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1. Souper Jenny
56 E Andrews Dr NW #22, access Andrews Square from Cains Hill Pl, Atlanta, GA 30305 · 404-239-9023
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BUCKHEAD. Those in the know regard this ladling lunchery as one of the best alternatives in town; judging from the proverbially long lines, the accolades are well deserved. Creative sandwiches and salads are featured, but the true headline-grabbers are the gourmet-caliber soups, which run the gamut from Southwestern-style chicken tortilla to the ever-popular My Dad's Turkey Chili, which "owner-souper" Jenny Levison makes sure is on the menu every day. Expect a casual though crowded scene – you can't enjoy food like this all by your lonesome!
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DOWNTOWN. Located near the Georgia State campus, Thelma's is as down-home, family-friendly a place as you'll find Downtown. Indeed, Southern-style comfort food steals the show at this unassuming dining room, where the kitchen serves up heaping, unforgettable portions of everything from fried chicken and farm-raised catfish to mac-n-cheese and sweet-potato pie. As for the clientele, expect an eclectic mix of neighborhood regulars, stray students in need of home-cooking and folks from nearby corporate HQs – yes, even tie-wearing business execs crowd around the tables from time to time.
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VIRGINIA HIGHLAND. Alon's lunches are great for one main reason: the sublime, fresh-baked bread. Challah, Country French, rye and croissants are done to perfection. Top these with creative mixtures of fresh vegetables, flavorful cheeses and hearty meats, and you have a sandwich that's nothing short of unforgettable. If you love to browse tray after tray of bakery-fresh desserts – and who doesn't! – then don't skip theirs. From tender scones to some of the most addictive cookies in Atlanta, you'll find it all here. Try a tangy lemon square or a big piece of raspberry white-chocolate cheesecake, and don't forget a fragrant cup of coffee to go with your selection. Wine is not served, but you may buy a bottle in the store to take home.
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GRANT PARK. If you plan to have weekend brunch at Ria's, plan to come early, because crowds quickly gather, and the tiny place takes some time to turn over. It's in your best interest to hold out, though, because the homemade food is to die for. Breakfast served all day is the real attraction, whether you choose the omelet of the day, lush caramelized banana pancakes, huevos rancheros, or even the unusual but delicious brisket breakfast. An array of vegetarian and vegan options are available, and although the funky little place has a groovy vibe, it's as comfortable for your hipster nephew as for your church-going grandma. At lunch, find gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, and a few hot entrees.
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5. Atlanta Grill
181 Peachtree St NE, Ritz-Carlton Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30303 · 404-659-0400
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DOWNTOWN. Lauded for its superb cuisine and inviting ambience, this esteemed restaurant is elegant and gracious – just as you'd expect from the Ritz. Well-executed murals and classic city photographs distinguish the space, which plays host to well-to-do travelers and celebs. The Southern-inspired menu finds great expression in the prix fixe brunch, which includes fare like prime rib, artisan cheeses, and pastries. Not to be outdone, lunch at the Grill is itself an impressive affair – one that includes frisee and endive salad with pancetta, Maine lobster club with eggs brioche, tomato and cucumber gazpacho, and green asparagus soup.
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BUCKHEAD. This modern-day diner, with its sleek, chrome-accented decor, has attracted celebrities and hip locals for more than a decade. Known for great bar snacks (like calamari) and addictive homemade potato chips with blue cheese dressing, the diner also serves up veal and wild mushroom meatloaf and a tasty beef tenderloin BLT. The bar is a great place to hang out and soak in the ambience. Or head for a booth, order a sandwich, and follow it up with a slice of heaven – their award-winning white chocolate banana cream pie. MARTA: Buckhead
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NORTH DRUID HILLS ROAD. Don't be put off by the outward appearance of this strictly utilitarian building – seasoned regulars know that it offers some of the city's best Cuban food. Long lines are a standard lunchtime consideration, but they don't hold up against the promise of a crusty Cuban sandwich filled with roast pork, ham and Swiss. Other hot sandwiches can also be had (like the boliche with beef, peppers, and onions), or you can test empanadas, black beans or a Cuban steak. Cap the meal with a creamy mango or fruta bomba (papaya) shake. Counter service.
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8. The Varsity
61 North Ave NW, Spring St near Georgia Tech, Atlanta, GA 30308-2102 · 404-881-1706
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MIDTOWN. A hallmark of down-home Atlanta dining, this '50s-era establishment is the world's largest drive-in restaurant. Have your hot dog and onion rings or chiliburger and fries served on a tray hanging from your car window; or dine inside and enjoy the banter between enthusiastic counter workers and hungry diners as they respond to the Varsity's famous "What'll ya have?" No alcohol is served. Many rooms feature school desk-style tables and TVs showing hometown station CNN. Ideal for families and business people in search of a memorable weekday lunch. Make sure to visit the souvenir shop on the premises! MARTA: Civic Center
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MIDTOWN. Get caught up in the Vortex, and you'll find Atlanta's best burger. More than kid's fast food, these burgers are thick, juicy patties crowned with a range of exotic toppings. Accompany one with a Laughing Skull beer, or try a single-malt scotch from their collection of more than 80 brands. The place also offers veggie lovers a range of meat-free burgers that are just as tasty as the meat counterparts. An upbeat vibe and colorful dining room work together to make this an exhilarating midday experience. Be forewarned, however, that Vortex is self-described as "NOT politically correct." It's also a bar, and they do restrict underage patrons after 7pm.
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MIDTOWN. First off, this sushi bar's initials stand for "Magic Fingers," which is the accomplished sushi chef's nickname. Second, sushi is all the restaurant serves. But, oh, what sushi it is, presented in a stylish place of pale woods and rhythmic music. Perfectly composed morsels are beautiful, fashioned from premium seafood, and are exemplary models of the genre. Fresh wasabi, terrific sakes, and knowledgeable servers up the ante on quality. Crafting the sushi does take time, so be prepared for some anticipation.
Looking for light and tasty dishes with a quick turn-around time? Or perhaps a power lunch to close the deal? Here, you’ll find the right setting for either! An assortment of decors from casual and sporty to sophisticated and businesslike. You may also find the option of ordering take-out food.
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