Alon's Bakery & Market

1394 N Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-6000

Description: VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. Alon's lunches are great for one main reason: the sublime, fresh-baked bread. Challah, Country French, rye and croissants are done to perfection. Top these with creative mixtures of fresh vegetables, flavorful cheeses and hearty meats, and you have a sandwich that's nothing short of unforgettable. If you love to browse tray after tray of bakery-fresh desserts ­ and who doesn't! ­ then don't skip theirs. From tender scones to some of the most addictive cookies in Atlanta, you'll find it all here. Try a tangy lemon square or a big piece of raspberry white-chocolate cheesecake, and don't forget a fragrant cup of coffee to go with your selection. Wine is not served, but you may buy a bottle in the store to take home.
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Athens Pizza

1341 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033 404-636-1100

Description: DECATUR. Who says Italians have the market on pizza? This Greek restaurant specializes in homemade pies with a definite Greek twist. Try toppings such as kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh tomatoes. The menu also includes other traditional dishes, such as gyros, lamb and Greek salads. Authentic wines complement the dishes offered. Casual dress is the norm. Reservations accepted.
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Atmosphère Restaurant

1620 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta, GA 30324 678-702-1620

Description: MIDTOWN. The neighborhood surrounding Ansley Park doesn't want for lack of charm, and folks there surely thank their lucky stars that one of their neighbors just happens to be this romantic French number. Located in an old, restored home, Atmosphère serves up a casual, understated attitude befitting its bistro-inspired inspired setting. The cuisine, it must be noted offers well-conceived takes on French classics like steamed mussels mariniere, roasted duck confit with dauphinois gratin, and raviolis niçoise with beef stew and red wine reduction. NB Live music on Thursday nights.
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Cabin Room

2678 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30304 404-315-7676

Description: BUCKHEAD. With its deep red walls and menagerie of mounted, stuffed animals, this restaurant aptly honors its name. The hearty menu continues the theme, offering game entrees, seafood dishes, and terrific, juicy steaks, all accompanied by fresh, creative sides. Wild boar chops are one of the more unusual options, along with elk, and they're joined by bacon-wrapped shrimp, local trout, and hefty pork chops enlivened with an apple-cider reduction. The well-attended bar offers stout drinks amid dark, rustic surroundings.
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Colonnade

1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd, Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-5642

Description: MIDTOWN. Southern American cuisine is the specialty at this '50s-style restaurant, which is where your grandparents would have gone when looking for a trendy restaurant 30 years ago. It's still drawing crowds today. All your favorite Southern classics ­ fried chicken, grilled trout, cornbread and hot yeast rolls ­ are served here. The banquet facility accommodates up to 72 people.
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Doc Chey's Noodle House

1424 N Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306-3307 404-888-0777

Description: VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. This incredibly popular noodle joint has taken the area by storm, and it's pretty certain that you'll have to wait for a seat if you don't go early. Serving a wide variety of Asian-themed dishes, Doc Chey's offers large portions at incredibly reasonable prices. Thai coconut chicken soup makes for a wonderful appetizer, as do the shrimp rolls. Main courses include everything from Szechuan vegetables to Vietnamese vermicelli and udon noodles. Broths, tinged with fresh herbs, are flavorful and ideal for slurping. With such great options, the place begs you to bring friends and sample all they have to offer. An outdoor patio provides a great place to hang out during warmer months.
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Eurasia Bistro

129 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 404-687-8822

Description: DECATUR. Quietly elegant, this Asian fusion restaurant surrounds guests with soft lighting, wispy curtains, and exposed brick. It's a melange of effects in perfect keeping with the cuisine. Fresh, light flavors are standard, and a touch of spice is not unknown to the kitchen. Roasted duck breast is dressed with soy syrup and Thai basil puree, and crispy coconut prawns get a kick from a fragrant curry sauce. Seafood is prevalent, although you'll find chicken, squab, pork, lamb, and rabbit available as well. Delicious and reasonably priced.
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Fat Matt's Rib Shack

1811 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta, GA 30324 404-607-1622

Description: MIDTOWN. This comfortable BBQ joint serves the juiciest, most flavorful ribs in town. There's no doubt about it: Matt's is a messy, fun, eat-with-your hands kind of place where you can order a big slab of ribs, a side of slaw and a big glass of sweet tea. You'll also find a variety of different beers. It's a lively place to stop at for a quick bite of lunch (despite the crowds, tables usually become available quickly), but be warned: Fat Matt's maintains an unofficial dress code ­ ties are permitted only if their knots are loosened. Outdoor dining is available, and live blues or jazz is often featured in the evening.
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Havana Sandwich Shop

2905 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-636-4094

Description: NORTH DRUID HILLS ROAD. Don't be put off by the outward appearance of this strictly utilitarian building ­ seasoned regulars know that it offers some of the city's best Cuban food. Long lines are a standard lunchtime consideration, but they don't hold up against the promise of a crusty Cuban sandwich filled with roast pork, ham and Swiss. Other hot sandwiches can also be had (like the boliche with beef, peppers, and onions), or you can test empanadas, black beans or a Cuban steak. Cap the meal with a creamy mango or fruta bomba (papaya) shake. Counter service.
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Highland Tap

1026 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 404-875-3673

Description: VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. This centrally-located restaurant and pub, situated where Virginia and Highland meet, is always full of conversing diners, first-daters and bar-hoppers. The casual front half is where the bar crowd congregates and is usually much louder. In back, the restaurant has an elegant feel, and patrons can enjoy quiet conversation, a great steak and a perfect martini. Reservations recommended. Smart casual attire.
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Hong Kong Harbor

2184 Cheshire Bridge Rd, Atlanta, GA 30324 404-325-7630

Description: MIDTOWN. Hong Kong Harbor is known for having the best dim sum in town, made fresh every day. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the dining room is packed with folks feasting on these and other Chinese favorites. As an alternative, consider the whole jumbo shrimp special-order plate. All dim sum specialties served at the weekend brunch are also available daily beginning at 11am.
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Java Jive

790 Ponce De Leon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306 404-876-6161

Description: PONCEY-HIGHLAND. An all-American coffeehouse/diner that combines nostalgic appeal with contemporary hipness, Java Jive draws big crowds each weekend thanks to its hearty, creative eats. Try the mouthwatering scrambled eggs with fresh basil and cream cheese, scrumptious gingerbread waffles with lemon curd, or what many locals regard as the best pancakes in town. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, their PB&J French toast is the way to go! Authentic period furnishings from the 1920s-1950s, along with big band and swing music, create a unique environment of yesteryear. Great for all ages!
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Le Giverny Bistro

1641 Clifton Rd NE, Emory Conference Center, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-325-7252

Description: EMORY. This hotel-affiliated French restaurant does its most brisk business at lunch, thanks to patronage from surrounding offices. After a bite of Le Giverny's delightful cuisine, these folks know they've found something good. Steak frites, a perennial classic, is always a terrific choice, and sautéed rainbow trout with a touch of hazelnut butter satisfies the need for something both light and flavorful. Pork tenderloin, merlot-braised lamb shank, and pastas are also delicious ­ whether you sample them day or night.
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Madras Saravana Bhavan

2179 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033 404-636-4400

Description: DECATUR. From MSB's inviting atmosphere to its efficient service and superb South Indian fare, this restaurant does everything right. Authenticity is a primary goal, and vegetarian dishes evoke the flavors of the subcontinent beautifully. Fragrant, spice-laden offerings feature lentils, eggplant, spinach, chickpeas and more. The broad menu provides a wealth of options, and explanations are available. At lunch, a buffet lets you sample a variety of dishes, as does the thali's nine, small-portion selections. Casual and reasonably priced.
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Panahar

3375 Buford Hwy NE, Northeast Plaza Fashion Square, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-6655

Description: BUFORD HIGHWAY. Pleasant, inviting and relaxing, this traditional Bangladeshi restaurant is located in a most unlikely setting ­ a shopping strip off busy Buford Highway. Don't let the setting dissuade your visit, though, because they serve some of the tastiest fare this side of Dhaka. Dishes seem to explode with exotic aromas and flavors, as seen in tandoori lamb with ginger, Biriyani specialties with baashmatee rice and mixed vegetables, and spicy chicken vindaloo with aloo. A word to the wise: if you plan on enjoying wine with your meal, stop by the store first ­ Panahar maintains a BYOB policy.
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Sushi Avenue

308 W Ponce De Leon Ave, Ste C, Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-8448

Description: DECATUR. A favorite with folks in Decatur, this small place draws in a strong contingent of Asian patrons, which gives credence to the authenticity of its food. A nice variety of sushi rolls and sashimi helps appease cravings for fresh fish and the flavorful accents of soy sauce and wasabi. You'll also find tempura dishes, well-prepared and not greasy at all. In addition, the restaurant offers a selection of soups, chock full of noodles and other delicious morsels. Even better, prices are affordable, making the Avenue a terrific choice all the way around.
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The Flying Biscuit Café

1655 McClendon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-8888

Description: LITTLE FIVE POINTS. This red-hot dining spot serves three meals a day, but brunch draws the biggest crowds. Southern favorites and plenty of vegetarian options ensure that every appetite is satisfied. The decor is eclectic and stylish, providing a fitting backdrop for classic dishes given an innovative spin. Try the Meggxican Wrap with cheddar, onion, and serrano peppers in a flour tortilla, or orange-scented French toast served with honey crème anglaise.
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Wahoo! A Decatur Grill

1042 W College Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-3331

Description: DECATUR. Wahoo! draws an expectant brunch crowd each Saturday and Sunday morning, folks looking to linger over Maryland crab cakes, bourbon-marinated salmon, French toast and other similar treats. A covered outdoor patio makes for relaxing warm weather dining, and it's the perfect destination for treating someone special to a quiet meal. Exposed brick walls, warm hues of red and yellow and a generous bar set the casual, yet chic feel that defines Wahoo!
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Watershed

406 W Ponce De Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-4900

Description: DECATUR. This casual favorite, located in a refurbished service station, features great wines and an array of gourmet-caliber plates that pay homage to the traditional Southern kitchen: braised beef short ribs with whipped rutabagas and cabbage, salmon croquettes with stone-ground grits and wild mushroom stew, and grilled Niman Ranch pork chops with mac-n-cheese. Their spectacular chocolate cake takes the standard dessert to new heights. Be sure to browse the on-site craft and wine shops. Star-watchers note: Watershed is co-owned by Indigo Girl Emily Saliers.
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Zyka

1677 Scott Blvd, Decatur, GA 30033 404-728-4444

Description: DECATUR. Residents of Decatur know that Zyka doesn't stand on formalities, and counter service, simple furnishings, and unelaborate service are the norm. For Northern Indian food this delicious and well priced, though, it's easy to make concessions. Start with the popular Chicken 65 appetizer, tinged with ginger, garlic, cilantro and chilies. Then consider butter chicken, dal Hyderabadi (slow-simmered, seasoned lentils), or Hyderabadi biryani (Basmati rice and goat meat with saffron). Hot, fresh naan makes an apt side dish, and spice-scented kulfi (ice cream) is a heavenly concluding treat.
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