Atlanta’s home to many innovative, female restaurateurs, shaping the city’s cuisine scene.
The culinary landscape in Atlanta goes beyond the Southern table staples. Thanks to the bold female chefs and business owners calling the city home, there’s so much innovation, creativity, and delicious menus. There’s also something for everyone with an incredible mix of cuisines on offer.
Atlanta’s home to so many female-owned businesses, so we’re sharing some of our favorites. We’re planning on continuously extending this list so send us your recommendations.
1. Monkey 68
Where: 1073 Green St, Roswell
This Asian fusion restaurant is located in a beautifully renovated home. The converted cottage in downtown Roswell serves up some delicious Pan-Asian comfort food. Their Bulgogi Cheesetake is to die for, but their sushi is the star of the show.
2. Slutty Vegan
Where: 1542 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Westview
We love Slutty Vegan at Secret Atlanta! Their plant-based burger menu will confuse any meat lover. Don’t tell them and they might not even know the difference. If you like their burgers then you’re in luck, Slutty Vegan have just opened a new bar in Ponce City Market.
3. Buttermilk Kitchen
Where: 4225 Roswell Rd NE
The Southern breakfast at Buttermilk Chicken is out of this world. Don’t say we didn’t warn you when their chicken biscuit becomes your new addiction.
4. Anna’s BBQ
Where: 1976 Hosea L Williams Dr NE.
This also made it on our list of Black-owned restaurants in Atlanta. For all things BBQ, head to Anna’s BBQ. But make sure you stop here on an empty stomach, their burgers are OTT in the best way.
5. My Coffee Shop
Where: 2462 Memorial Dr. SE.
A funky coffee spot at Eastlake, My Coffee Shop offers all-day breakfasts alongside sandwiches & baked goods. We recommend their basil lemonade which you can enjoy with your lunch, or purchase by the gallon!
6. Twisted Soul
Where: 1133 Huff Rd. NW.
For innovative twists on Southern classics, check out Twisted Soul Cookhouse. The name speaks for itself, as their menu is soul food at its finest. The menu cocktail is insane with their No Cryin’ At The Pync cocktail adored by visitors. It has two different tequilas, amaretto, thyme, pomegranate, and citrus.
7. (SAMA) Food For Balance
Where: 56 E. Andrews Dr. NW
For a tasty health kick, head to (SAMA) Food For Balance. You can’t leave this vegan paradise without trying one of their falafel bowls. You’re going to want to know the recipe for their mint raita!
8. Bellina Alimentari
Where: 1680 S Lumpkin St, Athens
If you love Italian food then Bellina Alimentari is for you. They have an extensive wine list and the welcoming staff will help you find the perfect accompaniment for your pasta.
9. We Suki Suki
Where: 479-b Flat Shoals Ave SE
This cozy restaurant offers Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches & pho, and it’s great if you’re a vegetarian. Head here on Taco Tuesday for an irresistible deal.
10. Cafe Sunflower
Where: 2140 Peachtree Rd NW
Cafe Sunflower is another great vegan spot in Atlanta. Rise and shine with their plant-based brunch on the weekends. Customers are loving the chicken & wallfles, and their breakfast burrito!
11. Joy Cafe
Where: 1100 Peachtree ST NE STE 110, 30309
The husband and wife executive chef team pull inspiration from around the world, while staying true to the flavors of the south. The brunch dishes are to die for, especially the pancakes!
12. Tassa Roti Shop
Where: 224 Powers Ferry Rd, Marietta, 30067
For exquisite Caribbean cuisine, make sure to check out Tassa Roti Shop. This no-nonsense eatery is treat for the taste buds. We love their jerk chicken and chicken curry, but you’re going to be tempted by so much more on their extensive menu.
13. Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft
Where: 1745 Peachtree Rd NW, 30309
There are so many incredible dishes on offer at Tuk Tuk Thai Food Loft that’ll directly transport you to Thailand. We’re a sucker for the dumplings, but make sure you try the Pla Muk Tod as an appetizer, a crispy calamari with a chili lime sauce.
14. Cheesecaked
Where: Underground Atlanta
After making a stellar debut with OTT desserts, milkshakes, cheesecakes, and more, Cheesecaked is about to open a brand new location in Norcross. Granting more Atlantans easier access to this truly sweet treat!
15. Eight Sushi Lounge
Where: 930 Howell Mill Rd NW, 30318
We’re so obsessed with Eight Sushi Lounge that it’s one of our favorite sushi restaurants in the ATL. From ramen to spicy tuna rolls, expect classic dishes and innovative takes on Japanese cuisine.
16. Bacchanalia
Where: 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Suite 1, 30318
This swanky Blandtown eatery with industrial-chic interiors serves up a seasonal menu inspired by staple New American flavors. An epic addition to Atlanta’s fine dining scene, Bacchanalia has gained a devoted following for its unmissable allure.
17. The Busy Bee Cafe
Where: 810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, 30314
This beloved eatery in Atlanta has become an institutional part of the city. With a Southern fare and some of the best soul food in town, The Busy Bee Cafe recently was announced as one of the six recipients of the 2022 America’s Classics Award.
18. The Expat
Where: 1680 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606
Located in Athens is a a neighborhood bistro with an Italian focus, disguised as a charming 1930s cottage. We suggest trying something from the pasta menu, like their Tagliatelle served with sausage ragu, tomato cream, parmesan.
19. Firepit Pizza Tavern
Where: 518 Memorial Dr SE, 30312
On the hunt for the perfect pizza pie in the ATL? Give Firepit Pizza Tavern a try. We love their Signature Beef Pizza, and always order a cocktail (or three).
16. Floataway Cafe
Where: 1123 Zonolite Rd NE #15, 30306
Located in a renovated warehouse, Floataway Café reconstructed the industrial space into a contemporary dining experience. Their extensive menu of fresh, seasonal cuisine was curated with French, Mediterranean, and Italian influences.
17. Nam Kitchen
Where: 6400 Blue Stone Rd, Sandy Springs, 30328
This Sandy Springs gem is absolutely PHOnomenal. With tempting pho and sushi dishes, prepare for the ultimate Vietnamese feast. Our go-to entrée are the fresh spring rolls, and there’s an excellent selection of specialty drinks on offer.
18. Himalayan Kitchen
Where: 1651 Roswell St Suite C, Smyrna, 30080
For a dumpling safe-haven, make sure to pay a visit to Himalayan Kitchen. However, there are so many more delicious dishes available on this Alpharetta eatery’s menu.
19. Red Bird
Redbird is a fun, lively and comfortable restaurant with a ‘come as you are’ sensibility. Their shaded terrace is an amazing place to chow down on one of their rustic meat or seafood dishes. We suggest the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, served over grilled sourdough.
20. Souper Jenny
Where: Several locations (Buckhead, Roswell, & more)
With a daily menu and fresh soup classics, Souper Jenny has turned from a women-owned restaurant into an ATL empire.
Featured Image: Monkey 68