| April 11, 2025 | Food & Drink, Feature, Features, Food & Drink, Featured, Guides,
Craving something light and delicious? From protein-packed pick-me-ups to poke-topped perfection, these beloved Atlanta spots serve up bowls that are as flavorful as they are nourishing.
Since 2017, this counter-serve poke joint has been the place to go for custom-topped poke bowls. The Waikiki bowl is bold, beachy and seriously craveable. Herb chicken and shrimp bring a savory punch, balanced by bursts of sweet corn, pineapple and a tangle of red and green onions. Add in edamame, kale, crab salad, masago, carrots and a kiss of sunflower seeds for crunch, all tied together with sweet shoyu and a dreamy kimchi plum aioli. Bowl Lab also offers build-your-own poke bowls and the fan-favorite Sunny Salmon topped with pineapple, masago and edamame. 3621 Vinings Slope SE
Swing by this hidden gem to dine on the wholesome, hearty and addictive grain bowl. A nutrient-rich base of mixed grains sets the stage for velvety hummus, crisp greens, vibrant seasonal veggies and house-signature pickles for that perfect tang. The bean salad adds protein, and a drizzle of shug (a zesty green chili sauce) kicks things up a notch. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free and full of feel-good flavor. Also on the lineup: The spot’s cult-favorite yogurt and housemade granola—both elements are simple, satisfying and made with love. 2127 Liddell Drive NE
Transport yourself to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean with Flower Child’s Mediterranean chicken kabob bowl, a colorful, crave-worthy plate of harissa-kissed chicken nestled alongside roasted summer squash, juicy portobello and bell pepper. It’s all served over a fluffy bed of quinoa rice, with a dollop of cool yogurt sauce and a refreshing Greek salad to round things out. While you’re there, don’t sleep on the daily soup or the crushed avocado toast, a fresh favorite that’s as photogenic as it is tasty. 1170 Howell Mill Road; 3400 Around Lenox Road NE
At this flavor-forward spot, customization is king. Start with your base—flatbread wrap, mixed greens, or brown rice—then layer on your protein of choice: Grilled shrimp, tender grilled chicken, spicy grilled chicken with a kick, or delectable umami tofu. Go creamy with lemon pepper ranch or tahini cucumber feta, sweet-and-savory with pesto balsamic parm or sweet soy sriracha, or bring the heat with chipotle mango avocado and Polynesian chili mango. Looking for a flavor bomb? Queso verde queso brings double the cheese, while ginger lime peanut adds a nutty zing. Multiple locations
The BBQ Chicken Bowl at Lulubowls stars juicy grilled barbecue chicken with your choice of base (think rice, greens, or noodles) and three indulgent sides of your choice. Hearty, smoky and totally satisfying, it’s all crowned with green onions, sesame seeds and a bright lemon wedge for a zesty finish. If you want to turn up the heat, The Hawaiian hot chicken bowl brings the island fire with crispy spice-kissed chicken, while the steak bowl delivers tender, marinated steak that’s all about umami depth. 800 Forrest St. NW
At this Korean fusion joint, the chili crunch chicken bowl brings serious flavor: Ginger garlic fried chicken meets roasted sweet potatoes, chili-glazed pineapple, sesame ginger kale and a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. It’s all finished with a lemon wedge and a generous side of housemade chili crunch. Pick your base—rice, greens, or noodles—and get ready to devour. 800 Forrest St. NW
The Thai coconut chicken bowl from this neighborhood eatery is a creamy, comforting mix of grilled chicken, nutty brown rice and roasted veggies, all brought together with a luscious coconut curry. It’s one of many gluten-free gems on the menu—crafted to nourish without compromise. Additionally, don’t miss out on the teriyaki chicken protein bowl, a top-tier highlight that balances sweet-savory teriyaki with clean, protein-packed fuel. 2274 Peachtree Road NW; 2980 Cobb Pkwy. SE, Ste. 208
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With a wide-reaching range of all-natural bowls and smoothies, the Beach Bowl is this health food spot’s signature blend—an acai-based pick-me-up perfectly balanced with banana, mango and a splash of guava juice for that just-off-the-beach flavor. It’s topped with crunchy organic hemp granola, a drizzle of golden honey and your choice of one topper to make it your own for a meal that’s light, fruity and oh-so-refreshing. If you’re looking to level up, add a boost to keep you full and fueled all day long with vanilla whey, chocolate whey, or vanilla soy protein. 855 Peachtree St. NE
This health bar dishes out tasty smoothies, acai bowls, avocado toast and other health-conscious specialties in a cozy, welcoming environment. For guac lovers who want it all, “Guac It Out” is the bowl that brings the heat and the freshness. Built on a hearty base of organic brown rice and black beans, it’s layered with sweet corn, pepper jack cheese, housemade pico de gallo and a creamy, citrusy scoop of housemade guac. Fresh jalapeños add a spicy snap, and a zesty lime vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s bold, bright and unapologetically delicious. Other standout stars? Try the coconut kale bowl for a tropical-green power punch or the Pesto Manifesto, which proves pesto belongs on way more than just pasta. 1071 Howell Mill Road NW
Looking for a bowl that’s sweet, savory and fresh? The Kyoto from AZN is your go-to. This umami-packed number comes layered with tofu glazed in sweet garlic tossed over a vibrant mix of greens, chives, crunchy carrots, cucumber and creamy avocado. Customize it your way with a base of brown rice, noodles, or salad—it’s gluten-friendly goodness in a bowl that packs major flavor. 52 Broad St NW
See also: The 10 Best Farmers Markets In Atlanta
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