Atlanta’s brunch scene is legendary, offering everything from Southern comfort food and fluffy biscuits to upscale farm-to-table fare and innovative fusion cuisine. Whether you’re craving chicken and waffles, bottomless mimosas, or a leisurely weekend meal with friends, Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods each offer their own unique brunch experiences. This complete guide organizes the best brunch spots by neighborhood, making it easy to find the perfect spot wherever you are in the city.
Virginia Highland: Classic Brunch Central
Virginia Highland is Atlanta’s brunch capital, with more beloved brunch spots per block than perhaps any other neighborhood.
Murphy’s
Murphy’s is the undisputed king of Virginia Highland brunch. This neighborhood institution has been serving weekend brunch since 1997, and the crowds still line up every Saturday and Sunday. Signature dishes include Crab Cake Benedict with perfectly poached eggs, Eggs Virginia Highland with smoked salmon, French Toast made with challah bread, and Chilaquiles with house-made salsa. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a charming patio perfect for people-watching. Expect waits on weekends, but the consistently excellent food and friendly service make it worthwhile.
Atkins Park Tavern
Atkins Park claims to be Atlanta’s oldest licensed tavern, and their brunch is a neighborhood favorite. The menu features Southern classics with creative twists, generous portions, a full bar with brunch cocktails, and a relaxed, pub-style atmosphere. The outdoor patio is ideal for warm-weather brunching.
Highland Tap
This gastropub offers a more casual brunch experience with craft beers, creative brunch plates, a laid-back vibe, and reasonable prices. It’s perfect for a low-key weekend meal without the crowds of Murphy’s.
Buckhead: Upscale Brunch Elegance
Buckhead’s brunch scene matches the neighborhood’s sophisticated character, with upscale options and Southern comfort food done right.
Buttermilk Kitchen
Buttermilk Kitchen serves farm-to-table Southern breakfast and brunch that draws crowds from across Atlanta. Chef Suzanne Vizethann’s menu features the famous Buttermilk Fried Chicken Biscuit, Goat Cheese Grits with seasonal vegetables, fresh-squeezed juices, and rotating seasonal specials using local ingredients. The cozy space fills quickly, so arrive early or expect a wait. Everything is made from scratch with obvious care and quality.
Toast on Lenox
Toast on Lenox brings New American soul food to Buckhead brunch. The menu includes creative takes on Southern classics, indulgent French toast and pancakes, savory brunch entrees, and a full bar with brunch cocktails. The modern, stylish space attracts a diverse crowd seeking elevated comfort food.
The Original Pancake House
This Buckhead institution has been serving breakfast and brunch since 1964. Expect massive pancakes and waffles, traditional American breakfast fare, old-school diner atmosphere, and generous portions at reasonable prices. It’s a Buckhead tradition for families and anyone seeking classic breakfast comfort.
Midtown: Diverse Brunch Options
Midtown’s central location and diverse population create an eclectic brunch scene with options for every taste.
South City Kitchen Midtown
South City Kitchen elevates Southern cuisine to fine dining status while maintaining approachable warmth. Their brunch features award-winning Fried Chicken and Waffles, She-Crab Soup, Buttermilk Biscuits with house-made preserves, and seasonal Southern-inspired dishes. The elegant yet comfortable atmosphere makes it perfect for special occasions or impressing out-of-town guests.
Flying Biscuit Cafe
The Flying Biscuit started in Candler Park and now has multiple locations, but the Midtown spot remains a favorite. Signature items include the Famous Flying Biscuit with cranberry-apple butter, Love Cakes (red velvet pancakes), Organic Oatmeal Pancakes, and creative egg dishes. The hippie-chic vibe, generous portions, and consistently good food have made Flying Biscuit an Atlanta brunch staple for over 25 years.
Tin Lizzy’s Cantina
For a Tex-Mex brunch experience, Tin Lizzy’s delivers with breakfast tacos and burritos, huevos rancheros, bottomless mimosas and margaritas, and a lively, festive atmosphere. The Midtown location’s patio is perfect for weekend brunch with friends.
Inman Park: Hip Neighborhood Brunch
Inman Park’s brunch scene reflects the neighborhood’s creative, slightly bohemian character.
Barcelona Wine Bar
Barcelona brings Spanish-inspired brunch to Inman Park with tapas-style small plates, Spanish tortilla and other egg dishes, sangria and Spanish wines, and a beautiful patio overlooking the BeltLine. The tapas format makes it perfect for sharing and trying multiple dishes.
Petit Chou
This French-inspired cafe offers authentic French pastries and breakfast items, quiches and savory tarts, excellent coffee, and a charming, intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal for a quieter, more European-style brunch experience.
West End and Southwest Atlanta: Soul Food Brunch
West End and surrounding areas offer authentic soul food brunch experiences.
Atlanta Breakfast Club
Atlanta Breakfast Club serves soul food breakfast and brunch with generous portions, creative twists on Southern classics, retro diner decor, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu includes chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, catfish and grits, and indulgent French toast variations. Expect crowds on weekends—this place has developed a devoted following.
Busy Bee Cafe
Busy Bee is a West End institution serving authentic Southern soul food since 1947. While primarily known for lunch and dinner, their breakfast and early brunch offerings include traditional Southern breakfast plates, fried chicken, country-fried steak, and authentic, no-frills soul food. The atmosphere is casual and community-focused, offering a genuine taste of Atlanta’s culinary heritage.
Decatur: Walkable Brunch Haven
Decatur’s walkable downtown square hosts several excellent brunch destinations.
Kimball House
Kimball House brings upscale Southern cuisine and craft cocktails to Decatur brunch. The menu features oysters and seafood, creative brunch entrees, exceptional cocktails and champagne, and an elegant yet approachable atmosphere. The historic building and attention to detail make it a special brunch destination.
Cakes & Ale
This farm-to-table restaurant offers seasonal brunch menus, house-made breads and pastries, locally-sourced ingredients, and a cozy, neighborhood atmosphere. Chef Billy Allin’s commitment to quality and seasonality shines through every dish.
Cafe Lily
Cafe Lily serves Mediterranean-inspired brunch in a charming setting with creative egg dishes and shakshuka, fresh pastries and breads, Mediterranean flavors and ingredients, and a lovely patio. It offers a refreshing alternative to Southern-heavy brunch menus.
East Atlanta Village: Eclectic Brunch Scene
East Atlanta Village’s alternative vibe extends to its brunch offerings.
Gaja Korean Bar
Gaja brings Korean-inspired brunch to EAV with Korean fried chicken and waffles, bibimbap brunch bowls, Korean pancakes, and creative fusion dishes. The hip atmosphere and unique menu make it a standout in Atlanta’s brunch scene.
Octopus Bar
This neighborhood bar serves surprisingly excellent brunch with creative comfort food, generous portions, strong drinks, and a laid-back, dive-bar atmosphere. It’s perfect for a casual, unpretentious brunch experience.
Westside: Trendy Brunch Destinations
Atlanta’s Westside has emerged as a brunch hotspot with innovative restaurants.
West Egg Cafe
West Egg Cafe serves Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch with creative twists on classics, fresh, quality ingredients, a cozy, neighborhood atmosphere, and reasonable prices. The menu includes everything from biscuits and gravy to creative omelets and French toast variations. The Home Park location has been a Westside favorite for years.
Taqueria del Sol
While primarily known for tacos, Taqueria del Sol’s weekend brunch features breakfast tacos and burritos, Memphis-style breakfast offerings, quick service and casual atmosphere, and affordable prices. It’s perfect for a fast, satisfying brunch without the wait.
Ponce City Market and Old Fourth Ward: Urban Brunch
The BeltLine corridor offers convenient brunch options for urban explorers.
Botiwalla
Located in Ponce City Market, Botiwalla serves Indian-inspired brunch with chai and Indian coffee drinks, naan and Indian breads, creative fusion dishes, and a casual, counter-service format. It’s a unique alternative to traditional brunch fare.
Bellina Alimentari
Also in Ponce City Market, Bellina offers Italian-inspired brunch with house-made pasta and breads, Italian breakfast items, excellent coffee, and a beautiful, light-filled space. The quality and attention to detail rival any standalone restaurant.
Chamblee and Brookhaven: Suburban Brunch Gems
North Atlanta suburbs offer excellent brunch without the intown crowds.
Valenza
Valenza in Brookhaven serves Spanish-inspired brunch with tapas and small plates, paella and Spanish specialties, sangria and Spanish wines, and an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. The expansive patio is perfect for leisurely weekend brunches.
Alon’s Bakery
This Dunwoody bakery and cafe offers European-style pastries and breads, quiches and savory items, excellent coffee, and a bakery atmosphere perfect for a quieter brunch. The quality of baked goods is exceptional.
Brunch Tips for Atlanta
To make the most of Atlanta’s brunch scene, keep these tips in mind:
Timing Matters
Popular spots fill quickly on weekends. Arrive before 10 AM to avoid long waits, or plan for a later brunch after 1 PM when crowds thin. Some restaurants offer reservations—take advantage when possible.
Weekday Brunch
Many Atlanta brunch spots serve breakfast and brunch items throughout the week with shorter waits, more relaxed atmospheres, and sometimes special weekday pricing. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorites without weekend crowds.
Seasonal Considerations
Atlanta’s weather makes outdoor brunch patios delightful in spring and fall. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers cozy indoor brunch experiences. Many restaurants adjust their menus seasonally.
Parking
Intown neighborhoods like Virginia Highland, Inman Park, and Decatur can have limited parking on weekend mornings. Arrive early, use ride-sharing, or be prepared to walk a few blocks.
What Makes Atlanta Brunch Special
Atlanta’s brunch scene stands out for several reasons. The city’s Southern heritage means exceptional biscuits, grits, fried chicken, and comfort food done right. The diverse population brings global influences, from Korean fusion to Spanish tapas to Mediterranean flavors. The city’s restaurant scene is innovative yet approachable, with chefs creating elevated dishes while maintaining welcoming atmospheres. Finally, Atlanta’s brunch culture emphasizes community and leisure—brunch is a social event, a chance to gather with friends and family and enjoy a relaxed weekend meal.
Final Thoughts: Your Atlanta Brunch Adventure Awaits
From Murphy’s legendary Crab Cake Benedict in Virginia Highland to Atlanta Breakfast Club’s soul food comfort in West End, from South City Kitchen’s upscale Southern elegance in Midtown to West Egg’s neighborhood charm on the Westside, Atlanta offers brunch experiences for every taste, budget, and neighborhood preference.
The beauty of Atlanta’s brunch scene is its diversity—you can enjoy a different brunch experience every weekend for months without repeating a neighborhood or cuisine. Whether you’re a longtime Atlantan exploring new spots or a visitor seeking the best brunch the city offers, this guide provides a roadmap to Atlanta’s most delicious weekend tradition.
So grab your friends, work up an appetite, and start exploring Atlanta’s incredible brunch scene, one neighborhood at a time. Your perfect brunch is waiting somewhere in this city—probably with a side of cheese grits and a mimosa.
For more Atlanta dining guides, neighborhood recommendations, and local insights, explore The Atlanta Guide.
