Marcel, a top-rated steakhouse in Atlanta’s Buckhead community, is one of four Georgia restaurants ranked among the 100 best in the U.S. based on OpenTable reviews, ratings and metrics.
Screengrab from Marcel’s Instagram page
The Peach State is home to some of the best restaurants in the U.S., new rankings show.
Restaurant reservations platform OpenTable named four Georgia eateries among its annual Top 100 Restaurants in America list for 2023.
This year’s picks included two Coastal Georgia hideaways serving up seafood and southern fare, a top-rated steakhouse and an authentic Italian eatery nestled in the state’s capital. They are:
The list, published Nov. 15, features “neighborhood gems … from coast to coast” and across a variety of cuisines, CEO Debby Soo said in a news release.
For the rankings, OpenTable pulled from more than 12 million verified diner ratings and metrics, including five-star reviews and restaurant bookings made between Sept. 1, 2022 and Aug. 31, 2023.
Why foodies love them
Set in Savannah’s historic district, Elizabeth on 37th is perhaps best known for its “fine coastal cuisine and well-chosen wines,” according to the restaurant’s website.
Those in search of a high-end dinner can grab a meal at the Victorian mansion-turned-restaurant, decorated with “historic Savannah colors … fresh flowers, original paintings and ceramics.”
OpenTable ratings show the eatery is most loved for its service, romantic ambiance and fine wines.
“An amazing experience highlighted by experts like Gary pouring the wines that complement authentic southern dishes that were cooked to perfection,” one reviewer wrote, adding: “Wine pairing was the best we have ever had.”
Another diner raved about the portion sizes in their seven-course meal, writing that they were “neither to be skimpy nor to leave one feeling stuffed.”
The Olde Pink House Restaurant was also a favorite among Savannah locals and tourists alike. The tavern, housed inside a historic 18th century mansion, is famous for its locally sourced seafood, according to OpenTable.
Among the restaurant’s most popular dishes are the crab cake, fried green tomatoes and Chef’s fried chicken.
One diner gushed over the “spot on” service by the host and wait staff.
More than 250 miles away in Atlanta, La Grotta offers “the finest in Northern & Regional Italian Cuisine” to diners in the city’s swanky Buckhead neighborhood, per OpenTable. The eatery earned high marks from reviewers for its food, service and charming ambiance.
Menu favorites include the risotto de giornio and penne bolognese, among other pasta dishes.
“They never put too much sauce, just the right amount, and the pasta is always perfect,” one diner wrote. “Got fresh truffles on the risotto, and the lobster pappardelle was so simple and perfect.”
Foodies in search of a good steak need look no further than Marcel, also located in Atlanta. The restaurant is named for famed French boxer Marcel Cerdan and boasts “the best steaks money can buy,” according to its website.
Customers can choose from a number of dishes on the menu, which is seasonal and changes often.
“We serve steaks with much love and aging,” its website reads. “We stir our drinks by hand. We always open the door for you.”
Diners also love Marcel’s wine selection, which was named one of America’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
Tanasia is a national Real-Time reporter based in Atlanta covering news across Georgia, Mississippi and the Southeast. Her sub-beat is retail and consumer news. She’s an alumna of Kennesaw State University and joined McClatchy in 2020.
