Georgia Soul Food Restaurants That Feel Like A Sunday Dinner At Grandma’s

There’s something magical about soul food that brings people together around the table. When I think about those warm Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house, I remember the laughter, the love, and the incredible flavors that made every bite special.

Georgia has some amazing restaurants that capture that same comforting feeling, serving up dishes that taste just like home.

1. Busy Bee Cafe

Walking through the doors feels like stepping into a time machine back to 1947. This Atlanta landmark serves up fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside, just the way your grandma made it.

The collard greens simmer with smoked meat, and the cornbread crumbles perfectly in your mouth. You’ll find locals and visitors alike lining up for plates piled high with comfort.

2. Paschal’s Restaurant

History lives in every corner of this place, where civil rights leaders once gathered over plates of home cooking. The mac and cheese here is legendary, with that golden crust on top that makes you want seconds before finishing your firsts.

Their candied yams taste like Sunday afternoon, sweet and buttery. I always leave feeling full and grateful.

3. Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Since 1945, families have been gathering here for meals that remind them of home. The servers call you honey and sugar, making you feel like part of the family from the moment you sit down.

Their fried chicken comes with sides that change daily, all made from scratch. The sweet tea is perfectly sweetened, just like grandma always made it on hot summer days.

4. The Beautiful Restaurant

Buffet-style dining here means you can pile your plate high with everything that looks good. The catfish is fried golden and flaky, seasoned with spices that dance on your tongue without being too spicy.

Green beans cooked low and slow taste like they’ve been simmering all morning. You pay one price and eat until your heart is content and your belly is happy.

5. Colonnade Restaurant

Operating since 1927, this spot knows a thing or two about Southern cooking. Their baked chicken falls off the bone, swimming in gravy that you’ll want to soak up with every piece of bread available.

The squash casserole is creamy and comforting, topped with just enough cheese. Portions are generous, reminding you of how grandma always insisted you eat more.

6. Thelma’s Kitchen

Thelma herself might greet you at the door, making you feel like you’re visiting her actual home. The oxtails here are tender and rich, braised until they practically dissolve on your fork with minimal effort.

Rice soaks up all that delicious gravy, and the cabbage is seasoned perfectly. Everything tastes like it was made with someone you love in mind.

7. Silver Skillet

This Atlanta institution has been flipping pancakes and frying chicken since 1956. Breakfast here feels like Saturday mornings at grandma’s, with grits that are creamy and perfectly salted, not lumpy or bland.

The country ham is salty and savory, paired with eggs cooked exactly how you like them. You can smell the biscuits baking from the parking lot.

8. Bankhead Seafood

Fresh fish fried to perfection makes this place special in a city full of chicken joints. The whiting is crispy and light, served with hot sauce on the side for those who like a little kick with their meal.

Their coleslaw is tangy and crunchy, cutting through the richness of fried food. You’ll see neighborhood regulars here every single day, which tells you everything.

9. Thumbs Up Diner

Hidden in a strip mall, this gem serves up comfort that rivals any grandmother’s kitchen. The meatloaf is moist and flavorful, topped with a tangy tomato glaze that brings back childhood memories with every bite.

Mashed potatoes are whipped smooth and buttery, perfect for making a little crater to hold gravy. Portions are huge, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home.

10. This Is It! BBQ and Seafood

Barbecue and soul food come together beautifully at this Atlanta favorite that’s been around since 1983. Ribs fall off the bone with a smoky sweetness that reminds you of family cookouts in the backyard.

The potato salad is creamy with just the right amount of mustard and relish. Everything here tastes like someone put their whole heart into making it special for you.