The National

The National opened in 2007 at 232 W Hancock Avenue in downtown Athens as a collaboration between Hugh Acheson and Peter Dale. The restaurant brought Mediterranean flavors to the Classic City with a farm to table foundation, and it quickly became one of the most respected dining rooms in Athens, GA. The food draws from Spanish, Middle Eastern, and Southern traditions, a combination that sounds ambitious but lands gracefully on the plate. Seasonality drives the menu at The National. Summer brings chilled soups and lighter fare made with local produce, while the cooler months see heartier plates that lean into the richness of Mediterranean cooking. The tapas style offerings are ideal for sharing, and the entrees reward people who want a more composed meal. The wine and cocktail program is thoughtful and well matched to the food. Acheson departed ownership during the pandemic, and Peter Dale now runs the restaurant. Dale was there from the beginning, having helped open The National in 2007, and the transition preserved the spirit and quality of the kitchen. If anything, the restaurant has settled more deeply into its identity under Dale's stewardship. The dining room is elegant without being stuffy. The building has character, and the atmosphere lands in a sweet spot between special occasion and comfortable neighborhood spot. Dinner service runs Monday through Saturday, with lunch available Wednesday through Saturday. The National sits just down the street from Creature Comforts and within easy walking distance of the 40 Watt Club and Georgia Theatre. Reservations are a good idea, particularly on weekends and game day weekends. Pricing sits in the $$ to $$$ range, which is fair for what you get.