If you want to be transported to the islands, it's just a short trip to north Atlanta's Dunwoody suburb to get taken away at Cheeseburger in Paradise, a chain of eateries based on the Jimmy Buffet song of the same name. A Key West-inspired structure and authentic tiki bar serving tropical drinks set the beach themed décor. Caribbean-inspired dishes are blended with American-style classics, and of course, cheeseburgers. Special kids' and gluten-free menus are available. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily.
Cheeseburger in Paradise
1230 Ashford Crossing
Atlanta, GA 30346
(770) 730-0782
cheeseburgerinparadise.com
The Hard Rock Café's motto is "Love All Serve All" and its theme is pure rock n' roll. Hardwood floors and tables are highlighted by rock memorabilia like photos, costumes and instruments encased in shadow boxes. The environment is casual and bustling with the hum of big screens competing with the soundtrack of classic rock. The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with a bar that closes an hour or two later than the dining room daily. Two private rooms and a buffet menus are available for parties or special events. The restaurant has a souvenir shop on site where you can buy a T-shirt or beer mug to remember your visit.
Hard Rock Cafe
215 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 688-7625
hardrock.com
The Johnny Rockets franchise has the look and feel of an old 1950s diner. Bow-tied waiters donned in paper hats and aprons serve hand-dipped malts and milkshakes, hamburgers and according to the company's website, fries voted the best in Atlanta. Napkin and straw dispensers in shiny chrome are nestled with a full bottle of Heinz's next to a mini jukebox on top of each laminate tabletop. Booths with puffy vinyl seats and a bar with stools line the checkerboard tile floors. Coca-Cola memorabilia and other nostalgia don the walls. There are four different Johnny Rockets surrounding the Atlanta metro area.
Atlanta Aquarium
280 Luckie Street
Atlanta, GA 30313
(404) 688-4114
Buckhead
5 West Paces Ferry
Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 231-5555
Phipps Plaza
3500 Peachtree Road
Atlanta, GA 30327
(404) 233-9867
Underground
50 Upper Alabama
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 525-7117
johnnyrockets.com
