5 Reasons Why Kitchen And Kocktails Atlanta Is The Hottest New Southern Comfort Destination

The Atlanta dining scene has officially welcomed a powerful new player, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley, establishing itself as the premier spot for elevated Southern comfort food and a vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant, which celebrated its grand opening in the Dunwoody suburb near Perimeter Mall in late 2024, has rapidly become a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique blend of authentic soul food and an upscale dining experience.

This expansion into the Georgia capital marks the latest triumph for the Black-owned restaurant brand, which has successfully conquered markets in Dallas, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. If you are planning a visit in the first half of 2025 or beyond, this deep dive provides the most current information on the concept, the man behind the empire, and the signature dishes that have everyone talking.

The Visionary Behind the Empire: Kevin Kelley Profile

The success of the Kitchen + Kocktails brand is intrinsically linked to its founder, Kevin Kelley, a serial entrepreneur whose journey from a lawyer to a celebrated restaurateur is a compelling story of passion and vision.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

• Name: Kevin Kelley
• Role: Founder and Owner of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley
• Background: Serial Entrepreneur and former Lawyer
• Inspiration: Kelley was inspired to create the concept after living in Europe for several years and feeling a deep homesickness for the hospitality and flavors of Southern comfort food.
• Concept: To revolutionize the way Americans enjoy elevated comfort food, blending traditional Southern dishes with a modern, upscale twist.
• Expansion: Atlanta is one of the latest expansions in a growing empire that began in Dallas in 2020.
• Commitment: The Atlanta location alone was expected to create 125 new jobs, demonstrating a commitment to local economic growth.

Kelley’s motivation was simple: to bring his grandmother's cooking and the authentic Southern hospitality he missed to a new, sophisticated setting. This personal touch is the core of the brand's appeal, offering an experience that is both familiar and luxurious.

1. The Culinary Experience: Elevated Southern Comfort Food

Kitchen + Kocktails is not just a soul food restaurant; it’s a destination for upscale soul food that redefines the genre. The menu is a vibrant celebration of Southern staples, executed with high-quality ingredients and a meticulous presentation. Diners can expect A la Carte offerings throughout the week, complemented by a dedicated brunch menu available on Saturday and Sunday.

Signature Dishes You Must Try

The menu is famous for its hearty portions and rich flavors. The dishes below are frequently highlighted in reviews and considered the brand's core offerings:

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

• Crispy Fried Chicken: Often cited as some of "America's best fried chicken," this dish is a cornerstone of the menu.
• Shrimp & Grits: A classic Southern dish perfected here, available in several variations, including the decadent Shrimp & Grits + Lobster Tail.
• Kajun Stuffed Salmon with Dirty Rice: A powerful fusion of flavors, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to elevated comfort food.
• Southern Fried Chicken & Traditional Waffles: A classic combination, perfect for the weekend brunch menu.
• Seafood Platter: A great option for those wanting to sample a variety of fresh, expertly prepared seafood.

The focus on quality and presentation ensures that every plate is an experience, moving the needle from simple comfort food to a fine-dining level of culinary delight.

2. Location and Vibe: The Perimeter Mall Destination

The choice of location for the Atlanta expansion was strategic. Situated at 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd NE, Suite 3030, the restaurant is prominently positioned outside Perimeter Mall in the affluent Dunwoody suburb. This spot ensures high visibility and accessibility, drawing a sophisticated clientele from both the local area and the broader Atlanta metropolitan region.

The interior design is a key part of the Kitchen + Kocktails experience. It offers a vibrant and often lively atmosphere that is perfect for a night out. The ambiance is designed to match the 'elevated' nature of the food, creating a backdrop of modern elegance for enjoying traditional dishes.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

3. A Growing Empire of Soul Food Excellence

The Atlanta location is not an isolated venture but a significant milestone in a rapidly expanding national empire. Since its inception in Dallas, Texas, in May 2020, the brand has demonstrated a powerful model for success, quickly expanding to major metropolitan areas. The chain's growth includes successful launches in Chicago (2021), Washington, D.C. (2023), and Charlotte, NC (June 2024).

This proven track record in diverse markets highlights the universal appeal of Kelley's concept. The consistent quality across multiple locations assures Atlanta diners that they are experiencing a polished, well-oiled machine dedicated to providing the best soul food restaurant experience in the country.

4. The 'Kocktails' and Beverage Program

While the food is the star, the second half of the name—Kocktails—is equally important. The restaurant features a full bar with an innovative and extensive menu of craft cocktails. These signature drinks are designed to perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of the Southern menu. The beverage program focuses on unique mixes and high-quality spirits, ensuring that the drink offerings are just as elevated as the dining experience itself.

Whether you're looking for a refreshing cocktail to pair with the Fish & Grits or a robust drink to accompany the Seafood Platter, the bar staff provides a sophisticated selection. The lively bar area contributes significantly to the restaurant's overall vibrant and celebratory atmosphere.

5. Essential Tips for Planning Your Visit (Reservations and Accessibility)

Given the restaurant's popularity and its recent opening status in Atlanta, securing a table can be challenging, especially during peak hours and for the popular weekend brunch service. Fortunately, the venue accepts reservations for dining, which is highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

The location at Perimeter Mall makes it highly accessible from various parts of Atlanta. It is also conveniently located near major Atlanta landmarks, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Truist Park, making it an ideal spot for a pre- or post-event meal. Planning ahead and utilizing the reservation system will ensure you get to experience the full, elevated hospitality that Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is known for.