Prolific film producer Will Packer has called Atlanta home for more than 30 years. He founded his first film production company here straight out of college and is now a part owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons. As the founder and CEO of Will Packer Productions and Will Packer Media, he’s been behind some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, including “Girls Trip,” and “Ride Along.”
His latest project is taking us to Italy. “You, Me & Tuscany,” is a new romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page set to release April 10, and it’s already generating a ton of buzz thanks to its lead stars. We recently caught up with the producer to talk about something non-film related: some of his favorite restaurants in his hometown.
Whether it’s a MICHELIN-Starred omakase destination, a transportive Middle Eastern spot, or an Italian comfort-food favorite, Packer’s picks show just how exciting it is to eat out in Atlanta right now.
Read on for where Will Packer loves to eat in Atlanta, and then book them all on OpenTable.
Mujō (West Midtown)
Next-level Edomae-style feasts from star chef J. Trent Harris await you at this MICHELIN-Starred restaurant that’s nationally acclaimed.
Why Will loves it: “Mujo feels like a masterclass in precision and intention. Every time I’m there, I’m reminded that when you slow down and trust the process, the payoff is extraordinary. Book early though because there’s always a waiting list. Tell Katy at the door that I sent you!”
Forza Storico (West Midtown)
This rustic restaurant celebrates Rome with dishes like amatriciana and cacio e pepe alongside an Italian wine list where 24 options are available by the glass.
Why Will loves it: “When I was actually in Tuscany shooting our movie ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ I kept thinking about Forza Storico. It’s my neighborhood Italian comfort spot—the pizza, the vibe, the people watching all work together. It’s casual, confident, and always delivers authentic Italy vibes.”
Lazy Betty (Midtown)
Chinese and French influence can be seen across the menu at this MICHELIN-Starred restaurant from Le Bernardin alum chef Ron Hsu.
Why Will loves it: “Lazy Betty is storytelling through food. Every course feels intentional, and by the end of the night you feel like you’ve watched a beautifully crafted film—quiet, bold, and unforgettable. I just took my wife there for her birthday. You’ll have to ask her which one it was. Lol.”
MCK (Buckhead)
This stylish, upscale restaurant is the go-to spot for globally inspired plates like lobster bites with spicy tartar sauce alongside top-notch cocktails.
Why Will loves it: “This is my late-night escape when I want something bold yet easy. The short rib, the cocktails, the energy all feel a little edgy in the best way. The kind of place where dinner turns into a night you don’t plan…and definitely don’t forget.”
Delbar (Johns Creek)
Dishes like Omani shrimp, saffron-infused joojeh kabob, and sabzi polo spotlight Persian cooking and broader influences from the Middle East at this bright, light-filled restaurant.
Why Will loves it: “Delbar is where I take people when I want them to feel Atlanta’s global soul—the lamb kebabs and saffron rice always hit, and every dinner somehow turns into a celebration. It’s a go-to when I want energy, flavor, and conversation all at once.”
Yeppa & Co (Buckhead)
This sister restaurant to Forza Storico takes you on a culinary tour of Italy’s Rimini, a coastal city in the famed Emilia-Romagna region. Pair your food with Italian-inspired cocktails.
Why Will loves it: “Yeppa & Co is pure Buckhead energy in the best way—beautiful people, great music, and pasta that doesn’t miss. It’s my go-to when I want a dinner that feels like a scene, not just a reservation.”
Zakia (Buckhead)
Bring friends or family so you can make the most of the menu at this modern Lebanese restaurant. Highlights include the lamb ragu hummus, lamb shank, and spinach cheese rolls.
Why Will loves it: “Zakia brings bold Mediterranean flavor with that warm, communal spirit I love—passing plates, sharing stories, ordering just one more thing because it all hits. It’s the kind of place that turns a regular weeknight into something worth dressing up for.”
Chops Lobster Bar (Buckhead)
An Atlanta classic, Chops Lobster Bar has long been one of the premier destinations to go out for steak and seafood.
Why Will loves it: “Chops is Atlanta power dining done right. I’ve had some serious conversations with some impressive people over perfectly prepared lobster tails there, and the consistency alone makes it a staple when the moment calls for classic and commanding.”
Tanay Warerkar is a content marketing manager at OpenTable. He oversees features content and stays on top of the hottest trends and developments in the restaurant industry. He brings years of experience as a food editor and reporter having worked at the San Francisco Chronicle, Eater, and the New York Daily News, to name a few.
