What food is Atlanta known for?
What Food is Atlanta Known For?
Atlanta, GA isn’t just the capital of the South—it’s a powerhouse of deliciousness, a city where food tells the story of culture, history, and innovation all on one plate. So, what food is Atlanta known for? Pull up a chair, because this is a feast you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the famous foods in Atlanta that make the city a culinary star on America’s dining map.
The Heartbeat of Atlanta: Southern Classics with a Twist
Imagine savoring crispy, double-battered fried chicken that’s been perfected over generations. That’s exactly what you get in Atlanta. This city has elevated fried chicken from humble Southern comfort food to an art form. At spots like Paschal’s, which became a hub during the Civil Rights movement, their Famous 1947 Fried Chicken still draws crowds. Nearby, Mary Mac’s Tea Room serves up their iconic sweet tea alongside succulent fried chicken, creating a combo that’s downright poetic.
Why is this important? According to a 2023 survey by Eater, Atlanta ranks in the top five U.S. cities for Southern culinary traditions, particularly fried chicken. This is your go-to comfort if you want taste-with-history.
Barbecue — The ATL’s Smoked Symphony
If barbecue in Texas is a gospel, then Atlanta sings it in soulful reverence. From tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs and mouthwatering pulled pork, barbecue in Atlanta, GA is a smoky celebration of flavor. The city’s barbecue joints blend traditional Southern flavors with local twists that keep both longtime carnivores and adventurous eaters coming back for more.
Check out the BBQ Smackdown—Atlanta’s beloved competition that spotlights the best barbecue masters—and you’ll see just how fiercely proud ATL is about this famous food. The vibrant pitmaster scene here has grown exponentially, reinforcing Atlanta's status as a barbecue heavyweight rivaling Kansas City and Texas.
Burgers with Swagger: More Than Just Meat Between Buns
You may think burgers are all the same, but Atlanta’s burger scene laughs in the face of that cliché. Hungry foodies flock to places like Hobnob to sample the Strawberry Aioli Burger or FLIP Burger Boutique to experience the Butcher’s Cut—a sophisticated mashup of Angus beef, Emmi Roth buttermilk bleu cheese, and red wine jam. Not to mention the Krispy Kreme Burger at Cypress Street Pint & Plate—yes, that’s a glazed doughnut bun ringing your burger’s dinner bell.
The takeaway? Atlanta’s burger game is serious business and diverse enough to sway the dairy-free and meatless crowds alike, featuring options from Wonderkid and Slutty Vegan.
Meat-And-Three: The Southern Tradition That’s Here to Stay
If you want a true taste of Atlanta’s soul food bursting with flavor and history, try a meat-and-three plate. Pick your protein—fried chicken, ham, or meatloaf—then add three sides like creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, or crispy fried green tomatoes. This is comfort food that sticks with you in the best way.
Places like The Colonnade and Busy Bee Cafe are institutions where locals and visitors alike indulge in hearty plates paired with cornbread and that iconic tall glass of sweet tea.
Sweet Tea — The Southern Sip That’s More Than Just a Drink
Ah, sweet tea — arguably Atlanta’s most famous drink companion. Served ice cold and sweet enough to make your tongue tap dance, it’s a staple alongside just about every meal. At Mary Mac's Tea Room, sweet tea is practically liquid sunshine, making it the perfect foil to spicy or fried dishes. It’s so beloved that some food historians credit the drink for helping to define Southern hospitality.
Global Flavors Abound on Buford Highway
Atlanta’s culinary spirit isn’t confined to Southern staples. Head to Buford Highway and you’re transported via your taste buds to Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Latin America. Dine on Stone Bowls at Woo Nam Jeong, savor a fiery chicken curry at Penang, or cool off with a fruit-infused ice pop from King of Pops, famous for flavors like Thai iced tea and chocolate sea salt.
Atlanta’s international cuisine scene proves that it’s not just a Southern city—it’s a global food hub.
Craft Beers & Adult Milkshakes — The Unexpected Stars
Atlanta’s craft beer scene is buzzing, with local breweries like Monday Night Brewing and Red Brick crafting everything from crisp German pilsners to fruity sour ales. The city combines this hop-heavy culture with the adult milkshake craze—think bourbon-spiked shakes at FLIP Burger Boutique—that give diners a little kick while they dine.
It’s delicious innovation that’s putting Atlanta on the map far beyond traditional fare.
The Varsity Experience: Fried Pies & Naked Dogs
No mention of Atlanta food is complete without The Varsity. Since 1928, this fast-food icon has been serving "naked dog walkin’" hot dogs, frosted orange shakes (FOs), and fried pies—a trifecta of pure ATL nostalgia. Grab a Varsity hat and join the ritual; it’s an experience as much as a meal.
Why Atlanta’s Famous Foods Matter to You
Because it’s more than eating—it’s storytelling. Each dish connects you to Atlanta’s rich culture, history, and evolving identity. Whether you’re grabbing a quick "naked dog" or indulging in slow-smoked BBQ, you’re biting into tradition and innovation all at once. For food lovers, travelers, or locals, exploring the famous foods in Atlanta is a delicious journey worth savoring.
Quick Guide to Famous Foods in Atlanta, GA
Fried Chicken – Try Paschal’s 1947 recipe or Busy Bee Cafe’s juicy plate.
Barbecue – Explore places featured in BBQ Smackdown competition.
Burgers – Unique flavors await at Hobnob, FLIP Burger Boutique & Slutty Vegan.
Meat-and-Three – Hearty southern comfort plates at The Colonnade.
Sweet Tea – The ultimate Southern refreshment, especially at Mary Mac’s.
International Eats – Globe-trot via Buford Highway’s Korean, Vietnamese & Latin stalls.
Craft Brews & Adult Milkshakes – Sampling local brews and boozy shakes is a must.
The Varsity – The iconic naked dog and frosted shake combo.
FAQs About Atlanta’s Famous Foods
Q: Is fried chicken really that big in Atlanta?
Absolutely. It’s central to ATL culinary identity, with several iconic spots preserving recipes from decades ago.
Q: Where can I find authentic Southern barbecue in Atlanta?
Try the restaurants featured in the BBQ Smackdown or long-standing smokehouses in the city.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options for famous Atlanta foods?
Yes! Places like Slutty Vegan and Wonderkid offer meatless & dairy-free alternatives without skimping on flavor.
Q: What is a meat and three plate?
A classic Southern meal featuring one meat and three sides, often served with cornbread.
Q: Can I sip local craft beer with my Southern meal?
Definitely! Atlanta’s craft breweries offer a wide range, perfect for pairing with any dish.
Atlanta’s food scene invites you on a journey of flavor, culture, and community. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or someone who just loves a great meal, the famous foods in Atlanta, GA will surprise and delight you.
Hungry to discover more? Make your next visit a culinary adventure in ATL and taste the stories for yourself.
📞 Contact: Ken Price
📍 Title: Real Estate Agent
📲 Phone: 404-786-8295
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://kenpricesellsatlanta.com
Did this post inspire your appetite or travel plans? Hit the comments below and share your favorite Atlanta dish or restaurant! Don’t forget to share this with your food-loving friends who need a taste of the ATL.
