Little Rey

Little Rey is a fast-casual restaurant concept founded by renowned chef Ford Fry, specializing in Northern Mexican-inspired cuisine. The menu features wood-roasted "chicken al carbon," whole chickens smoked and grilled over oak and mesquite wood, giving a rich, smoky flavor.

This centerpiece is complemented by traditional street-style tacos, salads, fresh salsas, and hand-made tortillas. For dessert, rotating soft-serve flavors include tres leches and salty cajeta with fried peanuts.

Little Rey also serves breakfast items on weekends, such as migas tacos and pancakes, catering to diverse tastes. The beverage program, curated by beverage director Eduardo Porto Carreiro, includes frozen and on-the-rocks margaritas, house-made agua frescas, Mexican beers, and a selection of local and regional craft ales.

Ambiance and Decor

The restaurant’s ambiance evokes the lively, freewheeling feel of Austin, Texas. Interiors feature rose pink, deep blue, and soft sage hues, accented with reclaimed wood and Old-World Mexico-inspired hand-painted signage.

Vintage memorabilia such as Mexican festival masks and art pieces from Atlanta and Austin artists contribute to the vibrant decor. The 5,500-square-foot space includes a covered patio and a walk-up window for to-go orders or grabbing another margarita.

Locations

• First location opened in 2019 in the Piedmont Heights neighborhood of Atlanta.
• Second Atlanta location opened May 20, 2024, at Northcreek Office Park redevelopment in Buckhead.
• Additional location opened December 9, 2024, in Raleigh, North Carolina, at Raleigh Iron Works development.
• Current main location is Atlanta, GA, USA.

Reputation and Offerings

The restaurant is praised for its quality and authenticity. The smoked chicken wings, coated in salsa macha—a dark, seedy chile and peanut mixture—are highlighted for their tender meat and crispy skin.

The salsa bar offers various salsas and dips to customize the dining experience, enhancing guest satisfaction.

Overall, Little Rey provides a vibrant and authentic Northern Mexican dining experience, blending traditional flavors with a modern fast-casual atmosphere.