Nestled in the heart of Decatur, Georgia, at 303 East Howard Avenue, Kimball House delights food lovers with its unique blend of historic charm and inventive New American cuisine. Once a bustling railroad station, this elegant eatery and raw bar combines farm-to-table freshness and French flair to create a memorable dining experience. From their celebrated oyster selection to innovative cocktails, Kimball House is a must-visit destination for foodies and trend-conscious travelers alike.
Kimball House boasts a menu that creatively elevates Southern classics and global flavors. Dishes such as Lobster & Artichoke Tarte, Grilled Salmon, and the Roasted Duck Breast have won fans for their balance of texture and taste. The star of the show remains their fresh oysters , praised for their variety and quality. Complement your meal with expertly crafted cocktails or a curated wine list, all enjoyed within a swanky atmosphere featuring tufted leather booths, a carved bar, and rich dark wood accents.
Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or gathering friends for a night out, Kimball House offers a refined setting and outstanding service. They provide a private dining room called Bonanza!, ideal for groups of 10 to 24 guests, complete with a private entrance and patio. For events beyond their walls, their oyster catering service brings the taste of Kimball House to you, ensuring a memorable experience at any venue.
Kimball House has earned rave reviews for its elegant ambiance and standout oyster selection. Recognized by the MICHELIN Guide and featured in Forbes for having one of the best happy hours in the South, this restaurant consistently delivers an exceptional culinary adventure. Patrons appreciate the attentive service and the carefully curated food and drink pairings that keep them coming back for more.
- What are the operating hours of Kimball House? Kimball House operates Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The kitchen closes at 10:00 PM daily.
- Is parking available at Kimball House? Parking is available in the Arlo parking deck on Trinity Ave across the street, along with street parking on East Howard Avenue.
- Does Kimball House accept reservations? Yes, reservations are recommended especially for parties of five or more.
- Is there a private dining space at Kimball House? Yes, the Bonanza! room accommodates 10 to 24 guests, perfect for private events.
- Does Kimball House offer oyster catering services? Yes, they provide offsite oyster catering with shucking services for events with a minimum order of $1500.
Nestled in the vibrant Sycamore Ridge neighborhood of Decatur, Georgia, the Kimball House stands as a testament to the rich history of hospitality in the region. Originally a railroad depot, this establishment has transformed into a premier dining destination known for its New American cuisine and fresh oysters, creating a unique blend of the old and the new.
The history of Kimball House dates back to an era of elegance and grandeur in American hospitality. Here’s a brief overview of the key events that shaped its legacy:
- 1870: Original Kimball House hotel opened in Atlanta, Georgia.
- 1883: Original Kimball House destroyed by fire.
- 1885: Second Kimball House hotel opened on the same site.
- 1959: Second Kimball House demolished; replaced by a parking deck.
- 2013: Kimball House restaurant opened in Decatur, Georgia, in a renovated train depot.
From its inception in 1870, the Kimball House has witnessed the evolution of the hospitality industry through its various transformations. The original hotel, a symbol of Southern elegance, met its demise in 1883 due to a devastating fire. However, the spirit of the Kimball House persisted, with a second iteration opening shortly thereafter in 1885. Despite its historical significance, this location was ultimately replaced by a parking deck in 1959, marking a sad chapter in its story.
In a remarkable turn of events, the legacy of Kimball House was reborn in 2013 when a new restaurant emerged in Decatur, Georgia, set within a beautifully renovated train depot. Here, the history of the past merges seamlessly with modern culinary practices, offering patrons a taste of local flavors and ingredients prepared with finesse.
Today, the Kimball House is celebrated not just for its historical roots but also for its innovative menu, featuring fresh oysters and a vibrant selection of New American dishes that showcase the best of local produce. This blend of history and gourmet dining makes it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Located at 303 E Howard Ave in Decatur, Georgia, Kimball House is a sophisticated bar and restaurant that once served as a railroad station. This sleek eatery offers a unique blend of farm-to-table entrees with a French flair, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. With its elegant ambiance and innovative cocktail menu, Kimball House is perfect for those looking to indulge in a memorable dining experience.
- Exceptional oyster selection
- Innovative cocktails
- Elegant ambiance
- Knowledgeable staff
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Limited parking options
- Can be noisy
- Higher price point
Kimball House is ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, and gatherings with friends. Its elegant setting and exceptional service make it a great choice for celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a night out.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Parking can be limited, so consider arriving early or using nearby street parking. The restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere, which may lead to a lively dining experience.
Kimball House stands out for its exceptional oyster selection and innovative cocktails, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers. While it may have some drawbacks such as limited parking and a higher price point, the overall experience is enhanced by the elegant ambiance and attentive service. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Kimball House promises a memorable dining experience.
Nestled at 303 East Howard Avenue in the vibrant Sycamore Ridge neighborhood of Decatur, Kimball House invites food lovers and trend-conscious travelers to indulge in an exceptional dining experience. This sleek establishment, once a historic railroad station, has been transformed into a chic restaurant and bar that masterfully blends farm-to-table philosophy with French culinary flair.
Kimball House offers a sophisticated dinner menu rich in unique flavors and meticulous preparation. Highlights include exquisitely crispy duck breast, delicate chicken roulade, and a variety of oysters such as the highly recommended Murder Point and Pine Point Petite. The raw bar selection complements the menu with fresh, clean oysters served alongside inventive sides like fingerling potatoes crowned with cheese and aioli. Diners rave about the kale salad dressed with a Caesar dressing and the French onion soup, bringing comforting yet refined options to the table.
Mocktails at Kimball House steal the show with fresh ginger and innovative blends that earn rave reviews, perfect for those seeking exceptional non-alcoholic beverages.
Planning a special event? Kimball House offers a fabulous 600 square-foot private dining room called Bonanza!, ideal for intimate gatherings and celebrations. With customizable menus tailored to your preferences and additional amenities like audio-visual equipment and floral arrangements, your event will be unforgettable and effortlessly elegant.
For oyster aficionados looking to elevate their own events, Kimball House provides offsite oyster catering with skilled shucking services. With a minimum order of $1500, you can bring the freshness and ambiance of their renowned oyster bar directly to your celebration.
Kimball House shines with its thoughtfully crafted ambiance — a perfect blend of modern sophistication and warm hospitality. Guests enjoy outdoor seating options and a well-curated selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers to complement their meal. The venue is well-suited for groups and offers dine-in and takeout services. While parking can be a bit challenging with limited free and paid street options, the attentive and friendly service ensures your visit is more than worth it.
- Fresh oysters and raw bar delights — including Murder Point and Pine Point Petite varieties.
- Private dining room Bonanza! — customizable menus and event services for memorable celebrations.
- Offsite oyster catering — professional shucking service for events with a minimum order.
- Craft cocktails and mocktails — innovative drinks with fresh ingredients that impress every palate.
