Where to Eat Near the Atlanta Airport for $25 or Less
Last Updated May 27, 2026
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Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport sits close to the city — and right outside its doors is one of the most underrated food neighborhoods in the metro area. You might see it labeled the “ATL Airport District” on a map. Still, to locals, it is the Tri-Cities area: East Point, College Park and Hapeville — three neighborhoods that locals have quietly claimed as some of the best places to eat in Atlanta, and that visitors are just starting to discover.
Right now, these neighborhoods are booming — think revitalized downtowns and a food scene that spans barbecue and Gullah Geechee cooking to all-day brunch, gyros, meat-and-threes, and Mexican fare.
If you’re flying into Atlanta or just passing through Hartsfield-Jackson for any reason, this is your hint to get outside the terminal and eat like a local. Every spot on this list comes in at $25 or less, so you can explore some of Atlanta’s best-kept food secrets without going far or spending much.
Shrimp and Grits at Virgil’s
Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar in College Park is a love letter to Gullah Geechee culture — and one of the most unique dining experiences you’ll find near the airport. The menu leans into rice-based, single-pot recipes that emphasize deep flavor. If there’s one thing you should have, it’s the shrimp and grits — white shrimp, stone-ground cheddar cheese grits topped with a brown crab gravy for $23.95. Note: This location is temporarily closed with plans to re-open soon.
Where: 822 Marietta St. NW (Atlanta location)
Half a Rack at Pit Boss BBQ
Pit Boss BBQ is the kind of barbecue spot that doesn’t need to advertise — the line out the door says enough. A true Hapeville staple, Pitt Boss has attracted Delta employees and locals for years, and one visit will tell you exactly why. The ribs are marinated overnight, then slow-smoked with hickory, oak and pecan wood until they’re lean, tender and falling off the bone. Grab a half rack with a side and bread for $18.75. Or go for the sliced brisket sandwich at $12. It’s made with 100% Black Angus beef, a simple salt-and-pepper rub, and smoked low and slow until it melts. Don’t skimp on the sides either — the collard greens, cornbread, and mac and cheese are just as serious as the meat. The line moves fast, so don’t let it scare you off.
Where: 800 Doug Davis Drive, Hapeville
Quanta FirFir at Bole Ethiopian
Bole Ethiopian has been a College Park staple for 14 years and an area favorite for good reason. This family-owned spot serves up quality Ethiopian cooking — hearty meat dishes alongside some of the best vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options you’ll find in the area. If it’s your first time, start with the injera — a sour, spongy fermented flatbread that acts as both your plate and your utensil — soaked in a spicy tomato sauce with pieces of house-made Ethiopian-style beef jerky ($15.99). It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor it.
Where: 1583 Virginia Ave., College Park
Fowl Play at Folk Art
Folk Art has been a staple on Atlanta’s Eastside for years ,and the Hapeville location brings that same beloved energy right outside the airport. It’s classic diner comfort meets bold Southern flavor — think crispy chicken and waffles, biscuits with house-made jelly or gravy, and an all-day menu that has something for everyone. Our pick is the Fowl Play at $17 — a deep-fried chicken breast on a house-made sweet potato buttermilk waffle, finished with a whiskey-peach compote. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you’re set.
Where: 637 North Central Ave. (Hapeville location)
Tacos and Burritos at Tia Rosie’s Kitchen
Tia Rosie’s is a hidden gem in Hapeville, where the breakfast burritos (less than $5) will have you fueled up for a day in the city or a quick stopover at Hartsfield — no matter the time, as the restaurant serves breakfast all day. For those looking for lunch, traditional tacos are on the menu for a couple of bucks each and the torta for less than $10. Save room for the flan and the day’s agua fresca.
Where: 3266 Dogwood Drive, Hapeville
Kimchi Grilled Cheese at Atlanta Utility Works
A manufacturing plant for farm equipment and mill machinery in the early 1900s, Atlanta Utility Works has had quite the glow-up in East Point. You might recognize it as a filming location for “Ozark” and “Stranger Things” — but these days it’s better known locally as the spot to grab a good ol’ kimchi grilled cheese (the kimchi is made from collards as a nod to the South) paired with a cold brew from Arches Brewing or an NA kombucha from Golda. All of it for less than $22.
Where: 2903 RN Martin St., East Point
Korean Chicken Wings at The Rooftop at the Overland
If you’re looking for a drink and a bite before heading to the terminal or into the city, The Rooftop at the Overland is the stop. The open-air bar has panoramic views of the Porsche Experience Center and the runways of Hartsfield-Jackson — it’s hands down the best bar view in Atlanta. Order the Korean chicken wings ($16) or grab a handcrafted cocktail, and decompress.
Where: 2 Porsche Drive, Hapeville
Joleen Pete is a storyteller and dream-weaver, inspired by the magic in everyday moments and the untold stories waiting to be shared.
Originally Published May 24, 2026
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