Empire State South, a filling breakfast.

Empire State South is an institution that has long been on my list of places to visit in Atlanta.  Chef Hugh Atcheson is involved with an old Athens favorite (Five & Ten), but alas, it’s rare that we ever stay over in our university town.  However, our Airbnb did happen to be located very near Empire State South, and after a last minute change in our weekend plans, I was more than happy to make a brunch reservation.  While the restaurant wasn’t crowded at 11 AM, brunch was much needed after a late, but very fun night, at Ponce City Market (a location well worth a visit if you’re even in the city).  The exterior, a well-known bocce ball area set between two massive buildings, gives way to a covered outdoor eating area.  The interior is spacious, filled with tall ceilings, dark wood, and a lived-in feel that sets guests at ease.

Although alcoholic drinks weren’t available (something about an outdated city rule where alcohol cannot be served before 12:30 PM on a Sunday, quelle horreur), given the number of adult beverages we consumed the day before, perhaps it was better for our livers to have a break for a few hours.  However, should you arrive when drinks are served, stay confident knowing that many brunch classics are available.

After a quick look at the menu, a number of items jumped off the list.  While my heart said ‘fried chicken’ my waist said ‘scallops’ and really, I was happy with my decision.  The Scallops, USD$15, were served with corn, Padron peppers, chanterelle mushrooms, and bacon.  Altogether, the ingredients combined for a nearly perfect dish.  Sweet, savory, umami, texture — yeah, they all showed up.  Across the table, Hubs ordered the Fried Chicken, USD$16, which came with a very generous portion of creamy, buttery grits (of which I kept reaching across the table for).  Not only the grits, the chicken was placed on a homemade biscuit (I die) with bacon marmalade, fried egg, and pimento cheese.  Be warned that the portion is relatively massive, and we weren’t able to finish it (even though I made a valiant effort).

With a soundtrack straight out of 90s Athens, GA (and my youth), genuine service, and a relaxed ‘hang out as long as you want’ vibe, I’m only sorry we weren’t able to try more of the menu from Empire State South.

Would I go back?  Yes, definitely.

Who is Empire State South best for?  Those looking for a relaxed, but upscale (and delicious) take on Southern cuisine – breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Have you been to Empire State South?  What was your favorite dish?