Swan Coach House

Swan Coach House Restaurant Review:

The generations (and these days even the genders) mix and mingle at this quintessential old Atlanta garden-enclosed spot that also hosts a fine art gallery. Bridal luncheons and baby showers are frequent private party events. The food remains firmly Southern, with topnotch crab cakes and salmon croquettes, while the fried green tomato sandwich on focaccia turns a Southern staple into a modern treat. But even as a few new dishes emerge, the classic chicken salad piled into crisp pastry timbales and molded "frozen fruit," tiny zucchini muffins, traditional cheese straws and well-made sweet iced tea remain de rigueur. The wine available is unremarkable but there’s a very good mint julep. Sip one on a warm day while seated at one of the outdoor tables downstairs, and you'll understand instantly what life in the South is all about. Desserts are traditional, with lemon chess pie a top choice. Top off lunch with a visit to the Atlanta History Center, the gardens, the Swan House (which the elegant restaurant building once served as a garage), and the Tullie Smith House to complete your tour of classic old Atlanta.