Chiringa brings fresh, bold flavors to downtown Alpharetta

(c) Anna Lanfreschi

A casual coastal restaurant, Chiringa brings the flavors of the beach that much closer to Atlanta. Located in Alpharetta -- about 30 from Atlanta, as opposed to 5-7 hours to a good beach -- Chiringa perfectly executes on the idea that simple, fresh ingredients create the best meals. 

Think freshly caught fish, topped with crisp and flavorful veggies, served alongside cocktails made with fresh-squeezed juices. Fresh is very much the name of the game at Chiringa. 

The counter service-style restaurant is great for a healthy meal with the whole family or casual drinks on the patio. It is situated inside an open-air building reminiscent of an elevated beach hut. It’s also adjacent to a lovely green space, perfect for dining al-fresco or, if you’re up for it, flying a kite.  

(Fun fact: The word “chiringa” is Spanish for kite in some Caribbean cultures. And the kite-surfing community on the southern coast of Spain, with its bright colors and bold beachy flavors, is what inspired owner Andy McKoski to open this restaurant.) 

Everything about Chiringa -- the food, the drinks, the decor -- truly transport you to the beach. Read on to see what to order for the best dining experience. 

WHY GO: 

• Because you’re in serious need of some beach vibes 

• Also, because you want some seriously fresh seafood 

THE VIBE: 

• Beachy, bright, and laid-back 

• An indoor-outdoor space with a colorful interior and an airy patio with white tables and adirondack chairs 

The beachy interior at Chiringa (c) Anna Lanfreschi

START WITH THIS: 

• You can never go wrong by starting with a delicious cocktails 

  • Obviously, a margarita is an excellent choice for a beachy drink, and the Ringa Rita does not disappoint 

  • I also love that Chiringa serves breezy-weather cocktails like Aperol Spritz and Cucumber Refresher

  • All specialty cocktails are made with fresh-squeezed juices!  

• Try ceviche for your appetizer 

  • It’s made with Gulf shrimp, diced fresh veggies (tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeno), topped with cilantro and avocado

  • Oh, and it’s served with the most delicious plantain chips! 

The cucumber refresher cocktail from Chiringa (c) Anna Lanfreschi

The shrimp ceviche and fresh pineapple salsa with plantain chips (c) Anna Lanfreschi

THEN EAT THIS: 

The menu features a couple of main sections, so here’s how to navigate each one: 

• Handhelds: Yummy sandwiches that come with a side of your choice 

  • The fish sandwich is pretty great -- get it blackened if you want some extra flavor 

  • It comes with lemon aioli, arugula and tomato on a brioche bun 

• Rounds: Healthy bowls filled with plant-based options, which you can top with a lean protein of your choice 

  • I tried the beach house salad, which was light and very tasty 

  • The combination of avocado, mango, and green goddess dressing is delightful! I topped mine with blackened shrimp 

  • I hear the core 57 bowl is another popular choice: Cilantro brown rice with avocado, arugula, sweet plantains and fresh pico de gallo 

• Tacos: Chicken, fish or shrimp, topped with fresh diced veggies and chipotle crema 

  • Pro tip: Get them on lettuce wraps instead of grilled corn tortillas if you’re watching your carbs 

• Baskets: Delicious caribbean wings, fried shrimp, or fried chicken strips, all served with hand-cut fries 

The blackened fish sandwich and the beach house salad with blackened shrimp (c) Anna Lanfreschi

LOGISTICS: 

Chiringa is located downtown Alpharetta at 34 South Main Street. It’s really close to the town green fountain, between Lapeer Seafood Market and Restaurant Holmes. There’s plenty of street parking, as well as a dedicated deck for the area.