Atlanta is a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and, of course, its food scene. But there's another layer to this bustling city that adds even more charm to the experience: live music. What better way to enjoy a delicious meal than with the backdrop of live music that elevates the atmosphere and transforms an ordinary dinner into a memorable evening?

Whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends, a romantic dinner, or a spot to unwind after a long day, Atlanta has a growing number of restaurants that seamlessly combine great food with live performances. From jazz and blues to acoustic sets and full-band performances, the choices are diverse, ensuring that there's something for every taste. In this article, we'll explore some of the top restaurants in Atlanta where you can enjoy both a great meal and restaurants with live music in Atlanta.

The Select: A One-of-a-Kind Experience

One of the standout venues in Atlanta that offers both exquisite dining and live music is The Select. Located in the heart of the city, this modern eatery creates an atmosphere where music and food come together to offer a unique experience for guests. At The Select, you can expect not only great dishes that span a variety of global flavors but also a rotating selection of live performances.

What makes The Select so special is its commitment to providing a range of musical genres that complement the food on offer. From soulful jazz and R&B to contemporary acoustic performances, the venue brings in local talent to keep the vibe fresh and exciting. The restaurant's contemporary interior and inviting atmosphere make it the perfect place to enjoy both a relaxed meal and an energetic musical set.

But what's the food like? At The Select, the menu offers a fusion of Southern comfort food and contemporary global flavors. Imagine pairing a rich, flavorful shrimp and grits dish with a smooth, soulful jazz performance in the background. The synergy between the dining experience and the music creates a dynamic setting that's hard to beat in Atlanta.

For a Taste of Southern Comfort: Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint

Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint is a popular spot for those who want to immerse themselves in classic Southern cuisine while enjoying live music. This restaurant has built a reputation for its fun, lively atmosphere, making it a go-to destination for anyone looking to pair soul food with live tunes.

Located downtown, Sweet Georgia's offers a menu that showcases the best of Southern cooking—from crispy fried chicken and shrimp po' boys to melt-in-your-mouth cornbread. But the real draw here is the music. On any given night, you can expect live bands that play blues, jazz, or even some smooth Motown hits. The performers add a sense of authenticity to the space, transforming your meal into an experience. The combination of delicious food, friendly service, and foot-tapping music makes Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint a must-visit.

A Taste of Jazz at Apache Cafe

If you're someone who loves good food and appreciates live jazz, then Apache Cafe is the place to be. Apache Cafe has long been a staple in Atlanta's music scene, known for its intimate vibe and commitment to showcasing talented local artists. This restaurant offers not only delicious meals but also a chance to enjoy some of the best live jazz and soul music in the city.

The food menu here features a delightful mix of Southern-inspired dishes and contemporary flavors, with options like Cajun shrimp tacos, gourmet sandwiches, and flavorful salads. The laid-back, intimate ambiance of Apache Cafe makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the music while sipping on a signature cocktail or indulging in a hearty meal.

While the food is fantastic, the music truly sets the tone. Apache Cafe regularly hosts local jazz musicians, and the cozy space creates the perfect setting for these performances. The intimate atmosphere ensures that the audience feels connected to the music, making it a perfect date night spot or an evening out with friends.

Blues, Brews, and BBQ: Fat Matt's Rib Shack

For those who love live blues music with their food, Fat Matt's Rib Shack is a must-visit. This legendary spot in Atlanta is a favorite for both locals and tourists, offering up classic Southern BBQ alongside a heavy dose of live blues music. While it may not have the upscale ambiance of other places, Fat Matt's is beloved for its down-to-earth vibe and fantastic food.

The restaurants with live music in Atlanta menu centers around slow-cooked ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and juicy burgers—all cooked to perfection. The real draw, however, is the live blues performances that take place every night. Fat Matt's Rib Shack has become known for hosting some of the best local blues musicians in the city, and the sounds of the guitar and harmonica perfectly complement the smoky flavors of the barbecue. It's the kind of place where you can sink into a booth, grab a cold beer, and enjoy a night of good food and great music.

The Velvet Note: A Sophisticated Jazz Experience

For those looking for a more upscale experience without sacrificing the joy of live music, The Velvet Note is the perfect choice. Located in Alpharetta, this intimate jazz club combines the elegance of fine dining with the art of live jazz performances. The Velvet Note offers a cozy, intimate setting where guests can enjoy world-class jazz musicians up close while savoring gourmet dishes.

The food at The Velvet Note is exceptional, with a menu that includes options like truffle fries, seafood pasta, and other refined dishes that pair wonderfully with the venue's wine and cocktail selection. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, and the acoustics are designed to make every note of the live jazz performances sound crisp and clear.

What sets The Velvet Note apart is its focus on providing a high-quality musical experience. The venue frequently hosts renowned jazz musicians and up-and-coming artists, creating a dynamic environment where music lovers can indulge in a truly remarkable night out.

The Southern Gentleman: A Perfect Pairing of Craft Cocktails and Live Music

If you're looking for a combination of Southern hospitality, craft cocktails, and live music, The Southern Gentleman is a great spot in the heart of Buckhead. While the focus here is on delicious Southern-inspired dishes, the live performances elevate the overall experience, especially on weekends when the venue hosts local musicians.

The Southern Gentleman has a menu that features modern takes on classic Southern fare, including fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and a variety of creative sides. When paired with one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine, the meal becomes an even more enjoyable experience. As for the music, The Southern Gentleman typically features local artists performing a mix of genres, from blues to folk and acoustic sets. The performances help set a laid-back, enjoyable vibe that perfectly complements the venue's rustic yet refined atmosphere.

The Local Scene: Live Music at Ponce City Market

Ponce City Market is another fantastic venue for those who want to combine dining with live music. Located in the heart of Atlanta, this bustling market is home to a variety of restaurants and bars, many of which feature live performances throughout the week. From outdoor concerts on the rooftop to smaller, intimate performances inside the market, there's always something happening at Ponce City Market.

Restaurants like The Roof at Ponce City Market and 9 Mile Station regularly host local bands, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy live music while dining on gourmet food and craft beverages. The energy of the space, combined with the diverse musical acts, creates an atmosphere that's both exciting and relaxed.

A Harmony of Food and Music in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city that knows how to bring food and music together in perfect harmony. From the jazzy sophistication of Apache Cafe to the laid-back blues at Fat Matt's Rib Shack, there's no shortage of options for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in some live tunes. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food, upscale dining, or a casual night of BBQ and blues, these restaurants prove that Atlanta is a city where the music never stops, and neither does the flavor.

For a truly unforgettable dining experience, look no further than the fusion of live music and fantastic food that defines the city's best venues. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the diverse array of restaurants with live music in Atlanta is waiting to offer you an experience you won't soon forget.