Pittypat’s Porch in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go
If you search for “Pitty Pat’s Restaurant Atlanta”, you’re almost certainly looking for Pittypat’s Porch, a long‑running Southern restaurant in downtown Atlanta that has become a local landmark for classic comfort food and old‑school charm.
Below is a practical guide to what Pittypat’s Porch is, where it is, what to expect from the menu and atmosphere, and how it fits into Atlanta’s dining scene today.
Where Pittypat’s Porch Is in Atlanta
Location:
Pittypat’s Porch
25 Andrew Young International Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 525‑8228 (commonly listed; verify before calling, as numbers can change)
The restaurant sits in downtown Atlanta, close to:
- Peachtree Street
- CNN Center
- Georgia World Congress Center
- State Farm Arena
- Many major downtown hotels
If you’re staying downtown for a convention, concert, or game, Pittypat’s Porch is usually within a short walk or quick rideshare.
Getting There
MARTA rail:
- The nearest major MARTA stations are typically Peachtree Center and Five Points.
- From Peachtree Center, you can usually walk a few blocks to reach Andrew Young International Blvd NW.
Driving & parking:
- Downtown Atlanta has a mix of parking decks, lots, and limited street parking.
- Many visitors use nearby pay lots or hotel garages and walk over.
Walking downtown:
- The area is heavily trafficked on event nights. Build in extra time if there’s a game at State Farm Arena or a large Georgia World Congress Center event.
What Kind of Restaurant Pittypat’s Porch Is
Pittypat’s Porch is best understood as a traditional Southern restaurant with:
- A Gone With the Wind–inspired theme (Pittypat Hamilton is a character in the story)
- Old‑fashioned décor like rocking chairs, porch‑style touches, and vintage details
- A focus on Southern comfort dishes and hospitality‑driven service
It appeals to:
- Visitors looking for a “classic Atlanta” dining experience
- Locals who enjoy nostalgic, sit‑down Southern meals
- Groups and families who want familiar, hearty food in a relaxed setting
If you’re seeking trendy small plates or highly experimental cuisine, this is not that kind of spot. If you want fried chicken, biscuits, and sweet tea in a setting that leans into Southern nostalgia, it’s much closer to that experience.
Atmosphere: What It Feels Like Inside
Expect a cozy, old‑Atlanta vibe:
- Decor: Dark wood, portraits, Southern memorabilia, porch elements
- Seating: Traditional dining rooms, with a feeling closer to a family dining room or parlor than a modern minimalist restaurant
- Noise level: Usually moderate; it can get louder when there are larger groups or during peak tourist times
- Dress code: Generally casual to smart casual
- Jeans and a nice shirt fit in just fine
- Business casual is common for conventioneers and downtown workers
Many diners describe it as feeling a bit like stepping back in time, which is part of the charm for some and a bit dated for others. If you like character and history, that’s a plus.
Menu Overview: What Pittypat’s Porch Serves
Menu details can change, but the core identity of Pittypat’s Porch is traditional Southern cooking. You can expect a variety of:
- Fried and roasted meats
- Slow‑cooked sides
- Hearty, carb‑forward dishes
- Classic Southern desserts
Here’s a general overview (not an exact menu):
Typical Starters and Snacks
- Fried green tomatoes
- Hushpuppies or cornbread
- Southern‑style dips or spreads
These are the kinds of appetizers you might split at the table while you look over the main dishes.
Main Courses
Common types of entrées include:
- Fried chicken – often one of the most requested Southern staples
- Catfish or other fried fish – sometimes blackened or grilled options as well
- Pork dishes – such as pork chops with Southern sides
- Beef options – like steak or pot roast, depending on the current menu
- Shrimp and other seafood – prepared with classic Southern seasoning styles
Vegetarian and vegan options may be more limited compared with newer Atlanta restaurants, so if you have specific dietary needs, it can help to call ahead and ask what’s available.
Side Dishes
Side dishes are a big part of the draw for many diners. You’re likely to find:
- Collard greens
- Mashed potatoes or candied yams
- Black‑eyed peas or field peas
- Macaroni and cheese
- Green beans
- Biscuits or cornbread
These sides are often rich, buttery, and savory, consistent with traditional Southern home cooking.
Desserts
Expect classic Southern desserts, such as:
- Pecan pie
- Peach cobbler
- Bread pudding
- Layer cakes or chocolate desserts
If you’re visiting from out of town and want a “this tastes like the South” dessert, dessert here is usually one of the highlights.
Typical Price Range and Dining Style
Prices change over time, but Pittypat’s Porch generally falls in the mid‑range for sit‑down dining in downtown Atlanta.
You can expect:
- Entrées: Usually in a moderate range (not fast food prices, but not the most upscale in the city either)
- Sides and desserts: Add‑on costs that can increase the bill if you order several per person
- Drinks: Standard pricing for iced tea, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages
For planning:
- Couples: Many locals and visitors plan for a full sit‑down dinner with appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a drink or two.
- Families or groups: Costs can add up with multiple entrées and shared sides; some groups split desserts or appetizers to keep the bill balanced.
Reservations, Hours, and Best Times to Go
Because hours and policies can change, especially in a city that sees shifts from conventions and tourism, it’s wise to confirm details directly before you go.
Common patterns to be aware of:
Reservations:
- Often recommended for weekends, large groups, and convention weeks.
- Walk‑ins may be easier on weekdays.
Busy times:
- Evenings before big events at State Farm Arena or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium can be busy.
- Tourist-heavy seasons, like spring and early summer, often see more visitors downtown.
Lunch vs. dinner:
- Some downtown restaurants adjust lunch and dinner service based on business demand.
- It’s worth checking whether Pittypat’s Porch is open for lunch, dinner, or both on the day you plan to visit.
☎️ Tip: Call ahead earlier in the day to check today’s hours, wait times, and reservation availability, especially if you’re on a fixed schedule for an event or flight.
How Pittypat’s Porch Fits Into Atlanta’s Food Scene
Atlanta has a very diverse restaurant scene, and Pittypat’s Porch occupies a specific niche:
- Historic, nostalgic Southern rather than modern or fusion
- Tourist‑friendly but also familiar to many locals
- A good option if you’re staying downtown and want Southern food within walking distance
If you’re exploring beyond downtown, you’ll find many other Southern and soul food spots in neighborhoods like:
- West End
- East Atlanta
- Old Fourth Ward
- Decatur
Those areas have everything from casual counter‑service to chef‑driven takes on Southern cooking, but Pittypat’s Porch remains one of the better‑known names within downtown itself.
Quick Reference: Is Pittypat’s Porch Right for You?
| Question | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Type of food? | Traditional Southern comfort food (fried chicken, fish, classic sides) |
| Location? | Downtown Atlanta, near major hotels and attractions |
| Atmosphere? | Old‑fashioned, nostalgic, “classic Atlanta” vibe |
| Dress code? | Casual to smart casual |
| Good for out‑of‑towners? | Yes, especially if you want a traditional Southern dinner near attractions |
| Vegetarian/vegan options? | Likely limited; best to call ahead |
| Good for large groups? | Often, yes, but reservations are recommended |
Practical Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors
For Atlanta residents:
- It can be a nice option for hosting out‑of‑town guests who want “Southern food in Atlanta” without traveling far from downtown.
- If you work in or near downtown, it may work for team dinners or client meals when a traditional atmosphere is preferred.
For visitors:
- Build a visit to Pittypat’s Porch around nearby activities such as:
- A CNN Center tour
- A visit to the College Football Hall of Fame
- A walk through Centennial Olympic Park
- An event at State Farm Arena or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
- Check if there are large events in the area the day you plan to go; downtown can be much busier on those days.
If you’re searching for “Pitty Pat’s Restaurant Atlanta”, you’re effectively looking for Pittypat’s Porch, a longstanding downtown restaurant that offers a traditional Southern dining experience with a strong sense of Atlanta history and location. Calling ahead to confirm current hours, menu options, and reservations will help you decide if it’s the right choice for your visit or night out.