State of Grace

"Overhanging gilded light pieces, marble counters and dark leather greet you at this unapologetically sexy River Oaks restaurant. Whether the night calls for a dry-aged strip steak, chilled lobster, roasted scallops, or a sophisticated plate of pasta, State of Grace has it all. If the dining room is full (seriously, make reservations), ask to be seated in the side room. The circular oyster bar is ideal for intimate conversations." - Brittany Britto Garley, Nadia Gire

"A graduate of Lamar High School in River Oaks, Atlanta-based chef Ford Fry opened State of Grace in the Lamar-River Oaks Shopping Center directly across from his alma mater. The recently revamped restaurant honors the Southern cuisine Fry grew up on while leaning into global flavors. The expansive dining space boasts a separate light-filled room where the raw bar takes center stage. Get a front-row seat to the shucking action before enjoying a selection of bivalves and dishes like wagyu carpaccio and redfish on the half shell." - Marcy de Luna, Brittany Britto Garley

"In anticipation of the New Year, this newly renovated River Oaks restaurant will offer a four-course menu. For $195 per person, you can experience yellowfin tuna crudo, Crescent Valley duck, and diver scallops. A wine pairing for $65 or $115 will enhance every bite." - Marcy de Luna

"At State of Grace, there are options. Diners looking for a more traditional sit-down dinner can opt for a full restaurant buyout that seats 200 or the stunning private dining room, which seats 26 in an elegant curtained room ornate with sparkling chandeliers. Those looking for a more lively atmosphere will feel at home in the room that hosts the marble-top oyster bar as its centerpiece. Diners can mingle over a menu of hors d’oeuvres like Gulf crab beignets, hearth-roasted octopus skewers, and oysters served in myriad ways." - Marcy de Luna, Brittany Britto Garley

"Everything about State of Grace in River Oaks is over the top. Picture a Southern debutante ball located in a hunting lodge with high ceilings, crown molding, and massive drapery that serves an amalgam of steakhouse grilled meats, pasta, and salads that often have Southern-leaning things thrown on top. The food here tastes just as decadent: massive seafood towers dripping in oysters and crab, and fresh pasta mounted with shaved truffle. This spot works best if you’re trying to linger over wagyu carpaccio with a date, have dinner with the family, or want to stop by for a quick oyster Happy Hour." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene