By Lindsay Levin
In Atlanta, brunch is less a meal and more a weekend tradition. After years of living and working across this city, I have eaten my way through more biscuits, benedicts, and pancakes than I can count, all in the name of good research. The scene stretches from historic neighborhoods to the heart of downtown, and each spot has its own personality. When clients move here, the brunch scene is one of the first things they fall for. Here is my guide to some of the top brunch spots in Atlanta.
Key Takeaways
- Atlanta has one of the best brunch scenes in the South, with options for every taste.
- From Southern classics to creative, globally inspired plates, the variety is remarkable.
- Many of the best brunch spots in Atlanta sit in distinct, characterful neighborhoods.
- Weekend brunch here fills up fast, so a little planning goes a long way.
Why brunch is a weekend tradition in Atlanta
Atlanta takes brunch seriously, and the city rewards anyone willing to explore. Nearly every neighborhood has a beloved spot where locals gather over coffee and good food, often lingering well into the afternoon. I love introducing newcomers to this part of life here, because it says so much about the city and its easygoing, social character.
What makes the scene special
A few things set Atlanta brunch apart:
- A deep bench of Southern cooking, from biscuits to shrimp and grits.
- A wave of creative kitchens blending global flavors with local ingredients.
- Welcoming neighborhoods where brunch is a social event, not just a meal.
- A mild climate that makes patio dining a pleasure for much of the year.
Southern classics done right
If you want the heart of Atlanta brunch, start with the classics. Atlanta Breakfast Club, in the heart of downtown near the Georgia Aquarium, is famous for its chicken and waffles and its lively, welcoming energy. Over in Virginia Highland, Murphy’s has been a neighborhood institution for more than forty years, pairing beloved brunch dishes with its own bakery and wine shop.
What to know about these two
Keep these details in mind:
- Atlanta Breakfast Club draws a crowd and is worth the wait, so arrive early.
- Its downtown location makes it an easy stop before exploring the city.
- Murphy’s weekend brunch features favorites like Eggs T. Murphy and crab cake benedict.
- Murphy’s doubles as a bakery and wine shop, so save room for something sweet.
Homestyle cooking made from scratch
For brunch that feels like the best version of home cooking, Buttermilk Kitchen is a Buckhead favorite. Chef Suzanne Vizethann builds her menu around local ingredients and makes nearly everything in house, right down to the buttermilk itself. The chicken biscuit with pepper jelly has a devoted following for good reason.
What to know before you go
A few helpful notes:
- Buttermilk Kitchen focuses on breakfast, brunch, and lunch rather than dinner.
- Weekend mornings are busy, so plan for a possible wait.
- The biscuits and pancakes are the signatures, and they live up to the hype.
- You can even take home their biscuit mix to recreate a bit of it yourself.
Brunch with a creative twist
Atlanta also shines when its kitchens get inventive. Over in Inman Park, Bread & Butterfly brings a French bistro sensibility to the morning, with flaky croissants, elegant tartines, and a bright, airy room that feels like a getaway.
What to know about these spots
Worth keeping in mind:
- Bread & Butterfly does not take brunch reservations, so expect a line on weekends.
- Its pastries and French inspired plates are worth every minute of the wait.
Tips for a great Atlanta brunch
A little strategy makes brunch here even better. These are the tips I share with clients settling into the city.
How to brunch like a local
Keep these in mind:
- Go early or late to avoid the busiest weekend window.
- Many of the best spots take no reservations, so be ready to wait a bit.
- Explore beyond your own neighborhood to taste the full range of the city.
- Bring a group, since brunch in Atlanta is best enjoyed with company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brunch spots in Atlanta?
A few of my favorites are Atlanta Breakfast Club downtown, Murphy’s in Virginia Highland, Buttermilk Kitchen in Buckhead, and Bread & Butterfly in Inman Park. Each one offers something a little different. Together they show off the range of the city’s brunch scene.
Do I need a reservation for brunch in Atlanta?
It depends on the spot. Some take reservations, while favorites like Buttermilk Kitchen and Bread & Butterfly are first come, first served. Arriving early is always a smart move on weekends.
What food is Atlanta brunch known for?
Southern classics lead the way, from fluffy biscuits and chicken and waffles to shrimp and grits. You will also find creative, globally inspired plates all over the city. That mix of tradition and invention is what makes brunch here so fun.
Come Taste the Atlanta Brunch Scene
Great brunch is one of the simple pleasures that makes life in Atlanta so enjoyable, and it is a wonderful way to get to know the city’s neighborhoods. When clients ask me what living here is really like, I often suggest we talk it over at one of these spots.
When you are ready to find your place in Atlanta, my team and I would love to help you discover the neighborhood that fits you best, brunch spots included. Reach out to me at the
Lindsay Levin Team, and let’s find your home in a city worth savoring.
