Atlanta, Georgia is now featured in the famous MICHELIN Guide. The city is now joining the ranks of top culinary destinations in the United States. With ten Bib Gourmands, five new One Stars, and two new Green Stars, Atlanta is poised to showcase its diverse and evolving culinary scene.
The culinary offerings in Atlanta span from the exquisite to the everyday. The city’s food scene provides flavors that capture the essence of its vibrant southern culture. Each restaurant in the MICHELIN Guide Atlanta selection promises a gastronomic journey.
What sets many of these establishments apart is their commitment to utilizing and showcasing local produce. Emphasizing the farm-to-table philosophy, these restaurants strive to bring fresh ideas and flavors to the plate. Among them are the Green Star restaurants, where one establishment changes its menu weekly, thanks to an on-site regenerative farm, adding an extra layer of sustainability and innovation.
Captivating Diners
The One Star category boasts exceptional establishments, each with a unique culinary identity. Atlas, located in the St. Regis Atlanta, offers a seasonal American menu with European influences. The restaurant is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight with fine art adorning its walls. Meanwhile, Hayakawa, a local legend for Japanese cuisine on Buford Highway, continues to captivate diners. It offers its kaiseki-style menu and imported fish crafted into nigiri by Chef Atsushi Hayakawa.
Lazy Betty, a contemporary gem, pays homage to hospitality with a tasting menu curated by Chef Ron Hsu and Chef Aaron Phillips. From Southern-slanted causa with sweet Georgia shrimp to seared Hudson Valley foie gras, Lazy Betty promises an array of clever flavor combinations.
Mujō, located in West Midtown, offers an intimate and moody setting where Chef J. Trent Harris delivers an always-surprising interpretation of omakase. From Florida cobia grilled over binchotan to Hokkaido hair crab, each dish is a testament to creativity and skill.
Sustainable Practices
Bacchanalia, awarded with both One Star and Green Star, stands out with its multicourse prix fixe menu and sustainable practices. The restaurant’s commitment to environmental responsibility is reflected in its clever cheese course presentation. It also presents delightful dishes such as chilled lobster in ponzu sauce.
As part of the new Green Stars in Atlanta, The Chastain emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing. Their menu changes dynamically based on what is available from local farm partners and their on-site regenerative farmed garden. The restaurant has joined Georgia Organics to quantify its local and organic food purchases and actively engages in composting and recycling practices.
The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide in Atlanta is a testament to the city’s flourishing culinary scene. It is an opportunity for the restaurants to showcase how their innovation, sustainability, and dedication to quality converge. For food enthusiasts and avid travelers, exploring these acclaimed establishments promises a delightful journey through the heart of Atlanta’s gastronomic excellence.