Food Blogger Erica Key's Guide to Atlanta

Erica Key is the editor-in-chief and founder of Eating with Erica, an Atlanta-based blog for all things dining, entertaining and food. Whether she's picking the brains of local chefs or exploring Atlanta's "vivacious" restaurant scene, Key is a pro when it comes to finding first-rate cuisine, both locally and around the world.

After running Eating with Erica as a side project for several years, Key decided to pursue her dream of making the blog a full-time job. Since then, the site has become a platform for Key to share her food and lifestyle recommendations as an influencer, content creator and brand ambassador.

Key is constantly inspired by the city's "breadth of entertainment, culture and dining options" and loves to connect with the community through philanthropic organizations like Camp Twin Lakes. In her downtime, you can also find the Buckhead resident sipping on a lemon basil smash at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours or indulging in a relaxing spa weekend at Chateau Elan.

So what does this foodie recommend when it comes to the best restaurants in town? Luckily, Key filled us in on her must-visit spots around Atlanta, as well as what to order when you're there. Here are all of her local recommendations for food, drink and beyond:

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How long have you lived in Atlanta? I have lived in Atlanta my entire life or for as long as I have memories.

What neighborhood do you live in? I am a Buckhead lady through and through.

What’s your occupation? I am full-time food blogger and content developer.

Describe Atlanta in three words: Community-Driven. Vivacious. Original.

What’s your favorite overall Atlanta restaurant? Do I have to pick just one? I can’t. But this spring I would recommend exploring some locations outside of the perimeter to experience more of what the metro Atlanta area has to offer. Try Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails for starters.

Best sushi: Umi, and order the Ito Kase.

Best Italian food: La Grotta, and order the petto di pollo ripieno di prosciutto, salvia e fontina.

Best dessert: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream — order anything or ask for the lavender ice cream.

Best pizza: Antico Pizza — order the Margherita pizza.

Best spot for a quick lunch: Kaleidoscope Bistro & Pub, and try anything with the pimento cheese.

Best spot for a romantic date: American Cut Steakhouse, and order the chili lobster.

Best glass of wine: Atlas. I prefer red, but with more than 200 wines to choose from you can be picky.

Best Sunday brunch: 5Church — order the crab cake eggs Benedict.

Best spot for a power business meeting: The Capital Grille. Let them order or pick two filets.

Best cup of coffee or tea: High Tea at the St. Regis Hotel Atlanta.

Best steak: Marcel, and order the steak tartare.

Best craft cocktail: Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours — order the Lemon Basil Smash

What hotel would you recommend for your out of town guests? St. Regis Hotel Atlanta and be sure to try the High Tea.

Favorite shopping venue or boutique: Dress Up

Best gym or fitness studio: Pink Barre

Best spa: The Spa at Chateau Elan

Favorite charity event or organization: Camp Twin Lakes

Favorite cultural event: Taste of Atlanta

Favorite cultural institution: National Center for Civil and Human Rights

What’s the best museum or current exhibit in Atlanta? High Museum of Art

Best historic or iconic Atlanta landmark to see or explore: The Varsity

What’s your all-time favorite spot in Atlanta? Divan Restaurant and Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

The best aspect of Atlanta is: The variety. I struggled to pick one restaurant or location for these answers because of the breadth of entertainment, culture and dining options in this amazing city.

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Image Credit: Kayla Madonna