Underground Virginia-Highland steakhouse serving hearty old-school cuts, generous martinis with sidecars, and cozy speakeasy vibes since ’89.
"Head to the Virginia Highlands then down underground to take part in an established Atlanta tradition. This “steak basement” or “steak cellar” has been the only steakhouse in the neighborhood since 1989 and still serves up wood-fired ribeyes, center-cut filets, and New York strips that come with a side, or change it up with a slow-roasted prime rib. Better yet, the food here won’t break the bank or require dressing up. Generously poured martinis go down easy as bands like Night Ranger, Fleetwood Mac, and Run DMC play over the sound system. Reservations highly encouraged." - Su-Jit Lin
"No matter the day of the week, locals love to meet up for steak and martinis at the Tap. Lovingly referred to as “steak basement” or “steak cellar”, as the Virginia-Highland restaurant institution is located below street level, Highland Tap serves heaping platters of old-school cuts of steak and starchy sides. Look around the dining room and you’ll likely see multiple tables filled with people sipping the generously poured martinis served here, which come with a sidecar to refresh the drink. There’s no need to dress up at Highland Tap. Just come as you are and enjoy the low-key atmosphere, comfort food, and amazing people-watching. Check out brunch on the weekends, too." - Eater Staff
"Walk into a massive wine vault accentuated by burgundy-colored walls, dimmed wall sconces, and REO Speedwagon tunes, and you’ll know you're at Highland Tap, a self-proclaimed “steak cellar” that has operated in VaHi since 1989. To make it this long, though, you've gotta have more than a speakeasy shtick and a solid martini. Lunch-breakers and kinda-casual-night-out couples continue to dine here for dishes like their center cuts and slow-roasted French Dip with its kick-ass au jus. But, if for some reason you’re thinking less ribeye and more seafood, try the thick crab cakes that pair wonderfully with the green beans and fluffy mashed potatoes." - demarco williams, juli horsford, nina reeder
"This Virginia-Highland steakhouse institution is a beloved favorite among locals, and serves some of the best martinis in town. Known as “steak basement” or “steak cellar” (it’s located below street level,) Highland Tap is hard to beat any day of the week for people watching. This is especially true in the bar and lounge filled with regulars and curious newcomers, while bands like Night Ranger, Fleetwood Mac, and Run DMC play over the sound system. No need to dress up. Be sure to check out brunch on the weekends, where martinis begin flowing at 11 a.m." - Eater Staff
"Sure, there’s fancier steakhouses in Atlanta, but this Virginia-Highland stalwart keeps its steaks and martinis low key and reasonably priced. Highland Tap — known locally as “steak basement” or “steak cellar” — is located beneath the street level on North Highland Avenue. The restaurant serves up old school cuts of steak and starchy sides, along with generously poured martinis with a sidecar, while bands like Night Ranger, Fleetwood Mac, and Run DMC play over the sound system. No need to dress up here. Make sure to check out brunch here on the weekends." - Eater Staff
