Down-Home Cooking to Upscale Chic: Dining in Atlanta

But Atlanta is also a large place, and as such has big-city dining options. Do not be surprised when you find virtually every type of international cuisine here. The city's numerous ethnic restaurants run the gamut from cheap to egregiously expensive. Moreover, Atlanta is no stranger to modern food movements, with a number of health and environmentally conscious “green” restaurants open around town. These cater to the country club crowd and vegan art students. Be advised, however, that dining at some of the popular spots can require a reservation well in advance.

So get right in there and try some local delicacies. Head over to Matt's Rib Shack, where everyone from lawyers to construction workers gets their fingers sticky with some of the best barbecue sauce in the South. This is a great introduction to southern barbeque and a must on the list of any visitor checking out famous places to eat in Atlanta. For another example of excellent down-home cooking, this time with a Louisiana bayou twist, try the Front Page News. This establishment’s Sunday brunch draws a line that sometimes snakes around the block. The jambalaya here has been turning heads for quite a while, and the house bloody Mary has just the right amount of spice.

When searching for fried chicken, cheese grits, buttered greens, side-sticking ribs and fluffy waffles, there are tons of budget eating options in the city of Atlanta. But there is also a wide selection of restaurants that offer an upscale take on Southern soul food. One fine choice is the Watershed, a truly memorable culinary experience. This touch of class presents traditional Southern fare with great style. While the ambience leans toward elegant, the attitudes of the serving staff and the management are very friendly. Tuesday is fried chicken night at the Watershed. You just might end up saying that here this special dish is among the finest you have ever had.