Local Dish: The Haute 5 Favorite Restaurants For Locals in Atlanta

Here are my picks for the Haute 5 hidden dining gems in Atlanta. Whether you are a local or not, these are definitely the ones you don’t want to miss.

Babette’s Café

Located in a unassuming bungalow on Highland, Babette’s Cafe is definitely a hidden gem. Chef/owner Marla Adams offers a delightful assortment of simple foods all made with a slight twist. The menu is a fresh mix of French, Italian, Spanish and Mediterranean with classic preparations influenced from the European countryside. While Babette’s is still considered a hidden treasure, you definitely want to make reservations because once people are seated, they tend to stay indefinitely.

Babette’s Café is located at 573 N. Highland Ave., 404.523.9121

Nuevo Laredo Cantina

Nuevo Laredo Cantina features the most authentic (and delicious) Mexican food in the city.  Home of the “famous Mexican Brisket” and lobster tacos, people are always waiting outside on the porch of this small but coveted spot. In fact, many people arrive an hour before they will be hungry because they know the wait time will be in the hour range. But the food and drink is well worth the wait. Be careful of drinking the  margaritas before you eat. They will knock you off your feet. And the Westside area, especially at night, can be pretty hard to navigate.

Nuevo Laredo is located at 1495 Chattahoochee Ave., 404.352.9009

The Colonnade

While this may not be your choice for luxury dining, local Atlantans cannot deny their craving for some good ‘ole Southern-fried cooking. And there is nowhere in Atlanta that does this like The Colonnade. Located in front of a seedy motel on Cheshire Bridge, Colonnade looks like a scene out of a movie. Waitresses with beehives and a discerning southern drawl have been serving up dishes including Southern Fried Chicken, fried okra and Pot Roast since 1927.

The Colonnade is located at 1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd., 404.874.5642

The Georgia Grille

Because of its peculiar location behind the Peachtree Road strip center, The Georgia Grille tends to be forgotten on many restaurant lists. But the combination of Southwestern mixed with Southern hospitality is one that should not be overlooked. Favorites include the lobster enchaladas, which is made with an 8oz Maine Lobster in a smoked sweet red bell pepper reduction with fresh diced tomato salsa, and the Key Lime Margurita with Sauzo Gold Tequila. The Georgia Grille is a great place to enjoy great food, drink and company in a laid-back atmosphere.

The Georgia Grille is located at 2290 Peachtree Rd., 404. 352.3517

The Horseradish Grille

The Horseradish Grille began as a country store which once existed off the dusty trail now known as Powers Ferry Rd. Today the Grille is a favorite among locals for its rustic yet sophisticated atmosphere and its fresh Southern-influenced menu choices. Some great dishes on the dinner menu include the Crispy Fried Oysters (served with three dipping sauces) and the Rosemary Wood grilled Pork Chops, served with their signature horseradish mashed potatoes. Also, this is a great place for a family brunch on the weekend.

Horseradish Grille is located at 4320 Powers Ferry Rd., 404.255.7277