A-Town's newest Mexican restaurant brings the heart and soul of Mexico straight to the city.
A housemade specialty margarita.
The space features exposed brick.
Let’s be real: Mexican food is top-tier date night or takeout material. There’s a reason it’s a fan favorite, but, if you ask me, Atlanta is slightly lacking when it comes to the cuisine of our neighbors down south—or, was slightly lacking—until restaurateur Jesús Oñate Jr.’s newest venture, Antiguo Lobo (@antiguolobo), bowed in Chamblee, officially putting Atlanta on the map. Between the authentic cuisine and bright mural honoring Oñate Jr.’s late father, the entire restaurant is steeped in tradition. “I’m honored to carry on my father’s legacy with this new restaurant,” says Oñate Jr. “It is a homecoming of sorts as my father opened his first restaurant in the U.S. in Chamblee.” Formerly a vintage antique store, the moody space features a black distressed tin ceiling, exposed brick walls, concrete floors and a riot of color. That color is replicated in the food, which is rife with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, resulting in fresh, vibrant dishes. The Molcajete el Monstruo stands out in particular, complete with the volcanic rock mortar in which it is served and the choice of steak, chorizo, grilled chicken or shrimp. And don’t miss the housemade margaritas and specialty cocktails featuring selects from the extensive list of agave-based spirits. Salud!
The interiors honor traditional Mexican restaurants.
Photography by: Margarita photo courtesy of Antiguo Lobo; all other photos by Sharon Benton
