Atlanta is known for its diverse, fast-growing foodie scene. If you’re headed to the city, you can’t leave without treating yourself to a few signature fried dishes. While fried chicken is indeed a Southern staple, there are also many other fried snacks and entrées that will give you the comfort food you need while you explore the city. Here’s our guide to some of the best fried food to try in Atlanta.
Busy Bee’s Fried Chicken
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, $$$
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Atlanta is known for quite a few things including the Southern favorite—fried chicken. One thing an Atlantan knows is that not all fried chicken is created equal. If you want to try a piece of crispy chicken that won’t disappoint, then Busy Bee is a must. Not only will this Atlanta staple serve a delicious meal, but this historic restaurant was also once the meeting place for civil rights leaders such as Andrew Young and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
With a motto like “Eat one that’s worth it,” it makes sense that Sublime is the go-to place when a donut craving strikes. Sorry, Krispy Kreme. Since 2008, Navy officer-turned-chef Kamal Grant has turned his unique culinary vision into a household name. With a new 24-hour location located in North Druid Hills and signature A-shaped pastries that pay homage to Atlanta, what’s not to love?
J.R. Crickets is an Atlanta icon in its own right. Its recent feature on an episode of FX’s hit show produced by Atlanta’s own Donald Glover further cemented the wing joint’s impact on Atlanta culture and food scene. No one does buffalo wings quite like J.R. Crickets. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their newest menu item inspired by Atlanta—Lemon Pepper Wet. You can thank us later.
This family-owned hipster hangout is known for its late-night dance parties but serves up Italian-inspired fare that will fuel you just in time to hit the floor for your favorite song. Tucked away on the Edgewood strip, one of the neighborhood trattoria’s star appetizers are the Noni’s garlic fries, covered in garlic and fresh parmesan—your taste buds won’t get enough.
There are loads of fantastic brunch spots to try on the Atlanta foodie scene, but South City Kitchen’s dish of tasty chicken and waffles is king. Known for their impeccable service and dedication to cultivating a menu of Southern comfort food that feeds your soul, this restaurant will likely be a go-to place whenever you’re in the mood for everyone’s favorite weekend meal.
Chick-fil-A’s roots go back to 1946 when Truett Cathy opened his first diner, the Dwarf Grill (now known as the Drawf House), in Hapeville, a suburb just miles away from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Whether you’re stopping by for the waffle fries, the fried chicken sandwich or the exceptional customer service, Chick-fil-A is fast food that never disappoints. One important thing to remember before you visit Chick-fil-A is that they are never open on Sundays.
Don’t let the outside of this hole-in-the-wall eatery keep you from stopping by. Though they are known for their Korean-Mex fusion fare, their crispy, sesame fries make the perfect accompaniment to any meal. While you’re there, don’t forget to try at least one taco or the Bibim-bop—neither you nor your wallet will leave disappointed.
On Labor Day 1955, Joe Rogers and Tom Forkner (who were neighbors) opened the historic Waffle House chain in Avondale Estates, GA. Today, Waffle House is a go-to stop for Atlantans any time of the day. If you want to have your hash browns in true Atlanta fashion, the scattered, smothered, and covered potatoes fried to perfection on the grill are the only way to go.
