R. Thomas Deluxe Grill: A Local Favorite for All-Day Dining in Atlanta

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is one of those only-in-Atlanta restaurants that locals mention when someone asks, “Where can I eat late, eat healthy(ish), and still get classic comfort food?” Located in Buckhead along Peachtree Street, it’s a long-standing, quirky spot that blends a grill-style menu with vegetarian, vegan, and health-conscious options.

If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting and want to understand what makes R. Thomas Deluxe Grill stand out—and how to make the most of a visit—this guide walks through what to expect, what to try, and how it fits into the broader Atlanta dining scene.

Where R. Thomas Deluxe Grill Fits in Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is best understood as:

• A casual grill and diner-style restaurant
• Known for round-the-clock or extended hours (hours may change, so it’s smart to verify before you go)
• A mix of classic American grill favorites and health-focused dishes
• A go-to for late-night eats, brunch-style meals, and quick group gatherings

In a city with everything from high-end steakhouses in Buckhead to Westside food halls and East Atlanta dive spots, R. Thomas holds a niche as:

• More relaxed than Buckhead fine dining
• More varied than many traditional diners, especially for those seeking vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-conscious options
• More atmospheric than a typical grill, thanks to its colorful patio and eclectic décor

Location, Parking, and Getting There

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill – Atlanta Location

• Neighborhood: Buckhead (near Peachtree Hills / Peachtree Battle area)
• Main access: Along Peachtree Street in north Atlanta

Because Peachtree is one of Atlanta’s busiest corridors, it helps to plan your route:

Driving and Parking

• Expect busy traffic, especially during weekday rush hours and weekend evenings.
• There is typically on-site or nearby parking, but spaces can be tight at peak times.
• If you’re coming from Midtown, Downtown, or West Midtown, allow extra travel time—Peachtree traffic can be slow, even over short distances.

Transit and Rideshare

• Nearby MARTA rail stations include Lindbergh Center and Buckhead; from there, a short rideshare trip or bus ride is usually needed.
• Many Atlanta diners use rideshare for late-night or early-morning visits, since service hours can stretch beyond typical public transit times.

Tip: If you’re meeting friends, agree on the front patio area as a landmark—it’s easy to spot from the street and works well as a meetup point.

Atmosphere: What It Feels Like to Dine at R. Thomas

Unlike a typical minimalist modern grill, R. Thomas is known for its vibrant, eclectic, and slightly offbeat vibe.

You can generally expect:

• A colorful, plant-filled patio with a casual, almost tropical feel
• Covered outdoor seating that works in many kinds of weather
• Relaxed, come-as-you-are dress code—common for Atlanta’s mix of locals, students, and visitors
• A mix of families, night-shift workers, industry folks, and late-night diners

If you’re used to sleek Buckhead bars or white-tablecloth Midtown restaurants, R. Thomas feels more like a cozy, neighborhood institution—informal, comfortable, and unpretentious.

Menu Overview: A Grill with Something for Almost Everyone

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is categorized as a grill because of its core offerings: burgers, chicken, fish, and hearty plates. But the menu stretches well beyond standard grill fare, which is part of its appeal in Atlanta.

Typical menu categories include:

• Burgers and Sandwiches
• Grilled Chicken and Fish
• Breakfast and Brunch Items (often served beyond typical breakfast hours)
• Salads and Grain Bowls
• Vegetarian and Vegan Plates
• Juices and Smoothies
• Dessert options (often including pies or cakes)

Expect large portions, a mix of comfort and health-conscious options, and the ability to customize many items.

Classic Grill Items

Some of the more traditional “grill” type items you might find include:

• Beef burgers with various toppings and cheese options
• Turkey or veggie burgers as alternatives
• Grilled chicken sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and sauces
• Grilled fish plates with sides like vegetables or rice
• Fries, sweet potato fries, or home fries

These are the go-tos if you’re craving something familiar, filling, and straightforward.

Health-Conscious and Plant-Forward Options

R. Thomas stands out in Atlanta for offering health-oriented dishes right alongside diner favorites. Consumers who want lighter or plant-focused meals often look for options like:

• Veggie or plant-based burgers
• Tofu or tempeh plates
• Big salads with greens, vegetables, nuts, and optional proteins
• Brown rice, quinoa, and steamed vegetable sides
• Fresh juices and smoothies featuring fruits and vegetables

This makes R. Thomas a convenient meeting point for mixed groups where some want burgers and fries and others want vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-conscious dishes without having to go to a strictly health-food restaurant.

Breakfast, Brunch, and Late-Night Dining

Atlanta has a strong brunch culture, but not every brunch spot stays open late. R. Thomas is notable because its breakfast-style dishes and grill items overlap heavily, and its hours historically stretched into late night.

While current hours can change and should always be checked directly, Atlanta diners often think of R. Thomas for:

• All-day “breakfast for dinner” options like eggs, pancakes, or omelets
• Late-night meals after concerts, events, or late shifts
• A place to eat when other kitchens are closed, especially around Buckhead and Midtown

If you’re planning:

• A post-Fox Theatre or Buckhead nightlife meal
• An early-morning bite after a long drive or airport run
• A flexible brunch time outside of the typical Sunday 11 a.m.–2 p.m. window

…R. Thomas may fit the schedule better than many traditional brunch spots that only operate during certain windows.

Dietary Needs: Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Conscious Dining

For Atlanta residents and visitors with specific dietary needs, R. Thomas can be a practical option because it:

• Typically labels vegetarian and vegan choices clearly
• Offers substitutions like plant-based proteins or different breads/sides
• Often has fresh produce-based dishes rather than only salads

Common ways Atlantans with dietary needs use the menu:

• Vegetarians/Vegans:
  • Order veggie burgers or grain bowls
  • Choose plates with tofu or tempeh
  • Rely on salads, vegetable sides, and rice-based dishes
• Gluten-conscious diners:
  • Ask staff about bun substitutions or lettuce wraps
  • Favor rice, potatoes, and vegetables over breaded items
• Dairy-sensitive diners:
  • Request no cheese or butter on certain items
  • Choose oil-based dressings and vegetable-based sides

As with any Atlanta restaurant, if you have severe allergies or medical dietary restrictions, it’s important to speak directly with staff before ordering to understand how dishes are prepared and whether cross-contact can be avoided.

Price Range and Value for Atlanta Diners

R. Thomas is generally in the mid-range for Atlanta casual dining:

• Typically more than fast food, but less than upscale Buckhead restaurants
• Portions are often hearty, which many locals see as good value, especially for late-night or shared meals
• Fresh juices, smoothies, and specialty items may cost a bit more than standard soft drinks or simple sides

For many Atlanta residents, R. Thomas is a:

• Regular rotation spot for those living or working near Buckhead and Midtown
• Occasional treat for those coming from farther neighborhoods like Decatur, East Atlanta, or the suburbs

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill at a Glance

Here’s a simple summary to help you quickly decide if it fits your plans:

Tips for Atlantans and Visitors Planning a Visit

A few practical pointers can make your experience smoother:

• Check hours before you go.
  Atlanta restaurants sometimes adjust closing times, especially around holidays or major events.

• Expect traffic on Peachtree.
  Build in extra time if you’re heading there from Downtown, Midtown, or I-85/I-75.

• Consider group needs.
  If your party includes meat-eaters, vegetarians, and health-focused diners, R. Thomas is often a convenient compromise spot.

• Be ready for a casual experience.
  This is not a white-tablecloth restaurant; it’s a relaxed, quirky grill where atmosphere leans fun and informal.

• Ask about daily specials.
  Staff can often point you toward seasonal dishes, soups, or fresh juice combinations that aren’t always obvious at first glance.

How R. Thomas Fits Into an Atlanta Day or Night Out

If you’re planning your time in Atlanta, R. Thomas Deluxe Grill often fits in as:

• A post-shopping stop after visiting Buckhead’s retail areas like Lenox Square or Peachtree Battle
• A pre- or post-event meal if you’re coming from Midtown venues, small theaters, or music spots
• A meeting point between intown neighborhoods (Midtown, Virginia-Highland, West Midtown) and northside suburbs

For locals, it can be a standby when:

• You have out-of-town guests who want something “very Atlanta” but not too formal
• You’re out late and want more than fast food
• You want a place where everyone at the table can order something that fits their preferences

R. Thomas Deluxe Grill is a long-time Atlanta grill and diner hybrid: casual, colorful, and flexible enough to handle burgers, breakfast, and plant-based plates all under one roof. If you’re looking for a laid-back, distinctly Atlanta spot that works for different diets and odd hours, it’s a practical option to keep on your short list in the Buckhead–Midtown area.