Atlanta's culinary scene is a vibrant mix of traditional Southern comfort, global gastronomy, and modern culinary innovation.
### Local Cuisine & Signature Dishes Expect quintessential Southern staples like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, peach cobbler, and "meat and three" plates. In recent decades, Atlanta has also become famous for "lemon pepper wet" wings—a staple of the city's robust wing culture.
### Iconic Restaurants * **The Varsity:** The world's largest drive-in restaurant, famous for chili dogs, onion rings, and the classic "What'll ya have?" greeting. * **Mary Mac's Tea Room:** A beloved institution serving traditional Southern fare since 1945. * **Paschal's:** Historic soul food restaurant that served as a central meeting place for Civil Rights leaders in the 1960s.
### Food Markets * **Ponce City Market:** A massive, revitalized historic Sears building housing a sprawling gourmet food hall. * **Krog Street Market:** Located along the BeltLine, offering artisan foods, craft beer, and global street food. * **Sweet Auburn Curb Market:** Established in 1924, this municipal market is a bustling space for fresh produce, meats, and legendary local eateries.