Chiringa brings fresh, bold flavors to downtown Alpharetta
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
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!
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
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.