Many people associate Atlanta with Coca-Cola, the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., and the 1996 Olympic Games. Yet what many people don’t realize is that there are several tiny communities snuggled surrounding Downtown and Midtown Atlanta, all with fantastic local restaurants.
Atlanta is regarded for having some of the top restaurants in the nation, including those run by famous chefs such as Kevin Gillespie, Ford Fry, and Kevin Rathbun, to mention a few.
Inman Park, Atlanta’s first suburb, lies about two miles east of downtown Atlanta. The Victorian-style houses, local parks, and closeness to the recently enlarged Atlanta Beltline distinguish the area. The part that runs through Inman Park was the first piece of the Beltline to be finished, and it has resulted in enormous increase in housing, which has led to the establishment of many of the top restaurants in Inman Park. Breweries and restaurants abound throughout this neighborhood, serving some of the greatest cuisine in Inman Park.
Not in the mood to dine out tonight? Click here to have Grubhub deliver right to your door from the greatest restaurants in town.
When in Atlanta, don’t miss out on the following activities that will help you immerse yourself in the city (get them while they’re hot!):
- Georgia Aquarium: Skip-the-Purchase-Line Tickets
- Zoo Atlanta: General Admission Ticket
- Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus
- Atlanta: Downtown, Midtown or Eastside Segway Tour
The Top 10 Restaurants in Inman Park
Rafis and Nina
404.549.8997661 Auburn Avenue NE 404.549.8997661
Nina and Rafis is one of the most recent additions to SPX Alley along the Beltline, having debuted in December 2018. It was a collaboration between Old 4th Ward Pizza and Hampton & Hudsons. Old 4th Ward Pizza relocated from the Intown area to the suburbs, bringing with them their famed Grandmas Pie. So there was a lot of enthusiasm around the opening, with the expectation of Grandmas Pie returning to the community.
Although Grandma’s Pie has yet to emerge, there are plenty of other excellent options on the menu. They are well renowned for their speciality pies, but their Parmesan Heroes and other Italian favorites are also delicious. The speciality pies include thick crust Detroit-style pies and standard thin crust pies.
Any of the meals go nicely with an appetizer and salad. Be warned: the servings are large enough to share in parties of two or more. The Pizzeria Salad, Rice Balls, Grilled Artichokes, and Meatballs are all favorites.
On a sunny day, they will open all the doors to let sunlight inside the restaurant. You may also sit outdoors and people-watch since the restaurant stands on top of the Beltline, giving it a one-of-a-kind Inman Park dining experience.
Fish and Drinks by Watchmans
404.254.014199 Krog Avenue
Watchmans is also one of the newest eateries, situated in Krog Street Market (KSM) in the center of Inman Park, within walking distance of the Beltline. KSM is a 1920s warehouse that has been transformed into a marketplace of shop booths, a place to get take-out food, beverages, or a sit-down dinner.
If you’re craving seafood, this is the place to go. It’s one of the top seafood restaurants in Inman Park. Monday through Friday, they provide a $1 Oyster Happy Hour with the freshest oysters on the market. They are also well-known for their cocktails, with a specialty on gin, rum, and tequila-based concoctions.
The cuisine features the best seasonal seafood from all across the nation. Non-seafood options include duck, steak, salads, and hush puppies. No southern seafood restaurant is complete without hush puppies.
On a sunny day, relax on the terrace for people watching since traffic is busy owing to the Atlanta Beltline’s closeness. But, depending on the weather or your mood, the environment inside is just as pleasant. Reservations are recommended on Friday and Saturday nights, since the wait might be lengthy. Yet that is the cost of eating at this renowned Inman Park establishment.
BoccaLupo
Edgewood Avenue NE 404.577.2332753 404.577.2332753
BoccaLupo is located in the residential neighbourhood of Inman Park. Although it is a destination restaurant for visitors traveling outside of Atlanta, it is also a local hangout. Many Inman Park locals and Atlantans consider BoccaLupo to be the best Italian restaurant in town. Handmade pasta produced with seasonal considerations is one of their specialities.
The Southern Fried Chicken Parm with creamy collards and fusilli is the greatest dish on the menu. This would go well with any of their appetizers, as the menu changes with the seasons. The wine and beer selections are substantial, and this Inman Park restaurant has something for everyone.
Every night, a tasting menu is also available. A four-course dinner including an appetizer, pasta, entree, and dessert costs $42.
It is strongly advised to make bookings in advance. Otherwise, you may find yourself waiting for a table or a seat at the bar for many hours. If you want less noise, arrange to sit on the patio on a lovely day or night. While the main eating area might be noisy, you will have the option to dine at one of the top Inman Park restaurants.
Albert the Great
404.872.4990918 Austin Ave NE
The Albert is Inman Park’s Cheers. Although you may not know everyone, it is usual to meet a neighbor the moment you come in the door. It is located in downtown Inman Park, at the intersection of Highland and Elizabeth. It has been awarded the best neighborhood bar for two years in a row, which says a lot considering the competition in this region.
This neighborhood drinking hole’s claim to fame is their smoked chicken, hog, and turkey, all of which are smoked on-site. This seems to be a first among Inman Park eateries and bars. The smoked meats may be found on nachos, salads, a wide range of sandwiches, and even a hot dog. They also offer a decent assortment of draft beers, including some local favorites, as one would expect from a neighborhood pub.
It is a short walk from the Beltline and is located in the center of downtown Inman Park. Even if you’re not hungry but need to quench your thirst on a hot day, come in and sit at the bar for a drink (or two), and become a member of the family at one of the greatest Inman Park restaurants.
Sandwich Bar Victory
Bernina Avenue NE
Everything at Inman Park is near to the Atlanta Beltline, including the Victory Sandwich Bar. It is located in a peaceful rear corner of Bernina Avenue, between the Dekalb Trail and the Beltline.
Victory isn’t your average sandwich store. That is not at all a sandwich shop. Its speciality is miniature sandwiches, sometimes known as sliders or mini-bites, which require most guests to order at least two. Interesting combinations include the Tea Bird, which has chicken, ghost pepper jack cheese, tomato, lettuce, and sweet tea mayo.
But, there are certain classic combinations, like as the Castro, which combines smoked pork, ham, pickle, fontina cheese, and yellow mustard. The majority of the sandwiches have a subtle southern touch, making this Inman Park eatery and sandwich emporium famous among Atlanta residents.
On your stay, don’t forget to try the spiked drinks. Paloma and Victory Little are popular tastes. Lastly, no visit to VSB would be complete without a Pimento Jar filled with bacon jam. Everything in the south, as you know, is better with bacon. After a few sandwiches and spiked drinks, finish your stay with a game of ping pong in the back room. This eatery in Inman Park has it all!
Proof Bakery
678.705.3900 Hurt Street NE
Proof Bakeshop is located in Inman Park’s residential section, off the usual route. You may not see it if you didn’t know it was there. Whether you like baked goods, coffee, or tea, this is the place to go. It’s also a great spot to fire up the computer and chill out, or to take all the delectables with you.
Proof specializes on handmade coffees and teas, as well as baked items created in-house. You may discover one-day-old products for sale on occasion, but most things are cooked the same day. Throughout the morning, you’ll discover scones, croissants, and other breakfast classics including muffins. All of this is in addition to morning mainstays such as quiches, granola, and bagels, to mention a few.
Although these favorites are still available in the afternoon, there is also a large selection of cookies and cakes for the post-lunch sweet hunger. In terms of lunch, there are a few salads and sandwiches available, as well as afternoon desserts.
Check their hours since it is typically a breakfast and lunch stop. They stay open until 6 p.m. on most days but shut at 4 p.m. on Sunday. Thus, if you’re searching for Inman Park eating and you smell fresh baked products, you’ve definitely just discovered Proof Bakeshop. Another approach to demonstrate the high quality of eating in Inman Park eateries.
Jake’s Frozen Custard
678.705.7945660 Irwin Street NE 678.705.7945660 Irwin Street NE 678.
Jakes moved to Inman Park before it became a popular area to reside. Sure, Inman Park was Atlanta’s first community, but it wasn’t yet a destination. There was no Beltline, and many portions of the region were best avoided. But then he had a vision, and Jakes Ice Cream was born. Many people have heard of Jakes, whether they reside in or outside of the city.
Jakes is known for its inventive titles and excellent tastes. Everyday favorites include Chocolate Slap You Mother, Brown Sugah Vanilla, and Nutter Nanner Elvis, but they also offer varieties that vary daily. To check out which favorites are being served, pop in for a scoop or two. One thing is certain: whether you like chocolate, peanut butter, fruits, or candy bars, they will have something for you.
After a hot day on the Beltline, stop by Jakes Ice Cream and ask him about Inman Park’s early days and the evolution of the Inman Park restaurant scene.
Brewpub Wrecking Bar
Moreland Avenue NE
Wrecking Bar Brewpub, located on the outskirts of Inman Park and Little 5 Points, is housed in an ancient Victorian property where they create unique beers and pub cuisine.
Although the craft beer selection fluctuates, you can generally find an IPA, Kolsch, or lager on tap. Non-beer drinkers may enjoy bottled ciders, cocktails, wine, whiskey, and other beverages. Although this Inman Park eatery is most known for its beer, the cuisine is consistently good. Try the crash fries with handmade dipping sauces or the white cheddar fondue with a pretzel if you’re looking for something to share. Looking for something more substantial? The special burger cannot be beat. It varies often, yet it is always a local favorite.
Outside is a nice area to sit family-style and meet some new people, or to stroll inside the brewery and check what’s being brewed right now. One of the nicest restaurants and brewpubs in Inman Park.
Steak Kevin Rathbun
404.524.5600#200 Krog Street NE
Chef Kevin Rathbun is a well-known chef in Atlanta and around the United States. In the Atlanta region, he owns four restaurants: Rathbuns, Krog Bar, KR Steak Bar, and Kevin Rathbuns Steak. Rathbuns Steak is not just the greatest steakhouse in Inman Park, but also one of Atlanta’s best. Kevin may often be seen smoking a cigar or walking the Beltline on the outdoor patio, which is located just along the Beltline.
Beginning with hot appetizers, recall the Lobster Fritters or Grilled Thick-Cut Bacon; bacon is on every menu in the South. Yet, because you came here for the steaks, bypassing the appetizers and going straight to the entree is quite appropriate. Renowned for its prime-cut steaks, the restaurant also serves Wagyu beef, lamb, pork chops, and a range of seasonal catches.
Several steak accompaniments are available, including lobster tail, black truffle butter, peppercorn sauce, and others. The hallmark side dish is the Charred Jalapeno Creamed Corn, but you’ll also find potatoes, mushrooms, and other steakhouse staples. All sides are readily shared by the two, particularly if more than one side is purchased.
Visit one of Inman Park’s best steakhouses and restaurants, and don’t be shocked if you see Kevin clearing tables, taking orders, or delivering beverages to your table while you’re there.
Fred’s Meats & Bread
+44 (0) 404-688-373399 Krog Street NE
Freds Meat and Bread is a counter-style vendor located within Krog Street Market. You place your order and then either sit at the counter or at a public table within Krog Street Market.
The bread is prepared fresh everyday by TGM Bread, which also makes bread for their sister restaurants and was named one of the greatest hamburgers in the United States by Thrillist. Apart from hamburgers, the menu includes speciality sandwiches such as cheesesteaks, grinders, hand-cut French fries, and old-fashioned bottled sodas. Seasoned French fries are also offered, including Old Bay, garlic, and Barbeque. Freds Meat and Bread is one of the best restaurants in Inman Park for no-frills eating with high-quality meals.