As a Southern girl, the charm of Brookhaven, Georgia didn’t surprise me. But what did surprise me was that it’s a food-lover’s dream. From the first bite to the last sip, this north Atlanta suburb delivered flavor in ways I didn’t see coming. Here are some of my favorites.
What Foodies will love:
- Vibe: safe and welcoming community
- Variety: from casual dining to elevated experiences with an eclectic mix of flavors, international cuisines, craft cocktails and traditional favorites
- Fun for: solo travel, girlfriend getaway or a romantic night out
Explore Brookhaven hosted my visit. All opinions are my own.
Azucar Cuban Restaurant
I stepped into Azucar Cuban Cuisine encountering a sizable tree growing through the restaurant’s center. I hoped for a magical backstory, but our waitress simply smiled and said, “It was here when they bought the place.”
The real magic here: the warmth of the staff and the bold Cuban flavors.
Highlights
- Food: Cuban
- Vibe: Casual Caribbean
- Must Try Dishes: The filete de pargo – pan-seared to a crisp, bursting with flavor
- Backstory: Owner Alvaro Carta shared that every recipe on the menu comes straight from his grandmother’s kitchen: “She didn’t measure anything. I watched her cook and wrote down everything she did.”
Get 365 days of travel inspiration delivered right to your inbox!
Petite Violette
I knew I wanted a fancy meal, and Petite Violette checked that box. This white-tablecloth restaurant serves fabulous French-inspired dishes in a setting that feels like a quick escape to Paris. While the ambiance whispers elegance, Petite Violette welcomes guests whether you’re dressed to the nines or keeping it casual.
Highlights
- Food: French-inspired
- Vibe: Romantic and nostalgic with white tablecloths, candles, and soft music
- Must Try Dishes: Beef Wellington, Cordon Bleu and Sea Bass Florentine are the local legends on the menu, but don’t overlook the owner-recommended crisp and lightly caramelized Brussel sprouts.
- Backstory: A staple of the Atlanta area for over 50 years
Kategna Ethiopian Cuisine
For a cultural experience, try Kategna Ethiopian Restaurant, where you’ll eat sans utensils, instead scooping up each bite by hand with injera, a spongy, tart flatbread. Our server, one-half of the couple who owns the restaurant, walked us through the menu and explained the unique spices and ingredients that define the rich, bold flavors of Ethiopian cooking.
Highlights
- Food: Ethiopian
- Vibe: Warm and inviting, casual
- Must Try Dishes: Beef Short Ribs Tibs, chicken stew and injera
- Backstory: Ethiopian native Nani Desta immigrated to the United States in 1997 and opened the restaurant in 2020 to share authentic Ethiopian flavors with the Brookhaven community
Taqueria La Carreta
Taqueria La Carreta isn’t your average taco spot. From the moment I walked in, the vibrant colors, festive music, and warm energy pulled me in. The tacos made me stay.
The flavors reflected tradition, and the dishes felt like they came straight from a family kitchen. I ordered carne asada, and every bite tasted fresh, bold, and made with love. If birria tacos are your thing, the locals say this restaurant serves some of the best in town.
Highlights
- Food: Mexican
- Vibe: Upbeat and fun
- Must Try Dishes: Carne asada, birria tacos
- Backstory: Locals call this an authentic Mexican dining experience
Other Can’t-Miss Spots in Brookhaven
- Henri’s Bakery & Deli: Serving baked goods since 1929. Try the hand-iced, served warm, absolutely delicious cinnamon rolls.
- Jerks Caribbean Grill: Fast-casual restaurant serving authentic Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and oxtails.
- The Ashford: Chef-driven neighborhood restaurant known for its seasonal menu and artisanal cocktails.
- Southern Custard: Family-owned custard shop offering freshly made frozen custard every day.
- Mirko Pizza & Pasta: Delicious handmade pastas, coal oven pizza and fresh salads.
- Sucre: Elevated dessert cafe with sparkling cupcakes, pastries and other delectable baked goods.
Things to Do
- Stroll the Brookhaven walking trail at Peachtree Creek Greenway.
- Attend a local event. Check the Explore Brookhaven events calendar for upcoming events.
- Catch live music at several restaurants and outdoor venues.
- Visit Oglethorpe University for a dose of history and architecture.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina offers easy access to Brookhaven’s best spots and a relaxing space to rest between meals. The rooms are pet-friendly, so your furry friend doesn’t have to stay behind.
What’s Nearby
- Downtown Atlanta (15 minutes away)
- Buford Highway for even more culinary options
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
- Lenox Square Mall for upscale shopping with luxury brands
Leave a Reply