Finding a restaurant that is either LGBTQ-friendly or -owned is not always easy, but luckily Atlanta and its surrounds have plenty of establishments that welcome a diverse clientele.
Georgia is a fairly progressive state, embracing people from all walks of life, niche interests, and even the latest technological advancements. For example, many retailers and restaurants have embraced cryptocurrencies, so if you’re on the hunt for the best crypto to buy in the state, just know you can also spend it in Atlanta and beyond. The state also welcomes freedom of expression, which has permeated the dining scene.
Read on to discover the six best restaurants in Georgia that serve a wide variety of cuisines that will appeal to even the pickiest diner.
1. Finca To Filter
- Address: 652 Angier Ave NE Suite A, Atlanta, GA
- Best for: Coffee and light meals
Finca is a “queer, woman-owned small business” in Atlanta, supporting their local community and welcoming all patrons. They believe in viable wages for all workers along the coffee supply chain and strive to provide sustainable and equitable products to customers.
Speaking of their products, Finca is the place to get a good cuppa in Georgia. From specialty brews like a nitro cold brew to classics like a cortado, you’re sure to find a hot drink to enjoy. Their light meals are also mouth-wateringly good, and we can highly recommend the bacon, egg, and biscuit sandwich or the spinach and feta quiche for the veggies.
2. Ria’s Bluebird
- Address: 421 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA
- Best for: Brunch
Ria’s Bluebird is a hit diner loved by locals and famous for its incredible brunches. You get to tuck into all-day breakfasts, each with a uniquely Southern twist. The portions are generous, the interior of the cafe is quirky (think mosaics of birds and painted walls), and the outdoor seating is perfect for a warm day.
The food might not look Instagram-worthy, but you won’t regret tucking into the Bluebird Burrito, Shrimp and Grits, or Tofu Scramble. Wash it all down with homemade lavender lemonade or a house coffee and you’re set for the day.
3. Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar
- Address: Multiple locations, including West Midtown, College Park, and Conyers
- Best for: Soul food
This restaurant is a “love letter to the Gullah Geechee culture”, serving up authentic food with a generous helping of rice. The reason for this grain-based cuisine is the culture’s roots in West Africa.
Help yourself to a humble but delicious Red Rice (rice cooked in tomato sauce with bacon and sausage) or get dirty with some baked Jam Up Wings or Fried Poke Chop. The cocktails here are also pretty legit—we recommend you give the Liquid Reefah a try if you’ve got a cab organized to take you home.
4. Oreatha’s At The Point
- Address: 2287 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA
- Best for: Cocktails and global eats
Oreatha’s is not your typical trendy eatery; they’ve based their entire establishment on a Mother’s Love. Head Chef Deobrah VanTrece has a deep interest in home cooking across the world, and having traveled a lot herself, she incorporates her own mom’s dishes with those she sampled abroad.
The menu is diverse, taking you on an international journey. Sample Shanghai Duck Wings, Moroccan Mussels, and Salmon Empanadas as small plates, or come hungry and satiate yourself with Sicilian Jambalaya or Stroganoff. There is literally something for everyone here, whether you want local favorites or foreign feasts—and it’s all prepared with love.
5. Urban Pie Pizza
- Address: 2012 Hosea L Williams Dr NE, Atlanta, GA
- Best for: Pizza
If you’re looking for the best pizza in Georgia, look no further than Urban Pie. They cater to even the snobbiest pizza aficionados, offering a huge selection. Their New York-style crust is thin and crispy, their toppings are generous, and they’ve got some truly unique creations on the menu.
Vegans, rejoice! They even offer a vegan chorizo pizza that meat-eaters will love. Their Urban Pizza is a must for vegetarians, drowned with garlic, spinach, peppers, feta, and mozzarella.
We didn’t forget the meat-eaters, don’t worry. The Grease Monkey Pizza is a favorite for meat-lovers, topped with bacon, ground beef, and pepperoni.
6. Woofs Sports Bar
- Address:
- Best for: Pub grub
Everyone is welcome at Woofs, the only gay sports bar in Georgia. Here you can find incredible pub grub while watching the game on one of the 25 TVs.
Their baskets are worth it ( the mixed basket is the perfect sampler), but you will regret not trying one of their moist chargrilled burgers. We highly recommend the Patty Melt burger, smothered in two cheeses. Vegetarians are not forgotten, and the Impossible Burger (made with meat-free alternatives from Impossible Foods) is on offer.
Woofs Sports Bar gives back to the community, supporting LGBTQ projects and sports groups in the area.
Final Thoughts
Georgia’s dining scene is as diverse and welcoming as its communities. With restaurants that embrace local culture and global flavors, everyone can find a spot that feels like home. Whether you want soul food, brunch, pizzas, or cafe classics, the restaurants above stand out for their inclusive dining that celebrates all tastes and backgrounds.