Discover Highland Tap: Atlanta's Hidden Steakhouse Gem Nestled beneath the streets of Virginia Highland, Highland Tap is a longstanding neighborhood favorite that blends rustic steakhouse tradition with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere. Known for its wood-grilled steaks, legendary prime rib, and martinis that come with a chilled sidecar, this Atlanta classic has become a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, gathering with coworkers, or simply seeking a casual night out with elevated food, Highland Tap offers an experience that’s both laid-back and memorable.
Customers love the welcoming vibe, exceptional service, and a menu that balances comfort and indulgence. From weekday specials like half-price burgers to indulgent dishes like Steak Oscar or butter-poached lobster over ribeye, there’s always something worth savoring. Guests often mention the friendly staff who make you feel like a regular and the dark, relaxed setting that makes you want to stay a little longer. Highland Tap isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a part of the neighborhood’s story.
Highland Tap’s culinary identity is rooted in wood-fired classics and rich, flavorful pairings. Prime rib is a star here—slow-roasted, seasoned to perfection, and often served with lobster or a decadent sauce. Burgers come piled with pimento cheese and crisp onion rings, while entrees like Steak Oscar and the pecan-crusted trout show off the kitchen’s attention to both quality and presentation.
Sides are anything but an afterthought, with guests frequently praising the mac and cheese, garlic spinach, and loaded baked potatoes. Whether you go for a filet with mashed potatoes or a ribeye with collards and grits, every plate is built to satisfy. And don’t overlook the desserts—from bread pudding with banana ice cream to chocolate mousse cake, the sweet endings here are worth the indulgence.
Ask a regular what to order, and you’ll likely hear: the prime rib. Available in multiple sizes and cuts, this Highland Tap staple is slow-roasted with bold seasoning and a rich au jus. Whether you opt for it plain, blackened, or topped with seafood or gorgonzola, it consistently earns high marks from guests.
Many visitors return time and again just for this one dish. Reviews consistently highlight the flavor, tenderness, and generous portions. Even those who usually skip red meat find themselves savoring every bite. On Mondays, the prime rib special makes it an even more tempting choice, often selling out before the night is over. It's the kind of dish that defines Highland Tap.
Beyond steakhouse staples, Highland Tap also serves up pub-style favorites that impress. The Original Steakburger, topped with melty pimento cheese and paired with hand-cut fries or onion rings, is a customer favorite. Other hits include the crab cakes, chicken pot pie, and house-made pretzels served with spicy mustard and cheese sauce.
The menu has something for everyone, including lighter options like caprese salad or roasted beet salad with grilled chicken. Guests often note that the offerings strike a perfect balance between indulgent and accessible, with portions that are generous and prices that feel fair. Whether you want a full entrée or a few small plates to share at the bar, you’ll find something satisfying here.
Highland Tap is more than just its menu. Hidden below street level, its dim lighting, wood-paneled walls, and lively bar evoke the feel of an old speakeasy. It's a favorite for locals who appreciate its unfussy charm and welcoming vibe. First-time visitors often comment on how at-home they feel thanks to the attentive staff and relaxed environment. /n With multiple seating options including booth seating, private rooms, and a long inviting bar, Highland Tap suits everything from date nights to business dinners. Guests mention the buzz of conversation, classic rock in the background, and bartenders who know their craft. It's a throwback steakhouse experience with just the right amount of neighborhood grit.
Highland Tap’s bar program is a standout in its own right. Dirty martinis—especially those with blue cheese-stuffed olives—have a cult following here, often served with a chilled sidecar for extra pours. Guests rave about the generous portions and expert mixing, whether you’re ordering a gin martini, Manhattan, or something seasonal.
The bar also offers a wide selection of craft beers, whiskeys, and specialty cocktails. It’s a spot where regulars gather after work and where newcomers are warmly welcomed. From your first sip to your last bite of dessert, Highland Tap proves that a great steakhouse isn’t just about the food—it’s also about the pour and the people behind the bar.
Consistency, value, and atmosphere—these are the reasons Highland Tap continues to thrive. Many guests speak of dining here for decades, celebrating milestones, or simply dropping in for a reliable burger or drink. Staff members often remember your name, your favorite order, and the stories you’ve shared over the years.
It’s not a place for pretense—it’s a place for great food, good company, and a relaxed vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're a longtime regular or planning your first visit, Highland Tap delivers an experience that’s satisfying on every level.
Prices may vary over time and by location. If you need more information about other menu items or the full menu, please feel free to contact us directly.
A small pour of draft beer, perfect for tasting a new selection before committing to a full pint.
Grilled ribeye served with a sea salt-crusted baked potato and a side of sour cream. A hearty, classic steakhouse combination. $32.95
Classic martini served with green olives and a chilled sidecar on ice, ideal for sipping in a cozy steakhouse setting.
This has gotta be the best steak in the ATL metro. The location is quaint in the beautiful Virginia Highlands area. I recommend this restaurant to all!
Wonderful little steakhouse with far above average food. I had the mahi-mahi, it was fresh, a large fillet, well seasoned, and it had a tasty mango pico on top. Excellent service as well, Olivia was great
My husband and I visited this restaurant for the first time for his birthday. The food was so good!!! Our waitress was really nice and patient. We will definitely return.
Great prime rib and atmosphere. Service was great very helpful not pushy. Baked potatoes was great as well. The drinks were awesome. Thanks for a very pleasant all around experience. Bathrooms were very clean as well.
Highland Tap is the neighborhood pub you wish you had near your home. It's everything a pub should be. The food and drinks are delicious and the service is like being at a neighbors house
My second time there and I keep wanting to go back for more! The service has been excellent both times, and so far I have enjoyed Everything that I've tried. There is also plenty of parking around back. I believe they used to have valet parking, but Covid has changed a lot of things this year.
Tried the limited special Chicken out pie. Excellent crust. Filling needs flavoring. Mahi Mahi over sweet potatoes is an excellent choice. Vegetables have a smokey flavor to them
Had a great experience. Bar was a little rowdy but when we got seated for dinner you really couldn't hear the noise. Dinner was fantastic...had the dry aged Kansas Ribeye and the Oscar. Tap Martini was on point. Would definitely recommend if you're looking for something fun and secluded. Just make sure you call and get a reservation, we got lucky and were the last available table.
Onion rings & greens are amazing. Chicken sandwich is chicken. On a bun. Fish sandwich is fish. On a bun. The prime rib looked amazing! At at the bar on a Fri, so the bartenders were really busy, but they were efficient. Crowded at 7, really crowded by 9.
1026 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306
Price Range: $10–20 per person
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Open in Google Maps| Day | Time | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM | open |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM – 12:30 AM | open |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM – 12:30 AM | open |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM – 12:30 AM | open |
| Friday | 11:30 AM – 2:30 AM | open |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM | open |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | open |
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