When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Lucian Books and Wine
Why Lucian Books and Wine is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lucian Books and Wine is an elegant and inviting wine-centric restaurant combined with a specialty bookstore located in Buckhead, Atlanta. Opened recently by Katie Barringer, founder of Cover Books, and Jordan Smelt, a former sommelier, Lucian creatively combines their passions for literature, art, and fine wine. The space is thoughtfully designed to evoke a scholarly library atmosphere, featuring tall walnut shelves filled with curated books on art, architecture, music, food, and wine. These books are not just decor but invite visitors to browse as part of their experience. The ambiance is enhanced by natural light from large windows, soft tones of dusty pink and plum, and intimate dining areas including a private corner separated by a shimmery curtain.
Here's what people think of Lucian Books and Wine
As of recent, Lucian Books and Wine holds a 4.5-star rating based on 304 reviews.
Reviews showcase Lucian Books and Wine as a top-tier destination, praised for its impeccable service, charming setting, and well-curated wine list. Many reviewers highlight the bistro's emphasis on smaller, shareable plates that are wine-friendly and thoughtfully prepared by executive chef Brian Hendrickson. Positive feedback often mentions standout dishes like the roasted cabbage, whipped ricotta, briny oysters, and the exceptional panna cotta dessert. Guests appreciate the restaurant's ability to balance simplicity with sophistication in food and drink, along with the welcoming, calm environment perfect for relaxed dining or socializing. On the other hand, some reviews note that portions are smaller than typical American standards, suggesting guests order multiple plates to feel fully satisfied. Despite this, most find the experience rewarding, emphasizing quality over quantity. Overall, Lucian is celebrated as a unique and refined space where literature, wine, and food lovers can indulge together, making it a great spot for meetups and special occasions.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Adam Smoak
So, this restaurant is elegant - elegant, but not stuffy. The vibe is intimate, perfect for a date night. I took hubby here for his bday. He’s picky, and he liked this place. The portions are small mind you; this is not a Brazilian steakhouse. Dishes are understated, but quite tasty. I am taking that cantaloupe matcha idea home. I think the star here for most people is the wine selection. They have a nice mocktail as well. We had the hamachi, cantaloupe salad (winner), duck, and grouper. All great, 4th place was the hamachi. Only ding was the desserts - they were good, but not up to the standard of the rest of the meal. All in all a winner, we will definitely be back! A great choice for an elevated date night. Good upscale experience without the price tag of lazy Betty or bacchanalia.
Trace Browne
5 stars all the way through. Exceptionally delicious food in a cozy atmosphere. Lucian Books and Wine is truly a gem in Atlanta. The food is consistently incredible, with a thoughtful menu of small plates that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. On our most recent visit, the standout dishes were the crisp polenta with black truffle perfectly crispy and rich, and the pappardelle with pork ragu, which was deeply flavorful and comforting. The oysters are always impeccable, fresh and beautifully presented. Service here is just as impressive: attentive without being intrusive, with dishes coursed and paced perfectly to let each one shine. An elegant and delicious experience every time.
Wendy Miller
I LOVE this place! The ambiance is so elegant with great food and service to match! This is a higher-end place with higher-end prices but it’s definitely worth it. I went for lunch on a Sat and they had a good crowd but it wasn’t too crowded. The filet mignon was delicious and their wine selection was good also. My waiter even recommended a wine pairing for my meal that was perfect. I was able to eat, drink and read my book in an enjoyable manner.
Heather Cooprider
What nice thing can I say about this place? Good book selection. But that's not what you come here for. You come here for wine, right? They have pretty good wine. A book of wine, in fact. A lot of $$$ wine. You just want a glass of wine? They have a single page list. Otherwise you buy by the bottle. Hope you like wine. You don't like wine? They have "aperitif" for you. How about a $15 gin & tonic? That's listed right there, on their cocktail list. Because it's elevated. More than your average G&T. You couldn't make that at home. Just like their $30 omelette. Actually, I think it's $35. It's French. With caviar. Actually, this dish was pretty good. As good as a soft-boiled seasoned ramen egg? No. But... good. Much better than the half-cooked risotto nero. Word to the wise on that one. If you've had good squid ink dishes, this won't be it. And watch out for your 2hr reservation time limit. You may have ordered apps, dinner, drinks, and desserts, but five minutes after your check arrives, you might be booted from your table. On a Tuesday. At 8:30pm. Sure, the tables around you may have arrived before you and stayed later than you. But "the reservation for this table has arrived" and just like that, you're dust in the wind for Lucian Books & Wine. tldr; If you're itching for a "Buckhead restaurant" story to tell, go here.
Josie Rome-Cipolla
Wow! That was a great meal! The Iberico ham was the best I’ve had in a long time and the crab risottto was just amazing. The duck was very tasty as well. The restaurant is beautiful and the service was outstanding! The wine list is unique and exciting!
How to reach Lucian Books and Wine
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Why Lucian Books and Wine may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lucian Books and Wine with your friends?
Lucian Books and Wine offers a rare and compelling blend of atmosphere, taste, and culture that makes it an outstanding venue to gather with friends. This intimate restaurant and bookstore, located in the heart of Buckhead, Atlanta, provides a cozy yet sophisticated environment where conversation flows naturally over small plates and expertly curated wines. The very ambiance cultivates a sense of connection — the walls lined with floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with striking books on art, food, and wine invite exploration and shared discovery. Whether you arrive to celebrate a special occasion or simply to enjoy a refined night out, Lucian nurtures the sort of mature, yet welcoming vibe that sparks lively discussion and memorable moments. Its thoughtful design, balancing a scholarly library feel with modern elegance, encourages groups to linger and savor not just the food and drink but the shared experience itself. For those looking to escape casual overcrowding or noisy bars and instead immerse themselves in an atmosphere that combines intellectual curiosity with culinary delight, Lucian Books and Wine offers the perfect rallying point for friends to reconnect or deepen bonds in a meaningful setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Lucian Books and Wine for a group meetup?
Hosting a gathering at Lucian means indulging in a multifaceted experience that goes far beyond dining. The first activity naturally centers around tasting and sharing their carefully crafted menu, which emphasizes wine-friendly small plates perfect for communal enjoyment. Their menu features sophisticated options like chicken liver pâté, a beautifully presented cheese plate, exquisite roasted cabbage salad, and an omelet enhanced with caviar — all designed to be shared so everyone can sample a variety of flavors without the pressure of large portions. This style of dining inherently invites participation and lively conversation about taste and preferences, cultivating a convivial spirit among groups. The wine list, a cornerstone of Lucian’s identity, is an adventure in itself: multiple pages of thoughtfully chosen wines by the bottle and glass, alongside a cocktail selection, encourage exploration and discussion of different varietals and pairings. For groups passionate about wine or those eager to learn, this curation offers a chance to discover new favorites together. Additionally, the bookstore integrated into the space offers a quiet but engaging activity: browsing the volumes on art, food, photography, and culinary culture is intellectually stimulating and an excellent conversation starter. The surroundings also include a private corner shimmery curtain, which can be drawn to add intimacy and exclusivity to your gathering, making it ideal for those wanting a special atmosphere within a larger venue.
Why is Lucian Books and Wine perfect for group meetups?
Lucian’s design and philosophy excel in accommodating and enhancing group dynamics. Its intimate dining room is both stylish and inviting, framed by five-tier walnut bookshelves that scale almost to the ceiling, creating a warm, scholarly ambiance. This setting mimics a quiet, sophisticated library or private club room rather than a noisy, impersonal restaurant, which encourages meaningful interactions among friends or family. The combination of restrained elegance and friendliness means groups feel welcome without the pressure of formality, striking a perfect balance for a range of occasions—from casual catch-ups to celebrations. The menu itself reflects this understanding of social dining: with limited but ambitious small plate options, sharing and discussion become natural parts of the experience, making everyone’s participation feel integral and inclusive. Many reviews note that the portions are smaller than typical American standards, so groups can order several plates to share, facilitating a convivial tasting experience. Service is highly praised for being knowledgeable and attentive, helping guide guests through both food and wine selections, which takes some of the stress of ordering off the table for groups unfamiliar with wine or the menu. Furthermore, the venue’s location — a quiet corner in Buckhead’s Modera building — makes it accessible yet removed enough from hustle and bustle to feel like a private retreat.
How does the wine selection enhance the group experience at Lucian?
The wine program at Lucian is one of its most celebrated features and a major draw for groups looking to enjoy an elevated evening. The extensive wine menu is impressive in its scope and depth, featuring page after page of bottles from various regions, as well as a curated selection of wines by the glass. This variety enables groups with diverse tastes and levels of wine knowledge to find something appealing, whether it’s a bold red, light white, Champagne, or a lesser-known gem. The sommelier team and servers are praised for their expertise and ability to recommend pairings tailored to the group’s preferences, transforming wine tasting into a shared educational journey. For groups who want to celebrate or simply enjoy a refined night out, the availability of high-quality, thoughtfully sourced wines adds a layer of sophistication and pleasure that elevates the entire meal. Beyond wine, the cocktail offerings complement the drinking experience, and even non-drinkers find options that fit their palate, ensuring inclusivity. The wine-centric aspect creates a natural rhythm for social interaction — glasses clink, bottles are shared, and stories are told — underscoring the communal nature of the venue.
What kinds of food can groups expect at Lucian for a shared dining experience?
Lucian excels at offering carefully composed small plates that are perfect for sharing and trying a range of flavors without overfilling guests. The menu is intentionally focused and refined, with dishes that complement the wine and elevate the dining experience. Artfully prepared plates like chicken liver pâté, an omelet adorned with caviar, splendid cheese boards, roasted cabbage salad, and the popular steak and frites provide a diverse palate. These dishes emphasize quality over quantity, encouraging groups to order multiple items and share, which promotes communication and interaction as everyone samples and compares their favorites. The presentation of food is notable for its beauty, resembling works of art that enhance the overall aesthetic pleasure of the evening. Despite its sophistication, the menu is accessible, with options accommodating gluten-free and other dietary considerations, ensuring inclusiveness for all guests. Dessert, particularly the panna cotta, has been praised as a “must-try” finale to the meal, offering guests a sweet and memorable conclusion to their gathering. Overall, the food’s ambition, simplicity, and shareable nature make Lucian a standout venue for social dining.
How does the ambiance and decor contribute to a memorable group meetup at Lucian?
The ambiance of Lucian Books and Wine is deliberately crafted to be an elegant yet approachable sanctuary from the typical restaurant experience. Its design—by Lindsay Miller and Ed Seiber—draws inspiration from quiet, scholarly libraries, combining walnut shelves filled with contemporary art, food, and wine books, brass lighting fixtures, and a muted color palette to create a space that feels both warm and refined. This makes it ideal for groups because it fosters an intimate, relaxed environment where guests can engage in meaningful conversation. The soaring five-tier bookshelves, combined with tasteful decor elements such as shimmery curtains to create secluded dining nooks, balance privacy with openness, accommodating different group sizes and needs. The ambiance encourages guests to slow down and savor each moment, blending intellectual stimulation from the books with sensory delight from the carefully curated food and wine. This harmonious blend of culinary and cultural elements distinguishes Lucian as more than just a restaurant—it’s a shared experience where friends or family can escape the usual noise and distractions to connect deeply.
How is Lucian Books and Wine’s service experience suited for groups?
The service at Lucian is frequently highlighted in reviews as a defining aspect of the overall experience, especially for groups who may feel overwhelmed by extensive wine lists or unfamiliar menus. The staff demonstrates both professionalism and warmth, offering knowledgeable recommendations that ease decision-making for food and wine pairings. From the moment guests arrive, the service team ensures that the group feels welcomed and attended to without ever being intrusive, striking a delicate balance that enhances enjoyment. The servers are trained to accommodate special dietary needs and preferences, making Lucian a reliable choice for groups with diverse requirements. Their ability to suggest a combination of small plates tailored to the size of the group ensures that everyone leaves satisfied. For groups new to wine, staff guidance transforms the evening into an educational yet casual exploration, enhancing both confidence and enjoyment. High praise across multiple reviews confirms that excellent service at Lucian contributes significantly to making group visits smooth, memorable, and hassle-free.
What occasions are ideal for hosting a meetup at Lucian Books and Wine?
Lucian’s unique combination of intimate ambiance, refined dining, and exceptional wine program makes it an excellent choice for a wide variety of occasions. Whether celebrating a milestone such as a birthday, promotion, or award, or simply looking for a sophisticated spot for a casual get-together, Lucian fits the bill. Its atmosphere suits both quieter, reflective gatherings and more lively celebrations, thanks to its flexible space and private nook options. Professionals on business trips have found it ideal for impressing associates or hosting dinners, while friends and families appreciate it for reunion dinners or cultural nights centered around wine tasting and book browsing. The venue’s exclusive yet welcoming vibe also makes it a perfect spot for wine clubs, book groups, and intimate anniversary dinners. By offering a marriage of cultural enrichment and culinary delight, Lucian turns any meetup into a meaningful experience beyond mere dining.
Where is Lucian Books and Wine located and when is it open for groups?
Lucian Books and Wine is located at 3005 Peachtree Rd NE, Suite 300, in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, within the Modera building close to Buckhead Village. This convenient and accessible location is well-served for both local residents and visitors seeking a distinguished dining and cultural experience. Lucian operates Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Thursday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, while Sunday and Monday remain closed. This schedule offers groups flexible options for lunch, dinner, or early evening gatherings. The owners encourage reservations, especially for groups, to ensure a seamless experience given the intimate setting. Ample parking options and proximity to nightlife spots enhance its appeal as a group destination in a bustling part of Atlanta. The setting, service, and hours combine to make it a practical and attractive venue for hosting group events any day of the week it is open.
What additional benefits does Lucian offer to enhance the group experience?
Beyond exceptional food, wine, and ambiance, Lucian Books and Wine provides a unique cultural ingredient that enriches group meetings: its selection of specialty books available for purchase. The restaurant’s affiliation with literature specific to art, culinary, photography, and wine culture offers a lasting takeaway for your group gathering. This encourages guests to linger longer, browse, and even buy books that can spark future discussions or inspire at-home culinary adventures. The presence of this bookstore element makes Lucian stand out as a destination not just for eating and drinking, but for a culturally rich shared experience. Moreover, the aesthetic design of the restaurant, with its soaring bookshelves and refined decor, creates an Instagram-worthy backdrop that groups appreciate for commemorating their get-together. These additional features contribute to transforming any meetup at Lucian Books and Wine into an elegant event that combines pleasure, learning, and connection.
Lucian Books and Wine offers an unparalleled group meetup experience by merging exquisite small plates, a world-class wine selection, and an ambiance that blends literary charm with refined hospitality. This makes it a perfect gathering place for those seeking to engage friends and family in a night of culinary delight and cultural enrichment.