565 Peachtree Street

Tel: 404-835-1410

In Atlanta's newly minted "SoNo" district—one block south of the landmark Fox Theatre in midtown—Dogwood is chef Shane Touhy's tribute to his Southern roots. In a multilevel dining room with soaring ceilings, he pulls off a revival of the region's indigenous ingredients by combining artful execution, unexpected flavors, and a dash of French wit. The standout Southern Comfort–glazed pork chop with caramelized shallots and sweet corn soufflé is one of the few year-round favorites on the otherwise seasonal menu. Other updates on down-home favorites include cornmeal-dusted pickled okra with blue crab–Brie fondue as well as fried quail breast with buttermilk spoon biscuits and goat cheese–pepper gravy.
Tip: Order a flight from Touhy's trademark Grits Bar so that you can have a sampling of grits with haute toppings like braised forest mushrooms and butter-poached lobster (entrées, $24–$29).