Iconic Southern Dining

Classic Southern Comfort: Must-Try Dishes

Atlanta's culinary scene is deeply rooted in Southern tradition, offering a treasure trove of classic comfort dishes that reflect the region's rich history and warm hospitality. Here are some must-try Southern comfort dishes that every food enthusiast should experience:

Fried Chicken: Known for its perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy interior, fried chicken in Atlanta is a staple comfort food. Whether served with waffles for brunch or with mashed potatoes and greens for dinner, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that balances flavors and textures.
Shrimp and Grits: This beloved dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy, buttery grits, often accented with bacon, garlic, and a touch of spice. It's a reflection of the culinary influences of the South, bringing together coastal and country flavors.
Pimento Cheese: Often referred to as the caviar of the South, pimento cheese is a creamy, tangy spread made with cheddar cheese and pimentos. It can be enjoyed as a dip, a sandwich filling, or even melted over burgers and fries.
Biscuits and Gravy: A breakfast favorite, this dish features soft, flaky biscuits smothered in a rich, savory gravy made from sausage drippings. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for starting your day on a hearty note.
Collard Greens: Simmered slowly with bacon or ham hocks, collard greens are a quintessential side dish that showcases the Southern knack for making vegetables deliciously rich and flavorful.
Peach Cobbler: With Georgia being the peach state, no list of Southern comfort dishes would be complete without peach cobbler. This dessert features sweet, juicy peaches baked under a golden, buttery crust, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notable Southern Restaurants in Atlanta

Atlanta boasts an array of Southern restaurants that honor traditional flavors while offering their unique twist. Some notable establishments include:

Mary Mac's Tea Room: Established in 1945, Mary Mac's Tea Room is an Atlanta institution known for its classic Southern fare. Guests can savor everything from fried chicken to black-eyed peas in a warm, nostalgic setting that embodies Southern hospitality.
The Colonnade: Serving Atlantans since 1927, The Colonnade is a cherished fixture, famous for its hearty Southern meals like pot roast, fried catfish, and oxtail stew. It remains a beloved spot for those seeking an authentic Southern dining experience.
South City Kitchen: With multiple locations across Atlanta, South City Kitchen offers a contemporary take on Southern cuisine. Dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and smoked pork belly encapsulate the modern Southern dining experience.

Farm-to-Table Establishments

The farm-to-table movement has taken hold in Atlanta, with many restaurants focusing on local and sustainable ingredients. This approach not only supports local farmers but also ensures dishes are fresh and vibrant. Some standout farm-to-table eateries include:

Miller Union: Known for its commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced produce, Miller Union offers a menu that changes with the availability of fresh ingredients. Dishes like farm egg baked in celery cream epitomize the culinary creativity and sustainability focus of the restaurant.
Farm Burger: A casual dining option that puts an emphasis on community sourcing, Farm Burger partners with local farms to provide grass-fed, all-natural beef burgers, topped with seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients.

Historical Restaurants with Southern Flare

Atlanta's history is reflected in its long-standing restaurants, which offer a taste of both the past and the present.

Paschal's: A landmark in Atlanta's civil rights history, Paschal's has been serving soulful Southern dishes since 1947. Known for its famous fried chicken, the restaurant continues to be a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
The Varsity: Established in 1928, The Varsity is not only the world's largest drive-in but also a beloved Atlanta icon. Known for its chili dogs, onion rings, and frosted orange desserts, it offers a nostalgic dining experience with a vibrant ambiance.

These establishments, among others, showcase the depth and diversity of Southern dining in Atlanta, blending tradition, innovation, and history in every bite.