7 Atlanta Hidden Gems Of Restaurants
Is there anything better than an unexpectedly outstanding meal in a little hole-in-the-wall spot? We compiled a list of our favorite hidden gems, with food that’s outrageously good but still running under the radar.
1. Aye Tea Elle
3755 College St, College Park, GA 30337
For an intimate spot and unreal food, head down to Aye Tea Elle tucked right off of Main Street in College Park. The music, decor, lighting, everything here is a vibe! There is frequent live entertainment held like comedy night and live bands, so bring your friends! If you’re in the mood for something savory, try their delicious cajun pasta alfredo, or for something sweet, their fried cheesecake. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal or a fun night out, this is the spot to check out!
2. Brito Supermarket
3020 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Looking for chicken al carbon but at a third of the price of all the trendier spots in town? Head to this supermarket on Buford Highway and grab a whole bird for $9.99! You’ll smell this flavorful, slow-roasted and whole-roasted Mexican grilled chicken from miles away and you might even catch them grilling it up outside when you pull up. Pick up some tortillas and cilantro to make tacos at home, and you’ve got yourself an A+ meal!
3. Cupanion’s
4920 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342
This brunch spot in the Chastain Park/North Buckhead area is serving up amazing everything. Their Challah Bread French Toast Casserole is out-of-this-world if you’re in the mood for something sweet, as is their Cowboy Benedict with cornbread braised beef and Guarrillo chili Hollandaise if you’re feeling more savory. They’re also open for breakfast and lunch on the weekdays!
4. Estrellita
580 Woodward Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
This hole-in-the-wall restaurant has been serving up some legit Filipino food right under our noses! The indoor dining here is super limited, but trust us, it is worth the hassle because their food is absolutely to-die-for. Even the pickiest of eaters will love Estrellita’s Filipino food. We personally love the lumpia and recommend you try the Filipino-style coffee with condensed milk.
5. Gaja Korean Bar
491 Flat Shoals Ave SE A, Atlanta, GA 30316
You’ll find this spot tucked away in the corner of East Atlanta Village, literally. It has the most unassuming exterior with an entrance at the parking lot to the side of the building, but inside you’ll find a trendy restaurant that feels like you’ve just stepped into an underground club in Asia with tons of Korean bites and soju options. It’s a spot to impress your date and enjoy cocktails before a night out in East Atlanta.
6. Pijiu Belly
678 10th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
This place has been serving up Asian street food and bites for quite a few years to the GaTech and Midtown crowd and has even received national attention on Diners & Drive-ins, but still doesn’t have the long lines and wait times that a lot of other West Midtown spots have. They’re known for their Korean chicken that’s cooked rotisserie-style then fried and covered with a tangy sauce, but they’ve really got an expansive menu with everything from Thai tots to takoyaki. Try their Kung Pao ramen!
7. Wagaya
Multiple locations
This gem of a restaurant serves up absolutely delicious and reasonably priced Japanese food in West Midtown and Emory Village. Find savory rice chashu bowls and an $18 ramen + 2 sushi roll special for the hungriest of appetites. They’re also generally really quick and great to stop in for a weekday evening meal.
Editor’s Note: This article was first published September 17, 2019 and last updated June 26, 2023.
