Counting Down the Best Restaurants in Marietta

Eater

8 hours ago

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If you've never ventured OTP (outside the perimeter) for a meal in Marietta, you're missing out. The historic enclave is a masterclass in repurposing, with modern steakhouses occupying Civil War-era structures and a much-loved metro Atlanta food hall, serving everything from Cuban cuisine to Korean fried chicken, in a restored train depot. The walkable Marietta Square, lined with old-school comfort food eateries and exciting soon-to-open restaurants, adds a dose of Southern charm city dwellers can get behind. Whether you're craving a smoky rib rack, a creative brunch, or no-frills flavor from overseas, here are the best restaurants worth a drive to Marietta.
In our first guide to Marietta restaurants, Sarah Bisacca selects a range of everything from fine-dining at Spring, a deep wine library at Marietta Proper, to a bakery where Keith Urban has placed an order. The restaurants are listed in geographical order from north to south.
If you've never ventured OTP (outside the perimeter) for a meal in Marietta, you're missing out. The historic enclave is a masterclass in repurposing, with modern steakhouses occupying Civil War-era structures and a much-loved metro Atlanta food hall, serving everything from Cuban cuisine to Korean fried chicken, in a restored train depot. The walkable Marietta Square, lined with old-school comfort food eateries and exciting soon-to-open restaurants, adds a dose of Southern charm city dwellers can get behind. Whether you're craving a smoky rib rack, a creative brunch, or no-frills flavor from overseas, here are the best restaurants worth a drive to Marietta.
In our first guide to Marietta restaurants, Sarah Bisacca selects a range of everything from fine-dining at Spring, a deep wine library at Marietta Proper, to a bakery where Keith Urban has placed an order. The restaurants are listed in geographical order from north to south.
Tucked into a quaint strip off of Canton Road, this charming, family-run roastery and cafe brings a taste of founders Arthur and Luisana Beaudet's combined French-Dominican heritage to every cup of coffee. Mindfully sourced and expertly micro-roasted beans (seasonal single-origin lots and a signature Classique espresso) deliver sweet, nuanced flavor without a hint of bitterness. The small breakfast and lunch menu features house-baked biscuits and baguettes along with savory bites like a vegan avocado tartine and a hearty breakfast burrito. The airy, light-filled space is as conducive to sending emails as to catching up with friends. Closed on Sundays.
Housed in a small blue cottage with a sun-dappled, dog-friendly front patio, the original location of Good Kitchen + Market (there's a second outpost in Smyrna) in Marietta is a hub for health food lovers. Rooted in founders Veronica and Peter Tompkins' cancer journey, the restaurant's concept champions 'food as medicine,' prioritizing locally sourced, sustainably raised proteins and plant-forward dishes in colorful plates like avocado nachos, Picatta zoodles, and gluten-free pancakes. A full coffee bar serving up churro lattes and organic, house-pressed juices (plus a few biodynamic wines) rounds out the mindful brunch experience.
This newly minted Michelin-starred spot (the first outside of the Perimeter) is an homage to Southern producers. Helmed by chef Brian So and sommelier Daniel Crawford, Spring takes a highly seasonal approach to its cuisine, where the multi-course menu might include pillowy chicken liver pate on brioche or delicate fresh catch crudo. Beverage pairings favor natural wines, opting for process over specific country of origin. All of this attention to detail, including the exposed brick walls and vaulted wood ceilings kept from the building's former life as a train depot, makes Spring a celebratory restaurant that's worth the splurge. Look out for Spring 2nd Branch, a new casual Korean concept from So and Crawford, opening later this summer on Church Street.
Note: Spring will be closing at the end of June for a remodel.
Roaring '20s speakeasy meets modern steakhouse at Mac's Chophouse. Housed in a meticulously restored Civil War-era building, this Marietta Square restaurant offers a polished, vintage-coded ambiance, complete with restored original wooden floors, exposed brick, bronze light fixtures, and plush banquettes. Under the guidance of chef and owner Michael Fuller, the menu spotlights juicy seared ribeyes and filet mignons alongside inventive small plates, like Yukhoe tuna gyoza tacos or beef Wellington bites with horseradish cream, that pair with an award-winning bourbon, wine, and craft cocktail program. Keep an eye out for special culinary events, including themed afternoon teas and dinners complete with sake or wine pairings.
Named for the seasoned pitmaster behind the smoker, this family-run, trophy-laden smokhouse on Whitlock Avenue represents half of the Sam and Dave's barbecue empire that sadly split in 2009. A long-running barbecue champion, Dave continues his 34-year tenure with a menu anchored by tender, oak-and-hickory-smoked pork, brisket, ribs, and wings. The award-winning flavors draw crowds to this unpretentious strip-mall joint, where plates come piled high with Southern sides like tangy pineapple-poppyseed coleslaw, creamy baked beans, collard greens, and cult-favorite Redneck Lasagna (mac and cheese smothered in Brunswick stew). 660 Whitlock Ave NW, Marietta, GA 30064
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Despite its simple white brick facade, recently opened Marietta Proper is a time capsule of Prohibition-era opulence. Great Gatsby-esque emerald-and-gold interiors (complete with matching floral wallpaper) seamlessly shift from a cozy daytime roastery and cafe into an elegant evening wine and cocktail bar that leans more cool neighborhood hangout than stuffy lounge. Co-founded by chef-sommelier Jordan Traylor and chef William Adamec (alongside Foxglove event space owners Kacey and Hillery Cecil), the restaurant's menu delivers globally inspired small plates — think arancini stuffed with chorizo and pepper jack, pork belly tacos, and veggie-packed mushroom dumplings — designed to pair with a list of 200 boutique wines and craft spirits. Reservations are recommended, but the lively bar is always first-come, first-served. 9 West Park Square, Marietta, Georgia 30060
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It doesn't get more classic comfort than the Marietta Local. This casual counter-service spot across from the courthouse is a longtime favorite for scratch-made, stick-to-your-ribs favorites like chicken biscuits and homestyle meatloaf, best enjoyed with a side of stone-ground cheese grits. Those who like a little more heat can up the ante with the Nashville Hot Chicken Breakfast or the Blue Devil Salad served with sweet ginger hot sauce. The unpretentious, wood-panelled interior is plenty cozy (and in the process of being expanded), but be sure to grab a coveted sidewalk seat if the weather is agreeable.
Reopened in 2023 with new management, Kiosco has quickly become a go-to staple for those craving Mediterranean cuisine in the Marietta Square. The bistro-inspired space is casual and cozy, with an artistic flair — the perfect spot for lunch or aperitivo hour. The menu ranges from juicy lamb kofta skewers and creamy shrimp and grits to flaky tuna croissants and signature red couscous. A collection of colorful cocktails and a wine list organized by character (bright, spicy, bold) pair beautifully with the menu's delicate flavors.
Family-run passion project Two Birds Taphouse is a gastropub that lives up to the name. Helmed by Jeff and Rachel Byrd, their son, actor Dan Byrd, and his wife, Lauren, the homey, industrial-chic hangout offers 32 types of (mostly local) craft beer, plus a menu of grown-up pub fare, like pan-seared barramundi with lemongrass pistachio wild rice and fluffy ricotta donut holes. A cheeky craft-cocktail program (Ex-Squeeze Me; Honey, I Drunk the Kids) and beer-forward ethos keep the vibe buzzy and relaxed, whether you're here for date night or music bingo. 52 Powder Springs St, Marietta, GA 30064
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With its cozy, tiled interior and thoughtfully crafted tapas menu (not to mention more than 40 Spanish wines), Silla del Toro offers a taste of Spain right on Marietta Square. Chef Scott Kinsey's small plates, like golden croquetas jamon, smoky patatas bravas, tender pinchos, and briny garlic shrimp, are all served with a convivial spirit. The bar leans into the experience with sangria flights and build-your-own gin and tonics. Brunch is equally as lively with hearty staples like Spanish omelettes served with morning-approved cocktails like a coffee-infused Spanish Old Fashioned. Silla del Toro also has locations in Roswell and Toco Hills.
Thanks to this longstanding bakery and cafe off of South Marietta Parkway, you don't need a passport to try authentic French patisserie. Founders Luc and Danielle Beaudet (now succeeded by Melissa Ward and Johnathan St. Hilaire) have garnered a local following with a commitment to quality ingredients like premium French butter, organic flour, and seasonal produce. The result is a gorgeous pastry case packed with flaky almond-chocolate croissants, a rainbow of delicate macarons, and brunch staples like quiche Lorraine. For the full effect, pull up a seat on the covered patio, grab a pistachio eclair and a cappuccino, and pretend you've been transported to Paris. Doceur de France has a second location in Roswell.
For more than 20 years, this casual, counter-service spot has been delivering big, authentic Brazilian flavors to the metro-Atlanta market. The menu is extensive (over 100 items) and includes everything from savory pastries like coxinhas and beef pasteis to hearty plates like picanha sandwiches and chicken tortas. Their pão de queijo (cheese bread) is a warm, chewy must-try, and the sweets case is packed with brigadeiros, flan, and picture-perfect pastries. It's an easy place to stop in for a quick bite or linger over lunch with food that feels homemade in the best way. Brazilian Bakery Cafe has a second location in Roswell. 1260 Powers Ferry Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067
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