When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato
Why Amalfi Cucina + Mercato is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato stands out as one of Atlanta's premier Italian dining destinations, perfect for meeting up with friends or hosting special occasions. Located in the vibrant Buckhead area near Lenox and Phipps Plaza, the restaurant combines world-class Italian cuisine with an elegant ambiance and warm hospitality. Guests can enjoy AVPN-certified Neapolitan pizzas baked to perfection, handcrafted pastas made from the best imported Italian ingredients, and a curated selection of Italian wines and craft cocktails. The lush garden patio, complete with a fireplace and ambient lighting, creates a charming setting ideal for romantic dinners, weekend brunches, or casual weekday lunches. Amalfi also hosts private events ranging from bridal showers and birthday parties to corporate dinners, offering refined spaces like the elegant Capri Room, which seats up to 60 guests. The menu features standout dishes such as the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, Charcuterie boards showcasing artisanal Italian meats and cheeses, and the rustic Short Rib Gnocchi, slow-cooked to tender perfection. With attentive table service, outdoor seating, family-friendly options, and a market (Mercato) offering hard-to-find Italian provisions, Amalfi Cucina + Mercato blends tradition and modernity to deliver an unforgettable dining experience for both locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Amalfi Cucina + Mercato
As of recent, Amalfi Cucina + Mercato holds a 4.5-star rating based on 542 reviews.
Reviews for Amalfi Cucina + Mercato reflect a strong appreciation for its authentic Italian flavors and upscale yet inviting atmosphere. Many diners praise the quality and freshness of the food, noting that the Neapolitan-style pizzas and handcrafted pastas transport them to Italy. Positive reviews often highlight the warm hospitality and attentive service, along with the picturesque garden patio as a memorable spot for gatherings. Guests particularly enjoy the Charcuterie boards and the well-executed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, along with the extensive Italian wine selection. On the other hand, some critical reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service speed and occasional pricing perceived as on the higher side for the portion sizes. A few diners noted that wait times could be lengthy during busy hours, and some felt that the atmosphere might feel a bit formal for casual meetups. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains very positive, with most visitors recommending Amalfi for its quality food, charming ambiance, and suitability for special occasions or casual meals with friends. The strong 4.5-star rating from over 500 reviews confirms Amalfi Cucina + Mercato as a trusted and beloved Italian dining spot in Atlanta.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Karlah Benzan
Service, food ingredients, personnel, all combined was the best ever in the area. Ordered 3 main dishes, the lasagna, the carbonara, and the Chicken Marcella. Each dish had its own special flavor and it was breathtaking the first bite I had on each dish with my family. The service was spectacular, our waiter checked up on us as if we were their kids! I love the atmosphere here as well. Felt very warm and a cozy household. Not to mention I came on my birthday. The dessert options were very limited however each dish sounded amazing. I got the chocolate bomb and oh my goodness there are no words for it. Unfortunately I’m not a local but whenever I get a chance to come back to Georgia, this will definitely be a place i’ll always have in mind. Many people complained about the smell surrounding the building but the moment I arrived it smelled like nothing but the atmosphere was very clean, outside and inside.
Agent Smith
It is a nice date location because you can converse and hear one another easily. We had the spaghetti with meatballs and steak salad, which were both good, but not great. They were what I would call inoffensive. They are seasoned well, but not in a memorable way. The pistachio ice cream, tiramisu and chocolate syrup dessert complemented one another perfectly. This dessert was a subtle and great cap on the dining experience. (Seen below) Our server was extremely attentive and catering. Finally, they played all of the stereotypical Italian-American songs at a low level in the background, making conversation very easy at the table.
Juan Carlos Garcia
We loved this place!! The food was 🤩 amazing! It's a perfect spot for a date. Our server (Titi) was so kind! Please make yourself a favor and order the caprese salad with shrimps! Also, the pizza and pasta were delicious!
Kwak Family
August 2025 Returned to have the Cioppino again and to try their pizza. Pizza was quite good (mushroom) but the Cioppino wasn't as good as the last time - quite salty and less spicy. It was quite good that they volunteered to make it again for us. The repeat was a bit less salty but... Service was still very good. Keeping the 5-star rating for consideration of a potential offninght on the Cioppino... July 2025 Comfortable ambiance - not fancy, not casual, just right for us! Excellent service, very caring of the customers: our Japanese American server (Ruka) brought us a slice of lemon, carbonated water, and extra linen naplin to clean off after my wife's mishap with Cioppino sauce! Quite impressed. Oh, yes, about the food... both of our dishes were quite pleasing, especially the Cioppino which my wife loved! Chicken Parmagiano was good also... on par with what's expected! Also, the amount of food was just right... just enough to satisfy without overeating. We will definitely come again! Good job everone!
Jenny Hu
Love this place! The Eggplant Parmigiana Melanzane Calamari Fritti were perfectly fried. The Cioppino has a nice kick of spice and is packed with fresh seafood. The Margherita Carnevale Pizza looks beautiful with its star shape and tastes authentically delicious. The Chicken Piccata was juicy with a bright lemon-caper sauce. The Hibiscus Fiore cocktail was very refreshing. Friendly staff, cozy vibe, and solid Italian food. I’ll definitely be back!
How to reach Amalfi Cucina + Mercato
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Why Amalfi Cucina + Mercato may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Amalfi Cucina + Mercato with your friends?
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato offers an exquisite setting and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a perfect gathering spot for friends and family. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, this charming Italian restaurant creates an inviting ambiance inspired by Southern Italy—complete with hand-painted Positano murals and Juliet balconies, transporting guests to an authentic Mediterranean escape. Whether you seek a casual catch-up or a lively celebration, Amalfi’s warm hospitality and elegant environment set the stage for memorable moments. The restaurant's reputation for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, handcrafted pasta, and a curated selection of Italian wines ensures that everyone in your group will find something delightful to enjoy. Its location is easily accessible, positioned just steps away from landmarks like Peachtree Center and Centennial Olympic Park. Besides its culinary appeal, Amalfi also provides options for private dining in the stylish Capri Room, which is perfect for larger group meetups, offering a private bar and flexible indoor/outdoor spaces. Together, these features make Amalfi Cucina + Mercato a compelling destination where friends can relax, indulge, and connect over superb food and atmosphere.
What dining experiences and activities does Amalfi Cucina + Mercato offer for group meetups?
At Amalfi Cucina + Mercato, the dining experience is carefully crafted to suit groups of all sizes, making it ideal for social gatherings. The restaurant specializes in authentic Italian cuisine, including AVPN-certified Neapolitan pizzas that are handmade in an artisan dough room visible from the dining floor, allowing guests to watch the culinary artistry unfold. Beyond pizzas, there are a variety of appetizers—such as crispy calamari, fried mozzarella, and charcuterie boards—that foster a sharing, communal dining style perfect for groups who enjoy tasting multiple dishes together. The menu also features fresh salads, traditional pasta dishes, and original Italian desserts, ensuring a wide selection that caters to diverse tastes, dietary preferences, and dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Amalfi's wine list is also thoughtfully curated, which allows for elegant wine pairings or casual toasts among friends. Beyond food, the restaurant hosts events and can accommodate private parties in its upscale Capri Room, which supports up to 60 guests with a private bar and indoor/outdoor access. This combination of authentic Italian flavors, attentive service, and unique spaces means Amalfi is well-equipped to deliver an engaging and satisfying experience for any group meetup.
Why is Amalfi Cucina + Mercato an ideal venue for special occasions or celebrations?
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato stands out as an exceptional venue for special occasions due to its stylish ambiance, flexibility, and impressive culinary offerings. The dining spaces create an atmosphere of elegant comfort, enhanced by décor that reflects the beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, making every celebration feel a bit more special and memorable. Particularly noteworthy is the Capri Room, an exclusive private dining area with its own bar, NanaWall indoor/outdoor feature, and seating capacity for up to 60 people, designed to accommodate corporate events, rehearsal dinners, milestone birthdays, or family reunions. This private setting allows groups to celebrate with privacy and personalized service while still enjoying the full Amalfi menu and wine options. Additionally, the restaurant’s location in a historic 100-year-old building in downtown Atlanta adds a charming and sophisticated backdrop. The combination of high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine and a welcoming, upscale environment ensures that each event receives attentive hospitality, making it a trusted choice for those looking to mark important moments with friends and loved ones.
What makes the food and beverage offerings at Amalfi Cucina + Mercato especially suited for group dining?
The food and beverage offerings at Amalfi Cucina + Mercato are carefully designed to accommodate and delight groups, providing a vibrant mix of flavors and dishes meant to be shared and enjoyed collectively. The signature AVPN-certified Neapolitan pizzas are a draw for many guests, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian techniques, perfect for sharing among friends. Complementing the pizzas, Amalfi offers a large selection of appetizers like the Eggplant Parmigiana Melanzane, Polpette meatballs, and the Sauté di Cozze mussels in lemon-garlic broth, which encourage communal dining and variety. For main courses, the handcrafted pasta options provide traditional Italian tastes that appeal to a broad range of preferences. The restaurant also caters to specific dietary needs by offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring no one in your group feels left out. The beverage selection, particularly the curated Italian wine list, pairs beautifully with the meal offerings and is ideal for group toasts or wine tasting experiences. Additionally, Amalfi offers a kids’ menu with favorites such as personal pepperoni pizzas and chicken alfredo, making it a practical choice for family groups with children. Together, these elements craft a dining experience centered on sharing, enjoyment, and indulgence within a festive group setting.
How accessible and accommodating is Amalfi Cucina + Mercato for groups with varying needs?
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato is highly accessible and accommodating, making it a comfortable choice for diverse groups. Its central downtown Atlanta location, near major landmarks and highways, ensures that it can be easily reached by public transportation, car, or on foot, which is convenient for friends or family coming from different areas. The restaurant’s hours support flexible planning, opening from late morning through evening on most days and extending later on weekends, which allows for casual lunches, relaxed dinners, or post-event meetups. Amalfi also accepts major credit cards and offers a well-organized online reservation system, making group bookings straightforward and stress-free. The menu’s extensive range of dietary options—covering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs—demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all guests can find well-prepared meals tailored to their preferences. The private Capri Room further enhances accessibility by offering a dedicated space for groups that require privacy or specialized setups, including audio-visual arrangements for corporate or celebratory events. All these features highlight Amalfi’s capacity to host groups smoothly while providing excellent service tailored to each gathering’s unique requirements.
What kind of atmosphere and service can guests expect at Amalfi Cucina + Mercato?
Guests at Amalfi Cucina + Mercato can expect a warm, polished, and authentically Italian atmosphere that combines rustic Mediterranean charm with modern elegance. The décor’s hand-painted Murals and Juliet balconies evoke the scenic Amalfi Coast, creating a scenic experience beyond just the food. The open dough room visible from the dining area adds a theatrical element to dining, inviting guests to witness the making of true Neapolitan pizza, which contributes to a lively and engaging ambiance. The restaurant is designed to cater equally well to casual outings and formal events, with cozy seating arrangements and larger rooms for private parties. The service is noted for being attentive and professional, helping guests navigate the menu and pairing options thoughtfully while maintaining a relaxed convivial vibe. For special group events, the venue offers tailored service to ensure smooth coordination, welcoming guests with genuine hospitality that enhances the overall experience. This dedicated focus on ambience and service makes Amalfi Cucina + Mercato a place where groups can feel comfortable, well cared for, and immersed in a memorable culinary journey.
Which groups or occasions is Amalfi Cucina + Mercato best suited for?
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato is perfectly suited for a wide variety of groups and occasions thanks to its versatile spaces and menu offerings. It is an excellent choice for groups of friends seeking a comfortable, stylish venue to enjoy Italian food with a convivial atmosphere. Families appreciate the restaurant’s accommodating kids’ menu and dietary options, making it easier to include all generations in a meal. Business groups and professionals will find the setting appropriate for lunch meetings or celebratory dinners featuring private rooms and a refined ambiance. Special celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and milestone events are well supported with dedicated private dining options, full service, and curated menus that elevate the occasion. Even larger gatherings can be accommodated with the Capri Room’s sizeable capacity and adaptable configurations. In essence, Amalfi’s combination of sophisticated design, authentic cuisine, and attentive service makes it a flexible venue, equally at home with intimate dinners or festive group functions.