Best Restaurants and Lounges at Atlanta ATL Airport

Complete Guide to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Whether you’re passing through for a quick connection or have a long layover, knowing the best spots at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport can transform your airport experience. Here’s your insider guide to the best restaurants, lounges, shopping, and tips for navigating ATL.

🍴 Best Restaurants at ATL

Terminal South: One Flew South (upscale Southern cuisine), Paschal’s (Atlanta soul food institution)

Concourse B: Sweet Auburn BBQ (authentic Atlanta barbecue), Chicken + Beer (Ludacris’ restaurant)

Concourse T: Ecco (modern Italian), The Varsity (iconic Atlanta burger joint since 1928)

Quick Bites & Coffee

For travelers in a hurry, ATL offers numerous grab-and-go options including national chains and local favorites. Look for coffee shops near security checkpoints for the shortest lines during morning rush hours.

✈️ Top Airport Lounges at ATL

Delta Sky Club: Multiple locations (Concourses A, B, C, D, E, F) – Largest network with 9 clubs

The Club at ATL: Concourse F – Independent lounge with day pass access

Minute Suites: Concourses B & T – Private nap pods with daybed and TV

Lounge Access Tips

• Credit Card Access: Premium cards like Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve offer free Priority Pass
• Day Passes: Most lounges sell same-day access ($50-75)
• Airline Status: Elite status with any airline usually grants access

🛍️ Best Shopping at ATL

ATL has extensive shopping including duty-free, designer boutiques, tech stores, and Atlanta souvenirs. Don’t miss the CNN store and Coca-Cola store celebrating Atlanta’s heritage.

Pro Tip: Duty-free shopping is only available on international flights. Compare prices online before buying – not everything is a deal!

💤 Sleep & Rest Options

Long layover? ATL offers several options:

• Minute Suites: Private nap rooms available by the hour (check terminal locations)
• Airport Hotels: On-site hotels for overnight stays
• Quiet Zones: Designated quiet areas with comfortable seating

📱 Essential Services

• Free WiFi: Available throughout the airport (no password required)
• Charging Stations: Look for power outlets and USB ports at gate seating areas
• Business Centers: Available in most terminals for printing and workstations

🚶 Navigation Tips

ATL is HUGE – allow 45 minutes minimum for terminal changes via the underground train system (Plane Train). The airport has 7 concourses in a linear layout. Always check which concourse your gate is in before heading to security.

Security Wait Times

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are game-changers at busy airports. Typical wait times:

• Peak Hours (5-8am, 4-7pm): 30-45 minutes standard, 5-10 minutes with PreCheck
• Off-Peak: 15-20 minutes standard, walk-through with PreCheck

Essential Travel Gear for Airport Comfort

Make your time at ATL more comfortable with these highly-rated travel essentials:

Travel pillow and eye mask set – Perfect for layovers and long flights

Portable charger with multiple USB ports – Never run out of battery

Noise-canceling headphones – Block out airport noise

🎯 Insider Tips for ATL

• Download the ATL mobile app for real-time gate updates and terminal maps
• Allow extra time during holidays – ATL can get extremely busy
• Terminal transfers can take 20-30 minutes – plan accordingly for connections
• Mobile food ordering is available at many restaurants – order ahead and skip lines

Ground Transportation

Getting to/from ATL:

• Rideshare: Uber/Lyft pickup zones clearly marked (follow signs)
• Rental Cars: Shuttle buses run to rental car center every 5-10 minutes
• Public Transit: Check local options for budget-friendly airport access
• Hotel Shuttles: Free shuttles from airport-area hotels (call ahead)

Last Updated: Information current as of 2025. Always check ATL official website for latest updates on services and terminal changes.