Davio’s in Atlanta: What to Know About This Upscale Italian Steakhouse

If you’re searching Atlanta for upscale international cuisine—specifically Italian-inspired steakhouse dining—Davio’s is one of the names that comes up often. This guide walks through what Davio’s is, where it is in Atlanta, what to expect from the menu and atmosphere, and how locals and visitors tend to use it (date nights, business dinners, special occasions, and more).

Where Davio’s Fits into Atlanta’s Dining Scene

Atlanta has no shortage of international restaurants, from Buford Highway’s global strip to high-end destinations in Buckhead and Midtown. Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse fits solidly in the “special-occasion, white-tablecloth” category of international cuisine.

In Atlanta, Davio’s is known for:

  • Upscale Northern Italian dishes combined with classic steakhouse fare
  • A Buckhead location inside Phipps Plaza
  • A setting that works for both business dinners and celebrations
  • A menu that’s more formal than casual neighborhood Italian spots

If you’re comparing where to go for Italian-style fine dining in Atlanta, Davio’s typically sits alongside higher-end Buckhead and Midtown restaurants rather than casual pasta houses.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Primary Atlanta location:

  • Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse – Atlanta (Buckhead)
    Phipps Plaza
    3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
    Phone: Often listed via directory under “Davio’s Phipps Plaza” (call Phipps Plaza guest services if you’re unsure)

Because Davio’s is located in Phipps Plaza, access and logistics are fairly straightforward.

Getting There

  • By car:

    • Phipps Plaza is at the intersection of Peachtree Road NE and Lenox Road in Buckhead.
    • It’s a short drive from GA-400 (exit for Lenox Road) and close to I-85 connectors.
  • By MARTA:

    • Take the Red Line to Lenox Station or Buckhead Station.
    • From Lenox Station, Phipps Plaza is typically within a reasonable walking distance, or a quick ride via rideshare or local bus.

Parking and Arrival Tips

  • Phipps Plaza parking garages generally serve the restaurant; guests often use mall parking and walk in.
  • Valet service may be available at some Phipps Plaza entrances, which many diners prefer for evening or rainy-day reservations.
  • When you arrive, give yourself a few extra minutes to navigate the mall layout, especially on weekends or holiday shopping periods.

📝 Tip: If you’re going for a time-sensitive business dinner or pre-show meal, aim to arrive 15–20 minutes early to account for Buckhead traffic and parking.

Cuisine Style: Northern Italian Meets Classic Steakhouse

Davio’s markets itself as a Northern Italian steakhouse, which in Atlanta usually translates to:

  • High-quality steaks and chops
  • House-made pastas
  • Italian-inspired starters and sides, in a more refined, less “red-sauce” style

You can generally expect:

  • Appetizers:
    • Italian-inspired small plates such as meatballs, burrata, carpaccio, and seafood starters
  • Pastas:
    • House-made pasta dishes featuring rich sauces, seasonal ingredients, and classic Italian profiles
  • Steaks & mains:
    • Traditional steakhouse cuts (like ribeye, filet, strip steak) alongside Italian-style proteins (such as veal, chicken, or seafood preparations)
  • Sides:
    • A mix of steakhouse sides (potatoes, vegetables) and Italian-leaning items
  • Desserts:
    • Classic Italian-influenced sweets (tiramisu-style desserts, gelato-type offerings, and composed plates)

The focus is typically on quality ingredients and polished presentation, rather than experimental or highly modern cuisine. If you enjoy traditional flavors executed in an upscale setting, Davio’s fits that lane.

Atmosphere and Dress Code

Davio’s in Buckhead leans refined and professional rather than casual.

What the Atmosphere Is Like

  • Ambiance:
    • White tablecloths, polished service, more formal than neighborhood Italian bistros
  • Noise level:
    • Can be lively, especially during peak dinner hours, but usually maintains a tone suitable for conversation and business talk
  • Clientele:
    • Mix of Buckhead residents, hotel guests, corporate diners, and special-occasion parties

How to Dress

There’s no need for black tie, but Davio’s is generally considered business casual to dressy casual:

  • Good fit for:
    • Collared shirts, blouses, dresses, dress jeans or slacks, smart shoes
  • May feel out of place:
    • Gym wear, very casual shorts, or overly distressed clothing

If you’re heading there from a conference at a Buckhead hotel or a meeting in a nearby office tower, typical work attire usually fits right in.

When Atlantans Typically Go to Davio’s

Locals and visitors tend to use Davio’s for:

  • Business dinners and client meetings
  • Date nights and anniversaries
  • Family celebrations like birthdays, graduations, or pre-wedding dinners
  • Pre- or post-shopping meals while at Phipps Plaza
  • Occasional holiday outings, especially during mall’s busy seasons

Because Buckhead is a business and shopping hub, Davio’s often draws after-work diners from nearby office buildings and Lenox/Phipps hotels.

Reservations, Wait Times, and Group Dining

For Atlanta, Buckhead restaurants can book up quickly on weekends and event nights.

Reservations

  • Reservations are strongly recommended for:
    • Friday and Saturday evenings
    • Holiday periods
    • Larger groups or special celebrations
  • Walk-ins may be possible, especially on weeknights or earlier in the evening, but wait times can vary.

If you’re planning:

  • A business dinner with multiple attendees
  • A birthday or celebration with a specific time goal (like catching a show afterward)

…it’s wise to arrange your booking ahead of time and note any timing constraints when you reserve.

Private and Group Dining

Davio’s often offers private or semi-private dining options that appeal to Atlanta corporate groups and families celebrating milestones.

Common uses:

  • Corporate dinners or small conferences
  • Rehearsal dinners or engagement celebrations
  • Birthday or retirement parties

If you need space for a group, you can typically call the restaurant directly and ask for:

  • Private dining or events coordinator
  • Information on group menus, minimums, and room sizes

Price Point and What to Expect on the Check

Davio’s fits in the higher-end range for Atlanta restaurants, in line with an upscale Buckhead steakhouse.

You can generally expect:

  • Appetizers: Moderate to higher-priced
  • Pastas: Mid- to upper-range for Italian in Atlanta
  • Steaks and entrées: Comparable to other fine-dining steakhouses in the Buckhead area
  • Drinks and wine: Full bar, with glass and bottle pricing reflecting the formal setting

If you are budget-conscious, common strategies Atlantans use include:

  • Sharing a starter or dessert instead of ordering multiple each
  • Choosing a pasta or non-steak entrée rather than the largest steak cuts
  • Skipping additional sides if the main dish is substantial

Dietary Considerations and Options

Menus at upscale restaurants like Davio’s may change seasonally, but in general, Atlantans with dietary preferences look for:

  • Vegetarian options:
    • Some appetizers and pastas may be vegetarian-friendly.
  • Seafood options:
    • Typically present for those avoiding red meat.
  • Gluten-conscious choices:
    • Some grilled proteins and salads may fit gluten-conscious dining; always confirm ingredients with your server.

If you have specific dietary restrictions (such as gluten intolerance, nut allergies, or dairy concerns), it’s helpful to:

  1. Note your needs when you make the reservation.
  2. Mention them again to your server when you’re seated, so they can guide you to suitable items.

Using Davio’s for Business in Atlanta

Because of its Buckhead location and polished environment, Davio’s is frequently used for:

  • Client dinners for nearby office buildings around Peachtree Road and Lenox
  • Conference-related meals for guests staying in Buckhead hotels
  • Recruiting dinners and team events

Key points for business diners:

  • The atmosphere supports conversation, with professional service and a layout that avoids overly loud bar-focused energy.
  • Staff are typically familiar with corporate dining needs, such as separate checks, expense-friendly itemization, or preset menus for groups.
  • Being inside Phipps Plaza makes it convenient for out-of-town guests who are already familiar with the mall and hotel cluster.

📝 Tip: If you’re hosting an important client, ask when reserving if the restaurant can seat you in a quieter section or more private area.

Special Considerations for Visitors vs. Locals

If You Live in Atlanta

  • Davio’s may become part of your rotation for special occasions—anniversaries, birthdays, or big promotions.
  • It’s convenient if you already frequent Lenox Square or Phipps Plaza for shopping.
  • Planning around Atlanta traffic is key; Buckhead can be congested during rush hour and weekends.

If You’re Visiting Atlanta

  • Staying in Buckhead hotels (along Peachtree Road, Lenox Road, or near GA-400) makes Davio’s easy to reach by a short car ride or, in some cases, a walk.
  • It provides a straightforward way to experience an upscale Atlanta dinner without needing to navigate multiple neighborhoods.
  • Pairing your meal with shopping at Phipps Plaza or visiting nearby Lenox Square is common.

Quick Reference: Davio’s Atlanta at a Glance

AspectDetails (Atlanta – Buckhead)
Type of CuisineNorthern Italian steakhouse (upscale international cuisine)
LocationPhipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
NeighborhoodBuckhead
Typical UsesBusiness dinners, date nights, celebrations, special occasions
AtmosphereRefined, white-tablecloth, professional
Dress CodeBusiness casual to dressy casual
Price RangeHigher-end (similar to other fine Buckhead steakhouses)
Best ForSteaks, Italian-inspired mains, polished service
ReservationsRecommended, especially weekends and groups
Transit AccessNear MARTA Red Line (Lenox/Buckhead stations), GA-400 & Peachtree

If you’re in Atlanta and looking for international cuisine with a classic, upscale feel, Davio’s in Buckhead offers a Northern Italian steakhouse experience that fits business, date nights, and special occasions, all within one of the city’s most central shopping and dining hubs.