The Sun Dial in Atlanta: What to Know About This Sky-High International Dining Experience

If you’re looking for one of the most distinctive dining experiences in Atlanta, The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View is likely already on your radar. Perched atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza in downtown Atlanta, The Sun Dial is known for its panoramic skyline views and a menu that leans into upscale, globally inspired cuisine with a strong Atlanta influence.

Here’s a detailed, practical guide to help you decide if The Sun Dial fits your plans—whether you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting the city and want a memorable meal in the sky.

Where The Sun Dial Fits in Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene

The Sun Dial is best understood as:

• A fine-dining restaurant with international cuisine influences
• A destination spot for special occasions, date nights, and out-of-town guests
• A view-focused experience that highlights downtown Atlanta from above

You’ll find it at:

The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View
210 Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(Inside the Westin Peachtree Plaza, top floors)

Because of its combination of elevated menu, dressier atmosphere, and skyline views, locals often consider it for:

• Anniversaries and birthdays
• Graduation or celebration dinners
• Impressing business clients or colleagues
• Showing visitors a “wow” view of Atlanta

Atmosphere and Experience: What It’s Like at The Sun Dial

The View and Setting

The defining feature is the 360-degree view of Atlanta’s skyline. From this height, you can usually see:

• Downtown landmarks like State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• Midtown Atlanta and, on clear days, out toward Buckhead
• The general spread of the city’s tree canopy, especially dramatic around sunrise or sunset

Depending on your timing and table, you may see the city transition from daylight to the “lights on” nighttime skyline, which is a big reason many people choose evening reservations.

Vibe and Dress Code

The Sun Dial leans toward upscale but not overly formal. Many guests wear:

• Business casual or dressy casual
• Dresses, button-down shirts, slacks, or nice jeans with dress shoes
• Jackets and heels are common but typically not required

For Atlanta residents, think of it as dressier than most neighborhood spots, but not as strict as a black-tie venue. Visitors who aren’t sure usually feel comfortable aiming slightly more formal than a typical casual dinner out.

The Menu: International Cuisine with a Local Lean

The Sun Dial’s menu changes periodically, but it typically reflects:

• Internationally inspired dishes (European, American, and global touches)
• Regional Southern ingredients and Atlanta-specific flavors
• A focus on seafood, steaks, and refined modern dishes

You might see:

• Starters with Mediterranean, French, or pan-Asian influences
• Entrées like upscale cuts of meat, seafood preparations, and seasonally inspired plates
• Desserts that blend classic European techniques with Southern ingredients

While it isn’t a “traditional” ethnic restaurant tied to one country, it fits comfortably into international cuisine because the menu draws from multiple global culinary styles rather than focusing only on Southern food.

If you have dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-conscious preferences, it’s common practice in Atlanta to:

• Check a current menu in advance
• Call the restaurant directly to ask about accommodations

Many fine-dining restaurants in Atlanta can adjust certain dishes or recommend suitable options when given notice.

Price Point and Budgeting for a Visit

For most Atlanta diners, The Sun Dial falls into the special-occasion price range.

You can typically expect:

• Higher prices than casual spots around Midtown and Inman Park
• A cost structure more in line with downtown hotel fine dining

To manage costs:

• Consider going for drinks and appetizers at the bar if you mainly want the view
• Plan for tax, tip, and any parking or rideshare costs when budgeting
• If you’re local, watch for weekday or off-peak reservations, which can feel more relaxed and less rushed

Reservations, Timing, and Crowd Patterns

Reservations

For Atlanta residents and visitors alike, reservations are strongly recommended, especially:

• Weekends (Friday and Saturday nights are typically busiest)
• Major holidays (Mother’s Day, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, etc.)
• Days with conventions or big events downtown

Walk-ins may be possible at slower times, but you’ll have the best experience by planning ahead, especially if you want prime window seating or a specific time.

Best Time to Go

Different times of day offer different experiences:

• Just before sunset
  • Great for seeing the city in daylight and then watching the skyline light up
  • Popular for date nights and photos
• Later evening reservations
  • Focus on nighttime city lights
  • Can be more romantic and less crowded than the early dinner rush
• Earlier seatings
  • Often more family-friendly and can be easier with kids or older relatives

In Atlanta, traffic can vary, especially around rush hour and during big events. Give yourself extra time to get downtown, park, and reach the restaurant level.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

The Sun Dial is located in downtown Atlanta, inside the Westin Peachtree Plaza, a well-known cylindrical glass tower that’s easy to recognize on the skyline.

Getting There

Common ways locals and visitors reach The Sun Dial:

• Driving:
  • Use the hotel’s address: 210 Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Plan for valet or paid parking in or near the hotel
• MARTA (Atlanta’s rail system):
  • The Peachtree Center station is within a short walk
  • This can be convenient if you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport
• Rideshare or taxi:
  • Helpful if you want to avoid downtown parking and traffic
  • Common choice for locals on weekend nights

If you’re unfamiliar with downtown Atlanta, it’s a good idea to:

• Allow extra time for finding the correct hotel entrance
• Follow posted signs or ask hotel staff how to get to The Sun Dial elevators

Special Occasions and Group Dining

The Sun Dial is a frequent choice in Atlanta for:

• Anniversaries and birthday celebrations
• Marriage proposals and romantic milestones
• Business dinners with visiting clients or partners
• Family celebrations when relatives are visiting the city

If you’re planning a special occasion:

• Mention it when you make the reservation
• Ask about window seating preferences (availability will vary)
• Inquire whether they can help with dessert notes, simple decorations, or timing for any surprises

For larger groups or private dining, many Atlanta hotels (including those with restaurants like The Sun Dial) often provide:

• Set menus or prix-fixe options
• Dedicated spaces or semi-private areas
• A point of contact for event planning

If you’re organizing a corporate or large family outing, it’s useful to call ahead and ask about group policies, deposits, and minimums.

Tips for Locals vs. Visitors

If You Live in Atlanta

• Use The Sun Dial as a “showcase” spot when friends or family come to town and want a single, memorable view of the city.
• Consider timing a visit when traffic is lighter, such as late-week evenings or Sundays.
• If you mainly want the view, you might plan a bar visit for cocktails rather than a full, multi-course meal.

If You’re Visiting Atlanta

• Factor in transportation time and parking or MARTA costs when comparing it to other dining options.
• If you’re staying downtown, you may be able to walk from your hotel, which avoids parking altogether.
• Plan around other downtown attractions—such as the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or Centennial Olympic Park—to make a full day before heading up for dinner and views.

Quick Reference: The Sun Dial at a Glance

For anyone in or coming to Atlanta who wants international-style cuisine paired with one of the most recognizable views in the city, The Sun Dial is a well-known option. With some planning around reservations, timing, and budget, it can be a memorable addition to your Atlanta dining experience.