Best places to eat dinner during 3.5 layover at ATL?

Question

Flying from ORD to ATL then ATL to JNB on May 9th for a safari. Arrive in ATL at 7:04PM, leave for JNB at 10:35. Where is the best place to eat dinner? Thanks in advance!

Answer

Your 3.5-hour layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) provides enough time for a nice dinner, but it’s important to keep in mind the layout of the airport and your terminal to avoid any stress. Here are some great dinner options that are within the airport or nearby, ensuring you can enjoy a meal and still have plenty of time to catch your international flight:

1. Dining Inside ATL Airport (Terminal Options):

There are several good dining options inside the terminals, especially in Terminal A (which handles international flights, including departures for Johannesburg). Here are some of the top spots:

The Varsity (Terminal A): A classic Atlanta institution, The Varsity is known for its iconic burgers, hot dogs, and chili cheese fries. It’s a quick and casual place to grab a bite before your next flight. Great if you're looking for something fast and tasty.
Papi’s (Terminal T): For a more sit-down meal, Papi’s offers delicious Mexican food. Tacos, quesadillas, and margaritas are on the menu. It’s located in Terminal T, and it offers a decent selection for a quick yet satisfying meal.
One Flew South (Terminal E): If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, One Flew South is one of the top-rated airport restaurants. It offers Southern-inspired cuisine with dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and sushi. Perfect if you want a relaxing, higher-end meal with a local twist.
Grindhouse Killer Burgers (Terminal A): If you’re craving a burger, Grindhouse offers gourmet burgers with various toppings. It’s a solid option for a quick, satisfying meal before your next flight.

2. Dining Options Outside ATL Airport:

If you have time to venture outside of the airport, there are several good restaurants near ATL that could give you a taste of Atlanta’s food scene. However, keep in mind that you will need to go through security again, so you should only opt for this if you feel confident with time. The following are worth considering:

Mary Mac’s Tea Room (2.5 miles from ATL): A Southern classic, known for fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. If you have extra time and are looking for a true taste of Atlanta, this is a great place to go. However, it could take a while to get there and back, so consider the time.
Paschal’s (1.5 miles from ATL): Another great spot for Southern comfort food, located near the airport. Known for its fried chicken, sweet tea, and classic sides, it’s a staple for anyone wanting to enjoy hearty Southern dishes.

3. General Tips:

Since your flight to Johannesburg departs at 10:35 PM, make sure to be back in your gate area at least an hour before boarding, as international flights often require extra time for security and boarding.
If you have a little time to relax, the airport has lounges (like Delta Sky Club) that offer a quiet space, food, and drinks, and may provide an excellent option for a more relaxed meal.
Check with your gate agent or online for the latest boarding times and any changes that could affect your schedule.

Overall, any of these options will give you a good meal, but for convenience and time-saving, dining within the airport (especially in Terminal A or E) would be the best bet. Enjoy your dinner and safe travels to your safari in South Africa!