5Church is a much-needed addition to Atlanta’s Midtown dining scene.

I loved that place with its eclectic menu, cool bar scene, patio on Peachtree Street and the balcony above gazing into the skyscrapers. This is the third 5Church location and the restaurant has Southern roots. 5Church first opened in Charlotte (at the corner of 5th and Church Streets earning its moniker), opening a second location in Charleston in 2015.

I came in with two pals on a Thursday night. We started off with a round of cocktails. The Viper is true to its name. I loved the blend of tequila, cucumber, and cayenne pepper. For a starter, we noshed on the tuna tartare and pastrami-cured hamachi (think sushi-grade fish thinly sliced and topped with a radish garnish). Both were delicious.

One of my pals is obsessed with octopus and the charred octopus was perfect.

For entrees, we shared a few of the main courses including the filet with mashed potatoes (classic) and a vegetarian special: mushroom sausage. I’d never had anything like that before which wasn’t tofu and I was pleasantly surprised.

With our meal, our server helped us pick out a lovely bottle of pinot noir. I believe her name was Jessie, although it’s escaping me. Dear, if you’re reading this, you were fabulous. The whole staff at 5Church Atlanta aims to please.

Like Shout, the second story is available to rent out for private events (which I’ll have to host one there soon and tell y’all all about it). Also, 5Church just started lunch service, so I’ll have to get back down there to see what’s on the menu. I highly recommend this place – it’s as good as it gets in Midtown ATL.

For more information about 5Church Atlanta, check out the restaurant’s website, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.