When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Sun in My Belly
Why Sun in My Belly is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sun in My Belly is an acclaimed breakfast, lunch, and dinner cafe located in the historic Kirkwood neighborhood of Atlanta. Established in 1996 by executive chef Alison Lueker, the café has grown into a beloved community hub known for its seasonally fresh, locally sourced dishes with an artistic and nature-inspired flair. The café resides in a charming restored 1943 brick hardware store, offering a warm, casual European neighborhood ambiance perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Alongside its vibrant café life, Sun in My Belly operates a premier catering service that travels throughout the Southeast for weddings and special events, providing haute cuisine with elegant presentation and attentive service. Highlights of their menu include creative breakfast and brunch items served all day, such as the honeyed ricotta French toast with fresh berries and a unique BLT with fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese—a nod to southern flavors with a creative twist. The café’s dedication to high-quality, beautifully crafted meals combined with a relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for leisurely weekend brunches or intimate dinners. Whether meeting friends or organizing an event, Sun in My Belly balances culinary excellence with welcoming hospitality to create memorable experiences.
Here's what people think of Sun in My Belly
As of recent, Sun in My Belly holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2572 reviews.
User reviews of Sun in My Belly consistently highlight its exceptional quality and service, reflected in an impressive 4.4 rating from over 2,500 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the café's flavorful, innovative dishes and the beautifully artistic presentation that elevates even casual meals. Positive testimonials often mention the accommodating and professional catering team, who have made significant contributions to weddings and events by ensuring flawless execution and memorable food experiences. Many users note the accommodating nature of the staff regarding dietary preferences and special requests, especially appreciated in vegetarian or customized menus. The atmosphere is often described as casual, comfortable, and thoughtfully decorated, contributing to an inviting environment for both everyday dining and special occasions. However, some less favorable reviews point to challenges such as the lack of reservations for brunch leading to wait times due to the first-come, first-served seating policy, and occasional inconsistencies in service speed during busy periods. A few customers noted that the menu’s pricing might be considered on the higher side, reflecting the quality and artisanal nature of the offerings. Despite minor critiques, the consensus is strongly positive, with loyal patrons continuing to recommend Sun in My Belly for its superior food, attentive staff, and its unique neighborhood charm. Overall, reviews depict Sun in My Belly as a standout destination in Atlanta's dining and catering scene, beloved for its culinary creativity and exceptional hospitality.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A. G. Jones
I’d heard about this place but this was my first time visiting and I’m so glad I did! I went with the hash with spinach, bacon and potatoes. It comes with a fried egg but I opted to go with the over medium egg and they got it just right. There are just enough bacon pieces to be experienced with every bite once I fork sliced it for better efficiency. Great portion as I was able to only finish half but looked forward to finishing the rest. Trevor, my server was helpful and kind which I greatly appreciated. The biscuit was a pleasant surprise when matched with the accompanied jam, yum. I paired my meal with a caramel latte that required nothing additional. The sun in my belly was definitely shining through 🌞
Kenzie Winther
Sun and My Belly grabbed my attention with their menu. And it came recommended by two different friend groups so I had to try it. I like the vibe of the restaurant and it’s definitely a solid brunch place for Atlanta. I didn’t think it was too expensive. We went earlier in the morning and it wasn’t crowded at all. At our table, we ordered the pimento cheese, omelette, biscuit and gravy, scrambled egg, Panini, and the star of the show was the Belly Hash. I would recommend getting the Belly Hash every single time! The grits were delicious! I wasn’t impressed with the lavender biscuit so glad I went with the grits. All the other food was basic brunch. Everybody enjoyed it, and they even said their coffee was delicious!
Mayur Patel
Sun in My Belly was not very busy on a Wed morning right around opening. The sweet iced tea was a bit too sweet for my taste. I tried the French toast with berries and the toast was thick. It was topped with blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and some ricotta cheese. It was slightly sweet even without syrup. The veggie omelet was tasty, however slightly smaller than expected. I wish there was more of an option to customize the French toast or other breakfast options with chocolate.
Caroline Lazaro-Rainer
We had Sun in My Belly cater our wedding, and it was one of the best decisions we made! From start to finish, the experience was seamless. Megan, our catering manager, was amazing. She worked with us on creating a Filipino-inspired menu, made the entire planning process stress-free, and even connected us with our wonderful coordinator, Autumn. The food itself was unforgettable. Chef JJ (Jennifer Jones) put so much love into every dish, and it showed. Our guests are still raving about it, especially the lechon, chicken adobo, and ube cheesecake. The chicken adobo tasted just like my dad’s, which meant the world to me, and Joe and I both agree the ube cheesecake was one of the best cakes we’ve ever had. Even the non-Filipino dishes, like the mashed potatoes, were outstanding. So many people told us it was the best wedding food they’ve ever had, and we completely agree. Thank you, Megan, Chef JJ, and the Sun in My Belly team, for making our wedding meal truly unforgettable. We can’t wait to work with you again in the future and will be recommending you to everyone we know!
Sachin Thakur
Ordered Shrimps and grits based on the reviews, did not disappoint. Avacado toast and lavender biscuits however were meh. Menu has plenty of options of breakfast and brunch. Plenty of seating area. Has parking behind the restaurant but it’s limited so you need to park on the street.
How to reach Sun in My Belly
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Why Sun in My Belly may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sun in My Belly with your friends? This vibrant neighborhood bistro nestled in Atlanta’s Kirkwood area offers a unique blend of ambiance, food, and service that makes it an ideal gathering spot. Whether you're catching up over brunch, enjoying an intimate dinner, or celebrating a special occasion, Sun in My Belly creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages connection and conversation. The restaurant’s roots in a historic former hardware store give it a character-rich space where cozy seating and beautifully spaced tables foster meaningful interactions. Guests appreciate the casual yet thoughtfully curated setting, which balances rustic charm with modern comfort. The menu, which features contemporary Southern cuisine made with seasonal freshness, enhances the experience by offering delicious and shareable dishes that cater to diverse tastes. With its full bar, outdoor dining, and even live music on alternate Saturdays, Sun in My Belly transforms a simple meetup into a memorable occasion. This combination of great food, ambiance, and service consistently earns it a stellar 4.4 rating from thousands of reviews, making it a trusted and beloved choice to rally with friends or family.
What activities can a group enjoy at Sun in My Belly? Aside from enjoying a full range of meals from breakfast to dinner, the restaurant offers a variety of ways for groups to connect and have fun. First, the culinary experience itself is a central activity—sharing plates, tapas-style selections, or customizing a group menu through their catering services is encouraged. Their offerings are known for quality and creativity, such as the house specialty honey-glazed bacon or the famous lavender biscuits, perfect for sharing and sparking conversation. The venue’s layout also supports social dining, with options for well-spaced seating including private rooms for larger groups who want a more intimate gathering. The outdoor dining area is fantastic for enjoying good weather while chatting and laughing together. To elevate the mood further, groups can take advantage of the full bar, sampling unique cocktails like the honey pecan old-fashioned or the tequila citrus mimosa. Live music on select Saturdays adds an extra layer of entertainment, making it a festive occasion beyond just a meal. All these features combined make Sun in My Belly perfectly suited for group meetups.
Why is Sun in My Belly the ideal spot for a mixed group of friends or families? The restaurant prides itself on accommodating a diverse group of patrons with its kid-friendly policies and dog-friendly outdoor seating, ensuring everyone feels welcome. This flexibility makes it a great choice whether you're planning a casual brunch with friends, a family outing, or a gathering including four-legged companions. The casual dress code helps keep the vibe relaxed, allowing guests to feel comfortable and at ease. Moreover, the thoughtful service paired with an experienced kitchen team ensures that group dining goes smoothly. While some reviews note service can be challenged when busy, management shows a genuine willingness to listen to feedback and improve, often going above and beyond, especially for catering or special events. Their attention to detail in menu planning and accommodating group preferences—such as splitting portions or offering multiple tastings for event planning—sets them apart. This personalized approach combined with seasonal, reasonably priced offerings and a friendly atmosphere turns Sun in My Belly into not just a restaurant but a community hub.
How does the menu at Sun in My Belly contribute to a great group experience? The menu features a contemporary Southern cuisine that balances comfort and innovation, ideal for sharing family-style or sampling multiple dishes during brunch or dinner gatherings. Signature items like the Fez burger, which is served on an onion Challah roll with mint aioli, and Southern classics like biscuits with a twist—lavender lightly infused—offer unique flavors that spark curiosity and conversation around the table. The versatility of the menu allows diners to select from sweet offerings such as seasonal pumpkin crème brûlée or inventive S’mores parfait, which add a playful note to the meal. The carefully curated wine list and specialty coffee further complement the food, making every course feel thoughtful and complete. For groups, this variety ensures that everyone's taste preferences and dietary needs can be met, creating an inclusive dining atmosphere. The executive chef’s involvement in catering and event tastings underscores their commitment to quality and customization, making group meals both delectable and personalized to the occasion.
What about the atmosphere and service at Sun in My Belly enhances the group meetup experience? The restaurant’s charm lies not only in its food but in its inviting ambiance and attentive staff. Nestled in an architecturally interesting building with a mix of hardwood and concrete floors, area rugs, and natural lighting, it strikes a balance between rustic neighborhood charm and a modern bistro vibe. This setting is conducive to relaxation and leisurely meals, perfect for groups wanting to linger and enjoy each other’s company without feeling rushed. Service is generally strong, with staff balancing attentiveness and unobtrusiveness, though some busy periods have tested their smoothness. The management’s openness to feedback and eagerness to accommodate special requests help offset these occasional service hiccups. Live music events add a communal joy that groups can share, turning an ordinary dinner into a special night out. Additionally, with amenities like wheelchair accessibility, private rooms, and outdoor seating, the restaurant ensures comfort and convenience—important for group meetups that include a variety of ages and needs.
How do customers describe their experiences dining at Sun in My Belly with their friends or family? Many guests highlight the joyful atmosphere and exceptional food as reasons to return and recommend it. Friends gathering for Sunday brunch praise the creative cocktails and the relaxed mood, describing the experience as a perfect way to start the day. Families appreciate the kid-friendly approach and the careful attention to accommodating special requests during group meals. Reviews show high satisfaction with both the food quality and flexibility, especially when it comes to catering services, where the executive chef works closely with clients to tailor menus to their desires. While some long-time patrons have noted dips in customer service during peak times, the majority emphasize the team’s professionalism and overall warmth. This positive reputation is reflected in its solid 4.4 rating averaged from over 2,500 reviews, indicating consistent guest satisfaction.
In what ways can groups tailor their event at Sun in My Belly? For those looking to host meetups beyond casual dining, Sun in My Belly offers catering and event services that underline their commitment to personalized experiences. The executive chef’s hands-on involvement in menu planning and tastings prior to events guarantees that group preferences are met with a high degree of customization. Whether you want a selection of hors d’oeuvres, tapas-style small plates, or a full multi-course meal, they are flexible in adapting portions and ingredients to suit the gathering. Rental assistance and advice on practical arrangements further ease the event planning process. For wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, or milestone parties, Sun in My Belly has the ambiance, culinary skill, and service approach to make the event memorable and seamless. Such accommodation and professionalism enhance group satisfaction and build lasting memories.
Why is Sun in My Belly considered a neighborhood hotspot? Beyond its excellent food and service, Sun in My Belly’s location in a historic commercial building on College Avenue positions it as a beloved hub for locals. The restaurant’s ability to blend seasonal, fresh ingredients with reasonable prices appeals to a broad audience—from couples looking for romantic brunch spots to larger groups seeking a comfortable gathering place. Its reputation for live music, carefully curated cocktails, and warm hospitality has made it a staple in Atlanta’s dining scene. The venue’s flexibility with seating, including options for outdoor dining and private rooms, makes it versatile for different group sizes and types of gatherings. All these factors combine to create a welcoming environment that keeps guests coming back and recommending it to friends and family alike.
What should groups expect when visiting Sun in My Belly? Guests can look forward to a casual, hospitable experience with high-quality contemporary Southern cuisine in a setting that encourages shared moments. Although the venue can get busy, awareness of peak times and potentially making reservations (which are suggested) will help ensure a smooth visit. Those interested in sampling innovative cocktails or enjoying live music can plan visits on specific days to augment their dining experience. The restaurant’s team typically strives to provide attentive and responsive service, accommodating dietary requests and group needs when possible. For families, dog owners, and groups with diverse members, the accessible facilities, kid-friendly options, and outdoor spaces enhance comfort for everyone. Overall, a visit to Sun in My Belly promises the rich combination of great food, convivial atmosphere, and genuine hospitality that make it a premier meet-up destination in Atlanta.