Written by: Ni’kesia Pannell
Atlanta has a long-standing history of Black Excellence and that absolutely includes all of the delicious eateries to choose from. Although there are plenty of well-known restaurants that visitors feel are a “must visit” when they swing through the Hollywood of the South, there are a few that haven’t gotten the shine that they deserve. And, unless you’re a local to the city, you might not even know that some of these exist.
Not to worry though, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 hidden gem Black-owned restaurants in Atlanta you may not have known about to add to your list for your next visit.
Mr. Everything
Established in 1993, Mr. Everything Cafe is truly one of Atlanta’s most prized possessions. Found in the historic westside area of Atlanta, the homegrown cafe has an expansive menu that will satisfy the taste buds of the entire gang. Open seven days a week and always with a line that runs out of the door, this legendary eatery is the perfect place to discover during your next trip to Atlanta.
Q Time
Much like the previously mentioned, Q Time is a favorite amongst those who are local to the Atlanta area. Serving up good ol’ southern soul food, the neighborhood friendly restaurant — which has been around for more than 20 years — is the perfect place to stop by if you’re in need of some comfort eating.
Ms. Icey’s Kitchen & Bar
Nothing beats the comfort of Grandma and her delicious meals and with Ms. Icey’s Kitchen & Bar, you’ll be able to recreate that exact feeling. Delivering patrons a Southern-Caribbean fused menu and a feeling of nostalgia as soon as you walk in the building, Ms. Icey’s is a shining gem in the Atlanta community.
Mangos Caribbean Restaurant
Keep the good times rolling on your trip to Atlanta with a stop through Mangos Caribbean Restaurant in the downtown area. Indulge in traditional Caribbean meals such as ackee & saltfish, oxtails, and additional meats made with jerk, curry, or brown stew, all while keeping your budget intact. And don’t sleep on the patties and mango lemonade. They’re some of the best you’ll ever have.
The Beautiful
Looking for a restaurant that has deep roots in the city? Try heading to The Beautiful. Offering up delicious eats in a cafeteria-style dining environment, anyone who stops by this long-standing restaurant is quickly welcomed by frequent patrons and loveable employees.
Paschal’s
The south is known for soul food, so it should be no surprise that this list is filled with plenty of restaurants that serve up the delicacy. With a rich history that dates back to 1947, Paschal’s has long been known to be a go-to meeting place for well-known celebrities like Aretha Franklin, Andrew Young, Maynard Jackson, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and much more. Not only has the family-owned business made an impression on those in the limelight with its food, but it is also a top contender for southern specialty eats for locals, too.
Eats
An authentic staple in the Atlanta community since 1993, Eats guarantees an extensive variety of healthy, affordable, quick food. Perhaps most known for their jerk chicken plate, the establishment has been noted as one of the best “cheap eats” for a number of years. With both fresh vegetarian and homestyle options on the menu, no one will leave the place hungry.
Richards’ Southern Fried
Though Richards’ Southern Fried is new to the area, its owner — Chef Todd Richards — is not. Celebrated for his many accomplishments in conjunction with other restaurants, Chef Todd decided to open up his own chicken coop in 2016. Spicy, gluten-free, and extremely delicious, any of the menu items are guaranteed to keep you coming back for more.
Tom, Dick & Hank
Want to see what Atlanta made barbecue is all about? Try stopping by Tom, Dick & Hank. Delivering deliciously prepared fusion barbecue options, items like the smoked wings, spare ribs, and the homemade BBQ sauce are all good enough to keep them in mind every time you stop through the city.
656 Sports Bar & Grille
Located right next door to Tom, Dick & Hank’s Ralph David Abernathy location, 656 Sports Bar & Grille is a premier spot for a good time and good eats. Whether you want to catch a game with your crew or just want to grab drinks with your girls, 656 can set the tone for an enjoyable experience.