Brainchild of the multifaceted owner and chef Ford Fry, The Optimist brings an authentic seafood experience to the city of Atlanta. Nestled in an old ham-aging house, this beautiful Midtown restaurant provides its visitors with menu items such as fresh oysters, Maine sea scallops, roasted trout from right here in Georgia, and so much more. In addition to the establishment’s cozy aesthetic (especially during the warmer months), the beer, wine, and cocktail selections makes The Optimist the perfect place whether you’re hanging out with friends, connecting with that special someone, or just looking for a bite to eat.

Georgia native Kevin Gillespie named this East Atlanta restaurant as a tribute to his childhood and the relationship he had with his father. It is this emotional connection that makes Gunshow one of the best spots in the city if you’re looking for a unique culinary experience. Offering a bold, interactive take on the traditional dining experience, dishes are presented to guests tableside by the chefs and cooks that prepared them. Also, your cocktails are made tableside on a rolling cart where you can chat with the bartender about the drinks being made. In a nutshell, Gunshow is a dinner and a show all in one.

Owned by Chef Brian So and Sommelier Daniel Crawford, Spring features a menu of seasonally inspired dishes paired with a second-to-none wine selection. The food at this acclaimed restaurant contains ingredients that support local farmers and artisans, and includes items such as tuna tartare, roasted ribeye, strawberry sorbet, and more. Its brick-layed interior and rustic decor is not only perfect for a late-evening meal, but is also a prime location to hold any event—whether it’s an anniversary, wedding, birthday party, or friendly get together.

In the heart of East Atlanta Village you can find Argosy, a dimly lit establishment that is the go-to spot for the best wood-fired pizzas in the city. The menu includes specialty bottled beers both local and abroad, specialty cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Its bar set-up is built for optimal seating, so you’re sure to meet a friend or two whenever you decide to pop in. If you look up, the TV screens sit right above the top-shelf liquor selections—ideal for anyone wanting to watch an exciting game or a great movie.

Established in 2013, The General Muir at Emory Point is a modern American restaurant inspired by classic New York Jewish deli, returning it to its hand-crafted roots. With a second location opening in 2021, both serve breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch, and also offers an espresso bar serving locally-roasted Dancing Goats coffee as well as a full bar of wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails. The menu boasts traditional favorites like pastrami on rye, the reuben, and a classic take on the popular tuna melt, making TGM a spot popular with visitors and locals alike.

With various locations throughout the city, it’s something about the Midtown spot that brings a different energy. Nestled amidst a string of phenomenal restaurants, South City Kitchen has a menu filled with items such as She-Crab soup to a beautifully cut NY Strip. Their nationally known wine list features a bevy of selections from Reds, Whites and Sparkling. The Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with their many seafood options, and the Pinot Noir is the perfect nightcap after an exciting evening. With the summer month in full effect, make sure to enjoy your meal at their exquisite outside patio.