Kimball House: A Local’s Guide to One of Atlanta’s Most Acclaimed Restaurants

If you’re looking for fine dining in Atlanta that still feels relaxed, neighborly, and distinctly local, Kimball House in Decatur is one of the city’s standout destinations. Known for its serious approach to food and cocktails—and its not-at-all-serious, welcoming vibe—it’s a spot that Atlanta residents and visitors often put at the top of their “must-try” list.

Below is a practical guide to what Kimball House is like, how to plan a visit, and what to know so you get the most out of your night there.

Where Kimball House Fits in Atlanta’s Dining Scene

Kimball House sits in the sub-category of fine dining and chef-driven restaurants, but it doesn’t feel stiff or overly formal. Think:

• High-end ingredients and careful technique
• Inventive cocktails and one of the city’s strongest bar programs
• A comfortable, bustling room in a former train depot in downtown Decatur

For Atlanta, it hits a sweet spot between neighborhood hangout and special-occasion restaurant. Locals go for dates, anniversaries, and also for a midweek martini and a dozen oysters at the bar.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Address
Kimball House
303 East Howard Avenue
Decatur, GA 30030

This puts it in the heart of downtown Decatur, just east of Atlanta proper.

Getting there from around Atlanta

• From Midtown/Old Fourth Ward: A straightforward drive down Ponce de Leon Avenue into Decatur, then a short turn off toward East Howard Avenue.
• From Buckhead: Most people use Peachtree to Ponce or take I-85/I-285 connections, depending on traffic.
• From Hartsfield–Jackson Airport: Typically via I-75/85 north, then east toward Decatur; rideshare is common for visitors.

MARTA access

• Decatur MARTA Station is a short walk away, making it one of the more transit-friendly fine dining options in metro Atlanta. If you don’t want to deal with parking, this is a popular choice.

Parking tips

• There is street parking and nearby public lots/garages in downtown Decatur.
• On busy nights (especially weekends between about 6:30–8:30 p.m.), spots closest to the restaurant can fill up quickly. Arriving a little early or planning time to walk a block or two can make things smoother.

Atmosphere: What It Feels Like Inside

Kimball House is set in a renovated train depot, and the room leans into that history:

• High ceilings, big windows, and vintage-style details
• A long, handsome bar that runs the length of the space
• A mix of two-tops, banquettes, and group tables

The overall atmosphere is:

• Lively but not chaotic – noise level can be energetic at peak times, especially around the bar
• Romantic but not stuffy – dim lighting and cozy seating work well for date nights
• Dress flexible – you’ll see everything from smart-casual to more dressed-up; most Atlantans aim for neat jeans with a button-down or blouse, or a casual dress

If you’re used to Atlanta’s more laid-back, “come-as-you-are” vibe, Kimball House fits right in—just elevated.

Reservations, Wait Times, and How to Plan

Kimball House is popular with both in-town diners and Decatur regulars, so planning ahead is important.

Reservations

• Strongly recommended, especially:
  • Thursday through Saturday
  • Prime times (about 6:30–8:30 p.m.)
  • Holidays and big event weekends in Atlanta
• If you’re planning a special occasion (birthday, anniversary, celebration dinner before a show at the Fox or a concert at the Eastern), booking as early as possible is wise.

Walk-ins

Walk-ins are sometimes possible, particularly:

• Earlier in the evening on weekdays
• At the bar or limited walk-up seating

If you’re flexible, you can sometimes grab:

• Seats at the bar for cocktails and full dinner service
• A later slot after the first dinner rush has passed

For Atlantans used to spontaneous bar dining, Kimball House is a solid option, but you’ll want a backup plan in downtown Decatur in case it’s completely full.

What Kimball House Is Known For

1. Oysters and Raw Bar

Kimball House is frequently associated with its oyster program, which many locals consider among the best in metro Atlanta.

You’ll typically find:

• A rotating selection of oysters from different coasts, often listed with details like:
  • Region
  • Flavor notes (briny, sweet, creamy, etc.)
• A dedicated raw bar section with:
  • Oysters on the half shell
  • Occasionally other chilled seafood options

For Atlantans who love seafood, this makes Kimball House a go-to spot before or after events in Decatur, or a destination all its own.

💡 Tip: If you’re unsure which oysters to order, ask the server or bartender for a mixed selection tailored to what you like—milder vs. more briny, for example.

2. Thoughtful, Seasonal Food

The menu changes regularly, based on:

• Seasonal produce
• What local and regional purveyors are supplying
• The chef’s evolving ideas

You can generally expect:

• Carefully composed plates with a mix of classic and creative elements
• Protein-focused mains (fish, poultry, beef, or pork), often with inventive sauces and sides
• Starters that might feature vegetables, local cheeses, or more oysters and seafood

This makes Kimball House appealing for those who enjoy chef-driven, seasonal cuisine but still want a comforting, accessible dinner.

Cocktails and Drinks

Kimball House is just as well known for its bar program as its food.

Cocktails

At the bar, you’ll commonly see:

• A cocktail list that blends:
  • Classic drinks (martinis, Manhattans, sours, etc.)
  • Original creations with unique bitters, syrups, and spirits
• A strong focus on:
  • Balance and technique
  • House-made elements (like syrups or tinctures)

Many Atlanta cocktail enthusiasts place Kimball House among the top spots in the city for a serious drink, whether you’re just grabbing a pre-dinner cocktail or spending a whole evening at the bar.

Other beverage options

• A beer and wine list that’s curated to pair with the food
• Non-alcoholic options can typically be requested, and bartenders often will create a zero-proof cocktail if you ask for something without alcohol but with flavor and complexity.

Price Range and What to Expect on the Bill

Kimball House is in the higher-end range for Atlanta dining, reflecting:

• Premium ingredients (especially oysters and seafood)
• Labor-intensive cocktails and dishes
• The overall fine-dining approach

In practical terms:

• Oysters are typically priced per piece or by the half-dozen/dozen
• Appetizers and mains are priced in line with other upscale, chef-driven spots in Atlanta
• Cocktails are premium-level, similar to other serious cocktail bars in the city

For Atlantans deciding where to spend for a special dinner, Kimball House is often treated as a “worth it” splurge when oysters, cocktails, and ambiance are priorities.

Seating Options: Dining Room vs. Bar

You can approach Kimball House in two main ways, depending on the experience you’re after.

Dining Room

Best for:

• Date nights and anniversaries
• Small groups or family celebrations
• A more traditional, seated dinner experience

In the dining room, you’ll typically get:

• A bit more space
• Easier conversation at busy times
• Full access to the menu

Bar

Best for:

• Solo diners
• Last-minute plans
• Those focused on oysters and cocktails

At the bar, you’ll get:

• A front-row seat to the cocktail-making
• A more energetic, social vibe
• The ability to mix and match drinks, raw bar, and smaller plates at a more casual pace

When to Go: Timing Your Visit

Early Evening (5–7 p.m.)

• Often easier to get seats, especially on weekdays
• Good for:
  • After-work outings from Midtown, Downtown, or Decatur
  • Pre-concert or pre-show dinners

Prime Time (7–9 p.m.)

• The busiest window, particularly Thursday through Saturday
• Best reserved in advance
• Livelier energy, fuller dining room and bar

Later Night

• Depending on the day, a good choice if you:
  • Prefer a more relaxed pace
  • Are coming from another event and want a nightcap and snack

How Kimball House Compares to Other Atlanta Fine Dining Spots

While Atlanta has many fine dining restaurants, Kimball House is distinct because:

• It’s in Decatur, giving it a slightly different feel from intown spots in Midtown, Inman Park, or Buckhead.
• It combines a serious raw bar and cocktail program with a warm, neighborhood energy.
• The building’s historic train depot setting gives it character that feels tied to the Atlanta area’s history and rail corridors.

Atlanta diners who enjoy chef-driven food, but dislike overly formal settings, tend to appreciate Kimball House’s balance of craft and comfort.

Quick Reference: Planning a Visit to Kimball House

Tips for Atlantans and Visitors

• Plan ahead for weekends. Reservations and parking both require some forethought.
• Use MARTA if you can. Decatur’s station is close, and it avoids traffic and parking stress—especially during festivals or events.
• Consider the bar if you’re flexible. Many locals treat the bar as a go-to for a spontaneous outing.
• Ask questions. Whether it’s oysters, cocktails, or the nightly specials, staff are used to helping diners navigate the menu.

For anyone living in Atlanta, visiting from out of town, or exploring Decatur’s growing food scene, Kimball House is one of the clearest examples of what fine dining looks like when it’s rooted in local character, thoughtful cooking, and a strong sense of place.