Gastro Globe Trot

3086 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 (map)

ETHIOPIAN: Because eating with your hands is fun! This cute, quaint eatery wipes out any preconceived notions that true ethnic food has to be intimidating. Dishes are served on individual plates rather than a sharing board of injera (the spongy bread that acts as both the utensil and platter), but the food is the real deal. Zilzil tibs (think fajitas) allow diners to make mini-steak wraps, and vegetarians will do well with red-lentil spreads, sambusa and soup made from sunflower seeds.

3473 Old Norcross Rd Ste 304, Duluth, GA 30096 (map)

KOREAN: This shiny, modern OTP "pork belly house" can seem a little intimidating for first-timers, but once mastered, this Korean 'cue is a rousing and conversation-worthy experience. Dishes come out at a rapid pace and are cooked on a table-dwelling, upside-down-wok device that acts as a sort of self-monitoring hibachi grill. Succulent pork belly and beef tenderloin sizzle among the sprouts and spicy kimchi, while myriad sauces, salads and rice papers make for an endless array of self-invented combinations.

467 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

ITALIAN: While Sotto Sotto and Il Mulino are among our favorite Italian spots, they are also more of the high-end variety. We like to think of eating Italian as a festive, happy experience. And that would be an understatement if describing Il Localino. Real-deal heavy Italian favorites are dished out at this Brooklyn-channeling shot-gun room. Go late (after 9ish) and get the discoball and dance treatment. You have to see it to believe it.

961 Amsterdam Ave, Atlanta, GA 30306 (map)

THAI: While the ethnic Mecca that is Buford Hwy has plenty of wonderful spots, they lack in Thai goodness. But, thankfully, Atlanta’s yuppiest ‘hood comes to the rescue. Mali, a cozy Thai staple in Virginia Highland not only does some of the city’s best Thai food (get the seafood in a clay pot), but their sushi is severely underrated.

1495 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 (map)

MEXICAN: Americanized chains dot the suburban landscape, each magically delivering the exact same “#1 combination dinner” no matter the restaurant. Within the city limits, Mexican street fare (tacos, tortas, empanadas) have become increasingly popular among the food-obsessed. The best of both worlds and the best Mexican spot in Atlanta is Nuevo Laredo. Massive chimichangas and burritos sit next to more traditional dishes like tacos sangrado and brisket barbacoa. Go ahead and expect a wait but it is well worth it.