When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
The Southern Gentleman
Why The Southern Gentleman is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Southern Gentleman is a standout destination in Atlanta's Buckhead Village District, perfect for friends looking to enjoy a blend of traditional Southern hospitality with a modern twist. The restaurant's atmosphere combines classic Southern charm with contemporary sophistication, featuring design elements like tufted camel leather booths, white marble countertops, and dramatic chandeliers. Its menu pays homage to Southern cuisine by offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, crafted with culinary excellence. Highlights include classic appetizers such as deviled eggs with pickled tomato chow chow, fried green tomatoes with whipped pimento cheese, and cheddar hush puppies paired with goat cheese crema and hot honey. Entrées feature expertly prepared steak tartare, rib eye, pork cutlets, and shrimp and grits, all served in a lively and welcoming environment. Beyond food, The Southern Gentleman boasts an extensive whiskey and cocktail program, including barrel-aged classics and a celebrated mint julep, complemented by a carefully curated wine list and craft beers. The spacious top-floor location with an inviting patio offers both indoor and outdoor seating options making it a great spot for casual meals or festive gatherings. Its hospitality, quality fare, and comfortable, stylish setting make it an excellent choice for friends to meet up and savor the best of Southern culinary traditions with a fresh perspective.
Here's what people think of The Southern Gentleman
As of recent, The Southern Gentleman holds a 4.8-star rating based on 4742 reviews.
Reviewers widely praise The Southern Gentleman for its excellent quality food and vibrant atmosphere. Positive feedback often highlights the spot-on preparation of Southern classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and steak tartare. Many guests rave about the friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide attentive service and helpful menu recommendations. Cocktails, especially the creative Southern-inspired selections, receive frequent commendations, with a particular nod to the extensive whiskey selection and the mint julep. The ambiance, blending Southern tradition with modern elegance, is appreciated as both festive and welcoming. Negative reviews, though fewer, focus primarily on occasional issues such as the loud environment which might challenge conversation, and some operational hiccups noted in isolated incidents. There have also been some reports alleging management or kitchen issues, although these appear to be limited and not widespread. Overall, the consensus celebrates The Southern Gentleman as a premier destination for upscale Southern fare and hospitality in Atlanta, where guests leave impressed by the delicious food, well-crafted drinks, and congenial atmosphere making it a favored meet-up spot for friends and food enthusiasts alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ondie Daniel
Great experience. Wonderful location overlooking Peachtree Street. Atlanta. The hostess was great. We wanted to sit at a different table so she said we would get that cleaned up for you right away even tho we were early for our reservation and the other 2 in our party weren't there yet. We had a couple of drinks at the bar while she had someone clean the table. My drink was good and a part of the $i paid for it went to a charity. They have a great outdoor patio too. Our table was right in front of huge glass windows. Awesome view! Great service. Had appetizers fried green tomatoes and another ( can't remember).Then dinner. I had a tart for dessert. Everything was good. The food is very tasty. We will be back!
Jason Xie
The Southern Gentleman 🥰🥰🥰in Atlanta is a fantastic place to dine! From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is warm, stylish, and inviting — the perfect setting for a great meal. The food is absolutely delicious, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and Southern-inspired flavors. One thing to note: take your time to review the menu carefully before ordering. Some of the descriptions might not be entirely straightforward if you’re unfamiliar with the Southern-style dishes, so it’s a good idea to read through it or ask the staff for recommendations — they are happy to help! I absolutely loved the steak, which was cooked to perfection — juicy, flavorful, and tender. The potatoes were a perfect side, buttery and comforting. The oysters were incredibly fresh and definitely one of the highlights of the meal. The seafood here is top-notch, and you can really taste the quality in every bite. If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy Southern cuisine with a bit of an upscale twist, The Southern Gentleman is a must-visit. Delicious food, fresh seafood, and a beautiful atmosphere — highly recommended! I’ll definitely be coming back!
Destiny B
Cute spot! Came on a Monday for lunch so fairly quiet. Sat at the bar and servers were cool. A glass of Rose and ordered the short rib grilled cheese which was actually pretty good especially with the house made chips. Good portion size as well. Total meal $37 with tip not bad. Would come back just to have drinks and chill on the outside deck.
Brianna Agosto
It was such a great lunch experience! Gianna took amazing care of me! So attentive and such a kind person. The food itself is great, Gianna’s recommendation did not disappoint (she even got me more pickles, love her!). Overall 10/10 for food and service. Great place to get lunch if you’re out and about Buckhead Village.
Bebe Bakhtiar
Good food, very clean establishment, and friendly service. Came here for brunch and we have no complaints. We do wish parking was a bit easier, but they validate for the deck. The walk isn’t bad. Got the pancakes and shrimp and grits and they were just fine. There wasn’t anything that particular wowed us, but they were solid dishes. The price was not 100% ideal, but absolutely understandable when you factor in location and ambience. I’d still return for a nice outing. Dress code says “smart casual” on the reservation, so just an fyi!
How to reach The Southern Gentleman
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Why The Southern Gentleman may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Southern Gentleman with your friends?
For any group looking to gather in Buckhead, Atlanta, The Southern Gentleman stands out as an exceptional choice for socializing with friends or family. The restaurant effortlessly blends the charm of Southern hospitality with elevated culinary fare, creating a setting that is both inviting and lively. Rated an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 5,000 reviews, it clearly resonates with diners seeking quality and atmosphere. The ambiance is vibrant yet comfortable, allowing groups to enjoy spirited conversation amidst sophisticated yet casual surroundings. The spacious, glass-enclosed dining area offers scenic views of Peachtree Road and natural light that enhance the mood, while the décor—featuring pale off-whites and medium blues alongside sumptuous leather seating—provides a refined but warm backdrop for any occasion. Guests report attentive, knowledgeable staff who add a personalized touch to the dining experience, making it smooth and enjoyable for groups large or small. Coupled with ample parking options, including validation, and a location in the heart of Buckhead Village, The Southern Gentleman is perfectly positioned for a memorable gathering that combines excellent food, great drinks, and effortless conviviality.
What activities are available at The Southern Gentleman for a group meetup?
The Southern Gentleman offers a rich variety of activities centered around food, drink, and atmosphere that make it ideal for group meetups. Primarily, the restaurant specializes in elevated Southern fare, which guests can enjoy as an interactive culinary experience by sharing a wide selection of small plates and main dishes. Groups can order classics like crispy fried okra chips, cheddar hush puppies with jalapeño and avocado crema, and “chicken-fried” sweetbreads served on Parker rolls, allowing everyone to sample something unique and flavorful. For those who enjoy seafood, standout dishes such as tempura-fried catfish and wine-poached calamari are available, while hearty options like rib eye steak or barbecue pork belly provide satisfying main courses. The diversity and quality of the menu encourage groups to mix and match, fostering a sharing and tasting culture among friends or family.
Beyond the food, The Southern Gentleman has a full bar featuring well-crafted cocktails like the "She’s a Peach" or "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," and an imaginative wine list perfect for pairing with Southern dishes. This makes it a great place for cocktail hours, celebratory toasts, or relaxed sipping sessions. The bar area offers a social hub within the venue where groups can congregate before or after dinner to enjoy a lively atmosphere. If the occasion calls for brunch, the weekend brunch service extends the variety of offerings with dishes like chicken liver and pork terrines with fried apple rings, providing a decadent start to a daytime gathering.
The space itself supports group activities, with several seating options including outdoor dining for pleasant days, making it a flexible option whether you want an intimate corner or a bustling front window view. Additionally, with valet parking and its central Buckhead location, it is convenient for group members arriving separately. The Southern Gentleman also hosts special events such as winemaker dinners, which appeal to groups interested in a curated culinary and wine experience, adding an educational and luxurious dimension.
Why is The Southern Gentleman perfect for group dining experiences?
The Southern Gentleman establishes the perfect balance between upscale dining and a relaxed environment, making it well-suited for groups who want quality without formality. The restaurant's attention to detail—evident in everything from the artful plating of dishes to the sophisticated interior design—helps create a memorable dining atmosphere that elevates the social gathering. The music and bustling buzz fill the room with energy, making it lively and festive but never overwhelming, which allows for easy conversation and connection.
Its menu’s ability to cater to diverse palates and dietary preferences is a particular advantage for groups, as guests can share multiple small plates or opt for substantial entrees that highlight locally sourced, fresh ingredients. The quality is consistently praised by diners, with dishes such as steak tartare and shrimp and grits receiving particular acclaim. Dessert offerings, like the banoffee tart and key lime cheesecake, offer sweet finales that everyone in the group can savor. This shared culinary journey promotes a communal dining experience where everyone feels included in discovering flavors together.
Customer service at The Southern Gentleman is frequently highlighted as impeccable, with staff who are not only efficient but also personally invested in enhancing each table’s experience. For group gatherings, this means timely service, thoughtful recommendations, and a seamless dining flow that avoids long waits or confusion when ordering for many people. The validation of parking for two hours is an exceptional convenience for group meetups where transportation is varied, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their time without worrying about logistics.
Furthermore, The Southern Gentleman’s location within The Shops Buckhead Atlanta provides an added layer of excitement and convenience for groups interested in extending their meetup with shopping or strolling around this prestigious area. It’s an all-in-one destination for both food and entertainment, solidifying its reputation as an ideal site for hosting celebrations, casual get-togethers, or even special occasions.
How does the atmosphere of The Southern Gentleman enhance group gatherings?
The atmosphere at The Southern Gentleman creates the backdrop for effortless socializing with friends and family. The interior design fuses modern Southern influences with upscale aesthetics—blue seersucker drapes and supple tan leather accents combine to form an airy, classy, yet relaxed space. Large windows flood the room with natural light, while nighttime views of Buckhead add a dramatic yet inviting cityscape when dining in the evening. This sophisticated yet approachable environment makes guests feel comfortable to unwind while still enjoying a touch of elegance.
The lively but not overwhelming noise level and the layout promote easy conversation, which many review sources mention as a hallmark of the dining experience here. Whether you're seated in cozy, high-backed wing chairs or at a window-side table perfect for people-watching, the space fosters connection and a sense of occasion. For groups, this means accommodating both intimate catch-ups and larger celebrations without feeling cramped or overly formal.
Outdoor dining options enhance the atmosphere during warm weather, offering an open-air experience that feels vibrant and fresh. The presence of knowledgeable staff who engage with guests also adds warmth to the environment, making diners feel welcomed as part of the Southern Gentleman family. This personable service combined with the polished yet inviting setting creates a unique vibe that encourages lingering and maximizing the joy of gathering with loved ones.
What makes the Southern cuisine at The Southern Gentleman stand out for group dining?
What truly sets The Southern Gentleman apart for group dining is its masterful interpretation of Southern cuisine. The restaurant manages to balance homey, comforting flavors with refined culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Guests frequently praise standout items such as deviled eggs topped with pickled green tomato chow chow and crispy ham, or fried green tomatoes adorned with whipped pimento cheese and house-made jam. These dishes evoke classic Southern hospitality but with a contemporary edge that sparks conversation and delight around the table.
The menu’s breadth allows groups to explore a variety of Southern staples reimagined at a high level. Options like sweet potato cornbread served with cane syrup butter, and pimento cheese shrimp and grits highlight signature Southern ingredients prepared with care and creativity. For those seeking unique textures and flavors, items such as catfish tempura with togarashi seasoning or wine-poached calamari with citrus-herb vinaigrette are excellent choices, sparking shared enjoyment and discussion among diners.
What is more, the sourcing of ingredients and attention to detail reinforce the quality and authenticity that groups appreciate. This culinary excellence, combined with high-quality presentation and balanced seasoning, creates a dining experience that is fitting for celebrations or casual dinners alike. The Southern Gentleman’s menu, rich with regional charm yet polished in execution, elevates any gathering into a memorable feast.
How does The Southern Gentleman accommodate the needs of groups practically?
Practically speaking, The Southern Gentleman is well equipped to handle groups of various sizes, ensuring comfort and convenience from arrival to departure. Valet parking is available, simplifying the often challenging task of finding parking in busy Buckhead, and the restaurant offers parking validation for two hours, a boon for guests meeting up without coordinating rides. The central location in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta also means guests can easily access the restaurant via taxis or rideshare options.
Inside, the seating arrangements are flexible, ranging from intimate booths to larger tables, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Whether a group wants to reserve a cozy space for a small reunion or a larger table for a celebratory dinner, The Southern Gentleman staff encourages advance reservations to streamline planning. During busy times like weekend brunch or evening hours, this ensures a smooth experience without extended wait times.
The staff’s reputation for excellent service means groups can expect attentive care tailored to their party size and preferences. Recommendations on drinks, food placing for sharing, and accommodating dietary restrictions are all part of the team’s expertise, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone. This thoughtful approach reduces stress for group organizers and enhances the overall enjoyment of the gathering.
Why is The Southern Gentleman ideal for special occasions with friends and family?
Hosting special occasions at The Southern Gentleman promises an experience filled with authenticity, indulgence, and genuine Southern charm. The upscale setting elevates milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions, yet the atmosphere remains casual enough to keep interactions warm and easygoing. The thoughtful menu options cater to diverse tastes, ensuring every guest feels valued and enjoys their meal.
The presence of a comprehensive bar with creative cocktails and curated wines supports toasts and celebrations, adding sparkle to the occasion. The warm, lively ambiance combined with attentive service helps transform an ordinary meal into a memorable social event. Photogenic surroundings and tastefully designed interiors also make it a delightful backdrop for capturing moments.
Furthermore, The Southern Gentleman’s location in the heart of Buckhead offers guests the possibility to extend their celebration with nearby nightlife, shopping, or strolling through elegant surroundings. This makes it not just a dining destination but a full social hub, ideal for groups who want to combine great food, drinks, and good company in one stylish setting. Choosing The Southern Gentleman for your meetup guarantees a thoughtfully curated experience where Southern hospitality and culinary excellence come together to form lasting memories.