Top 7 restaurants in Georgia for business dining

Ramp processes billions of dollars in business expenses across thousands of companies every month. Our unique position in the payments ecosystem provides visibility into actual spending patterns, including restaurant and dining expenditures across diverse industries and business sizes.

Understanding Georgia's dynamic restaurant landscape requires more than anecdotal evidence or personal preferences. By analyzing actual business spending data, we can identify which establishments consistently serve corporate needs—from casual team lunches to high-stakes client dinners. This data-driven approach reveals not just popular venues, but those that deliver the reliability, atmosphere, and service quality essential for professional dining in a state where 171 million visitors and a thriving business ecosystem drive constant evolution in dining trends.

Understanding Georgia's restaurant industry

Georgia's restaurant sector represents a $43.85 billion economic powerhouse, supporting 500,000 jobs across approximately 23,000 eating and drinking establishments. This thriving industry serves Georgia's 11.18 million residents while capitalizing on record tourism that generated $79.7 billion in economic impact during 2023. The culinary landscape blends Southern traditions with global innovation, as Korean cuisine and fusion concepts gain prominence alongside classic peach-based dishes, barbecue, and fried chicken. Small businesses dominate the sector, accounting for 93% of operations, while the Georgia Restaurant Association provides critical support through legislative advocacy and certification programs. This diverse ecosystem creates unique opportunities for business dining, from Atlanta's sophisticated urban venues to regional establishments showcasing local agricultural abundance.

Top 7 restaurants for business meals and client dining

Based on aggregated business spending data, these seven establishments consistently rank as Georgia's premier destinations for corporate dining. Leading the pack are Atlas in Buckhead, Ruth's Chris Steak House downtown, and Puttshack in Atlanta, each offering distinct advantages for different business occasions. This ranking reflects actual corporate card usage patterns, not individual dining preferences, providing insights into where Georgia businesses invest their entertainment and meeting budgets.

Puttshack

Puttshack revolutionized Atlanta's entertainment-dining scene when it opened in 2022 at The Interlock complex. This London-based concept combines tech-driven mini-golf with globally inspired cuisine in a 25,000-square-foot venue. The space features four high-tech golf courses alongside Lantana Bar, where mixologists craft innovative cocktails. Culinary director Mark Boyton emphasizes "social competitive dining" through shareable plates ranging from Korean BBQ Bao Buns to Atlanta-exclusive Tailpipe spring rolls.

Notable facts: Puttshack distinguishes itself through its unique blend of entertainment and scratch-made cuisine, operating daily from 11 a.m. to midnight. The venue has become a go-to spot for corporate team-building events and client entertainment, offering a relaxed atmosphere that breaks down formal business barriers. The industrial-chic space with neon lighting accommodates groups of various sizes, making it ideal for both intimate meetings and large corporate gatherings.

Signature dishes:

• Korean BBQ Bao Buns with house-smoked pork and kimchi slaw
• Tailpipe Spring Rolls (Atlanta-exclusive with bacon, collards, fried chicken)
• Dak-Galbi Skillet with gochujang chicken and rice cakes
• French Quarter Crème Brûlée with cinnamon beignets

Best for: Team-building events, casual client entertainment, and after-work gatherings where interactive experiences help foster connections. The combination of competitive gaming and quality food creates a memorable experience that moves beyond traditional business dining, making it particularly effective for breaking the ice with new clients or celebrating team achievements.

LongHorn Steakhouse

LongHorn Steakhouse traces its Georgia roots to 1981 when founder George McKerrow Jr. opened the first location on Peachtree Street. Now operating 596 locations nationally under Darden Restaurants, the chain maintains strong Georgia presence with locations like the Athens outpost. The Western-themed restaurant specializes in fire-grilled steaks including the 20-ounce Bone-In Outlaw Ribeye, served in a family-friendly atmosphere with ranch-style décor.

Notable facts: LongHorn pioneered the casual steakhouse segment and gained initial popularity during Atlanta's Snow Jam '82 by offering $1 drinks. The restaurant sources Midwestern corn-fed beef and incorporates Georgia ingredients like pecans into signature dishes. Waitstaff undergo the chain's "Steak Master" certification program, ensuring consistent quality across locations. The Athens location serves lunch and dinner daily, making it accessible for various business dining needs.

Signature dishes:

• 20oz Bone-In Outlaw Ribeye with garlic butter
• Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with lemon butter sauce
• Georgia Pecan Salad with blue cheese and cranberries
• Flavorful Chicken Sandwich with pepper jack cheese

Best for: Reliable business lunches, team dinners, and hosting out-of-town colleagues who appreciate consistent quality and familiar menu options. The moderate price point and casual atmosphere make it suitable for regular team meetings or entertaining clients who prefer a relaxed, unpretentious setting over fine dining formality.

Atlas

Atlas opened in 2015 within Buckhead's St. Regis Atlanta, combining fine dining with a museum-worthy art collection featuring Picasso and Van Gogh originals. Helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Christopher Grossman, the restaurant sources ingredients from 12 local farms for its daily-changing American-European fusion menu. The gilded dining room features 30-foot ceilings and custom chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury.

Notable facts: Atlas houses a $20 million art collection and has consecutively received Forbes Travel Guide's Four-Star rating since 2018. The restaurant has hosted celebrities including Elton John and maintains strict formal attire requirements. Prix-fixe menus start at $195 per person, positioning Atlas as one of Georgia's most exclusive dining destinations. The sommelier-curated wine program complements the sophisticated culinary offerings.

Signature dishes:

• Dry-Aged Duck Breast with peach gastrique and foie gras
• Heritage Pork Chop with apple-celery root purée
• Georgian Trout with benne seed crust and sorrel sauce
• Black Truffle Gnocchi with wild mushrooms

Best for: High-stakes client dinners, executive entertainment, and closing major deals where the setting needs to match the occasion's importance. The combination of world-class art, impeccable service, and exceptional cuisine creates an unforgettable experience that demonstrates serious investment in business relationships.

Starling Restaurant

Starling Restaurant debuted in 2022 inside The Starling Atlanta Midtown hotel, transforming the former W Hotel's culinary space. Executive chef Marcus Smith highlights Southern ingredients through innovative dishes like Pecan-Crusted Catfish with collard green kimchi. The bi-level space features a live music stage, marble bar, and terrace with skyline views, accommodating up to 200 guests.

Notable facts: The restaurant hosts weekly jazz brunches and has been featured in Atlanta Magazine's "Top 10 Hotel Restaurants." Starling partners with Politan Row food hall for event catering and features a "Lantana" cocktail program using Georgia-distilled spirits. Operating hours extend to midnight on weekends, making it suitable for extended business entertainment. The venue seamlessly blends Southern hospitality with contemporary sophistication.

Signature dishes:

• Pecan-Crusted Catfish with collard green kimchi
• Georgia White Shrimp & Anson Mills Grits
• Smoked Pork Chop with peach barbecue glaze
• Buttermilk Fried Quail with hot honey drizzle

Best for: Business brunches, especially Sunday meetings combining work and leisure, and entertaining clients who appreciate live music and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel location provides convenient meeting spaces and accommodations for out-of-town guests, while the terrace offers an impressive backdrop for networking events or corporate celebrations.

T&B Catering

T&B Catering (operating as T&T Catering) has served North Georgia since 1995 from its Chatsworth facility. Owner Tracy Tussing brings over 30 years of experience to events ranging from intimate gatherings to large corporate functions. The company specializes in Southern-inspired presentations and "Hor d'oeuvres Theater" featuring live cooking stations, accommodating groups from 20 to 500 guests.

Notable facts: T&B Catering has served Georgia governors and received WeddingWire's Couples' Choice Award for seven consecutive years. The company demonstrates social responsibility through charity initiatives, donating $1 per Tailpipe spring roll sold. Operating Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., they customize menus highlighting Georgia ingredients like Vidalia onions and Chattahoochee Valley cheeses. Their experience spans corporate events, weddings, and government functions.

Signature offerings:

• Bourbon-Glazed Salmon with peach chutney
• Pimento Cheese Arancini with pepper jelly
• Low Country Boil Stations with Georgia shrimp
• Pecan-Crusted Chicken with sorghum glaze

Best for: Corporate events, office parties, and business conferences requiring professional catering services. Their flexibility in menu customization and event size makes them ideal for companies hosting annual meetings, product launches, or employee appreciation events throughout North Georgia. The live cooking stations add interactive elements that encourage networking and conversation.

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Ruth's Chris Steak House has anchored downtown Atlanta's Embassy Suites since 2005, serving USDA Prime steaks seared at 1,800°F on custom broilers. The 12,000-square-foot space features private dining rooms named after Georgia landmarks and a bourbon bar with over 120 labels. The restaurant's signature "sizzle plate" service delivers steaks on 500°F plates, ensuring every bite remains hot.

Notable facts: The location has hosted Super Bowl events and NCAA Final Four teams, establishing itself as a destination for high-profile business entertainment. Voted "Best Steakhouse" by Atlanta Journal-Constitution readers in 2023, the restaurant sources beef from Allen Brothers and incorporates Georgia ingredients into sides. The 250-seat dining room enforces an upscale dress code and requires reservations, operating until 11 p.m. on weekends.

Signature dishes:

• 22oz Bone-In Ribeye with herb butter
• Barbecued Shrimp with New Orleans-style sauce
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Georgia pecans
• Bread Pudding with bourbon sauce

Best for: Traditional business dinners, especially when hosting clients who expect classic steakhouse excellence. The private dining rooms provide confidential settings for sensitive negotiations or board meetings, while the main dining room offers prestigious visibility for relationship-building. The downtown location near major hotels and business districts adds convenience for corporate travelers.

Elevate Catering

Elevate Catering operates from TKE's Innovation & Qualification Center in The Battery Atlanta, uniquely featuring the tallest test elevator in North America as an event backdrop. Led by James Beard-nominated chef Michael Bertozzi, the culinary team creates globally inspired menus for events ranging from 10 to 1,200 guests. The 45,500-square-foot venue includes a panoramic-view ballroom and terrace overlooking Truist Park.

Notable facts: Elevate partners with Georgia farmers for 80% of produce, demonstrating strong commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The venue has catered events for Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Atlanta United FC, establishing credentials with major corporate clients. Interactive stations like "Southern Smoke" barbecue and "Peachtree Pantry" dessert bars add engaging elements to events. The space hosts corporate meetings, weddings, and culinary pop-ups Tuesday through Sunday.

Signature offerings:

• Coffee-Crusted Venison with peach reduction
• Pimento Cheese Arancini with pepper jelly
• Smoked Tofu Banh Mi with pickled vegetables
• Bourbon-Pecan Bread Pudding flights

Best for: Large corporate events, product launches, and company-wide celebrations requiring unique venue features and scalable catering. The combination of innovative cuisine, dramatic setting, and proximity to The Battery entertainment district makes it ideal for multi-day conferences or events where attendees want memorable experiences beyond traditional ballroom settings.

Tips for business dining in Georgia's restaurant scene

Success in Georgia business dining requires understanding regional preferences and seasonal patterns. Book reservations at least 48 hours in advance for weekday lunches at premium establishments like Atlas or Ruth's Chris, as Atlanta's business district fills quickly between noon and 2 p.m. Consider traffic patterns when scheduling—allow extra time for Buckhead destinations during rush hours, and remember that downtown locations may have limited parking requiring valet services.

Georgia's business culture blends Southern hospitality with metropolitan sophistication, meaning relationship-building often takes precedence over rushing through meals. Plan for lunches lasting 75-90 minutes and dinners extending two hours or more. When hosting out-of-state clients, incorporate local specialties—ordering Georgia pecan salads or peach-based desserts demonstrates cultural awareness. Many executives appreciate experiencing regional cuisine, so don't default to chain restaurants when local options like Atlas or Starling showcase Georgia's culinary evolution.

Seasonal considerations matter: book outdoor terraces at Starling or Elevate during spring and fall when Georgia weather shines. Summer heat makes indoor venues preferable from June through August. During major events like the Masters Tournament, SEC championships, or conventions at Georgia World Congress Center, reservations become scarce and prices may increase. For group dining, Ruth's Chris and Puttshack offer private spaces, but require minimum spending commitments—typically $1,500-3,000 for exclusive use. Finally, remember that many upscale Atlanta restaurants maintain dress codes; Atlas requires jackets for men, while business casual suffices at LongHorn or Puttshack.