"South City Kitchen is an Atlanta classic that consistently delivers solid Southern food. The Smyrna location (the second in the metro area) is no exception. Come here for dinner any night of the week when no one wants to cook, the group can’t agree, and you just need a dependable win. The menu covers all the bases for Southern staples (think: fried chicken livers, pulled pork, BBQ shrimp), but the fried chicken is our favorite move. It’s crisp, juicy, and appears our fried chicken guide for a reason. Add the free basket of cornbread and biscuits, and you’ve got a comfort meal that always works. There’s a covered patio, which is great for when ATL weather is acting up, and the crowd is polished but low-key: blazer or hoodie, it’s all fine here. Food Rundown Fried Chicken The fried chicken is consistently crunchy with light seasoning and a thin, crisp breading that doesn’t overpower. Good choice. photo credit: Courtesy of South City Kitchen Vegetarian Gumbo This is a decent order—cauliflower, okra, and mushrooms are the stars of this solid veggie gumbo. The roux is thick-ish, with lots of herby, layered flavor. Carolina Trout The trout is grilled and loaded with garlic and herbs. You’ll taste all those seasonings in every bite. It’s very good. Banana Pudding Thick, silky, and sweet, with layers of caramel, banana jam, and crushed vanilla wafers. A great dessert order that’s big enough to share. photo credit: Nina Reeder Apple Hand Pie It’s encased in a buttery, flaky crust, the pie has thick chunks of apple swimming in a sweet caramel sauce, and it’s one of our favorite things to get here. photo credit: Nina Reeder" - Jacinta Howard