One of the best parts of travel is the opportunity to try new dining experiences. The ATL Airport District is packed with delicious options, many of which are minority and Black-owned serving flavors worth writing home about. But with so many choices, where do you start? We’ve got you covered with a progressive dinner itinerary through College Park that lets you savor the best, one stop at a time. Ready to dig in? Grab your stretchy pants and check out our top picks below!
First Course
Kick off your evening with a starter at one of these standout spots.
Brake Pad
Housed in a converted service station, Brake Pad has become a College Park staple. Well-known for its great burgers and impressive beer selection, Brake Pad also has one of the best patios in town—perfect for sharing their must-try brisket nachos alfresco. Topped with in-house smoked brisket, creamy queso, jalapeños, red onion, black beans, sour cream, and salsa, this hearty starter is an ideal kickoff to your progressive dinner.
Madhouse Sports Bar & Grill
If you're looking for a lively start to your night, Madhouse Sports Bar & Grill is the place to be! Their whiskey-battered onion rings are a unique twist on a classic appetizer. Sweet Spanish onions are double-dipped in a rich whiskey batter, fried to golden perfection, and served with their signature Mad Sauce for the ultimate flavor boost. Family-owned and operated, Madhouse isn’t just about great food—it’s a place to unwind, catch the game, and enjoy Atlanta’s hottest beats with a crowd that knows how to have a good time.
Party of 5 by MetroWest
As one of College Park’s newest dining gems, Party of 5 by MetroWest packs a flavorful punch with its well-rounded menu. Start with their creamy, crave-worthy spinach dip, a crowd favorite. And here’s a bonus: Visit between Wednesday and Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. to enjoy their half-priced happy hour menu, which includes this delectable appetizer.
Second Course
Strap in for the main event—but don’t forget to save room for dessert!
The Corner Grille
The Corner Grille is a beloved family-owned spot known for its Southern-inspired cuisine with a Creole twist. One main course option for your progressive dinner is one of their most popular dishes: the Lemon Pepper Chicken. Served with fresh broccoli and topped with their signature Caper Cream Sauce, this flavorful yet light dish is the perfect balance for a progressive dinner. With a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and a reputation for quality, The Corner Grille is a must-visit on any food lover's tour through the District.
The Manchester Arms Pub
For a cozy and hearty main course, head to Manchester Arms, a charming British-style pub nestled in College Park. Their Famous Smoked Pork Chop is a showstopper—a whopping 1.25-pound (minimum) bone-in chop that’s cold-smoked to perfection, finished on the grill, and topped with their secret house glace. Available after 5 p.m., this dish is served with your choice of two sides, making it a flavorful and filling centerpiece for your progressive dinner. Supplies are limited, so don’t miss the chance to savor this standout offering in Manchester Arms’ inviting pub or on their welcoming patio.
Nouveau Bar & Grill
For a bold Southern classic, head to Nouveau Bar & Grill, a stylish and lively spot known for its elevated cuisine and vibrant ambiance. Their Ultimate Cajun Seafood & Grits is a showstopper, overflowing with shrimp, crab meat, salmon, peppers, and onions atop stone-ground grits, all smothered in rich Cajun sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor, and the presentation alone is worth the visit.
Third Course
Cap off your progressive dinner with a sweet treat, a nightcap, or both!
Cliché Wine Bar
Head over to Cliché Wine Bar, located in the Virginia Station Shopping Center, to cap off the evening with a glass of wine, cocktail or mocktail!
Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles with a Dessert Waffle. Choose from classic or seasonal flavors—each one fluffy, sweet, and the perfect ending to your progressive dinner journey. Or if you only have room for dessert in liquid form, cheers to a great evening with one of their specialty cocktails, such as Ne-Yo's Strawberry Lemonade.
Ready to Plan Your Progressive Dinner?
It’s as easy as choosing one, two, and three! For a full list of restaurants in the District and to build your ideal College Park itinerary, head to our Eat & Drink page.
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