Tucked between bustling Howell Mill Road and the rail lines, Underwood Hills is Atlanta’s best-kept secret for food lovers. While neighboring West Midtown draws the crowds, savvy locals know that Underwood Hills packs a punch when it comes to creative bites, cool cafes, and laid-back neighborhood gems. Whether you’re after fresh pastries, Korean barbecue, cozy brunches, or late-night eats, this westside enclave is fiercely proud of its underrated—but flavor-packed—food scene.
The Undeniable Charm of Howell Mill Road
Howell Mill Road is the heartbeat of Underwood Hills, with a mouthwatering lineup of restaurants and bakeries—many of which are favorites for foodies across Atlanta:
- Bell Street Burritos *(1663 Howell Mill Rd NW)*
Don’t let the casual, no-frills interior fool you: Bell Street Burritos is a cult favorite for gigantic Mission-style burritos, loaded tacos, and fresh salsas that rival anything in San Francisco. Their steak burrito and green chile salsa stand out, but the black bean and cheese option is a top pick for vegetarians. Prices are easy on the wallet (around $8–12 per meal), making this a perfect lunch spot or post-work treat.
- Pojo's Grill *(1842 Marietta Blvd NW)*
Underwood Hills’ answer to classic Southern diner fare, Pojo's is beloved for its breakfast plates, burgers, and crispy fried chicken. Mornings get packed with regulars looking for biscuits and gravy or a classic BLT, all served in a charmingly old-school setting.
- West Egg Café *(1100 Howell Mill Rd, just south of the neighborhood border)*
While technically just outside, West Egg is a must-know brunch and coffee destination for anyone living in or near Underwood Hills. Their fried green tomato BLT, pimento cheese grits, and house-baked pastries have made them iconic. Arrive early on weekends—lines form fast. It's moderately priced ($12–16 for entrees), and the coffee bar justifies repeat visits.
Savory International Flavors
The westside’s mix of warehouses and quiet residences hides some of the city’s most exciting global kitchens, particularly at the intersection of Howell Mill and Chattahoochee Avenue:
- Korean BBQ at Breakers Express *(1801 Howell Mill Rd NW)*
All the sizzle and satisfaction of a K-BBQ feast, done quick-service style. Choose bowls or platters piled with marinated pork, bulgogi, spicy tofu, or crispy Korean fried chicken, plus classic sides like kimchi and japchae noodles. Perfect for lunch breaks or dinner on the go, with most dishes in the $10–14 range.
- Bone Garden Cantina *(1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, a quick turn from Howell Mill)*
This mural-covered hideaway serves incredible Mexico City-style street tacos, creative mezcal cocktails, and house-made tamales in a vibrant, art-filled space. If you love tequila or skeleton folk art, this is your spot. Expect moderate prices and fantastic happy hour deals.
Under-the-Radar Comfort: Neighborhood Bakeries & Cafes
Beyond the main drags, Underwood Hills shines for its unpretentious cafés and irresistible sweets:
- Star Provisions *(1198 Howell Mill Rd, close to Underwood Hills’ southern edge)*
Not just a bakery, but a morning pilgrimage for pastry lovers. Their croissants, morning buns, and pillowy biscuits are legendary, and the relaxed, market-style setting makes it easy to linger over an espresso. Don't miss their take-home cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet picnic fare for an edible souvenir.
- Octane Coffee Bar *(1009 Marietta St NW)*
This industrial-chic coffee shop is a local favorite for pour-overs, cold brews, and pastries from local bakers. By day, it's alive with freelancers sipping well-crafted flat whites; by night, it often hosts pop-up chef events, making it a community gathering point.
Food Trucks & Pop-Ups: Atlanta’s Street Food Spirit
Underwood Hills loves its casual, creative eats, and nothing shows that off quite like the food trucks and weekend pop-ups that regularly roll through the area:
- Howell Station Food Truck Park *(right on Howell Mill, just north of the Collier Rd intersection)*
Rotating trucks serve everything from Southern BBQ and Arepas to wood-fired pizzas and bubble tea. This is the best place to discover rising local stars or try new cuisine with friends. Follow local social channels to catch weekly lineups.
Sweet Tooth Satisfaction: Desserts and Treats
- Café Comma *(1699 Howell Mill Rd NW)*
Korean-inspired pastries, creative lattes, and fluffy matcha cakes make this a much-loved stop, especially for late afternoon cravings. Enjoy the sleek interior, or grab something to go during an evening stroll.
- Five Daughters Bakery *(1170 Howell Mill Rd, just south of the neighborhood, in Westside Provisions)*
Sure, it’s technically across the street, but their 100-layer doughnuts, filled with everything from vanilla bean to chocolate sea salt, make it worth every step. Their buttery croissant-dough texture and rotating flavors have an almost cult following among Atlanta’s dessert crowd.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Ask any longtime Underwood Hills resident for their go-to, and you’ll uncover a few unsung heroes:
- Wagaya – Westside *(1700 Northside Dr NW, about a block east of Howell Mill)*
A cozy spot for ramen, sushi, and Japanese comfort food. Standouts include the miso ramen, crispy tofu appetizers, and creative nigiri flights. Prices are approachable, with most lunch/ramen bowls $10–13.
- Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House *(685 11th St NW)*
A quirky, casual seafood spot beloved for its rooftop views and baskets of fried catfish, oysters, and hush puppies. Their hush puppy appetizer is a must, and the draft beers make for a chill, affordable night out.
Food Traditions & Community Gatherings
What really makes Underwood Hills’ food scene unique is its community vibe. Annual events like neighborhood cook-offs, porch parties with food trucks, and collaboration dinners at local cafés are where neighbors—and flavors—really mix. Whether it’s a barbecue on the Underwood Hills Park lawn or a fundraising bake sale, food is how locals connect.
Plan Your DIY Food Tour
Ready to explore? Start with breakfast pastries from Star Provisions, grab a coffee at Octane, stroll down Howell Mill for burritos at Bell Street and K-BBQ at Breakers, then wind down with sunset donuts at Five Daughters Bakery. Whether you crave tradition or adventure, Underwood Hills serves up a little something for every palate—no reservation required.