The Absolute Best New Restaurants in Athens [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed a total of 12 exciting new eateries in Athens, I can confidently say that these restaurants provide an exceptional culinary experience that cannot be missed. Athens, a vibrant city known for its rich history and thriving food scene, offers a plethora of dining options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Whether you're a foodie seeking innovative dishes or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a delicious meal, this article will serve as your go-to resource for the best new restaurants in Athens GA. Join me on this gastronomic journey through the city's culinary delights.

The National

Highlights
Beautiful ambiance
Delicious food
Excellent service
Perfect for events
Magical atmosphere

From the moment I stepped into The National, I was captivated by its beautiful ambiance. The restaurant is elegantly designed with a modern yet warm feel, making it the ideal place for a truly special dining experience.

But it wasn't just the atmosphere that impressed me; the delicious food surpassed all expectations. I had the pleasure of indulging in a variety of dishes that showcased the creativity and skill of the talented chefs. From the perfectly seared scallops to the melt-in-your-mouth lamb chops, each bite was a sublime combination of flavors.

The restaurant's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience was only enhanced by the excellent service. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure that every need was met. Their professionalism and warm hospitality added a touch of charm to the entire evening.

One of the standout features of The National is its ability to accommodate events and celebrations. With its spacious layout and attentive staff, it is the perfect venue for hosting memorable occasions. Whether it's a romantic dinner for two or a grand birthday celebration, The National has the ambiance and expertise to make any event truly unforgettable.

Overall, my experience at The National was nothing short of magical. The combination of beautiful ambiance, delicious food, excellent service, and the ability to host events creates an extraordinary atmosphere that sets this restaurant apart. If you're looking for a new culinary adventure in Athens, The National should be at the top of your list.

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ZZ & Simone's

Highlights
Top 3 in Athens
Fresh, homemade food
Quick and intimate service
Amazing salmon
Butternut squash ravioli

ZZ & Simone's truly deserves its spot in the top 3 of new restaurants in Athens. From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a touch of elegance that made me feel right at home.

What truly sets ZZ & Simone's apart is their commitment to serving fresh, homemade food. It's clear that every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The menu offers a variety of options, but I couldn't resist trying their amazing salmon. Each bite was a burst of flavor, perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection.

The service at ZZ & Simone's was also exceptional. Despite being a bustling establishment, the staff managed to provide quick and intimate service. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

One dish that absolutely blew me away was the butternut squash ravioli. The delicate pasta pillows were filled with a creamy, savory squash filling that melted in my mouth. It was a harmonious blend of flavors that left me wanting more.

Overall, ZZ & Simone's is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience some of the best new restaurants in Athens. The combination of fresh, homemade food, impeccable service, and standout dishes like the amazing salmon and butternut squash ravioli make it a true gem in the culinary scene.

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The Place

Highlights
Extraordinary service
Delicious food
Fun and inviting atmosphere
Great place to watch the game
Excellent for non-wine drinkers

Now, let me tell you, this place has it all! From the moment I walked in, the extraordinary service set the tone for an incredible dining experience.

The menu at The Place was a culinary delight. I'm no stranger to good food, but the dishes here were on a whole other level. Each bite was bursting with flavor, leaving me begging for more. From appetizers to desserts, their menu never disappointed. The chefs at The Place truly know how to create delicious food that will leave you wanting seconds.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The atmosphere was fun and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a date. They even had screens showing the latest sports games, making it a great place to watch the game while enjoying a fantastic meal.

One thing that really stood out to me about The Place was their extensive drink selection. While they had an impressive wine list, they also catered to non-wine drinkers like myself. Their cocktail menu was creative and featured a fantastic variety of drinks for every taste.

Overall, my experience at The Place was nothing short of exceptional. From the extraordinary service to the delicious food, and the fun and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant has earned its spot as one of the best new places to dine in Athens. So, if you're looking for a memorable dining experience, make sure to visit The Place.

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Taqueria Tsunami

Taqueria Tsunami in Athens is a vibrant culinary expedition that combines the flavors of Mexico, Asia, and the Caribbean. With a playful twist on traditional tacos, their menu is a tsunami of flavor featuring bold combinations like Korean BBQ, Thai Chili shrimp, and Jamaican jerk chicken. It's a fiesta for your taste buds!

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Mediterranean Grill

Mediterranean Grill in Athens is a delightful haven for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of the sun-kissed Mediterranean. From the moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the vibrant ambiance and friendly staff. The menu is an awe-inspiring culinary journey, packed with bold flavors and meticulously crafted dishes. Whether you're a fan of juicy kebabs or succulent seafood, this place has something for everyone. Don't miss the mouthwatering mezze platter or the heavenly baklava for dessert. Mediterranean Grill truly offers a dining experience that is a feast for the senses.

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Brett's Casual American

Let me tell you, folks, Brett's Casual American in Athens is a charming addition to the city's culinary scene. The mouthwatering menu offers a delightful blend of classic American dishes with a creative twist. From their heavenly burgers to their sinfully delicious milkshakes, your taste buds will be singing. The flavour explosion I experienced was simply mind-blowing. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. If you're looking for a casual yet phenomenal dining experience, Brett's is your go-to. Don't miss it!

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The Table Bistro

The Table Bistro in Athens is a hidden gem that takes dining to a whole new level. With its playful yet professional ambiance, this restaurant offers a feast for the senses. The menu is an exquisite mix of flavors and textures, satisfying even the most discerning foodie. Don't miss their mouthwatering desserts! A must-visit for anyone seeking a culinary adventure in Athens.

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Last Resort Grill

Last Resort Grill in Athens is a delightful addition to the city's culinary scene. With a playful yet professional atmosphere, this restaurant offers an array of mouthwatering dishes. From their succulent grilled meats to their heavenly desserts, Last Resort Grill will leave you wanting more.

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South Kitchen + Bar

South Kitchen + Bar in Athens is a lively and vibrant eatery that radiates Southern charm and mouth-watering flavors. Their inventive twist on classic Southern dishes, like the savory shrimp and grits, left me craving for more. With its trendy atmosphere and delightful culinary creations, this gem is surely one of Athens' best new spots.

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The Expat

The Expat in Athens brings a breath of fresh flavors to the city's culinary scene! With its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere, this newcomer is a delightful find. From the rich sofa seating to the Instagram-worthy presentation, The Expat invites you on a culinary journey that will make you feel right at home. Don't miss their Mediterranean-inspired cocktails - they're a trip for your taste buds!

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Five and Ten

Five and Ten in Athens is a delightful culinary adventure that will tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From their elegant presentation to their mouthwatering flavors, this restaurant is a hidden gem that should not be missed. The creative dishes, friendly staff, and stylish ambiance make it a standout choice for any food lover. Five and Ten definitely deserves a top spot on the list of the best new restaurants in Athens.

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home.made

home.made in Athens is a culinary haven, where traditional meets trendy. The ambiance is cozy and the staff is welcoming. The menu features a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and international dishes, with each bite sparking pure joy. It's a hidden gem, perfect for food adventurers seeking a delicious thrill.

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