: The Optimist
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Lobster Roll
• Cuisine: Seafood

4. The Sundial

Credit: The Sundial

Address: 210 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 

‍Phone number: +14045897506

The Sundial is often regarded as the pinnacle of tourist attractions in Atlanta. This restaurant is located atop The Westin Peachtree Plaza. Additionally, the location provides guests with breathtaking panoramas of the city that are unavailable at any other establishment.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

On the menu are a number of mouthwatering selections. Be sure to try the braise short ribs and pan-seared sea bass. You will not want to miss it!

Have a good time at the Sundial; and while you're there, check out the cocktail lounge as well as the observatory level.

WHAT TO EAT AT THE SUN DIAL:

Porkchops, pasta and seafood.

• Website: The Sundial
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Pork chops
• Cuisine: American

5. King + Duke

Address: 3060 PEACHTREE RD NW, W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14044773500

The King and Duke place a strong emphasis on fresh and local foods. The chefs at this wonderful restaurant prepare meals thoughtfully and deliver them in a straightforward manner. You'll absolutely love this literary themed restaurant.

The warm and inviting interior features a gorgeous bar crafted from wood and marble. You also can't miss the atmosphere with an intimate dining space, and a sizable outside terrace.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Once you've decided where to seat, you'll be presented with a menu that focuses primarily on meat dishes. If you really want to indulge in some meaty deliciousness, order "The King," which is a bone-in ribeye steak and is served with roasted bone marrow and cippolini chimichurri.

Additionally, the duck steak with black amber plums, charred scallion, and coriander is a hit. You might also want to experience the fire-roasted steak with garlic butter and beef "dripping" fries. You'll love all that King and Duke have to offer.

So why not check out a premium restaurant that pays homage to American culinary standards? While you dine on some of your favorites like trout and pork chops, you may unwind in the dining area that features a hearth that is 24 feet long and serves as the room's focal point.

Consequently, King and Duke is ranked among the top restaurants in Buckhead on multiple occasions.

WHAT TO EAT AT KING + DUKE:

Fire roasted steak, Branzino and rib eye.

• Website: King + Duke
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Branzino
• Cuisine: American

6. Marcel

Credit: Open Table

Address: Address: 1170 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 

‍Phone number: +14046654555

The legendary Ford Fry of Atlanta has done it again with his production of Marcel. You'll quickly grow to love this elegant restaurant offering retro American steakhouse fare amidst fine tableware and elaborate chandeliers!

This luxury steakhouse and bar is in the Westside Provisions shopping district. Fry's restaurant takes guests to a world that their taste buds can only dream of visiting.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Marcel offers all of the most popular cuts. Some favorites include an 8-ounce filet to a 42-ounce porterhouse. These menu items are part of his "pound-for-pound, the greatest steaks money can buy" promotion.

The eatery is a throwback to a time when people appreciated every moment. The restaurant is a time capsule to when love lingered over the tastiest meals.

The name Marcel comes from the well-known French boxer and romantic Marcel Cerdan. Additionally, he also served in the military, got married, and was famously linked with Edith Piaf.

WHAT TO EAT AT MARCEL:

42-ounce porterhouse steak.

• Website: Marcel
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Porterhouse Steak
• Cuisine: Steakhouse

Related Read: 30 Romantic Getaways in Atlanta

7. The Oceanaire

Credit: Open Table

Address: 1100 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30309 

‍Phone number: +14044752277

The Oceanaire blends an unrivaled enthusiasm for seafood with an exquisite dining experience. As a result, it is consistently regarded as one of the best restaurants in Atlanta that specialize in seafood.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

When visiting Atlanta you have to check out this fantastic high-end business serving steaks and seafood.

Not to mention the extensive wine list in an elegant yet dynamic setting. Check out the menu to find fresh and seasonal dishes. Additionally, their menu is prepared with seafood that is delivered fresh every day.

This establishment has numerous accolades, including those for best restaurant for a special occasion and best overall decor; hence, The Oceanaire is one of the best in all of Atlanta.

WHAT TO EAT AT OCEANAIRE:

Alaskan crab legs and prime cut steak.

• Website: The Oceanaire
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Wild Alaskan King Crab
• Cuisine: American Seafood

8. Canoe

Credit: Eater Atlanta

Address: 4199 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 

‍Phone number: +17704322663

Now, this restaurant is not your typical high-end restaurant located in Buckhead or Midtown. At Canoe you will enjoy a rich and tasty experience that appeals to all of your senses. Your time at Canoe will strike a balance between the talent of its chefs and the beauty of the natural surroundings.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The restaurant is one that has been named with a variety of honors for quality. One award, for example, is a spot in the Nation's Restaurant News 2005 Fine Dining Hall of Fame.

Farm-to-table American classics such as roasted pork chops, masala-rubbed sirloin, and truffle mushroom ravioli are available for your dining pleasure.

In addition to that, there is a comprehensive selection of drinks for you to try!

WHAT TO EAT AT CANOE:

• Website: Canoe
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Jumbo Lump Crab Cake
• Cuisine: American

Related Read: The 15 Best Breakfast Restaurants In America

9. Atlas

Credit: Atlanta Magazine

Address: 88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14046006471

It is difficult to find a setting that is more opulent than a dining room adorned with beautiful art. This Atlanta favorite displays multiple items from The Lewis Collection. The elegant atmosphere of Atlas features a venue that is both cultured and inviting.

You will find it has an exceptional collection of modern art from the 20th century. Traditional cuisine is given a contemporary and forward-thinking makeover at Atlas. This is thanks to the acclaimed culinary direction of the establishment.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Their menu draws its inspiration from their ties with regional farms. The chefs make use of produce that is both fresh and in season whenever possible.

The menu is a voyage that focuses on ingredients, provenance, and texture. The result is a potent combination of excellent and unforgettable food. Each dish has its own narrative, and the menu as a whole is like a journey.

The American classic meals provide an experience you won't forget. Before plunging into mouthwatering dishes like poached fish and grilled duck breast, order some delectable spreads for the table like wagyu strips or caviar.

WHAT TO EAT AT ATLAS:

Grilled duck breast and wagyu strips.

• Website: Atlas
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Caviar
• Cuisine: New American

10. Bistro Niko

Credit: Postmates

Address: 3344 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 

‍Phone number: +14042616456

The cuisine at Bistro Niko is classically French. The restaurant attempts to create an ambiance that is evocative of Paris, the city of love.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

This venue is ideal for hosting guests for a wide variety of events. Thanks to the sophisticated dining room that is located inside, as well as the huge terrace that is located outside there is enough space for parties and meetings.

Additionally, you have the option of selecting a wine or cocktail from an extensive variety to go along with your duck, steak, or veal entree.

WHAT TO EAT AT BISTRO NIKO:

Steak and veal entrees.

• Website: Bistro Niko
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Coq Au Vin
• Cuisine: French

11. Chops & Lobster Bar

Address: 70 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14042622675

This fantastic eatery is one of the top restaurants in the entire city. Chops, an upscale restaurant in Atlanta, nails the concept of a "fine restaurant" to the wall. The staff ensures this by providing patrons with dining areas decked out in dark wood and designed to make them feel as though they are in a theater.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Enjoy steaks of the highest caliber and seafood that is delivered fresh every day. Chops is almost always included on lists of the greatest steak establishments in the United States. Henceforth, this is due to its impeccable seafood and prime-aged beef offerings.

Chops is a steakhouse with a refined, luxury aesthetic. Additionally, The Lobster Bar is an expertly thought out seafood bar with a large selection of raw delicacies. The venue is really split into two separate sections: Chops and the Lobster Bar.

The signature dish is an icy water Nova Scotia lobster tail. Chefs prepare this meal by presenting the lobster with Greek honey-mustard aioli sauce and a beautiful lightly fried and crispy lobster.

Likewise, other standouts on the extensive menu include the slightly intimidating Shellfish Tower, which is a giant heap of Maine lobster, jumbo shrimp, cold water oysters, and clams.

WHAT TO EAT AT CHOPS & LOBSTER:

Novia Scotia lobster tail and prime-aged beef.

• Website: Chops & Lobster Bar
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Maryland Style Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes
• Cuisine: Steakhouse & Seafood

12. Bones

Credit: Alexan Buckhead Village

Address: 3130 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14042372663

You will thoroughly appreciate your dining experience at Bones. This local favorite is often ranked as one of the greatest steakhouses in Atlanta.

Additionally it is widely considered to be among the most elegant in the city. Henceforth, you can take pleasure in some of the best steak and wine in the country here at Bones.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

This establishment is a popular destination for high-end business lunches and dinners. Therefore, you will love the restaurant's dining room which is traditionally adorned with draped cloths over the tables.

WHAT TO EAT AT BONES:

Steak and salad.

• Website: Bones
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Filet mignon.
• Cuisine: Steakhouse

13. Kevin Rathbun Steak

Address: 154 Krog St NE STE 200, Atlanta, GA 30307 

‍Phone number: +14045245600

Come live the dream of chef Kevin Rathbun right here at this exclusive ATL restaurant.

This unique establishment has sky-high ceilings and offers a unique look due to its location. Kevin Rathbun Steak is in a restored industrial building. You'll notice the one-of-a-kind charm that sets it apart from other places.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Consequently, steaks of a world-class caliber, such as wagyu steaks and dry-aged ribeyes, may be found on the menu.

Don't leave the wine behind! Atlanta seemed to have been in dire need of a top-notch prime steakhouse for years, and when Chef Kevin Rathbun opened Kevin Rathbun Steak in 2007, he more than met that demand.

Kevin Rathbun Steak is housed in what appears on the outside to be a deceivingly run-down industrial building right next to the train tracks in an industrial area of Atlanta.

However, as soon as you step foot inside the chic, inviting dining area, a new universe opens up. This fascinating restaurant gives guests an insight into a world where only the best cuts of meat, fish, and sides are offered.

WHAT TO EAT AT RATHBUN STEAK:

Seafood and steak, fresh wagyu.

• Website: Kevin Rathbun Steak
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Lobster Fritters
• Cuisine: Steakhouse

14. Aria

Credit: Aria

Address: 490 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14042337673

Aria has been providing one of the city's most exquisite dining experiences for the past 21 years and has big ambitions for the future.

The restaurant is known for its friendly staff, adaptable decor, and often changing menus that highlight fresh ingredients. Chefs utilize straightforward techniques. Consequently, this means you can experience a memorable dinner any day of the week.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

To sate your appetites for old favorites or to commemorate a unique occasion, they are here.

Their dining room provides a relaxing, stylish setting for savoring modern American cuisine. The menu is prepared by Chef Gerry Klaskala. You will enjoy the distinguished wine list and creative cocktails.

Additionally, Kathryn King, the pastry chef's delectable creations make every meal at Aria perfect.

There are à la carte and tasting meal options.

Stop in whenever you feel like it to unwind with a finely made cocktail, a quick bite, or a full meal from our daily-changing à la carte menu in the bar or the neighboring lounge.

Instead of using the same approach every day, Aria strives to be entertaining by employing a dynamic team and offering cuisine that adapts to the changing of the seasons.

Take a seat in the dining room, which exudes an air of sophistication, and indulge in some of the house specialties, such as mountain trout, duck, or filet mignon.

WHAT TO EAT AT ARIA:

Mountain trout and grilled duck.

• Website: Aria
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Short ribs
• Cuisine: New American

15. The Capital Grille

Address: 255 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 

‍Phone number: +14042621162

In Atlanta, Georgia, the upscale and comfortable restaurant known as the Capital Grille can be found in the historic Buckhead neighborhood.

Luxury dining, wines of the world's best quality, and valet parking are awaiting you. The atmosphere at The Capital Grille is one of relaxed sophistication from the moment you enter the restaurant until the moment you leave.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and highly regarded world-class wines are served in an atmosphere that is warm and elegant. Enjoy the African mahogany paneling and Art Deco style.

They strive to provide service that is not only attentive but also gracious. Likewise, you'll want to take some time to relax in the elegant dining room, which features chandeliers and mahogany paneling to create a cozy atmosphere.

After you've gotten comfortable, select your steak and wine, and enjoy the experience.

WHAT TO EAT AT THE CAPITAL GRILLE:

Dry aged steaks and wine.

• Website: The Capital Grille
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Filet mignon
• Cuisine: American Steakhouse & Seafood