When traveling to new cities, it’s always hard to find a good place to eat. Yes, your travel guides provide reviews about the new, hot, happening spots, but rarely do you see much press on the great neighborhood spots.

In this multi-part series, you will find information on a variety of Atlanta’s best restaurants, separated into the following categories: restaurants with great music, those offering ethnic cuisine, great date night locales, fun family eateries, themed restaurants and, of course, the hot, happening see-and-be-seen spots.

Print this handy guide out, and take it along next time you head to Atlanta and its surrounding neighborhoods. Then email me and let me know if they satisfied your palate.

Category 1: A Feast for the Ears
Almost since the beginning of time, diners have enjoyed the lovely accompaniment of music as they satisfied their appetites. From smooth jazz and classical opera to acoustic guitar and rhythm and blues, there’s just something special about eating to the beat while performers share their souls.

Marlow’s Tavern
Four metro Atlanta locations, marlowstavern.com
Nothing complements a meal better than live music. Check out the Web site for a full entertainment calendar containing events at all four metro Atlanta locations: Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Midtown and Vinings.

East Andrews Café & Bar
56 East Andrews, Suite 10, (404) 869-1132, www.eastandrews.com
Enjoy a cocktail at the bar or dinner at the café while listening to Good Times Atlanta, the house band, or head upstairs for a performance by a visiting artist at Andrews Upstairs.

Vinings Inn
3011 Paces Mill Road, Vinings, (770) 438-2282, www.viningsinn.com
Open for lunch and dinner six days a week, this charming venue offers live acoustic guitar, jazz and full bands every Tuesday through Saturday.

Eddie’s Attic
515-B North McDonough St., Decatur, (404) 377-4976, www.eddiesattic.com
This is the “it” place to see both aspiring and accomplished performing songwriters. Once upon a time, nationally acclaimed artists such as John Mayer, Sugarland and Shawn Mullins graced the stage.

Smith’s Olde Bar
1578 Piedmont Ave., (404) 875-1522, www.smithsoldebar.com
From well-known names such as David Bowie and Train to the best of Atlanta’s local musicians and songwriters, Smith’s Olde Bar always delivers the best in live music.