Bonefish Grill in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go
If you search for “Bonefish Grill” in Atlanta, Georgia, you’re likely looking for fresh seafood, wood-fired grilled dishes, and a casual-but-polished atmosphere that works for date night, family meals, or a relaxed business dinner. This guide focuses specifically on how Bonefish Grill fits into the Atlanta dining scene—where locations are, what to expect from the menu, and how to plan your visit around Atlanta traffic, neighborhoods, and local habits.
Where You’ll Find Bonefish Grill in the Atlanta Area
Bonefish Grill does not have a location in the dense downtown/Midtown core, but there are several spots in the greater Atlanta metro area that residents commonly use, especially in the northern suburbs and near major commuting corridors.
Common Atlanta-area locations include:
- Alpharetta / North Point area – Convenient for those in North Fulton and nearby Johns Creek or Roswell.
- Duluth / Gwinnett area – Often used by people coming from Peachtree Corners, Norcross, and north Gwinnett.
- Kennesaw / Cobb County – A go-to for northwest metro residents.
- Other suburban sites – You may also find Bonefish Grill in shopping centers or near interstates around the metro.
Because exact locations can change over time, it’s wise to:
- Search for “Bonefish Grill near Atlanta GA” with your preferred map app.
- Check hours and current address for each site before driving—Atlanta traffic can make a wrong turn a bigger hassle than it needs to be.
If you’re staying in Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport, you’ll probably be driving 20–45 minutes (depending on traffic) to reach a Bonefish Grill.
What Bonefish Grill Is Known For
Atmosphere
Bonefish Grill typically feels like a casual upscale grill:
- Dimmer lighting and modern decor in the dining room
- A full bar area that’s louder and more social
- Comfortable for families, date nights, and group dinners
- Dress codes are generally relaxed—business casual or neat casual fits right in
In the Atlanta area, many Bonefish Grill locations sit in or near busy shopping centers, so parking is usually surface-lot parking rather than garages.
Style of Food
Bonefish Grill is centered around:
- Grilled seafood (salmon, sea bass, shrimp, scallops, etc.)
- Wood-fired preparations with sauces like lemon butter, chimichurri, or Asian-inspired glazes
- A mix of seafood-focused appetizers, salads, handhelds (sandwiches, tacos), and a few steak or chicken options for non–seafood eaters
For Atlantans, it’s often used as:
- A reliable seafood option in the suburbs where independent seafood restaurants may be less concentrated
- A spot for special but not overly formal occasions—birthdays, pre-movie dinners, or small celebrations
Popular Dishes and Drinks Atlantans Often Look For
Menu details can change, but some commonly recognized items you’re likely to see on an Atlanta-area Bonefish Grill menu include:
Starters
- Bang Bang Shrimp – Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce; probably the most talked-about appetizer.
- Calamari or mussels – Usually prepared with light breading or broth-based sauces.
- Crab cakes – Often served with a remoulade or aioli-style sauce.
Entrees
- Grilled fish – Salmon, sea bass, mahi-mahi, or similar varieties, with a choice of sauces and seasonal sides.
- Seafood combos – Shrimp, scallops, and fish combinations, often grilled or wood-fired.
- Steak or surf-and-turf – For mixed groups where not everyone wants seafood.
- Bowls or pasta dishes – Sometimes featuring shrimp or salmon.
Sides and Salads
- Seasonal vegetables – Asparagus, green beans, or mixed veg.
- Potato-based sides – Including mashed potatoes or au gratin-style dishes.
- House and Caesar salads – Often used as a lighter starter or side.
Drinks
Bonefish Grill usually emphasizes:
- Signature cocktails – Often fruity or citrus-forward, plus martinis and seasonal drinks.
- Wine list and beer – With options that pair with seafood.
- Zero-proof drinks – Non-alcoholic options for those who prefer not to drink.
In Atlanta, many guests build their visit around cocktails and appetizers at the bar, then move to a table, especially on weekend evenings.
Reservations, Wait Times, and Best Times to Go in Atlanta
Reservations vs. Walk-Ins
Bonefish Grill often accepts reservations and also accommodates walk-ins, but Atlanta patterns matter:
- Friday and Saturday evenings tend to be busiest, especially between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
- Locations near popular shopping areas can see a spike right after typical mall hours or weekend errands.
If you’re planning:
- A group dinner
- A birthday or special occasion
- Or you’re trying to avoid a long wait after driving through Atlanta traffic
…calling ahead for a reservation or checking in via the restaurant’s online system (where available) is usually worth it.
Timing Tips for Atlanta Drivers 🚗
Because Atlanta traffic can be unpredictable:
- If you’re coming from Intown Atlanta (Downtown, Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, Westside) to a suburban Bonefish Grill, allow extra time for evening rush hour.
- Weeknight dinners before 6:00 p.m. are often the calmest, with easier parking and shorter waits.
- Sunday early dinners can be popular with families, but still often more relaxed than Friday/Saturday prime time.
Pricing and What to Expect on the Check
Pricing can vary somewhat by location and over time, but in the Atlanta market, most diners experience Bonefish Grill as a mid-to-upper casual price point, below fine dining but above basic chains.
You can generally expect:
- Appetizers – Moderately priced; sharable starters can help groups manage cost.
- Entrees – Seafood plates and steak typically cost more than burgers or sandwiches at casual chains, but are usually in line with other sit-down grills.
- Alcohol – Cocktails and wine can raise the per-person total quickly, especially if you’re ordering several rounds.
Atlanta diners often use Bonefish Grill as:
- A “nice but not overly fancy” dinner option
- A place where they feel comfortable splitting appetizers or desserts to moderate the bill
If cost is a concern, asking about daily specials or happy hour offerings (when available) can help you plan.
Dietary Considerations and Customization
Many Atlantans are navigating dietary restrictions or preferences, and Bonefish Grill usually has some flexibility.
Common Options
- Grilled fish without heavy sauces – Often suitable for people seeking lighter meals.
- Vegetable sides and salads – Can sometimes be combined into a full plate.
- Sauces on the side – Often an option if you want more control over ingredients.
If you or someone in your group has:
- Food allergies (seafood, shellfish, dairy, gluten, nuts)
- Religious or cultural restrictions
- Specific ingredient concerns
…it’s important to:
- Tell your server clearly and early, and
- Ask if the kitchen can modify specific dishes (grilling without butter, omitting certain garnishes, etc.).
Bonefish Grill staff are generally familiar with common requests, but each Atlanta-area location may handle things slightly differently based on their kitchen setup.
Family-Friendly, Date Night, or Group Spot?
In the Atlanta area, Bonefish Grill can flex into different roles depending on your needs.
For Families
- Booth seating is common and works well with kids.
- Menu options like fried shrimp, fish and chips, or chicken dishes can satisfy younger or less adventurous eaters.
- Noise levels on weekend evenings may be higher, which some families actually prefer because it feels more casual and less formal.
For Date Night
- Dim lighting and an atmosphere that feels a bit more polished than typical casual chains.
- Shareable appetizers and cocktails can frame the meal as more relaxed and social.
- Suburban locations often double as a pre- or post-movie dinner option if they’re near theaters.
For Groups and Celebrations
- Many Atlanta-area locations can arrange tables for larger parties, especially if you call ahead.
- Good fit for birthday dinners, work outings, or extended family gatherings where you want something nicer but still accessible.
If you’re coordinating a large group, calling the specific location to ask about:
- Group size limits
- Separate checks
- Special occasion desserts or plating
…can smooth out the evening.
Takeout, Curbside, and Delivery in the Atlanta Metro
Atlanta residents often rely on takeout and delivery due to busy schedules and heavy traffic. Bonefish Grill locations around Atlanta typically offer:
- Call-ahead or online ordering for pickup
- Curbside service at some locations, where staff bring food to your car
- Delivery through third-party apps, depending on the service coverage in your specific neighborhood
For best results in Atlanta:
- Double-check the exact address of the location you’re ordering from—several suburbs have similarly named streets.
- If you’re ordering through a delivery app, verify the estimated delivery time, especially during rush hour or bad weather, when delays are common.
Quick Comparison: When Bonefish Grill Makes Sense in Atlanta
Here’s a simple reference to decide if Bonefish Grill fits what you’re looking for:
| Situation | Is Bonefish Grill a Good Fit? | Notes for Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| You want seafood without going downtown | Yes | Suburban locations often easier to access and park. |
| You’re planning a nice but not formal date night | Yes | Good lighting, cocktails, and atmosphere. |
| You need very fast, grab-and-go food | Not ideal | Better suited for sit-down or planned takeout. |
| You’re staying in Midtown and don’t want to drive | Less convenient | Expect a drive or rideshare to the suburbs. |
| You have a large group with mixed tastes | Often yes | Seafood plus steak, chicken, and salads. |
Practical Tips for Atlanta Diners
Use these pointers to make your Bonefish Grill visit smoother:
- Plan around traffic: If you’re coming from inside the Perimeter (ITP) to an outer-suburb location, consider leaving earlier than you think you need, especially on weeknights.
- Check hours and reservations: Hours can vary by location and by day; holidays and major events can affect availability.
- Mention special occasions: If it’s a birthday, anniversary, or graduation dinner, let the staff know when you’re seated.
- Ask about seasonal dishes: Menus often rotate with seasonal seafood and side options that may be particularly fresh or unique.
For Atlanta residents and visitors, Bonefish Grill is best thought of as a reliable, seafood-focused grill option in the metro’s suburban corridors—a solid choice when you want grilled seafood, a comfortable atmosphere, and a sit-down experience without heading into the city’s fine-dining districts.