The Optimist

4.7
Wonderful
16260 reviews
 $$$
(404) 477-6260   |   Visit Website

About

The Optimist restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia offers a unique food experience, combining the best of seafood, American, and bar cuisine. With contemporary, creative dishes and an atmosphere that fosters enjoyment, guests of The Optimist are sure to have a memorable experience. Whether looking for an exceptional seafood restaurant, an American restaurant with flare, or a fun bar experience, The Optimist is sure to satisfy.

Restaurant Features

Facilities & Amenities

  • Restroom Restroom
  • Bar Bar
  • Kid High Chair Kid High Chair
  • Vegetarian Options Veg Friendly
  • Alcohol Alcohol
  • Happy Hour Specials Happy Hour
  • Wheelchair Accessible Wheelchair Access

Accepted Payments

  • Credit Card

Must Try Dishes

At The Optimist in Atlanta, Georgia, you cannot miss trying the sumptuous Lobster Roll, served on a warm, lightly toasted bun. The wild-caught Georgia shrimp 'a la plancha' is another must-try, renowned for its exceptional flavor. For the seafood lovers, the wood-roasted oysters are not to be missed, and for a unique twist, be sure to order the small plates of charred octopus. To complete your dining experience, indulge in freshly made hushpuppies served with cane syrup butter.

Ratings for The Optimist

Boosted accuracy with combined honest ratings!

  • Overall Rating
    4.7 (16260)
  • google google
    4.6 (3373)
  • opentable opentable
    4.8 (7739)
  • yelp yelp
    4.5 (1982)
  • tripadvisor tripadvisor
    4.5 (968)
  • foursquare foursquare
    9.1 /10
    9.1 (946)
  • facebook facebook
    4.7 (915)
  • zomato zomato
    4.2 (337)

Reviews for The Optimist

We only show the 3 most relevant reviews to save you time.

S G.

Beautiful atmosphere and delicious food. All of the food wasn’t as flavorful but overall the food was great. The oysters were the best I’ve had. The mussels and the sauce with the subtle kick was so flavorful. The only thing that was disappointing were the sides. They were fresh but a little bland. I did get the hush puppies afterwards and it was good. It tasted sweet but not too sweet, light and airy. The service was also great from beginning to end.

Gabrielle M.

I went to The Optimist for my birthday yesterday and I had such an amazing experience. Our server, Andy, was so knowledgeable and guided us through the entire experience. His recommendations from oysters to entrees were superb. The oysters were the best I have ever had in Atlanta. And you definitely should not sleep on the she-crab soup, so delicious. Andy brought out our dessert with a candle in it for my birthday and a couple glasses of champagne as well. The food and atmosphere were incredible but the service really took the experience to another level. I cannot wait to return to The Optimist and now I see what all the hype is about.

Benjamin Z.

Yum. Some of the better seafood I've had. I was referred to this restaurant and it did not disappoint. The octopus appetizer was amazing. Oysters all in the half shell were nice and fresh. Branzino was perfectly cooked and was the whole fish. It was scrumptious. Atmosphere was nice. I got right in on a Friday night at six without any struggle and without a reservation. Give it a shot if you're looking for great seafood in Atlanta. Dietary restrictions: Gluten free available.

Menu / Photos

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Business Hours

Sunday:
3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Monday:
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday:
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday:
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday:
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday:
5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday:
3:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Location Map

914 Howell Mill Rd
Atlanta, GA 30318

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