When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Local Three Kitchen & Bar
Why Local Three Kitchen & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Local Three Kitchen & Bar, located in Atlanta, GA, has established itself as a beloved dining destination since its opening in 2010. Known for its innovative approach to American cuisine, this restaurant offers a warm, cozily upscale atmosphere that makes it an excellent place for friends to gather. The menu is regularly updated, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients sourced primarily from regional farmers and suppliers, including North Georgia springs and North Carolina waters. This commitment to farm-to-table simplicity is combined with global culinary inspirations, creating unique and memorable dishes such as trumpet mushroom "bulgogi" with collard green kimchi, and Colorado lamb prepared shawarma-style. Complementing the food is an extensive selection of over 1000 whiskies, making Local Three one of America's top whiskey bars, alongside a thoughtful wine list and eclectic cocktails. The spacious bar area is a favorite spot for weekday happy hours, offering guests a lively yet comfortable setting. Additionally, Local Three features a unique "Brunch Through the Kitchen" on Sundays, which is a brunch buffet giving patrons a behind-the-scenes look at the kitchen’s culinary process while indulging in classic and creative dishes. The restaurant also caters to private events with multiple adaptable spaces, including the acclaimed Chef’s Table for an intimate dining experience. Outdoor seating on a seasonal patio overlooking the Borghese gardens further enhances the inviting ambiance. Together, these features create a vibrant, welcoming environment perfect for friends to meet, savour quality food and drink, and enjoy genuine hospitality.
Here's what people think of Local Three Kitchen & Bar
As of recent, Local Three Kitchen & Bar holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1281 reviews.
User reviews of Local Three Kitchen & Bar consistently highlight the restaurant's dedication to quality and hospitality, reflected in its strong overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 1,200 reviews. Many guests praise the inventive menu which creatively blends local, seasonal ingredients with global flavors, noting particular appreciation for dishes like the pork sampler and varied chef’s specials. The extensive whiskey selection and creative cocktails also receive frequent commendation, making it a favorite for beverage enthusiasts. Reviewers often mention the ambiance as cozy yet upscale, perfect for both casual and special occasions, and the friendly, genuine service that enhances the dining experience. Positive feedback also centers on the unique brunch experience that offers both traditional and innovative dishes in a relaxed setting. On the other hand, some patrons note sporadic issues such as slower service during peak times or occasional inconsistency in food preparation. A few reviews mention that the price point is on the higher side, reflecting the quality but possibly limiting for budget-conscious visitors. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers declaring Local Three their go-to for both weekday happy hours and weekend gatherings. Overall, the reviewers perceive Local Three as a restaurant that values its community, delivers consistently delicious meals, and maintains an inviting atmosphere, underscoring its status as a top dining choice in Atlanta.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
dietmar doehring
We went here because we were looking for a buffet style, Sunday brunch. But the place is really hard to find they've got to do better signage. That's very frustrating. We get in they were very helpful, sat us down immediately, it is very nice. You get to walk through the back kitchen through the buffet. Kinda neat. The price is decent, but it's just not a great food selection. For a buffet, you're looking for more options, more variety, break it up more adding more proteins. The best protein were the korean style wings, huge and flavorful. Dishes you would expect to see raised a couple of levels buffet for the nice restaurant. There is know ordering from the menu during brunch, only the buffet. They have sveral great flavor all you can drink mimosas.
Dave Hazak
Great food and great drinks! I had the charcuterie sampler and halibut. Both were incredible and the staff were friendly and attentive. Highly recommend Local Three!
Jason Serotta
Fantastic food and service. Always creative and flavorful. Tremendous bourbon list, including a full featured private bottle list. Servers are friendly and very knowledgeable. Very casual and laid back atmosphere. Highly recommend!
David Taylor-Klaus MCC
A wonderful night, as always. The Asparagus “Cacio e Pepe” (think the traditional pasta dish but with asparagus as the pasta!) is fabulous, every time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Highly recommend!! After trying so many of the other entrees, I finally tried “The McDowell” (Local Three’s burger) … and I actually loved it. Just what I needed that night. One despite being a bourbon-focused (600+ options) bar, their dirty martinis with blue cheese stuffed olives are superb! Our server, Richard, was new to us, and excellent. Deep knowledge of the menu and not afraid to check with the chef to confirm dietary constraints. Alvin, our favorite, was also there to help out. The staff’s team approach means you always get taken care of beautifully …
M M
The food is delicious and the brunch variety extensive. No one walks away hungry. The service is exceptional. From the hostess who greets you when you enter to the wait staff who check regularly that you have what you need, this restaurant is truly a great place to dine. We have been there twice and have not been disappointed. And, when making reservations, they take notice of any special occasions or accomodations that are mentioned. This is a rare feature that is truly appreciated. They make dining in their restaurant an enjoyable experience.
How to reach Local Three Kitchen & Bar
None
Website: None
Why Local Three Kitchen & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Local Three Kitchen & Bar with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends or family, Local Three Kitchen & Bar stands out as an exceptional destination. This vibrant Atlanta restaurant offers a perfect blend of sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance, ensuring everyone feels at ease while enjoying a top-tier dining experience. Rated an impressive 4.6 out of 5 by over 1,200 reviewers, Local Three consistently impresses with its welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu focused on contemporary American cuisine crafted from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just catching up, the space fosters connections with its warm, inviting vibe paired with an adventurous culinary lineup. Beyond the food itself, the restaurant boasts a remarkable bourbon selection, with over 1,000 whiskies available, making it a prime spot for those who appreciate a quality drink alongside delicious fare. The staff’s genuine hospitality and commitment to quality create an experience that feels both special and genuinely local. All of these elements combined make Local Three Kitchen & Bar an outstanding choice to rally your group, promising a memorable meetup filled with great food, drinks, and conversation.
What activities can your group enjoy at Local Three Kitchen & Bar?
Local Three Kitchen & Bar caters exceptionally well to groups by providing a variety of experiences that make group meetups engaging and enjoyable. For brunch enthusiasts, their Sunday brunch is renowned for its quality and variety—a delightful buffet-style spread offering a range of dishes that cater to all tastes, from classic breakfast items to innovative seasonal offerings. This gives everyone in your party freedom to sample diverse flavors without the stress of choosing only one item. For dinner, the menu dazzles with thoughtful dishes like the pan-seared enchanted springs trout, za’atar roasted half chicken, or the ever-popular duck confit cassoulet, all prepared to share or savor individually. The kitchen’s size and expertise allow them to prepare dishes fresh from scratch, including house-made sausages and desserts that change almost daily, offering your group delightful surprises every visit. On the beverage front, the bar’s extensive bourbon selection and creative craft cocktails create an interactive tasting experience perfect for a group interested in exploring southern whiskey and artisanal drinks. The knowledgeable bartenders provide excellent guidance to help your group discover new favorites. Overall, Local Three’s combination of buffet brunch, a diverse seasonal menu, and an extensive bar makes it suited to a variety of group preferences and activity styles.
Why is Local Three Kitchen & Bar perfect for a group meetup?
Local Three excels as a group meetup spot due to its welcoming environment and thoughtful amenities designed with groups in mind. The venue itself is spacious and comfortable, situated in a Tuscan Villa-inspired building that offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, ideal for varying group sizes and preferences. For privacy or special occasions, several private rooms are available, allowing your group to enjoy the meal and conversation without interruption. Accessibility is also considered, with provisions for wheelchair access and dog-friendly seating for groups that want to bring their furry friends along. Parking is convenient, available in a nearby deck, which is a major plus for larger groups coming together from different parts of Atlanta. The casual dress code adds to the relaxed atmosphere, making it easy for friends or family to feel comfortable irrespective of the occasion. Service at Local Three is highly praised, with attentive and friendly staff ready to accommodate group needs, from helping coordinate large orders to customizing menus for dietary restrictions, ensuring no one in your party feels left out.
How does Local Three’s culinary philosophy enhance the group dining experience?
At the heart of Local Three Kitchen & Bar is a culinary philosophy that values authenticity, quality, and local sourcing above all else. Their guiding principles—“People Matter Most, Local Is Priority, Seasonal Makes Sense, Authenticity Rules, Quality Governs, Delicious Trumps, Pretense Stinks, Comfort Feels Good”—translate into an inviting menu that delivers genuine flavors without fuss or pretension. This approach shines especially in a group setting where diverse palates and dietary preferences can make dining out more challenging. The menu’s seasonal nature means dishes change with the freshest ingredients available, inviting repeat visits and continuous discoveries for groups who want to experience new tastes together. Regional ingredients like North Georgia’s Springer Mountain chicken, locally sourced trout, and pork products are prepared to highlight their natural flavors while incorporating creative twists like collard green kimchi or bulgogi-inspired mushrooms, making the dining experience dynamic and memorable. This philosophy ensures each dish speaks both to quality and comfort, fostering a shared experience of enjoyment and discovery that groups can bond over as they explore the menu.
What makes the bar and drink selection at Local Three a highlight for group meetups?
One of the standout features of Local Three Kitchen & Bar is its extraordinary bourbon and spirits collection, which enhances any group gathering by adding an element of exploration and enjoyment. With over 1,000 whiskies on offer, the bourbon bar is among the most impressive in the nation, presenting a wonderland for enthusiasts and novices alike. The staff are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, readily offering personalized recommendations that can elevate the group’s experience. For groups interested in southern culture and craft spirits, the bourbon tasting journey at Local Three becomes a centerpiece of the meetup, sparking conversations and shared discoveries. Beyond bourbon, the cocktail menu is inventive and carefully curated, featuring craft cocktails that complement the restaurant’s modern American fare. Seasonal and special releases, such as a Woodford Reserve Bourbon collaboration supporting local causes, add further interest and exclusivity. Whether it’s a casual drink or a celebratory toast, the bar’s offerings cater perfectly to groups seeking a sociable, spirited atmosphere.
How does Local Three Kitchen & Bar’s ambiance contribute to a great group experience?
The ambiance at Local Three Kitchen & Bar perfectly strikes a balance between casual comfort and refined sophistication, making it an ideal setting for groups who want to relax while enjoying high-quality food and drink. Nestled in a Tuscan Villa-inspired building, the space feels inviting yet stylish, with tasteful decor and warm lighting that create a cozy atmosphere without feeling formal or intimidating. This ambiance supports a range of group occasions, from casual catch-ups and family dinners to anniversary celebrations or special gatherings, providing a backdrop that’s both elegant and genuinely welcoming. Outdoor seating options further enhance the experience, especially in pleasant weather, offering an airy, relaxed environment that invites longer stays and leisurely conversation. The space’s noise level and layout are optimized to foster social interaction, making it easy for groups to enjoy shared moments without disruptive distractions. With its combination of aesthetic appeal and genuine comfort, Local Three encourages groups to linger, enjoy, and create lasting memories.
What practical considerations make Local Three an easy choice for groups?
Practical factors also play a significant role in why Local Three Kitchen & Bar is a preferred destination for meetups. Reservations are suggested and easy to make through platforms like OpenTable, ensuring your group’s arrival and seating are smooth, a critical feature when coordinating multiple people. The restaurant’s location near I-75 (exit 255) and availability of a nearby parking deck alleviate common logistical headaches for group outings in Atlanta. The casual dress code means no one in the group has to worry about attire, contributing to a stress-free outing. The staff are experienced in handling groups, adept at managing orders efficiently and providing tailored service that makes group dining seamless. Wheelchair accessibility and kid-friendly features ensure that all members of your social circle can participate comfortably. Lastly, being dog-friendly means your group doesn’t have to leave a beloved pet at home, making it inclusive and accommodating for a variety of social gatherings.
Why should you consider Local Three Kitchen & Bar for your next special occasion with friends?
Local Three Kitchen & Bar is not only well-suited for casual meetups but also excels as a venue for marking special occasions with friends or family. Its combination of exceptional cuisine, stellar service, and an inviting atmosphere creates a setting that elevates celebrations without the stiffness of more formal venues. The availability of private rooms provides intimacy for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or small receptions, allowing your group to bask in their own space while enjoying the full menu and bar offerings. The culinary team’s creativity ensures that special menus or custom dishes can be arranged if requested, tailoring the experience to your event’s unique style. Couple this with their impressive bourbon and craft cocktail offerings, and you have an environment that turns ordinary gatherings into memorable events. Guests consistently praise the staff’s attention to detail and warm hospitality, vital elements that make celebrations run smoothly and joyfully. For anyone seeking a venue that combines comfort, quality, and flair for their next special group event, Local Three is an excellent choice.