As much as we all love the DUC, we still need to escape it every once in a while. However, then we’re faced with the question of where to go. With so much to offer, Atlanta leaves us making difficult decisions when it comes to finding the perfect restaurant for the situation. No need to spend hours trying to figure out where to go; with this restaurant guide, you’ll have the best meal at your ideal restaurant in no time. All restaurant names are linked to their respective website for your convenience!
I. Date Night Restaurants
Located just 20 minutes away from main campus, this restaurant is widely acclaimed as the most romantic restaurant in Atlanta. Seated right alongside the Chattahoochee river, you’ll know that this “casually elegant” location is the spot for you to celebrate with your significant other.
If you’re looking for a night that’s almost cheesy with romance, then The Melting Pot is certainly meant for you. This fondue restaurant, also ranked among the top 10 romantic restaurants in the city, particularly sticks with Emory students. Perhaps it’s the idea of bonding over a sizzling pot of melted cheese—or maybe it’s just the idea of the cheese. Whatever it is, if you’re fond of them and they’re fondue, this is the place for you!
Honorable mentions in this category include Nakato, a nice sushi restaurant, and Dantanna’s, a self-proclaimed “upscale sports restaurant.” Both places would be great for a date night!
II. Friends: Formal
While the area around the restaurant seems low-key, Eclipse di Luna more than makes up for that. Bubbling with lights, music, and people, it’s the perfect setting for friends to relax and enjoy amazing food. They specialize in tapas, which are basically tiny portions of filling meals. So, the best way to enjoy the food is to order a lot and share it amongst yourselves! Note: be sure to try the Tres Leches.
They have great desserts and even better drinks. Their cheesecake definitely makes you question how much you’ve ever claimed to be satisfied by a cookie at the DUC. If you’re looking to dress up and enjoy good company, Intermezzo is simply perfect.
Emory truly lacks good sushi. That’s where these guys come in. Not just do they serve some fabulous sushi platters, but their IndoChine, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Korean menus are also unmatched. that’s not even the best part though; here, you don’t just eat your sushi—you make your own sushi. That’s right: give them an hour and a half of your time and you’ll be on your way to creating happiness.
The honorable mention for this section is Maggiano’s Little Italy, a formal Italian restaurant where you can eat your weight in pasta (especially if you take advantage of their buy one-get one offer). Who better to pig out with than your friends?
III. Friends: Informal
It’s fast, it’s fresh, it’s delicious. Create your own 3-layered bowl in a chill environment, and you’ll truly enjoy your food with “gusto!”
This restaurant is an Eastern Mediterranean grill, ideal for all the Falafel King frequenters in search of variety. The food is fresh, healthy, and filling. If you do choose to go, be sure try the Zesty Hummus!
If you’re looking for a nice, casual brunch with friends, West Egg Café and Murphy’s are staples.
IV. Restaurants on a Budget:
This isn’t a restaurant, it’s a neighborhood. Go to this area to find Gio’s Chicken, Caffe Antico, Antico Pizza, Botega Luisa, and Baramalf. Each of these restaurants have their own specialties and, for the amount of food you get, they’re all great values.
“Just like grandma’s,” says a review of Noni’s Deli. Here’s the thing: the food will remind you of home, and your wallet will stay just as heavy as before—or it’ll be just as light…but that’s a whole different issue.
If you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese food, you need to check out Lee’s Bakery. Located right on Buford Highway, their Banh Mi’s were even mentioned in the New York Times! If you’re feeling Mexican food instead, Taqueria Del Sol is the place to go. Beloved by Emory students, this restaurant is both affordable and delicious. The location in Decatur sometimes even has a line stretching outside the door—but it’s worth it!
V. Healthy Eateries
These guys specialize in the preparation of kale. And, as bitter as that sounds, it’s actually unbelievable. I know that no matter how much people try to sell kale, there’s always one who remains skeptical. But do it just this once. Go to Tassili’s.
Quinoa burgers, kale salads, edamame dumplings…even the unhealthiest meateater would have to be just the least bit intrigued. It’s like they say: “let things taste what they are.” Head over there to finally find out!
This restaurant prides itself on fresh, local, and healthy Mediterranean options. Their lunch options are amazing and guilt-free. Plus, they even have their own juice bar!
Eating is an art, which unfortunately isn’t always the easiest thing to master on Emory’s campus. Atlanta is home to all this and so much more, so be sure to make use of this wonderful city during your four years and realize how much it has to offer!