(Yes, Midtown Atlanta restaurants like Westside Motor Lounge is worth it.)
Atlanta is known for its ever-evolving food scene, and Midtown is right at the heart of it. Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your usual weekend plans or a visitor ready to explore, Midtown Atlanta offers an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and unforgettable experiences that span from upscale dining to laid-back lounges. To help you make the most of your weekend, we’ve put together a curated guide to the must-visit Midtown Atlanta restaurants and bars—and yes, we’re stretching the borders just a bit to include a spot that’s absolutely worth the quick ride: Westside Motor Lounge.
Friday Night: Kick Things Off In Style
Dinner: South City Kitchen Midtown
Start your weekend with a bang at South City Kitchen, a true Atlanta institution. Serving elevated Southern classics in a sleek, bistro-style space, this spot sets the tone for a night of indulgence. Try the fried green tomatoes, shrimp & grits, or the delicious fried chicken—each one perfectly balances comfort and sophistication.
Late Night Cocktails: Westside Motor Lounge
Once dinner’s done, head a few blocks over to Westside Motor Lounge, a stylish yet cozy cocktail bar with a strong local following. The bartenders at Westside Motor Lounge are artists, shaking up classic and creative affordable and delicious cocktails. Try the Endless Summer or the Pink Cadillac Margarita if you’re feeling adventurous.
Saturday: Eat, Explore, Repeat
Brunch: Crescent City Kitchen
No weekend guide to Midtown is complete without brunch. Hit Crescent City Kitchen, a long-loved neighborhood favorite known for its New Orleans inspired dishes, delicious drinks, and decadent brunch options. From seafood bites to French toast, it’s the fuel you’ll need for a day of exploring.
Coffee Break: Dancing Goats Coffee Bar
Keep the energy going with a pit stop at Dancing Goats Coffee Bar. This airy coffee bar features delicious lattes, locally roasted beans, and a perfect patio for sipping your cold brew and planning your next move.
Afternoon Vibes: Ponce City Market
Head over to nearby Ponce City Market for some mid-afternoon exploring. While not technically a Midtown spot, it’s close enough and too good to skip. Grab a snack from Hop’s Chicken or El Super Pan, then stroll through the shops or take in the skyline from The Roof, which includes a beer garden and carnival-style games.
Saturday Night: Expand Your Radius For The Ultimate Night Out
Here’s where we break the Midtown mold just a little—because a visit to Westside Motor Lounge is a must. Located just a short ride from the heart of Midtown in Atlanta’s English Avenue neighborhood, Westside Motor Lounge is a destination in itself.
Dinner & Drinks: Westside Motor Lounge
Set on a 3-acre campus, this all-in-one food and beverage compound offers everything you need for a memorable night. Whether you’re showing up for a casual dinner, a round of cocktails, or a DJ set under the stars, Westside Motor Lounge delivers vibe, flavor, and serious style.
Start with dinner, our food menu is a smart take on elevated comfort food. Highlights include Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, WML wings, WML tacos or a double smash burger and fries.
From there, move to the bar or patio for drinks. Sip on one of our signature cocktails like the Electric Echo, Day Drinker, or try a frozen drink if the weather’s right. Our beer and wine selection is carefully curated, leaning into local and natural producers.
Want more entertainment? Head over to The Echo Room, a hi-fi listening lounge on the property or catch one of the many concerts we host on the main stage outside of the bar at WML. With our blend of design, community energy, and killer taste, Westside Motor Lounge is an instant favorite for locals and out-of-towners alike.
Sunday: Chill & Recharge
Brunch: The Flying Biscuit Café
Ease into Sunday with a trip to The Flying Biscuit, a beloved local chain that never fails to hit the spot. Known for their creamy grits, fluffy biscuits, and quirky charm, this spot delivers comfort food with a side of nostalgia.
Walk It Off: Piedmont Park
Work off that biscuit-heavy brunch with a stroll through Piedmont Park, Midtown’s green crown jewel. Whether you’re walking, biking, or just grabbing a coffee and people-watching, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and soak in the neighborhood’s energy.
Sunday Session: Westside Motor Lounge
Wrap up your weekend with a chill session at Westside Motor Lounge. Our Sunday vibes features soulful tunes, well-made cocktails, and a relaxing ambiance outside that’s perfect for winding down before Monday hits.
Other Midtown Spots Worth a Visit
Midtown is full of gems, and while you might not hit them all in one weekend, keep these Midtown Atlanta restaurants on your radar:
- Bulla Gastrobar – For tapas, sangria, and a high-energy vibe.
- The Consulate – Globally inspired menu that changes every few months.
- Establishment – A moody, intimate bar with a focus on bourbon and whiskey.
- 12 Cocktail Bar (on The Roof at Ponce) – Sophisticated cocktails with skyline views.
Enjoy The Weekend With Westside Motor Lounge + Echo Room + More
Midtown Atlanta is rich with dining and drinking options, but the best weekends are the ones where you’re willing to explore a little beyond the obvious. Westside Motor Lounge may be just outside the Midtown bubble, but it represents everything that makes Atlanta’s scene special—creativity, inclusivity, great food, and good times.
So next weekend, whether you’re catching up with friends, showing out-of-town guests a good time, or just treating yourself to something new, let this guide be your roadmap. From morning brunch to late-night cocktails, Midtown, and a quick trip to the Westside Motor Lounge, has everything you need.