ZZ & Simone's

ZZ and Simone's in Five Points serves upscale Italian and Mediterranean cuisine in a neighborhood setting that makes fine dining feel approachable. With over 300 reviews at 4.5 stars, the restaurant has quickly established itself as one of the best Italian dining experiences in Athens, with a menu that ranges from handmade pastas and Neapolitan inspired pizza to grilled proteins and classic red sauce dishes. Owners Shae and Ryan Sims have built a restaurant that prioritizes ambiance, service, and food in equal measure. The Rigatoni Alla Vodka has become a must order dish, and the broader pasta program shows real technique and care. The pizza comes from a Neapolitan tradition but is adapted for the Athens audience, and the chicken parmesan and bistecca alla fiorentina offer heartier options for bigger appetites. The Five Points location on S Lumpkin Street places ZZ and Simone's steps from the university campus and within one of Athens' most charming neighborhoods. The dining room is warm and well designed, with an atmosphere that works for date nights, family dinners, and celebrations. The wine list is curated to complement the Italian menu. Reservations are accepted via Resy for parties up to eight guests and are recommended for weekend evenings. The restaurant is open for dinner, with pricing in the $$ range that reflects quality Italian cooking in a sit down setting.