The Chastain: A Refined Yet Approachable Dining Experience

I first went to The Chastain shortly after it opened in November 2020, and it was love at first bite. Especially since I saw this gorgeous black cat wandering around the restaurant. Bogie, the black cat is probably the most cherished feline resident of the restaurant. He has always been a part of the property, even when it was the Horseradish Grill. He can often be seen basking on the terrace or keeping an eye on guests, adding a unique and endearing touch to the dining experience. Sometimes he’s even so bold as to wander inside to greet all of the guests.

Nestled in the heart of Chastain Park, The Chastain occupies the historic space once home to the beloved Horseradish Grill. While it retains the welcoming charm of a neighborhood eatery, this modern American bistro elevates the concept to an entirely new level. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, yet the restaurant delivers on all fronts—exceptional food, bold flavors, and attentive service. Despite its refined approach, The Chastain remains somewhat of a hidden gem, quietly earning its reputation among those in the know. Securing a reservation can be a challenge, as tables often book up well in advance, making spontaneous dining a rare but rewarding experience for those lucky enough to find a seat.

The Chastain has earned prestigious recognition, receiving a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability and a Sommelier Award for its exceptional wine program. These accolades underscore the restaurant’s dedication to excellence, from its thoughtfully curated menu to its environmentally conscious practices and impeccable service.

A Seasonal, Ingredient-Focused Menu

One of The Chastain’s most distinctive features is its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many components come directly from the restaurant’s onsite culinary garden, reinforcing a farm-to-table philosophy. Everything is crafted in-house, from condiments to pastries, ensuring quality and a personal touch in every dish.

The menu at The Chastain balances refined technique with an approachable appeal. Dishes highlight peak seasonal flavors, offering a mix of comforting and elevated options. Signature selections include butter-poached Maine lobster agnolotti, crown-roasted Green Circle chicken, and thoughtfully prepared vegetable-forward plates. Even the simplest offerings, like house-made sourdough with cultured butter, showcase the kitchen’s attention to detail.

The Bar & Atmosphere

The lovely bar sits at the front of the restaurant with large windows looking out to the patio and fire pit. Many patrons try to snag a couple of seats at the U-shaped bar for dinner. If you aren’t there when they open, it can be very difficult—but not impossible.

The restaurant’s ambiance reflects the same thoughtful approach as its cuisine. The warm and inviting space features booths with leather seating and glass portions on two sides, exposed brick, and flickering gas lamps, creating a cozy yet modern dining environment. Large windows provide a view of the culinary garden, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor experience.

The Old Oak Terrace

The outdoor dining experience at The Chastain has evolved significantly since its opening, elevating what was once a simple patio into the enchanting Old Oak Terrace. This transformed space offers an inviting retreat where guests can dine in comfort and style. Plush couch seating encourages relaxation, while elegant white linen tablecloths add a refined touch. The terrace is fully covered, with retractable side panels that create a cozy, enclosed setting for all-weather dining. Thoughtfully integrated heating ensures that guests remain warm on chilly Atlanta evenings, making this an ideal spot for year-round alfresco dining. Whether basking in the crisp autumn air or enjoying a candlelit dinner under the soft glow of ambient lighting, the Old Oak Terrace provides an intimate and memorable extension of The Chastain’s welcoming atmosphere.

Executive Chef & Culinary Excellence

Executive Chef & Operating Partner Christopher Grossman has an accomplished past. He helmed fine-dining Michelin-star Atlas at The St. Regis Hotel in Buckhead and worked under world-renowned Chef Thomas Keller at The French Laundry in Napa Valley. Needless to say, Atlanta is quite lucky to have him and the restaurant.

Beyond its culinary prowess, The Chastain has also gained recognition for its sustainability efforts. The restaurant earned a Green Star from the Michelin Guide, highlighting its commitment to responsible sourcing and waste reduction. By forging relationships with local purveyors and prioritizing seasonal ingredients, The Chastain continues to set an example for how fine dining can be both luxurious and conscientious.

The Garden

The Chastain in Atlanta embraces sustainability through several key initiatives. They maintain an on-site garden, reducing the need for transported ingredients, and employ regenerative gardening techniques, such as planting fava beans to naturally enrich the soil. Their commitment to waste reduction includes composting food scraps via CompostNow Atlanta and replacing 99% of single-use plastics with compostable alternatives. Prioritizing local and organic sourcing supports regional farmers and minimizes their carbon footprint. Additionally, they cultivate pollinator-friendly plants to enhance biodiversity and sustain the local ecosystem. These efforts highlight The Chastain’s dedication to environmentally responsible and sustainable dining.

The Food

The menu at The Chastain offers a range of well-executed dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. Each plate is thoughtfully crafted, delivering a balance of refinement and approachability. Here are some current and past standout dishes.

• TC Cheese Burger – A standout option featuring freshly ground Chatel Farms beef, layered with American cheese, caramelized onion aioli, lettuce, pickles, and ketchup, all sandwiched between a perfectly toasted brioche bun. Served with crispy, golden fries, this burger is a decadent yet satisfying indulgence. I think it’s the best burger in town by a long shot. 
• Butter-Poached Maine Lobster Agnolotti – This delicate pasta dish showcases tender lobster paired with fine herbs, sugar snap peas, and chanterelles, resulting in a rich yet balanced flavor profile.
• Whole Roasted Green Circle Chicken – A beautifully roasted heritage chicken, expertly cooked for succulent meat and crispy skin, served with seasonal accompaniments that highlight the dish’s simplicity and elegance. Keep in mind this takes about 45 minutes, so order it when you sit down.
• Mac & Cheese – A comforting side dish with cheddar cheese curds and garlic herb crumbs, baked to golden perfection for a crispy topping and creamy interior.
• Olive Oil Poached Halibut – A light yet flavorful dish featuring perfectly poached Alaskan halibut, served with zucchini purée and a smoked roe beurre blanc, accented by fresh dill and seasonal vegetables.
• Chocolate Dessert – A visually striking and indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate textures with crisp, delicate layers of cocoa-infused pastry for the ultimate sweet ending.

The Verdict

The Chastain delivers a sophisticated yet unpretentious dining experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch on the terrace, a thoughtfully composed dinner, or a simple pastry with coffee, guests can expect an experience rooted in quality, sustainability, and genuine hospitality. Under the careful direction of Chef Grossman and his team, The Chastain has redefined what a neighborhood restaurant can be—one where technique, seasonality, and warmth come together seamlessly.