101 Steak in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you’re looking for a modern grill and steakhouse experience in the Atlanta area, 101 Steak in Vinings (Smyrna/Atlanta border) is one of the better-known spots locals consider for date nights, business dinners, and special occasions. Here’s a detailed, Atlanta-focused guide to what to expect, how to plan a visit, and how it fits into the city’s broader dining scene.

Where 101 Steak Fits in Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene

Atlanta has no shortage of steakhouses, from classic downtown institutions to trendy spots in Buckhead and the suburbs. 101 Steak sits in the Vinings/Jonquil area near the Chattahoochee River, which makes it convenient if you:

• Live in Vinings, Smyrna, or northwest Atlanta
• Are staying near Cumberland, Truist Park / The Battery Atlanta
• Want a steakhouse that feels upscale but not as formal as some Buckhead options

It’s generally viewed as a contemporary American grill with a strong focus on steaks, chops, and seafood, plus a sizable wine program and a full bar.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Approximate area: Vinings / Smyrna, just outside the I‑285 perimeter on the northwest side of Atlanta.

You can typically reach 101 Steak:

• By car: Easy access from I‑285 and Atlanta Road. Many diners drive from neighborhoods like Midtown, West Midtown, Buckhead, and Sandy Springs because traffic on this side of the perimeter is often more manageable in the evenings than driving across town.
• Parking: The area generally offers on-site or nearby surface parking or shared lot parking. Many locals find it less stressful than parking in denser neighborhoods like Midtown or Downtown, but it’s still smart to arrive 10–15 minutes early on weekends.
• Rideshare: If you’re coming from downtown, Midtown, or near the airport, rideshare is often easiest, especially if you plan to enjoy cocktails or wine.

If you’re staying near The Battery / Truist Park, 101 Steak is typically a short drive away and can be a quieter alternative to the ballpark crowds.

Atmosphere: What It Feels Like Inside

101 Steak is usually described as:

• Upscale casual: Think cloth napkins, polished service, and a well-designed space, but not overly formal.
• Suitable for multiple occasions:
  • Date nights
  • Business dinners
  • Family celebrations (older kids/teens tend to fit better than toddlers during peak hours)
• Lively but not club-like: The bar area can be energetic, especially on weekends or game nights, while the dining room tends to be more relaxed.

Dress code: Atlanta diners often choose smart casual here:

• Men: collared shirt or nice polo, jeans or slacks; jackets are optional.
• Women: casual dresses, nice jeans, or evening tops. Athletic wear, very casual flip-flops, or game-day jerseys may stand out during dinner service, especially on weekends.

What’s on the Menu at 101 Steak

Because menus can change over time, expect seasonal adjustments and occasional specials. In general, the offerings align with what you’d expect from a modern steak and grill in Atlanta.

Steak and Grilled Meats

You’ll usually find:

• Ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon
• Possibly dry-aged cuts or bone-in options depending on the current menu
• Customizable temps and add-ons, such as:
  • Compound butters
  • Sauces (peppercorn, béarnaise, etc.)
  • Toppings like blue cheese or mushrooms

Steak lovers in Atlanta often compare 101 Steak with in-town steakhouses in Buckhead or Midtown. 101 Steak tends to appeal to those who want high-quality beef without going all the way into central Atlanta or paying the very top-tier prices.

Seafood and Non-Steak Options

For mixed groups, it’s helpful that 101 Steak typically offers:

• Seafood dishes (such as scallops, salmon, or daily fish offerings)
• Chicken or pork entrées
• Burgers or more casual grill items (especially at lunch or in the bar area)
• Vegetarian sides and sometimes a dedicated vegetarian entrée

Because many Atlanta groups include at least one non–steak eater, 101 Steak often works fine for mixed preferences—but it’s still a steak-forward restaurant.

Starters, Sides, and Shareables

Common features include:

• Appetizers: Items like shrimp, calamari, charcuterie, or creative takes on classic steakhouse starters.
• Sides: Usually served in shareable portions, with options like:
  • Creamed spinach or other sautéed greens
  • Mashed or roasted potatoes
  • Mac and cheese or similar comfort sides
  • Seasonal vegetables

Ordering several sides for the table is a common practice in Atlanta steakhouses and works well here too.

Drinks, Wine, and Bar Experience

101 Steak is known for a robust wine and cocktail program:

• Wine: A sizable list that often includes familiar labels and some higher-end selections. It tends to attract guests who want to pair a special bottle with a celebratory meal.
• Cocktails: Classic and house-specialty cocktails, bourbon, and whiskey are popular, especially with Atlanta’s strong whiskey culture.
• Bar seating: The bar area is often a good option if:
  • You’re dining solo or as a couple
  • Didn’t plan ahead with a reservation
  • Want a lighter meal or to share a few appetizers before or after an event

Price Range and Budget Tips

Most diners consider 101 Steak to be:

• Moderate to high-priced for Atlanta, in line with upscale steakhouses.
• A place you might choose for:
  • Date nights
  • Celebrations
  • Client dinners
  • Pre- or post-event meals around Truist Park or the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Typical budget expectations (approximate, not exact):

• Entrées: Higher than a casual neighborhood grill, lower than the absolute top-tier steakhouses in Buckhead
• Steaks with sides: Expect to pay separately for steaks and sides, as is standard at many steakhouses
• Drinks: Cocktails and wine by the glass are usually in line with other upscale Atlanta restaurants

💡 Money-saving tips:

• Check if they offer happy hour or bar specials on certain days.
• Consider sharing sides—they’re often large enough for 2–3 people.
• If you’re mainly curious about the food but not up for a full steak dinner, sitting at the bar for appetizers can be more budget-friendly.

Reservations, Wait Times, and Best Times to Go

Because 101 Steak attracts both locals and visitors:

• Reservations are strongly recommended, especially:
  • Thursday–Saturday evenings
  • Around major holidays
  • On nights with big games or concerts nearby
• Walk-ins: Often possible at earlier times or on weekdays, but you may find the bar area more flexible for last-minute plans.

In Atlanta, traffic can be a bigger concern than the table wait:

• If you’re coming from Brookhaven, Decatur, or East Atlanta, plan extra time during weekday rush hour.
• If you’re planning dinner before a Braves game, leave more cushion than you think you need.

Good Occasions for 101 Steak

101 Steak tends to work well for:

• Anniversaries and birthdays
• Business dinners with clients or colleagues in Cobb County or northwest Atlanta
• Date nights when you want something a little more polished than a casual grill
• Pre- or post-event meals if you’re visiting:
  • Truist Park
  • The Battery Atlanta
  • Cobb Galleria Centre
  • Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Because of its location, it’s especially convenient if you live or are staying on the northwest side of the metro area.

Accessibility and Dietary Considerations

Like many modern Atlanta restaurants, 101 Steak typically makes efforts to accommodate various needs, but options may vary by season and menu updates. In general:

• Allergies and restrictions: It’s a good idea to call ahead or mention dietary needs with your reservation. Many diners report that Atlanta kitchens can often adjust:
  • Sauces
  • Sides
  • Cooking methods
• Gluten-conscious options: Many grilled items and simple preparations can be tailored if you request it.
• Vegetarian diners: While it’s a steak-focused menu, sides and some appetizers may work for vegetarians. If you’re going with a group that includes vegetarians or vegans, it’s wise to:
  • Review a current menu in advance.
  • Call the restaurant to ask about flexible options.

Quick Snapshot: Is 101 Steak Right for You?

How 101 Steak Compares to Other Atlanta Grills

Within Atlanta’s broad grill and steakhouse category:

• Compared to downtown/Midtown steakhouses:
  101 Steak may feel less formal and less touristy, with more of a neighborhood clientele from Vinings, Smyrna, and northwest Atlanta.
• Compared to Buckhead steakhouses:
  It’s often perceived as slightly more relaxed and convenient if you live or work closer to Cobb County.
• Compared to casual neighborhood grills:
  It’s typically more expensive and more refined, with a heavier emphasis on steak, wine, and special-occasion dining.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Diners

To make the most of a visit to 101 Steak:

1. Reserve early for weekend dinners or when planning around big events at Truist Park or the Cobb Galleria area.
2. Plan for traffic if you’re coming from across town—northwest Atlanta can be busy near I‑285 and I‑75, especially on game days.
3. Ask about specials—many Atlanta grills offer seasonal dishes that don’t always appear on printed menus.
4. Share sides and starters to sample more of the menu without over-ordering.
5. Consider bar seating if your reservation options are limited or you’re dining solo.

For someone living in or visiting Atlanta, 101 Steak is best thought of as a northwest-side, special-occasion-friendly grill and steakhouse with a broad enough menu and atmosphere to handle date nights, business dinners, and celebratory meals without feeling overly formal.