McKendrick’s Steak House in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you’re looking for a classic steakhouse experience in Atlanta, Georgia, McKendrick’s Steak House is one of the names that regularly comes up—especially for those on the north side of the metro area. Here’s a clear, practical guide to what Atlanta diners can expect, how to plan a visit, and whether it fits what you’re looking for.

Where McKendrick’s Fits in Atlanta’s Dining Scene

Atlanta has everything from casual BeltLine spots to high-end steakhouses in Buckhead and Midtown. McKendrick’s Steak House sits firmly in the traditional steakhouse category:

• Located in the Perimeter / Dunwoody area of north Atlanta
• Known for classic, grill-focused preparations (steaks, chops, seafood)
• Often picked for business dinners, special occasions, and date nights

If you live inside the Perimeter, a visit here usually means a quick trip up GA-400 or I‑285. If you’re staying near Perimeter Center, Sandy Springs, or Dunwoody, McKendrick’s is one of the more upscale options close by.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Typical area for McKendrick’s Steak House:

• Area: Near Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody / Sandy Springs corridor
• Access: Convenient to I‑285 and GA‑400, serving both city and suburban diners

Because details can occasionally change, it’s smart to confirm the exact address and current hours before you head out.

Getting there from common Atlanta areas

• From Midtown / Downtown Atlanta:

  • Drive north on I‑85 or I‑75, connect to GA‑400 N, then to I‑285 toward the Perimeter area.
  • Typical drive time outside rush hour: around 20–30 minutes.

• From Buckhead:

  • Head north on GA‑400 or use surface streets up Peachtree-Dunwoody or Ashford Dunwoody toward the Perimeter business district.

• From the northern suburbs (Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek):

  • Take GA‑400 S to the I‑285 area and follow surface streets toward Perimeter Center.

Parking and transportation tips

• Parking: Many diners report on-site or nearby parking, but availability can vary at peak dining times.
• Rideshare: Using services like Uber or Lyft is common, especially if you plan to order wine or cocktails.
• Public transit:
  • The nearest major transit hub is typically Dunwoody or Sandy Springs MARTA stations on the Red Line.
  • From there, a short rideshare or local bus route may be needed, depending on exact location.

What Kind of Steakhouse Experience to Expect

McKendrick’s is often described as a classic, upscale steakhouse rather than a trendy or experimental spot. Diners usually notice:

• Ambience:

  • Dimmer lighting, white tablecloths, and a quieter, more traditional dining room style.
  • Often used for client dinners, anniversaries, or celebrations.

• Service style:

  • Table service with attention to detail, more formal than a casual grill or neighborhood pub.
  • Servers typically walk you through steak cuts, doneness, and sides.

• Dress expectations:

  • Not usually a strict dress code, but business casual and above is most common.
  • In Atlanta terms: collared shirts, blouses, dress jeans or slacks, dresses; shorts and athletic wear are less common at night.

Menu Overview: Steaks, Seafood, and the Grill

As the name suggests, steak is the main focus, with a strong grill component throughout the menu.

Steaks and chops

You can generally expect classic steakhouse cuts, such as:

• Filet mignon
• Ribeye
• New York strip
• Possibly porterhouse or bone-in cuts, depending on season and menu updates

Steaks are commonly:

• Grilled at high heat to develop a crust
• Offered in several levels of doneness (rare to well-done)
• Available with optional add-ons like compound butter, sauces, or crusts at some steakhouses

Tip ✅: In Atlanta, ordering medium-rare is common if you want a warm, red center and maximum tenderness, but choose the doneness you’re most comfortable with.

Seafood and non-steak options

For mixed groups or those who don’t want red meat, you’ll often see:

• Grilled or broiled fish
• Shellfish options (such as shrimp or lobster)
• Chicken or pork chops
• Salads and lighter entrees

This makes McKendrick’s workable for business dinners or families where not everyone wants a steak.

Sides and starters

Like many Atlanta steakhouses, side dishes tend to be hearty and shareable, often ordered separately:

• Potatoes: baked, mashed, au gratin, or fries
• Vegetables: asparagus, spinach, broccoli, or seasonal options
• Starters: shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, salads, or grilled appetizers

If you’re budgeting, remember that at many traditional steakhouses, sides and salads are not included with the steak price.

Price Range and Budgeting

McKendrick’s is typically viewed as an upscale, special-occasion restaurant rather than an everyday spot. While specific prices can change, you can plan around these general patterns:

• Steaks: Often priced per cut and size, in the higher range compared with casual restaurants.
• Sides: Usually ordered à la carte and meant to share.
• Desserts and drinks: Additional and can add up quickly, especially cocktails and wine.

To manage costs:

• Consider sharing sides or desserts.
• If available, check whether bar seating offers slightly different pricing or a smaller-plate menu.
• Factor in tax, tip, and parking or rideshare when planning a total evening budget.

Reservations, Wait Times, and Best Times to Go

In Atlanta, popular steakhouses can fill up quickly, especially in business-heavy areas like Perimeter.

Reservations

• Evenings (especially Thursday–Saturday): Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for prime times between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
• Large groups or business dinners: Booking in advance is helpful so the restaurant can seat you together and plan service accordingly.

You can usually make a reservation:

• By phone
• Through common reservation platforms (check current listing)

Walk-ins

Walk-in seating may be available, but:

• Expect longer waits on weekends and around holidays.
• Bar seating can sometimes be easier to get without a reservation if you’re flexible.

Good Occasions for Choosing McKendrick’s

Because of its traditional steakhouse setup and north-Atlanta location, McKendrick’s often works well for:

• Business dinners around Perimeter Center, Dunwoody, or Sandy Springs
• Celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, and promotions
• Pre- or post-event dinners for those using nearby hotels or corporate offices in the area
• Date nights when you want a quieter, more formal environment than some in-town spots

If you’re looking for rooftop views, live music, or a very casual vibe, this may not be the best fit. If you want classic steaks, solid grill options, and a more traditional dining room, McKendrick’s can match that expectation.

Dietary Needs and Special Requests

Atlanta diners often balance enjoying a steakhouse with dietary preferences or restrictions. While menus can change, most steakhouses like McKendrick’s typically can:

• Accommodate some gluten-avoiding choices, such as grilled meats and simple vegetables (verify sauces and dressings).
• Offer salads or seafood for lighter options.
• Adjust simple preparations, such as cooking without butter or certain seasonings, when possible.

If you have specific needs (gluten-free, dairy-free, low-sodium, or other requirements):

• Call ahead to ask what they can safely do.
• Mention your needs clearly to your server when you’re seated.

Tips for Locals vs. Visitors

If you live in Atlanta

• Traffic planning:

  • The Perimeter area can be congested during evening rush hour (especially along I‑285 and GA‑400).
  • Aim for slightly later reservations if you’re coming from Midtown, Decatur, or the Westside on a weekday.

• Choosing occasions:

  • Use McKendrick’s for times when you want a polished, sit-down steakhouse rather than a quick meal or casual bar food.

If you’re visiting Atlanta

• Staying near Perimeter Mall or Dunwoody:
  • McKendrick’s is a convenient option if you’re based in one of the many hotels in this area.
• Coming from Downtown, Midtown, or near Mercedes-Benz Stadium:
  • Factor in travel time and rideshare costs if you choose a north Perimeter dinner rather than an in-town spot.
• Business travelers:
  • If your meetings are in Perimeter Center, Sandy Springs, or along the I‑285 corridor, McKendrick’s is a typical choice for client dinners.

How to Decide if McKendrick’s Is Right for You

Use this quick guide to see if it aligns with what you want from an Atlanta meal:

If your priorities line up with the left column, McKendrick’s can be a strong choice within the Atlanta steakhouse and grill category. If you’d rather have something more casual, trend-driven, or located closer to downtown neighborhoods, you may want to explore other Atlanta spots better matched to that style.