Atlanta, GAMiddle Eastern

Set the standard for Persian food in Atlanta when it opened in Sandy Springs back in 2006, and now also in Midtown. A roasted mushroom hummus starter leads into herb-flecked Chilean sea bass over saffron basmati rice, a menu that has stayed sharp long enough to become a genuine institution.

A plant-filled Inman Park sunroom sets the mood for char-grilled citrusy wings, flaky sea bass and a zesty spring pea salad. The herby, flame-grilled proteins are built around Persian technique, and the bright, green room makes it an easy place to linger over a long, unhurried meal.

A cafeteria-style Midtown counter that plates fresh to order despite the food-hall setting. Rosemary-baked chicken and tender chicken shawarma wrapped in pillowy flatbread both punch above the format, proof that a fast counter can still cook with care when the kitchen decides it matters.

A buzzy, pocket-friendly West Midtown Persian room with macrame chandeliers and potted trees. The spice-rich ground chicken koobideh wrap is the order regulars keep coming back for, and the low prices and lively room make it as suited to a casual weeknight as a group catch-up.

A Turkish spot in Virginia-Highland with ocean-blue decor and a big outdoor patio. The crunchy-crusted pide comes recommended alongside wraps stuffed with hummus and olives, and the patio turns a simple lunch into a reason to sit outside for an extra hour when the weather cooperates.