A tried-and-true Buckhead neighborhood mainstay, Hal's takes great pride in its traditional menu and loyal clientele. Upscale but laid-back, the restaurant serves impeccable steaks and seafood and is especially known for the quality of its flame-grilled filets. Though Hal's definitely attracts its share of high rollers, it has an easy-going atmosphere that lends itself to an after-work cocktail or leisurely dinner. Live music adds a festive touch of live jazz, blues, rock and roll, or big band, and many folks stop by for cocktails and end up staying for dinner and into the night. Terrific service is also a plus.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: A neighborhood ambiance gives this old-school steakhouse an easy-going charm.
Kelly's expert tip: Get the center-cut filet
The atmosphere in this Decatur restaurant is cozy and romantic, lending itself to a perfect date night or just a celebratory evening out with friends. Most steak lovers will enjoy the Kansas City strip - large and juicy. For those who prefer a smaller cut, order the Filet Mignon or get the Porterhouse for two. Enjoy the leftovers with eggs in the morning. The patio is rather nice on nights when the the weather is pleasant. Before enjoying a glass a wine with your steak or seafood, make sure to order a classic cocktail or glass of wine from the bar.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: In the heart of downtown Decatur, this excellent steakhouse offers a warm ambiance and a great patio for people-watching.
Kelly's expert tip: If you visit on a mild day, try to snag a spot on the patio.
Fabulous city views coupled with incredible steaks make this revered chain a perpetual favorite with the expense-account Buckhead crowd. Beef is dry-aged on the premises, so its quality is well-controlled. While the filet, porterhouse, and the 22-ounce delmonico with a porcini mushroom crust are sublime, the sirloin au poivre with Courvoisier cream sauce is absolutely decadent. Other choices on the ingredient driven menu include broiled lobster, veal or lamb chops, and seared salmon with mustard sauce. A stacked wine and cocktail list ups the ante, and service at the clubby establishment is as attentive and unobtrusively helpful as you'd expect.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Mark a special occasion with a skyline view and a dry-aged steak.
Kelly's expert tip: There's a busy after-work scene at this chain too.
STK, short for Steak, is the part The ONE Group's slew of restaurants based in cities like New York, Las Vegas and Miami. Centered in Midtown, the setting is slick and modern with a distinct edginess. Servers and customers alike tend to be beautiful. Part of the allure, aside from the steak, is the sense that when you go out to eat here, you're out on the town. If steak isn't your thing, come later to enjoy the lounge atmosphere and to mingle with fellow singles. The interiors have a distinct sex appeal with opulent leather banquettes and a sparkling bar.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Find a sexy scene with delicious steaks and cocktails to boot.
Kelly's expert tip: Dress to impress.
A gem among Buckhead Life Restaurant Group's high-caliber restaurants, the vibe here is very much upscale and service-oriented. As the name suggests, the restaurant emphasizes its steak and seafood selections. Regularly ranked as one of the top steakhouses in the country, it's a popular spot for a date or for a business dinner. Dark woods accent the restaurant and this place stays busy throughout the week. They take particular pride in their 100-percent USDA Prime-Graded beef, veal and lamb. Given the location next to the St. Regis, you may also spot a few celebs. Go whopper sized or moderately portioned when you order your steak. Don't forget to order sides.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: This popular Buckhead steakhouse lives up to its stellar reputation.
Kelly's expert tip: Do not pass up the lobster mac. It's incredible.
New York Prime certainly tips its hat to the glamour of yesteryear with its polished decor (complete with piano player and palm tree) and white table service. All cuts of steak are perfectly prepared and seasoned. Lots of people like to treat dads here for birthdays and Father's Day--there's a manly vibe about the place and a suited crowd. Service here is tough to beat from beginning to end. You can expect your servers to scoop your appetizers onto your plate for you. All steaks are USDA Prime, are aged 28 days and are served Pittsburgh style (charred exterior). Get the bone-in rib-eye and feast on the sides.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Dine on steaks and seafood in an upscale spot just a stone's throw from Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square Mall.
Kelly's expert tip: Get the seafood platter to start.
This established Buckhead eatery hangs its reputation on the fine food, handsome environs and impeccable service to match. A modern classic, Bone's still delivers excellent steaks and seafood with aplomb. Favorite entrees include the 20-ounce bone-in rib eye and the 24-ounce porterhouse. Add on to the decadence with toppers like foie gras or Maine lobster tail. You'll want to order a side of the mushrooms, sauteed spinach or the truffle mashed potatoes. If you are entertaining a large group, the seafood platter is a must. Touting an old-school vibe that caters largely to the business set, the restaurant hasn't lost its charm--or its finesse--over time.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Bone's is an American classic and serves its incredible steaks with swagger.
Kelly's expert tip: This is a great place to close a deal over lunch.
Long considered one of Atlanta's top steak restaurants, this Inman Park eatery is known for its large portions, and expertly cooked steaks. Part of Chef Kevin Rathbun's meat-centric empire, this popular fine-dining spot takes pride in its locally sourced ingredients, prime-cut meats and decadent sides. Dress your steak with one of the suggested accompaniments (with blue cheese butter, black truffle butter or Dijon mustard, for instance) and pair it with sinful sides like charred jalapeno creamed corn or scalloped sweet potatoes with Gruyere. Portions are large, and in some instances, gigantic. A range of appetizers, seafood and non-beef options are also available. The ambiance is trendy fine dining.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: This in-town favorite is consistently ranked as one of the best steakhouses in the city, and lives up to its reputation.
Kelly's expert tip: If you're coming here to eat, enjoy the occasion, forget the diet, and enjoy the food.