Your Guide To Holiday Dining Across The City

by EV Atlanta

The holiday season in Atlanta brings a unique culinary celebration that goes beyond the usual festive cheer. The city’s restaurants are ready to welcome guests with special menus, holiday-themed decor, and exclusive experiences, perfect for creating lasting holiday memories with loved ones. Here’s a guide to some of the best holiday dining spots across Atlanta that will bring joy, warmth, and unforgettable flavors to your seasonal celebrations.

1. Ray’s Restaurants

Ray’s offers a holiday experience across its three renowned locations: Ray’s on the River, Ray’s in the City, and Ray’s at Killer Creek. Each serves a mix of brunch and dinner options throughout December, making it an ideal spot for holiday gatherings. Highlights include their Christmas Eve brunch and a festive dinner menu available until 9pm, with New Year’s Eve celebrations featuring a prix-fixe menu and midnight champagne toast​.

Ray’s on the River: 6700 Powers Ferry Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30339

Ray’s in the City: 240 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303

Ray’s at Killer Creek: 1700 Mansell Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30009

2. The Third Door (Marietta)

Join the fun at The Third Door, where the holiday classic Christmas Vacation takes center stage. This restaurant features the Church Street Vacation experience, adorned with thousands of lights and festive cocktails. It’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy some laughter with friends while sipping on holiday-inspired drinks.

Address: 131 Church St, Marietta, GA 30060

3. Après Ski Holiday Bar at Ranger Station (Old Fourth Ward)

For a twist on holiday cheer, Ranger Station’s Après Ski Holiday Bar transforms into a winter wonderland where you can warm up with festive cocktails above the Beltline. Opening in December, this bar pairs fun seasonal décor with expertly crafted drinks and a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Perfect for a casual holiday outing with friends, this spot offers a more playful take on Atlanta’s holiday dining scene​.

Address: 684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Unit J, Atlanta, GA 30312

4. Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails (Milton)

Located in a 150-year-old farmhouse, Milton’s offers a farm-to-table dining experience infused with Southern charm. The seasonal menu and cozy, historic setting make it a standout choice for holiday dining, perfect for those looking to enjoy Southern classics like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and comforting winter cocktails.

Address: 800 Mayfield Rd, Milton, GA 30009

5. Vingenzo’s (Woodstock)

Vingenzo’s is a beloved local Italian eatery that specializes in house-made pasta and traditional dishes. Their warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for family gatherings during the holidays. Diners can enjoy a festive menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and classic Italian flavors, ensuring a memorable meal.

Address: 105 E Main St #100, Woodstock, GA 30188

6. Osteria Mattone (Roswell)

For a taste of Italy right in Roswell, Osteria Mattone offers a cozy environment and a menu that highlights rustic Italian fare. From handmade pasta to expertly cooked seafood, every dish is crafted with care. The restaurant’s intimate setting makes it a wonderful spot for romantic holiday dinners or family gatherings.

Address: 1095 Canton St, Roswell, GA 30075

7. Rowdy Tiger Rooftop Igloos (Midtown)

Embrace the magic of the season in one of Rowdy Tiger’s heated rooftop igloos, available from November through February. With private igloos outfitted with cozy decor, Bluetooth speakers, and seasonal cocktails, this rooftop experience offers a unique and memorable setting for holiday celebrations. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner or a casual cocktail gathering, Rowdy Tiger’s igloos add a memorable flair to the season​.

Address: 866 West Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

8. Café Intermezzo (Sandy Springs)

For a cozy and charming dining experience, Café Intermezzo is the place to be. This European-style café offers an extensive menu of gourmet coffee, tea, and decadent desserts, along with a delightful selection of savory dishes. Their festive ambiance, complete with twinkling lights, makes it a perfect stop for a warm holiday meal or a sweet treat after shopping.

Address: 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30346

9. Vino Venue (Dunwoody-Chamblee)

Vino Venue combines a wine bar, retail shop, and restaurant into one unique holiday dining experience, offering small plates paired with an extensive selection of wines. The dimly lit interior and rustic furnishings create a festive ambiance that pairs perfectly with their seasonal wine list, making it ideal for holiday date nights or group gatherings.

Address: 4478 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338

10. Little Alley Steak (Roswell)

Located on Roswell’s historic Canton Street, Little Alley is known for its top-tier steak selections and upscale, speakeasy-inspired decor. Its industrial brick walls, leather seating, and moody lighting make it a prime spot for holiday celebrations, especially for those who enjoy an elevated steakhouse experience with a cozy twist.

Address: 955 Canton St, Roswell, GA 30075

Whether you’re planning a Christmas Eve feast, a New Year’s toast, or a casual holiday brunch, Atlanta’s restaurants have a variety of unique offerings for the season. From fine dining to holiday-themed bars, this city provides an array of experiences to fit any celebration style. These holiday dining spots embody the spirit of Atlanta—vibrant, inclusive, and always ready to celebrate. Enjoy your holiday season with these unforgettable culinary adventures!

Sources: RoughDraft Atlanta, Atlanta Eats