This local legend is billed as the world's biggest drive-in and has been a staple on the Atlanta dining scene since 1928. Countless burgers, fries, shakes and more than two miles of hot dogs are served here every day, along with more Coca-Cola than anywhere else in the world. Dine in your car, seat yourself in one of the many cafeteria-style rooms, or simply order your greasy lunch at the 150-foot (46-meter) long stainless-steel counter and go. The white-tiled diner theme is a welcome throwback to days when drive-ins ruled the fast food scene.
For classic Southern food with an authentic ambiance to match, Mary Mac's is the place to be. Stop by for some hearty tomato pie, beef turnovers, and barbecued ribs to go with beer and cocktails. This bustling restaurant on Ponce de Leon has remained unchanged since 1945, and is as much a cultural experience as it is a culinary one. Regular favorites include fried trout, baked or fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet potato souffle. Catering and delivery services are available as well.
South City Kitchen Midtown offers southern delicacies in a sophisticated atmosphere. Located on Crescent Avenue Northeast, this elegant restaurant features wide tables, minimalistic furnishings, and an elaborate bar. Begin with their specialty crabcakes, try the sorghum-glazed pork belly, or go for a quintessentially southern salad with romaine hearts, okra, and kale. You can head over to this place for a leisurely weekend brunch, and try the bourbon cured salmon, she-crab soup, or grilled fish. Wash it down with a refreshing mimosa, and leave some room for a decadent treat such as vanilla bean cheesecake or banana pudding trifle.
Delicious barbecue and mesmerizing music have combined to make this Midtown spot a local legend. Opt for their ribs slab or pork sandwich with Brunswick stew and collard greens, and wash it down with a chilled beer. Don't leave without a bottle of Fat Matt's Secret Sauce, so you can try their pit-roasted wonders at home. Some of the best local blues bands perform here nightly for your dining enjoyment. It makes for a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy delicious barbecue and great music in Atlanta.
Housed in a former filling station in the heart of downtown Decatur, Leon's Full Service is just that - a full service bar and restaurant focused on fine handcrafted food and drink. An offshoot of the extremely popular Brick Store Pub, Leon's cuisine expands beyond pub fare to more upscale options. Chef Eric Ottensmeyer keeps the menu fresh and seasonal with entrees like wild pan seared scallops and grilled flat iron steak with a zucchini cheddar casserole. Sandwiches, salads, pub frites and snacks - like bacon in a glass - round out the menu. Craft beers are a focus here, but quality wines and spirits are also well represented. The atmosphere is laid-back with an inviting patio perfect for relaxing and enjoying a great meal.
Local Three is one of the most popular restaurants in Atlanta, be prepared to wait awhile or sit at the bar if you don't have a reservation. However long you wait, though, it will be well worth it. The warm and friendly restaurant is covered in all kinds of kitsch and clever pop culture references, which even carries over to the menu oft-times. Specialty cocktails, and a sophisticated liquor and wine selection make it a great place to take your time with the whole dining experience. Once you're ready to eat, the rotating menu always has delicious, expertly made American food, usually with a contemporary twist. The brunch is also to-die-for.
Hidden off the interstate, this local gem of a tavern is always bustling with activity. Whether you go to watch the latest sport match or participate in a cornhole tournament, McCray's Tavern is a friendly and convivial place. Delicious pub grub like burgers and heartier options like the rib-eye steak or grilled rainbow trout, perfectly compliment the 45 beers on tap.