23 Best Restaurants in Alpharetta, GA
This article was written by local contributor Weston Allan & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Welcome to Alpharetta, Georgia - a charming city with a thriving culinary scene that will satisfy your taste buds!
I've had the pleasure of living here for quite some time, and I must say, the variety of fantastic restaurants we have is truly impressive.
No matter what type of cuisine you're craving, you're sure to find a hidden gem or two.
So, grab your appetite, and let's dive into the world of flavorful dishes waiting to be discovered with this list of the best restaurants in Alpharetta, Georgia.
Besties Empanadas and Belgian Waffles
One of my favorite spots to unwind and catch up with friends in the neighborhood is Besties Empanadas and Belgian Waffles.
With an extensive menu of delicious empanadas, it's always a challenge to decide what to order!
Some of my all-time favorites include the bacon, Brazilian, guava, and chicken almond empanadas.
Each one is cooked to perfection, with the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Their dessert options are equally amazing, with their strawberry cake being a personal favorite.
It's cool, refreshing, and not too sweet – the ideal treat for a warm spring day.
If you're a fan of waffles, you can't miss out on their authentic Belgian waffles.
They're fluffy, crispy, and perfectly golden brown.
Another thing I appreciate about Besties is their impressive variety of vegetarian options, which can be hard to find at other establishments.
I've heard rave reviews about their Brie, White Chocolate, and Pistachio Pintxo, and I can't wait to try it on my next visit.
Passador Brazilian Steakhouse
As someone who loves trying new restaurants, I finally decided to pay a visit to Passador Brazilian Steakhouse on a Saturday afternoon.
I must say, it was a decision well made.
The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a spotless and well-maintained restaurant.
The salad bar was stocked with fresh and delicious items, and I couldn't help but indulge in their variety of sides.
However, the true star of the show was their premium meat selection.
Every cut of beef I tried was perfectly cooked at medium rare, and the flavors were outstanding.
I was particularly impressed by their lamb chops, which were simply amazing.
This allowed for an attentive and seamless dining experience without any overbearing moments.
Abby's Mediterranean Grill
Abby's Mediterranean Grill has quickly become a favorite spot for my family and me.
The restaurant may be compact and low-key, but the flavors they serve are anything but.
We love stopping by for a late lunch or a cozy dinner, enjoying their delicious shawarma, falafel, gyros, and other Mediterranean dishes.
The place is Halal, which is wonderful for my family and many others in the community.
We often order their Gyro platter, Gyro wrap, and Chicken kabab platter, but I've also discovered that their Chicken shawarma is the best I've ever had.
The yogurt and garlic sauce they serve on the side is simply amazing.
In addition to the friendly service and incredible food, Abby's Mediterranean Grill also offers a clean and cozy atmosphere for my family to enjoy.
The dining area is small, but we've never had trouble finding seating.
Viva Chicken Alpharetta
I finally got the chance to visit Viva Chicken Alpharetta after hearing so much about it, and I must say, it truly lived up to the hype!
I went for dinner and decided to try their famous rotisserie chicken with a side of plantain and salad.
Boy, was it delicious!
The chicken was well-seasoned, and the medium green sauce that came with it really tied everything together.
You can find more about their menu on their website.
My partner opted for the Tacu Bowl.
The best part about Viva Chicken Alpharetta is their ability to cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian options.
Not to mention their amazing fries (which I've been craving for the longest time) and the delightful drinks they offer.
Lily Sushi Bar
I can't help but rave about Lily Sushi Bar, my go-to spot for satisfying sushi cravings.
The moment you step into Lily Sushi Bar, you're welcomed by a charming atmosphere and trendy decor that just makes you feel at home.
The food, of course, is the star of the show, with their mouthwatering lunch specials and delectable specialty rolls.
My personal favorite has to be the Kyoto Roll - trust me, you won't be disappointed!
As a cherry on top, the cleanliness and functionality of their bathroom, along with the thoughtful baby-changing area, really speaks to the attention to detail in this establishment.
Local Expedition Wood Fired Grill
I can't believe I had never tried Local Expedition Wood Fired Grill until recently.
I'm always on the lookout for new and tasty places to eat, and this one truly impressed me.
As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of their wood-fired grill.
The warm and casual atmosphere made it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
The husband-and-wife team behind this operation truly cares about their food and their customers.
Everything on the menu is made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and you can taste the difference.
I was blown away by the variety of tasty sauces they offer, and the local fries and pulled pork are to die for.
One of my favorite things about this place is the modern kiosk ordering system.
It's easy to use and allows you to take your time building the perfect plate without feeling rushed.
Foundation Social Eatery
Just the other night, my friends and I decided to check out Foundation Social Eatery for dinner.
I'd heard great things about it, and as someone always on the lookout for new and exciting places to eat, I was eager to give it a try.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a lively and vibrant atmosphere, which set the tone for an incredible experience.
Starting with the appetizer, I have to say the Mushroom Ravioli was a game-changer - so delicious and full of flavor.
We even ordered some bread to soak up every last bit of the scrumptious sauce.
For my main course, I opted for the Chicken Bolognese paired with an Oleo Fashioned.
Honestly, it was probably the best Old Fashioned I've ever had.
The standout dish of the evening, however, had to be the chicken liver pate board.
Bursting with rich, smooth flavors, it left me craving more.
My friends had the scallops and halibut cooked to perfection, and they couldn't stop raving about them.
I also appreciated the wide variety of gluten-free options available, making it a great spot for those with dietary restrictions.
Ray's at Killer Creek
My family and I decided to visit Ray's at Killer Creek for a birthday celebration, and it turned out to be a fantastic decision.
The atmosphere was a perfect mix of casual elegance, and it was the ideal setting for a night filled with laughter and great food.
The menu at Ray's offers something for everyone, from mouth-watering steaks to succulent seafood.
The raw bar was a hit among my family, and the wine list was impressively lengthy.
His knowledge of menu items and attention to detail elevated our dining experience beyond anything we could have expected.
During our visit, we also had the chance to sample some of their delicious cocktails, and I must say, their dirty martini was outstanding.
Craft Burger By Shane Old Milton
If there's one thing I've learned living in this neighborhood, it's that when you're in the mood for a ridiculously good burger, you go to Craft Burger By Shane Old Milton.
This straightforward restaurant is my go-to spot for hefty burgers, finger foods, wings, chicken fingers, and salads.
The first time I went there, I couldn't believe the unique menu items.
I tried their pimento cheese burger and deep-fried macaroni and cheese, which were both amazing.
What really makes Craft Burger stand out, though, is the excellent service.
Plus, they offer free soft-serve ice cream, which never fails to make my day (and my kids' day, too!).
I've been to several burger joints in Atlanta, but I have to say that Craft Burger is hands down my favorite.
Their food is fresh and delicious, and the portion sizes are generous.
I always leave feeling completely satisfied and planning my next visit.
Kin No Tori Ramen Bar
As a big fan of Japanese cuisine, I was thrilled when I discovered Kin No Tori Ramen Bar right here in Alpharetta.
The restaurant's website showcases their delicious ramen and small plates, and I knew I had to give it a try.
When I first walked in, I was immediately impressed by the authentic atmosphere.
It truly felt like I had been transported to a ramen bar in Japan.
I decided to go for the honey ramen, which was absolutely delicious and incredibly filling.
I also had the chance to try the Connie salad, which was a refreshing side dish that complemented my ramen perfectly.
My friend had the spicy ramen with habanero, and they couldn't stop raving about how flavorful it was.
The prices were reasonable, and I appreciated that the restaurant stayed true to its Japanese roots without trying to cater too much to American palates.
I've been back several times since my first visit, and I've never been disappointed.
Tuscany Cafe and Bistro
I am absolutely in love with Tuscany Cafe and Bistro!
I've been there a few times, and every visit has been a delightful experience.
Their eclectic menu has something for everyone – from pasta and quesadillas to panini.
I especially enjoy their breakfast options, but I can't wait for the warmer months to try their lunch specials on the patio.
The café's atmosphere is bright and welcoming, and their outdoor seating area is perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Tuscany Cafe and Bistro takes cleanliness seriously, which is a plus.
They are also dog-friendly, so it's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal with my furry companion.
I recently celebrated my birthday at Tuscany, and it was the perfect choice.
The Lavazza espresso is outstanding, and I can't praise the chef's menu enough – I would eat there every day if I could!
Natsu Sushi Bar & Ocean Grill
I recently had an incredible dining experience at Natsu Sushi Bar & Ocean Grill.
Being a sushi lover, I was excited to explore their extensive menu, and I wasn't disappointed.
The Beef Tataki appetizer was a standout dish for me, but the star of the show was definitely their specialty sushi rolls.
I tried the I Love Eel roll with a cucumber wrapper, and it was a refreshing and unique combination that I can't wait to have again.
The sushi was fresh and beautifully presented, making it almost too pretty to eat.
Not only was the food amazing, but the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing night out.
The restaurant is upscale and well-decorated, making it a great spot for a date night or special occasion.
They even have patio seating for those who prefer to dine outside on a warm evening.
Smokejack BBQ
As someone who loves trying out different food joints around town, I had to give Smokejack BBQ a shot.
This cozy brick bar & grill is known for its Southern comfort food made fresh daily and offers space for private events.
I decided to visit on a weekday evening with a friend, and we were greeted warmly and shown to our table as soon as we entered.
The restaurant had a charming southern decor and was well-maintained.
The menu offered a variety of BBQ dishes, and we were eager to try them out.
I ordered the Brisket with spicy BBQ sauce, mac and cheese, and corn pudding, while my friend got the ribs Memphis style.
The fried pickles we shared as an appetizer were okay, but the sauce that came with it was great.
The brisket was absolutely delicious!
The corn pudding was also a delightful surprise.
My friend's Memphis-style ribs were a generous portion, and he enjoyed the unique dry rub that was used.
Citizen Soul
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to try out Citizen Soul, a chic restaurant in the heart of Alpharetta.
The place has a contemporary and globally-inspired menu, along with craft cocktails and beer.
As we entered, the ambiance was both warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home.
I was impressed by the taste and presentation of every dish we ordered.
I'm a fan of Old Fashioned drinks, and Citizen Soul did not disappoint with its full bar and a fantastic selection of craft cocktails.
My friends and I especially enjoyed the lamb dish, which left us craving more.
Flatlands Bourbon and Bayou
I've always been a fan of Cajun and Creole cuisine, so when I heard about Flatlands Bourbon and Bayou, I knew I had to give it a try.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making me feel like I'm in the heart of New Orleans.
Wait times can be a bit long, but it's definitely worth the wait.
On my first visit, I ordered the chicken and shrimp jambalaya, and I must say, it was absolutely delicious with generous portion sizes.
I also tried the fried seafood basket, which had the yummiest fried shrimp and catfish.
With each visit, I've been trying new items on their menu, and I have yet to be disappointed.
One of the highlights of this place is their extensive whiskey and bourbon list.
The bar is spacious, and you can even eat there if you prefer.
VAS Kouzina Alpharetta
I am always searching for new and exciting dining experiences in my town, and I was thrilled when I discovered VAS Kouzina Alpharetta.
This authentic Greek restaurant boasts a cozy interior with beautiful decorations and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
One of my favorite aspects of dining at VAS Kouzina is the exceptional service.
I appreciate that they suggest dishes based on my preferences and even make adjustments if I want to avoid alcohol in my meals.
The food at VAS Kouzina is truly a highlight, with everything being fresh and flavorful.
I love the variety of appetizers, such as the mixed dips with pita bread and the fried calamari.
The main courses are equally impressive - I still dream about the Moussaka, with its tender layers of ground beef, eggplant, and béchamel sauce.
JINYA Ramen Bar - Alpharetta
As someone who loves ramen, I have to say that JINYA Ramen Bar - Alpharetta never disappoints me.
I've been there several times, and each visit has been a great experience.
The Spicy Tuna and Salmon Cones are scrumptious, and the Spicy Creamy Shrimp Tempura is absolutely delightful.
The soup is always good, and the JINYA Tonkotsu Black has become my go-to ramen dish for a non-spicy treat.
The atmosphere at JINYA is trendy and intimate, which makes it an excellent place for a casual date or a meal with friends.
The service has always been quick and accurate, ensuring that our orders are just the way we want them.
I also appreciate their diverse menu, which caters to various dietary preferences like vegan, vegetarian, and meat options.
I once tried their Creamy Vegan Ramen, and it lived up to all the positive reviews I had read.
Besides ramen, JINYA Ramen Bar - Alpharetta also offers delicious appetizers like gyoza and edamame.
I usually order them whenever I visit, and they never fail to satisfy my taste buds.
Campania Alpharetta
I had heard great things about Campania Alpharetta, so I decided to give it a try with a few friends last week.
We walked into the modern setting with high expectations, and I must say, the place did not disappoint.
We started off with the fried ravioli and meatballs, which were both exceptional.
The tomato sauce that accompanied the starters truly stood out – it was rich, flavorful, and the perfect addition to the appetizers.
But the highlight of the evening was definitely the pizza.
We ordered the Capricciosa, and when it arrived, we knew we were in for a treat.
The brick-oven Neapolitan pizza was made with imported ingredients, and the crust was thin, crispy, and cooked to perfection.
It had been coal-fired for only 90 seconds, yet it boasted flavors that transported me back to my favorite pizzeria in Florence, Italy.
The ambiance of the restaurant was perfect for our casual get-together with friends, but I could also see it being suitable for a romantic date or family gathering.
In addition to the pizza, we shared two salads – a caprese and an arugula with shaved parmesan.
Both were incredibly fresh and delicious, adding a light and satisfying touch to our meal.
To cap off the night, we tried their unique espresso martini, which was a delightful and invigorating indulgence.
Las Delicias De La Abuela
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Las Delicias De La Abuela in Alpharetta, and let me tell you – it was absolutely fantastic!
The Colombian cuisine they serve is hands down the best I've had in the United States.
The arepas were cheesy and hot, the empanadas were freshly made, and the desserts were simply amazing!
I also appreciated that the hot dog used in their Arroz con Pollo dish was chicken, which is perfect for those who don't eat red meats or pork.
And I can't forget to mention the impeccable service and friendly atmosphere.
Moctezuma Mexican Grill
One of my go-to places for authentic Mexican cuisine is Moctezuma Mexican Grill.
This popular, longtime outpost is known for its hearty plates of Mexican fare and delicious margaritas served in a casual setting.
I can't resist their chicken taquitos appetizer, which is a must-try if you visit.
My all-time favorite dish, however, is the Barbacoa tacos.
The shredded beef is cooked for five to six hours, making it absolutely mouth-watering.
When it comes to dessert, I went with the Mexican milk cake - it's a real treat!
Parking can be a bit of a challenge at times, but it's well worth it for the amazing food and friendly service.
Thoom's Thai Kitchen
I had been hearing great things about Thoom's Thai Kitchen and finally decided to give it a try last weekend with some friends.
We started our meal with some delicious spring rolls and dumplings, and I must say, they were perfectly crispy and satisfying.
For my main course, I chose the basil chicken, which was divine.
The atmosphere at Thoom's Thai Kitchen is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for both team lunches and family get-togethers.
The service was attentive, and our food arrived quickly, even with some vegetarian modifications we requested.
Spiciness was on point, with a 4 out of 5 rating that left us just the right amount of heat.
Mambo's Cafe - Alpharetta
I've always been a fan of Cuban and Peruvian comfort food, so when I discovered Mambo's Cafe in Alpharetta, I knew I had to try it out.
The restaurant itself is quite spacious, with a bright and colorful atmosphere that really makes the dining experience enjoyable.
One thing that really stood out was the generous portions, as each serving seemed to be enough for two people.
This made the slightly higher price for each dish quite worth it, in my opinion.
The Churrasco from the Peruvian menu was a big hit among my friends.
I also tried the grilled shrimp, and they were cooked perfectly with a fresh taste that I appreciated.
The plantains and beans that came with the shrimp were equally delicious.
The margaritas were fantastic, with a refreshing taste of fresh fruit juice.
The shaded patio was a lovely touch, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Kajun Seafood
As someone who lives nearby, I've had quite a few meals from Kajun Seafood, and I must say that every single one has been absolutely delicious.
Their takeout service is fast and efficient, making it a convenient option for busy days or when I'm simply craving some good seafood.
One of the things that I love about Kajun Seafood is their incredible variety of dishes.
They managed to surprise me with their unique combination of flavors in their seafood boils, like the addition of broccoli which my daughter adored.
The portions are generous, and the quality of the food has always met my high standards.
But perhaps the most memorable aspect of dining with Kajun Seafood is their amazing beignets.
It's as if they have some kind of culinary wizard in the back whipping up these mouthwatering pastries, each one tasting like it's infused with generations of heritage and expertise.
These beignets never fail to make me smile and leave a lasting impression on my taste buds.
Final Thoughts
Alpharetta truly has a diverse and exciting food scene that never disappoints.
From the mouth-watering empanadas at Besties to the delectable seafood at Natsu Sushi Bar & Ocean Grill, there's something to satisfy every craving.
With so many fantastic options to choose from, it's no wonder that Alpharetta has become such a food-lovers paradise.
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