McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Atlanta (CNN Center)

Fresh Seafood with a Downtown Buzz

Located in the heart of Atlanta’s bustling CNN Center, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood offers a polished yet relaxed dining experience just moments from the city’s biggest music and event venues. Known for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and classic American fare, this spot blends upscale flavors with a casual vibe, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for concert-goers.

Inside, the restaurant features rich wood accents, white tablecloths, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels refined without being stuffy. With a full bar and seasonal menus, it’s a reliable go-to whether you’re meeting friends before a show or grabbing a solo bite post-event.

Why Concert-goers love it

Just steps from major downtown venues, McCormick & Schmick’s is ideal for grabbing a quick, high-quality meal before or after your concert. The service is known for being efficient and friendly, which helps if you're on a tight schedule. The dining room maintains a comfortable noise level, so you can actually chat without shouting—perfect for groups getting hyped for a show. Many reviewers also mention the dedicated happy hour menu, which keeps things fun and budget-friendly.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends looking for a classy but casual meetup spot
• Solo travelers wanting a safe, welcoming environment
• Couples enjoying a romantic night out
• Fans looking to toast the night in a lively space
• Budget-conscious music fans who want quality without the splurge (especially during happy hour)

What People Say

Reviews from TripAdvisor and OpenTable consistently praise the freshness of the seafood, particularly the oysters and seasonal specials. Diners love the exceptional service, noting that staff are attentive without being overbearing. Guests also highlight the convenient location for events and concerts downtown. The atmosphere is described as “refined but not pretentious,” and many say it’s a go-to spot whenever they’re in the area for a show.

Areas for Improvement

Some reviewers mention that the menu pricing can be a bit on the higher side outside of happy hour, and the dining room can get busy on event nights—so reservations are recommended. A few guests noted that while the food is generally excellent, it can be hit or miss on very crowded evenings.

The Bottom Line

If you want fresh seafood, fast service, and a laid-back vibe just steps from Atlanta's top concert venues, McCormick & Schmick’s hits the right note.