By Administrator History and Vibe of Virginia Highlands
Virginia Highlands, a vibrant and walkable neighborhood nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, is a haven for those who appreciate a good meal. Beyond its charming bungalows, tree-lined streets, and friendly atmosphere lies a thriving culinary scene, brimming with diverse flavors and innovative dining experiences. This is a place where you can easily spend a day, hopping from one restaurant to another, discovering new favorites, and soaking up the lively ambiance. Whether you’re craving a casual bite, a romantic dinner, or a refreshing cocktail, Virginia Highlands has something to tempt every palate. This is your guide to navigating the delicious world of food in Virginia Highlands, a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.
Before diving into the gastronomic delights, it’s worth understanding the essence of Virginia Highlands. The neighborhood’s roots stretch back to the early 20th century, evolving from a streetcar suburb into a thriving community. The area gets its name from the intersection of Virginia Avenue and North Highland Avenue, becoming a prime example of a vibrant neighborhood characterized by a strong sense of community, character, and charm.
Walking through the streets, you’ll immediately notice the neighborhood’s unique vibe. There’s a palpable energy, a mix of young professionals, families, and long-time residents all contributing to the area’s character. The walkability is exceptional, allowing you to easily stroll from restaurant to restaurant, shop to shop, and park to park. This close proximity of destinations only enhances the sense of a connected community.
This laid-back, yet stylish, atmosphere strongly influences the food scene. Many of the restaurants are locally owned, fostering a sense of community and pride in their craft. The focus is often on fresh, high-quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and a welcoming environment. The neighborhood’s overall character makes the dining experience in Virginia Highlands a truly enjoyable one. It’s a place where good food and good company go hand in hand.
Breakfast and Brunch Destinations
Start your day in Virginia Highlands with a delicious breakfast or brunch, and you will be on your way to a truly memorable food experience.
Murphy’s
Murphy’s is a Virginia Highlands institution, beloved for its charming ambiance and consistently delicious food. This is the quintessential spot for a comforting brunch or a relaxed breakfast. Murphy’s offers a welcoming setting, where you can enjoy your meal while watching the people walk around the charming neighborhood.
Cuisine Type: American Breakfast & Brunch with a modern twist.
Brief Description: Known for its charming atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu that balances classic dishes with innovative creations. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular during the warmer months. The restaurant has also been featured in many local publications.
Must-Try Dishes: The Crab Cake Benedict is a perennial favorite, featuring perfectly poached eggs, succulent crab cakes, and hollandaise sauce. The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are fluffy, flavorful, and a perfect combination of sweet and tart, another must-try dish. For a heartier choice, the Murphy’s Breakfast – eggs, bacon or sausage, and potatoes – is a reliable choice.
Price Range: $$ (Moderate)
Address & Contact Info: 997 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 874-9777
Highland Bakery
Highland Bakery is another popular brunch spot.
Cuisine Type: American bakery and restaurant
Brief Description: It offers a wide variety of options, from pastries and breakfast sandwiches to full lunch plates, and they even offer a coffee bar.
Must-Try Dishes: Their breakfast sandwiches on fresh-baked croissants are a must. In addition, they are known for their variety of pastries, including muffins and cookies.
Price Range: $$ (Moderate)
Address & Contact Info: 655 Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312; (404) 577-5888
Lunch and Casual Eats
When you’re ready for a lighter lunch, Virginia Highlands has plenty to offer.
George & Goldie’s
This delightful eatery offers a casual experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavor-packed dishes. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed meal.
Cuisine Type: American, with an emphasis on creative sandwiches and salads.
Brief Description: A casual and inviting spot with a focus on high-quality ingredients. They also offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options. Their simple approach to cooking allows the ingredients to shine.
Must-Try Dishes: The Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a classic, elevated with carefully selected cheeses and flavorful additions. The salads are fresh and well-composed.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 790 N Highland Ave NE Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 888-9242
Paolo’s Gelato
When you want a sweet treat or a light lunch, Paolo’s Gelato is a must-visit.
Cuisine Type: Italian gelato and light bites
Brief Description: Offers a wide variety of fresh-made gelato, as well as paninis and other Italian food. The service is friendly, and the flavors are amazing.
Must-Try Dishes: The gelato flavors change daily, but the pistachio and hazelnut are always a great choice. They also offer amazing paninis and other Italian snacks to go with your gelato.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 1029 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 885-8787
Dinner and Fine Dining
For a more formal dining experience, Virginia Highlands provides several options to choose from.
The Iberian Pig
This Spanish tapas restaurant delivers an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Cuisine Type: Spanish Tapas
Brief Description: The Iberian Pig offers a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, with an extensive menu of authentic Spanish tapas. The restaurant focuses on high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Must-Try Dishes: The Jamón Ibérico, cured Spanish ham, is a must-try. The Gambas al Ajillo, shrimp in garlic sauce, is another highlight. The selection of paellas is also outstanding.
Price Range: $$$ (Expensive)
Address & Contact Info: 121 Sycamore St, Decatur, GA 30030; (404) 525-2226
Cali N Tito’s
A truly unique experience that blends Latin American culture with flavorful dishes.
Cuisine Type: Cuban
Brief Description: An informal, vibrant, and lively restaurant with authentic Cuban and Latin American food. Expect long lines, but the food and atmosphere are worth the wait.
Must-Try Dishes: The Ropa Vieja is a classic Cuban dish, and the Tostones are delicious.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 1079 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307; (404) 885-8885
Fontaine’s Oyster House
Enjoy fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere.
Cuisine Type: Seafood
Brief Description: A local favorite, offering fresh oysters and other seafood specialties. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, and the staff is always friendly.
Must-Try Dishes: The oysters are a must-try, as well as the fresh fish dishes.
Price Range: $$ (Moderate)
Address & Contact Info: 1026 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 874-4444
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No culinary adventure is complete without indulging in some sweet treats.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s, a popular ice cream chain, is known for its innovative and delicious ice cream flavors.
Cuisine Type: Ice Cream
Brief Description: Offers a wide variety of unique and delicious ice cream flavors made with high-quality ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes: Explore the various flavors and find your favorite! They are known for their seasonal flavors.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 715 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 358-3411
Jake’s Ice Cream
A local favorite, offering a classic ice cream experience with a variety of flavors.
Cuisine Type: Ice cream
Brief Description: It is known for its many flavors, as well as sundaes and other ice cream favorites.
Must-Try Dishes: Their variety of ice cream flavors and other desserts make it a good choice.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 753 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 873-2969
Bars and Cocktails
Virginia Highlands offers a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and cocktail lounges perfect for a relaxing evening.
Dark Horse Tavern
A great bar for a casual night out.
Cuisine Type: American bar fare
Brief Description: It is a lively spot for a drink or a snack.
Must-Try Dishes: A perfect place for a drink and some snacks with friends.
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 816 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 873-3668
Moe’s & Joe’s
A beloved neighborhood spot perfect for enjoying cocktails with friends.
Cuisine Type: Bar, Cocktails
Brief Description: Known for its friendly atmosphere and good drinks. A great spot to have a conversation with friends.
Must-Try Dishes: Drinks of your choice
Price Range: $ (Inexpensive)
Address & Contact Info: 1033 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306; (404) 872-0073
Tips for Dining in Virginia Highlands
Here are some helpful tips to enhance your culinary adventure in Virginia Highlands:
Parking: Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood, though it can be limited, especially during peak hours. Consider using parking garages if you’re willing to walk a little bit. Be aware of parking restrictions, and always check the signs.
Reservations: For dinner, particularly at popular restaurants, it’s highly recommended to make reservations, especially on weekends. Brunch spots can also get crowded, so consider calling ahead.
Walkability: Virginia Highlands is incredibly walkable. Embrace this! Park your car and explore the neighborhood on foot. This allows you to discover hidden gems and soak up the atmosphere.
Best Times to Visit: The neighborhood is vibrant year-round. However, during the warmer months, outdoor seating is particularly popular, making for a great experience. Weekends can be busier, especially during brunch and dinner hours.
Budgeting: Virginia Highlands offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Establish a budget before you go, but also make sure to be open to new experiences. You can find affordable choices and plan your dining adventure accordingly.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While the featured restaurants provide a solid foundation, part of the joy of exploring the food in Virginia Highlands is discovering hidden gems. Take the time to wander off the main streets and explore the side streets. Ask locals for their recommendations. You might stumble upon a new favorite restaurant, a cozy cafe, or a unique bar. The neighborhood is full of surprises! Some other places you should consider visiting would be the local shops and boutiques to enjoy the entire experience.
Conclusion
Virginia Highlands truly shines when it comes to its diverse and exciting food scene. From comforting brunches to elegant dinners, from authentic international flavors to creative American cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The neighborhood’s lively atmosphere, walkability, and commitment to quality ingredients make dining in Virginia Highlands a memorable experience. Embrace the spirit of exploration, and be prepared to discover new favorites around every corner. Plan your foodie adventure today and dive in. You won’t be disappointed! The next time you are in Atlanta, make sure to check out the amazing food in Virginia Highlands.
