ela 2024 eater awards

2024 eater BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Consistency is the primary factor for awarding Ela the Best New Restaurant this year. 2024 saw some major restaurant closures in Atlanta. Restaurant survival is no joke, and in a time of shuttered doors, Ela has continually delivered on food and a space to gather since February.

The menu by executive chef Darragh Dudley is simple and well done: a mezze spread of hummus, cauliflower falafel, crispy and spicy Moroccan hot chicken (which should be sold in double the serving size), meat skewers, and wraps. The wine list hits many parts of the Mediterranean, including Spain, Greece, and, commendably, Lebanon. The Lyre Lyre, a sherry-based cocktail, stands out with its citrus and nutty flavors.

Ela is not located in a big hotel or a food hall. There is no valet, parking deck, or elevator access. It’s a neighborhood place — yes, under the umbrella of Fifth Group Restaurants (South City Kitchen, Alma Cocina, La Tavola), but it still manages to be a casual spot you can pull up to in the city with the promise of a buzzy patio and good food. And you know that combo is rare.

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