Lobster rolls, gumbo, wood-fired oysters & more in a lofty, country-modern space with a raw bar. Based on 3 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.6 stars. Price $$$
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Curbside pickup ✔️ Delivery
Address:
914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: (404) 477-6260
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Thursday | 5–10 PM |
| Friday | 5–11 PM |
| Saturday | 3–11 PM |
| Sunday | 3–10 PM |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
Closed
Holiday hours
|
| Tuesday | 5–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 5–10 PM |
Menu
… View more
Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Reviews
Benjamin Zeitler
Yum. Some of the better seafood I’ve had. I was referred to this restaurant and it did not disappoint. The octopus appetizer was amazing. Oysters all in the half shell were nice and fresh. Branzino was perfectly cooked and was the whole fish. It was scrumptious. Atmosphere was nice. I got right in on a Friday night at six without any struggle and without a reservation. Give it a shot if you’re looking for great seafood in Atlanta.
… more
Laura Lockhart
The Atmosphere is warm, friendly and inviting.
… more
Angela Zhao
As someone who has tried another establishment by Chef Ford Fry and was disappointed by the food, I was slightly apprehensive about coming to The Optimist. Well, happy to say I was pleasantly surprised.
… more
Mark Issa
Service is always great and the folks working here always give extra to show exceptional hospitality still exists. The food is really really good – it will taste just as it is described and the crudos, starters and mains should all be explored and enjoyed. Fried oysters if you don’t like them raw, the potatoes are a hit and even the burger is great… I know, a burger at a seafood spot. Anyway, save room for dessert!
… more
Victor Newman
The lobster rolls were great but everything else was unremarkably mediocre. After being in my bookmarks for some time, I finally got a chance to visit. I was really hoping that this would be a five star experience but was left unimpressed and still hungry. The fried oysters didn’t taste right and the hush puppies had no flavor whatsoever.
… more
C Crosby
Absolutely recommend if you are a fan of seafood. Started the meal with smoked fish dip and burrata appetizer. In awe of the smoked fish dip. Best one I’ve ever had – yes, I think so! Beignets were a sweet and savory bite that I loved. The pictured red fish serving is half size (split with my date) and was very yummy. Fried rice was strong and aromatic. It paired beautifully with the fish. Obsessed with the gremolada on the broccoli – chef if you read this can you send me the recipe? Overall a great date night or stop in for oyster happy hour.
… more
Kaustubh M
We attended a private event hosted by my company yesterday. About 300 people in total. The Optimist was the best decision our planners could have made. Absolutely amazing seafood (fresh oysters and lobster were unreal), drinks and ambience coupled with another level of hospitality from all the staff. Highly recommend this place if you’re in Atlanta
… more
It’s Christabel
Really small tables squished together you could literally hear conversations from all sides… crowded and just way too close for comfort. Service was slow just because of how busy they were but our server was attentive and gave really good recommendations. Food was excellent, ambience was not giving. If you’re going for vibes and aesthetics/good times, this is not it. I’d strictly for food, then this delivers. We went for Sunday dinner so I’m not sure if that had anything to do with it or if they’re always this busy and crowded..we couldn’t even have a proper conversation… but food was really good!
… more
Jaclyne Roe
One of my all time favorite restaurants. The best of everything, yet unpretentious. I live nearby so I like to pop in for dinner at the bar. The whole team is amazing- Walter, Connor, Terick and Rachael have all been so professional and personable. Highly recommend sitting at the bar next time you’re in.
… more
Calise Garrick
OMG!!!! My Bestie took me here to Optimist!!!!! I Love this restaurant!!! I was visiting from California. Derek was our first server at the Oyster bar,til our table was ready. Derek made our Experience fantastic! And the Oysters I had were the Best I have ever had!!!!!!! The Rolls are amazing. The shrimp with the red sauce was delightful the octopus was fabulous the Braised Greens were simply Delicious!!! I had a wonderful Dining experience!!!!! When I come back to atlanta I look forward to coming back there Thank you very much.
… more
… View more