Alon's Bakery & Market

1394 N Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-6000

Description: 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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Athens Pizza

1341 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033 404-636-1100

Description: DECATUR. Who says Italians have the market on pizza? This Greek restaurant specializes in homemade pies with a definite Greek twist. Try toppings such as kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh tomatoes. The menu also includes other traditional dishes, such as gyros, lamb and Greek salads. Authentic wines complement the dishes offered. Casual dress is the norm. Reservations accepted.
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Colonnade

1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd, Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-5642

Description: MIDTOWN. Southern American cuisine is the specialty at this '50s-style restaurant, which is where your grandparents would have gone when looking for a trendy restaurant 30 years ago. It's still drawing crowds today. All your favorite Southern classics ­ fried chicken, grilled trout, cornbread and hot yeast rolls ­ are served here. The banquet facility accommodates up to 72 people.
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El Taco Veloz

5670 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342 404-252-5100

Description: SANDY SPRINGS. Craving full-flavored Mexican quick food at more-than-fair prices? El Taco Veloz knows just what you need. The place is nothing to look at, but don't let that deter you ­ taste and satisfaction are ample rewards for your determination. Soft corn tacos are as homey and delicious as you'd imagine, and huge burritos make folks sigh with delight. Along with standard offerings, you can try selections like beef tongue or the even more exotic barbacoa (slow-cooked beef headmeat). Don't forget to spice things up with their potent, zesty salsas.
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Figo Pasta

1170 B Collier Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-351-9667

Description: BUCKHEAD. Figo Pasta adds hearty dashes of Tuscan-style warmth and panache to the Buckhead dining scene. Charming service and a flair for creative sauces mingle with the space's cozy confines to create an experience that, until now, Atlantans could find only by visiting a neighborhood eatery in the Old Country. Deliciously homemade portions of ricotta and spinach-stuffed ravioli, whole wheat penne and egg pappardelle may be topped with sauces ranging from checca (fresh-chopped tomato, basil and mozzarella) to Siciliana (eggplant, mozzarella and basil tomato sauce topped with shredded ricotta). Portions are large and, perhaps best of all, the prices are stunningly reasonable.
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Goldfish

4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Perimeter Mall, Atlanta, GA 30346 770-671-0100

Description: DUNWOODY. At first glance, this seafooder certainly makes a strong splash, from the stunning, cobalt-blue aquarium to Leigh Smith Catherall's fantasical artwork. Dive deeper, and you'll find Goldfish can't be accused of being "all style, no sustenance." Start with an appetizer ­ hot ones like crab cakes or catfish served with ponzu sauce, or a colder one like peel & eat shrimp or oysters. From there, the menu takes several routes, each of them posing tempting endeavors: Charleston-style shrimp & grits, pan-roasted haddock with sweet corn and scallion chowder, and parmesan-seared skate wing.
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Havana Sandwich Shop

2905 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-636-4094

Description: 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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Java Jive

790 Ponce De Leon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306 404-876-6161

Description: PONCEY-HIGHLAND. An all-American coffeehouse/diner that combines nostalgic appeal with contemporary hipness, Java Jive draws big crowds each weekend thanks to its hearty, creative eats. Try the mouthwatering scrambled eggs with fresh basil and cream cheese, scrumptious gingerbread waffles with lemon curd, or what many locals regard as the best pancakes in town. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, their PB&J French toast is the way to go! Authentic period furnishings from the 1920s-1950s, along with big band and swing music, create a unique environment of yesteryear. Great for all ages!
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Madras Saravana Bhavan

2179 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033 404-636-4400

Description: DECATUR. From MSB's inviting atmosphere to its efficient service and superb South Indian fare, this restaurant does everything right. Authenticity is a primary goal, and vegetarian dishes evoke the flavors of the subcontinent beautifully. Fragrant, spice-laden offerings feature lentils, eggplant, spinach, chickpeas and more. The broad menu provides a wealth of options, and explanations are available. At lunch, a buffet lets you sample a variety of dishes, as does the thali's nine, small-portion selections. Casual and reasonably priced.
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Nicola's Restaurant

1602 LaVista Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-325-2524

Description: EMORY. While decor at Nicola's is minimal, food and festivity are foremost. Within the casual place, diners are consistently mesmerized by the fabulous Middle Eastern fare, from hummus to lamb shank, baked eggplant to a vegetarian plate. There's also baklava, and the family-style dinners are the way to go, especially if you're with a group. However the heart and soul of the place is Nicola himself, a vibrant, merry host who dances, jokes, and even delivers drinks balanced on his head. If you come on a weekend, the action gets even livelier than usual, thanks to belly dancers who engage the crowd with their sensuous moves.
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Nikolai's Roof

255 Courtland St, Hilton Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30303 404-221-6362

Description: DOWNTOWN. This restaurant on the 30th floor of the downtown Hilton Atlanta offers marvelous views of the city skyline and unparalleled elegance. The menu focuses on French cuisine with a few Russian nuances here and there. Indeed, it's been Nikolai's trademark to utilize high-quality, fresh ingredients to create consistently innovative dishes. The upscale environment makes this a perfect choice for business celebrations or special occasion dinners, and the sommelier's hand-chosen selection of wines continues to be among the most impressive in town.
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Panahar

3375 Buford Hwy NE, Northeast Plaza Fashion Square, Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-6655

Description: BUFORD HIGHWAY. Pleasant, inviting and relaxing, this traditional Bangladeshi restaurant is located in a most unlikely setting ­ a shopping strip off busy Buford Highway. Don't let the setting dissuade your visit, though, because they serve some of the tastiest fare this side of Dhaka. Dishes seem to explode with exotic aromas and flavors, as seen in tandoori lamb with ginger, Biriyani specialties with baashmatee rice and mixed vegetables, and spicy chicken vindaloo with aloo. A word to the wise: if you plan on enjoying wine with your meal, stop by the store first ­ Panahar maintains a BYOB policy.
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Park 75 at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 404-253-3840

Description: MIDTOWN. Classical architecture and gracious furnishings highlight the dining room at this well-received restaurant. Global influences shine in such seasonal New American dishes as butter-braised Maine lobster with Anson Mill grits and chorizo, or roasted rack of Colorado lamb with eggplant and feta moussaka. Park 75's wine list features mostly American vintages, though you'll also find a handful of international selections and a Merlot bottled specifically for the restaurant. An especially memorable experience, the Chef's Table affords eight patrons the chance to enjoy a fabulous, nine-course menu with wine pairings at a table situated in the heart of the kitchen.
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Ria's Bluebird

421 Memorial Dr, Atlanta, GA 30312 404-521-3737

Description: 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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Rolling Bones BBQ

377 Edgewood Ave, Atlanta, GA 30312 404-222-2324

Description: SWEET AUBURN. One of the best lunch deals on the east side of Downtown, this converted gas station is convenient to top sights and attractions like Ebenezer Baptist Church, the High Museum of Art and the MLK National Historic Site. In a few years, Rolling Bones may find itself an attraction in its own right, thanks to its delicious Texas-style mesquite barbecue. Combo plates featuring beef brisket, pork ribs or hot links never miss the mark, and homestyle side dishes such as mustard greens, Texas toast and potato salad are always solid complements.
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Souper Jenny

56 E Andrews Dr NW #22, access Andrews Square from Cains Hill Pl, Atlanta, GA 30305 404-239-9023

Description: 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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Taqueria del Sol

1200-B Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-352-5811

Description: WESTSIDE. Sibling of Midtown's ever-popular Sundown Café, Taqueria del Sol serves quick and easy Southwestern food that is so good you'll be convinced the cashier under-charged you. Made-to-order fare is prepared right at the counter, and you can have your taco stuffed with tasty ingredients like chopped smoked pork, tilapia rolled in corn masa, or chicken breast with lime jalapeño mayonnaise. Heartier appetites can go for one or two beef brisket enchiladas and, perhaps, a side of Mexican rice, turnip greens or jalapeño coleslaw.
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The Flying Biscuit Café

1655 McClendon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-8888

Description: LITTLE FIVE POINTS. This red-hot dining spot serves three meals a day, but brunch draws the biggest crowds. Southern favorites and plenty of vegetarian options ensure that every appetite is satisfied. The decor is eclectic and stylish, providing a fitting backdrop for classic dishes given an innovative spin. Try the Meggxican Wrap with cheddar, onion, and serrano peppers in a flour tortilla, or orange-scented French toast served with honey crème anglaise.
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Thumbs Up

573 Edgewood Ave, Atlanta, GA 30312 404-223-0690

Description: INMAN PARK. Hidden away in Atlanta's Inman Park, this quirky diner attracts weekend breakfast crowds from all over Atlanta with homemade pancakes and biscuits and jellies, which pose tough alternatives to equally tasty scrambles and three-egg omelets. If you're a late-riser, don't fret ­ they serve breakfast throughout the day, and lunchtime offerings are also superbly done. Infinitely casual, Thumbs Up has the look and attitude of a neighborhood diner and is the kind of place a person can get hooked on. Judging by the number of patrons who deem themselves "regulars," many folks have developed addictions.
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Zyka

1677 Scott Blvd, Decatur, GA 30033 404-728-4444

Description: DECATUR. Residents of Decatur know that Zyka doesn't stand on formalities, and counter service, simple furnishings, and unelaborate service are the norm. For Northern Indian food this delicious and well priced, though, it's easy to make concessions. Start with the popular Chicken 65 appetizer, tinged with ginger, garlic, cilantro and chilies. Then consider butter chicken, dal Hyderabadi (slow-simmered, seasoned lentils), or Hyderabadi biryani (Basmati rice and goat meat with saffron). Hot, fresh naan makes an apt side dish, and spice-scented kulfi (ice cream) is a heavenly concluding treat.
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