Buford might be known for its outlet malls and family attractions, but don’t sleep on its steak scene. Wander through town and you’ll find a classic chophouse with dry-aged cuts that melt like butter, a modern grill with a whiskey selection to match, and a rustic spot where the prime rib is practically legendary.
The Ridge-Great Steaks and Seafood
$$$ | (770) 886-9003 | WEBSITE
On paper, nothing about this $45 steakhouse seems particularly revolutionary—think a straightforward ribeye with basic seasoning, a simple redfish special, and a plate of calamari with lemon wedges for example. But The Ridge elevates familiar ingredients to highlight their quality in a way you could never replicate at home. Like a seemingly ordinary croissant that’s somehow more buttery than dessert. Dining here is like stepping into a time capsule, and it’s pretty remarkable.
And chances are, you’ll be thinking about some of the simplest things you had here—like the free ice cream and that French martini—for days after the fact.
Bottles & Bones
$$$$ | (678) 804-9447 | WEBSITE
At first glance, this place with its classy decor, live music on weekends, and valet parking out front screams “special occasion spot.” But the incredible food and thoughtful service quickly prove it’s more than just an event destination. The Tomahawk steak that emerges from this kitchen is Buford’s finest, with amazing flavor and perfect seasoning—make sure filet mignon and Spanish Octopus hit the table. And, make sure to try some steak sauces while you’re at it.
(The sea bass and salmon dishes are equally memorable.)
Meadow Woodfire Grill
$$$ | (770) 888-1998 | WEBSITE
With a cozy, inviting space and a friendly, attentive staff, dining at Meadow Woodfire Grill is like stepping into a 1950’s rat pack film, only with far superior cuisine. We’re talking about dishes like fresh, briny oysters, perfectly cooked ribeyes, and most importantly, some standout crab cakes made even better when paired with a celebratory bottle of bubbles. Come here for a special occasion, enjoy the personalized touches, and feel the celebratory atmosphere in Cumming.
Frankie’s The Steakhouse
$$$$ | (678) 395-6447 | WEBSITE
This Buford mainstay has become the permanent destination for celebrating life’s special moments. There you can order Frankie’s perfectly cooked steaks that are simultaneously tender and flavorful—a true achievement in steakhouse cooking. And while we could fill a celebratory toast with sentimental things to say about dishes like the lobster ceviche or blackened salmon, there’s power in Frankie’s NY Strip.
Between the steak’s simplicity, the fluffy baked potatoes, and hints of expertly prepared seasoning, no special occasion meal can beat it.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (770) 614-0092 | WEBSITE
Everything at this steakhouse institution is stellar (especially the blooming onion), but make sure you order at least one sirloin steak and one coconut fried shrimp. The steak version is consistently well-prepared, from the perfect sear to the juicy interior, and its shrimp counterpart is similar, only everything on the plate (crispy coating, tender shrimp, and coconut flavor) is expertly balanced.
You should experience the full service at the counter at some point, but even if you’re sitting at a table the servers will come over and provide helpful recommendations and ensure a smooth dining experience, which makes it all feel a bit special.
Uncle Jack’s Meat House
$$$ | (770) 497-2400 | WEBSITE
Sure, you can find a decent steakhouse in Buford by settling for a chain restaurant. But if you need a proper meal (and a family-friendly atmosphere), there’s Uncle Jack’s. This cozy meat house feels as welcoming as a holiday gathering at your favorite relative’s place. Warm lighting and friendly chatter are abundant. Perfectly cooked filets look like culinary art and taste like celebration.
And lest we forget the phenomenal food—like candied meatballs stickier than a toddler’s fingers, prime rib sandwiches on pillowy buns, and crackly lamb chops with creamy mac and cheese. Go to this place for a satisfying family dinner or gathering where it’s perfectly acceptable that the kids make some noise.
Samba Steakhouse
$$$ | (678) 541-5277 | WEBSITE
Samba Steakhouse is a Buford institution known for its perfectly cooked Brazilian meats. And while these juicy cuts are nice to taste, it’s the other stuff we like better. Like their creamy lobster bisque, plump mussels, and gluten-free cheese bread that’s somehow both light and satisfying.
(More Brazilian lemonade and adult beverages in this world, please.) Be sure to have a reservation for this place, because when the doors open for dinner—special occasion or not—the smaller dining room fills up fast with groups and locals alike.
Texas Roadhouse
$$ | (470) 238-0888 | WEBSITE
Planning a steak dinner for a celebration can be tricky if you don’t know how much everyone wants to spend—especially if your friends insist on treating you even when you say it’s unnecessary, because group dining etiquette is complicated. Choose a lively, welcoming spot with consistently good meat, like Texas Roadhouse. The spacious, country-themed dining room has plenty of room for groups to spread out, a warm atmosphere that isn’t too loud for conversation, and excellent steaks.
Fill the table with everything from perfectly cooked prime rib to generous, shareable sides like those fresh, hot rolls with cinnamon butter that everyone fights over.
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (678) 482-7750 | WEBSITE
LongHorn Steakhouse is named after the iconic Texas longhorn cattle, and half of the appeal here is settling into the warm, welcoming atmosphere with its rustic wood accents, Western-themed artwork, and cozy lighting that makes you feel like you’re dining in a well-loved ranch house.
The steakhouse menu options are reliably satisfying, but make sure to order the perfectly cooked ribeye steak, savory steamed broccoli, and strawberry pecan salad with its sweet-tangy dressing that’s more comforting than finding a parking spot right by the door on a busy Friday night.
Bare Bones Steakhouse
$$$ | (470) 266-1890 | WEBSITE
You might not have time for a weekend getaway to a rustic mountain lodge this season, but Bare Bones Steakhouse is the next best thing—there’s enough wood, stone, and warm lighting in this downtown spot to prove it. But if the weather’s nice, try to snag a seat on their rooftop, where you can enjoy crispy onion rings with that honey-cheese-red pepper flake combo, and a juicy Hawaiian ribeye al fresco as downtown Buford hums below.