Local Guides

Virginia-Highland Restaurant Guide 2025: 12 Best Local Dining Spots in Atlanta’s VaHi Neighborhood

Published: Sep 03, 2025

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland neighborhood (locally known as “VaHi”), this tree-lined district offers some of Atlanta’s best restaurants and most authentic dining experiences. Whether you’re searching for the best breakfast in Virginia-Highland or planning a romantic dinner, this comprehensive Virginia-Highland restaurant guide covers 12 local favorites that define Atlanta’s most charming foodie destination.

Best Breakfast & Coffee Spots in Virginia-Highland

Flying Biscuit Café – The Original VaHi Location

📍 1655 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

The original Flying Biscuit Café remains a Virginia-Highland institution since 1993. This best breakfast restaurant in VaHi is famous for:

Signature cranberry apple butter and fluffy buttermilk biscuits
Award-winning French toast (voted best French toast in Atlanta)
Hearty breakfast bowls perfect for sharing
Local tip: Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to avoid the crowd

Ria’s Bluebird – Classic Diner Charm

📍 421 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

This beloved Atlanta diner serves comfort food with Southern hospitality. VaHi locals consistently rate their:

Legendary buttermilk pancakes (stack of 3 for $8.95)
All-day breakfast menu
Friendly staff who remember regular customers
Must-try: The “Big Bird” breakfast platter

Top Lunch Restaurants in Virginia-Highland

Murphy’s Restaurant – Upscale Neighborhood Dining

📍 997 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

A Virginia-Highland staple since 1997, Murphy’s perfectly balances fine dining with neighborhood charm. Featured in Atlanta Magazine’s “Best Restaurants”:

Award-winning patio dining (50+ seats available)
Creative American cuisine with Southern influences
Extensive wine list (100+ selections)
Popular dishes: Blackened salmon, lamb chops, seasonal risotto

Atkins Park Tavern – Atlanta’s Historic Gem

📍 794 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

As Atlanta’s oldest licensed tavern (established 1922), Atkins Park offers:

Famous fish and chips (beer-battered cod)
Historic atmosphere with modern American menu
Happy hour specials: Monday-Friday 4-7 PM
Weekend brunch: Saturday-Sunday 10 AM-3 PM

Noni’s Deli – Authentic Italian in VaHi

📍 1000 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

This family-owned Italian deli serves:

Generously portioned sandwiches ($9-14)
Authentic Italian specialties and imported ingredients
Local favorite: The “Noni Special” Italian sub
Quick service perfect for lunch breaks

Best Dinner Restaurants Virginia-Highland

Babette’s Café – European Bistro Excellence

📍 573 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

This romantic Virginia-Highland restaurant has earned recognition as one of Atlanta’s best European restaurants:

Intimate 45-seat dining room
Seasonal menu featuring French and Mediterranean cuisine
Signature dishes: Duck confit, coq au vin, seasonal seafood specials
Wine program: 200+ bottle selection, many French imports
Reservations recommended: Especially weekends

Highland Tap – Elevated Sports Bar

📍 1026 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

More than a typical sports bar, Highland Tap serves elevated pub fare:

Award-winning Highland Burger (featured in Creative Loafing)
24 craft beers on tap (rotating local and national selections)
Game day specials: During Atlanta Falcons and Hawks games
Large patio perfect for group dining

Late-Night Dining & Desserts in VaHi

Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream – Artisanal Sweet Treats

📍 749 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

This family-owned ice cream shop features:

Seasonal artisanal flavors made in-house daily
Local favorites: Salted caramel, lavender honey, seasonal fruit sorbets
Instagram-worthy presentation perfect for social media
Hours: Daily 12 PM-10 PM (11 PM weekends)

Savage Pizza – New York Style in Atlanta

📍 484 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

Late-night dining favorite serving:

Authentic New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie
Creative specialty pizzas with local ingredients
Open until: 2 AM Friday-Saturday, midnight Sunday-Thursday
Delivery available throughout Virginia-Highland

What Makes Virginia-Highland Dining Special

Virginia-Highland’s restaurant scene stands out because of:

Community-Focused Dining Culture

Restaurant owners personally know regular customers
Servers remember usual orders and preferences
Fellow diners often become neighborhood friends
Walkable dining district encourages restaurant hopping

Sophisticated Yet Approachable Atmosphere

Trendy restaurants rooted in Southern tradition
Price range: $10-40 per person depending on restaurant
Perfect for both casual dining and special occasions

Insider Tips for Dining Like a VaHi Local

Best Times to Visit Virginia-Highland Restaurants

Weekday lunch: 11:30 AM-1:30 PM for shorter waits
Weekend brunch: Arrive by 10 AM or after 2 PM
Dinner reservations: Book 2-3 days ahead for popular spots

Parking & Transportation Tips

Free street parking available throughout the neighborhood
MARTA accessibility: Virginia-Highland is walkable from Midtown station
Recommended: Park once and walk between multiple restaurants

Seasonal Dining Recommendations

Spring/Fall: Patio dining at Murphy’s and Highland Tap
Summer: Ice cream crawl ending at Morelli’s
Winter: Cozy indoor dining at Babette’s Café

Budget-Friendly Options

Under $15: Noni’s Deli, Ria’s Bluebird, Savage Pizza
$15-25: Flying Biscuit, Atkins Park Tavern, Highland Tap
$25+: Murphy’s Restaurant, Babette’s Café

Plan Your Virginia-Highland Food Tour

Sample VaHi Dining Itinerary:

Morning: Coffee and pastries at Flying Biscuit Café
Lunch: Italian sandwich at Noni’s Deli
Afternoon: Walk through Virginia-Highland’s shops and galleries
Dinner: Upscale dining at Murphy’s or Babette’s
Dessert: Artisanal ice cream at Morelli’s

Why Virginia-Highland is Atlanta’s Premier Dining Destination

Virginia-Highland restaurants have earned their reputation through:

Consistent quality across all price points
Community engagement and local ingredient sourcing
Diverse cuisine options from casual to fine dining
Walkable neighborhood perfect for food enthusiasts

These 12 Virginia-Highland dining destinations represent more than just restaurants – they’re the neighborhood’s gathering places where Atlanta’s food culture thrives through shared meals and genuine hospitality.

Ready to explore Virginia-Highland’s culinary scene? Start with any of these local favorites and discover why VaHi is considered Atlanta’s most charming dining neighborhood. Book your reservations today and experience the best restaurants Virginia-Highland has to offer!