I always seek out places that offer something out of the ordinary. Atlanta, with its ever-growing culinary scene, is home to some of the most innovative and creative dining experiences in the United States. From dishes that push the boundaries of flavor to restaurants that bring a whole new level of creativity to their ambiance, Atlanta is definitely a city for foodies who want more than just a traditional dining experience.
In this article, I’m going to take you through five of the most creative restaurants in Atlanta. These spots are not only known for their delicious food but also for the way they blend culture, atmosphere, and gastronomy. Each of them offers something that you won’t find elsewhere, making them perfect for anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
1. The Optimist
Location: 914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318
Price Range: $40-$80 per person
Best Dish to Try: The Lobster Roll, a buttery delight with fresh lobster chunks, avocado, and a subtle but irresistible aioli.
Why It’s Creative:
One of the things that immediately sets The Optimist apart is its ambiance. This is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Located in a former industrial building, The Optimist combines high-end seafood dining with a relaxed coastal vibe. The restaurant’s open and airy design, with large windows and exposed brick, gives off a “beachy” feel that makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into a chic seaside eatery.
The creative twist comes in the way The Optimist transforms seafood into something fresh and unexpected. Their Grilled Oysters are a prime example of their creative take on seafood; perfectly charred and served with an herbaceous butter that melts in your mouth.
What You Can Expect:
- Atmosphere: The nautical-inspired décor is beautiful, with stunning ocean-blue tones, driftwood tables, and plush seating.
- Menu Highlights: In addition to the Lobster Roll, don’t miss their Shrimp & Grits with a smoky touch and their Oysters Rockefeller, which are made with a savory Parmesan-basil crust.
How to Reserve & Save:
You can book a reservation directly through their website or on OpenTable. The Optimist tends to get busy, especially on weekends, so it’s always a good idea to reserve a table well in advance. If you’re looking to save, check out Resy for potential discounts on off-peak times.
2. Ponce City Market: Bellina Alimentari
Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Price Range: $20-$45 per person
Best Dish to Try: Handmade Pasta—fresh, perfectly chewy, and paired with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, sage, and ricotta.
Why It’s Creative:
Located in the iconic Ponce City Market, Bellina Alimentari is an Italian-inspired spot that focuses on simple yet flavorful food. What makes this restaurant unique is its dedication to serving locally-sourced, organic ingredients while staying true to classic Italian traditions. Their twist lies in how they reinterpret Italian classics with Southern flair, making for a fusion that delights the palate.
Their menu changes seasonally, meaning you’re always going to experience something fresh and new. The handmade pastas are a must-try—each one crafted with careful attention to detail, creating an authentic yet modern take on Italian dining. The addition of local Southern ingredients, such as grits or Georgia-grown vegetables, makes each dish uniquely Southern and Italian at the same time.
What You Can Expect:
- Atmosphere: Bellina is both modern and cozy, with its open kitchen, chic décor, and vibrant energy. The casual vibe makes it a great spot for everything from a romantic dinner to a casual family gathering.
- Menu Highlights: Don’t miss their charcuterie boards, which are beautifully arranged with local cheeses, meats, and pickled veggies. Their margherita pizza is also worth noting, with a thin, crisp crust and fresh, local mozzarella.
How to Reserve & Save:
For reservations, visit Resy or OpenTable for the easiest way to secure your spot. Ponce City Market can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so planning ahead is essential. You can also save by visiting during happy hours (check for seasonal promotions) when they often offer discounts on wines and small bites.
3. Kimball House
Location: 303 E Howard Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
Price Range: $45-$90 per person
Best Dish to Try: Raw Oysters, paired with their house-made mignonette or cocktail sauce, offering a sublime balance of oceanic freshness.
Why It’s Creative:
When it comes to creative dining experiences, Kimball House takes the art of mixology and culinary imagination to a whole new level. Known for its unique, seasonally-inspired cocktails and its upscale, modern take on seafood, Kimball House combines the best of a craft cocktail bar with sophisticated dining. Their seafood—especially the oysters—is some of the freshest in the city, and they specialize in offering a tasting experience that highlights the flavors of the sea with unexpected twists.
A particularly fun feature is their rotating cocktail menu, which changes seasonally and often features local distilleries. The bartenders here are experts in blending ingredients and creating combinations you’ve never thought of, making it a must-visit for any cocktail lover.
What You Can Expect:
- Atmosphere: The restaurant has a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. The décor is a blend of vintage and modern, with high ceilings, dark wood, and subtle lighting, giving it an elegant yet cozy vibe.
- Menu Highlights: In addition to their amazing oysters, try their Chicken Liver Mousse paired with toasted brioche or their Seared Scallops, which are perfectly crisp on the outside and melt in your mouth.
How to Reserve & Save:
Kimball House is often busy due to its popularity, so I highly recommend making a reservation through Resy or OpenTable. They frequently offer special deals, such as prix-fixe dinner menus, which provide great value. Check their website for happy hour specials, which feature discounted drinks and small plates.
4. Staplehouse
Location: 541 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Price Range: $50-$150 per person (depending on tasting menu)
Best Dish to Try: The Tasting Menu, a multi-course experience where each dish is carefully curated and presented with artful flair.
Why It’s Creative:
Staplehouse is where the art of fine dining meets creativity and sustainability. This Michelin-worthy gem takes pride in using locally-sourced, organic ingredients to create modern American dishes with a twist. One of the unique aspects of Staplehouse is their tasting menu, which changes frequently and challenges diners with bold, experimental flavors that elevate the concept of fine dining. This is a place where food truly becomes an experience, one that you won’t find anywhere else.
Chef-owner Ryan Smith and his team have created a menu that’s innovative but not pretentious. Instead of focusing on just the presentation, they ensure that each dish tells a story and evokes emotion, making it a place for true food lovers.
What You Can Expect:
- Atmosphere: Staplehouse has a minimalist, intimate vibe, with a small dining room and an open kitchen where guests can watch chefs prepare each dish with precision.
- Menu Highlights: The tasting menu is a must, offering dishes like duck with beet puree and truffle oil risotto—each course is beautifully presented and designed to surprise and delight.
How to Reserve & Save:
Reservations are a must and can be made through Resy or directly through their website. The tasting menu is on the pricier side, but it’s well worth it for a special occasion. To save, consider visiting during less busy times or booking for lunch, as prices tend to be more affordable.
5. Aviva by Kameel
Location: 209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Price Range: $15-$25 per person
Best Dish to Try: Shawarma Plate, featuring perfectly seasoned meat, creamy hummus, and fresh pita, offering a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
Why It’s Creative:
Aviva by Kameel combines Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create a dining experience that’s both unique and healthy. The restaurant’s creative spin comes in how they serve their Mediterranean dishes with a modern, elevated approach. The Shawarma Plate, which is made with perfectly seasoned, grilled meat, is a standout. It’s served alongside homemade pita, fresh hummus, and a salad of crisp vegetables, making it a balanced yet indulgent meal.
The best part? Aviva’s commitment to serving high-quality ingredients and using sustainable practices makes it a fantastic option for those looking to eat well while supporting the community.
What You Can Expect:
- Atmosphere: Aviva’s decor is bright, modern, and welcoming, with clean lines and earthy tones. It’s casual but chic, making it perfect for a relaxed but flavorful meal.
- Menu Highlights: In addition to the Shawarma Plate, try their Falafel or Lamb Kofta for an unforgettable combination of spices and flavors.
How to Reserve & Save:
Aviva doesn’t typically require reservations, but it can
get crowded during peak lunch hours. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the rush, and check out Yelp or OpenTable for potential discounts or special offers.
Where to Book Your Dining Experience
Booking your meals at these creative restaurants is easy, and it’s always helpful to use platforms like:
- OpenTable: A popular platform for booking reservations and finding exclusive discounts at top restaurants.
- Resy: Another great platform that offers easy reservations and occasionally offers specials at certain restaurants.
- Yelp: Not only can you read reviews, but you can often find special offers or deals that may not be available elsewhere.
- Grubhub or UberEats: If you’re craving a meal but can’t make it to the restaurant, these platforms allow you to order from your favorite spots for delivery or pick-up.
Atlanta offers a culinary scene that’s rich with flavor, creativity, and innovation. Each of these restaurants showcases a unique approach to dining, from experimental tasting menus to unexpected flavor combinations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something different, these creative spots are sure to provide an unforgettable dining experience.
