Courtesy of Thyme
Kay Burns has always considered herself a people person. A former educator, she prides herself on patience, flexibility, and leadership—skills that also apply to her new role as owner of Thyme Restaurant in Piedmont Heights. A modern American spot across from Midtown Bowl, Thyme quietly opened in May serving dinner, cocktails, and Sunday brunch.
Burns brings experience working in family restaurants, as well as Essence Restaurant Group. At Thyme, she created the menu using recipes from her upbringing. “The way I cook my mac ‘n’ cheese for Thanksgiving is the way we make it at the restaurant. We use my marinade for steaks and lamb too,” she says. “Every day is fast paced and different. I love interacting with people and making a difference.”
Courtesy of Thyme
Dinner offerings include shared plates such as duck confit tacos, Wagyu sliders, and herb butter oysters. Entrees range from Mediterranean lamb chops to honey harissa-glazed Atlantic salmon. For brunch, expect four varieties of sweet waffles, plus fried catfish and grits, steak and eggs, and avocado toast.
An 11-seat bar focuses on hand-crafted cocktails, featuring a spin on a margarita called Thyme to Shine. There’s also a take on a spritz, a mule, and a drink called Pink Fire made with dragon fruit and gin. Beer is limited to a handful of domestic bottles, while a concise California-centered by-the-glass list is available for wine.
Courtesy of Thyme
The 4,000-square-foot space is designed with rich earth tones and contemporary lighting. There’s a patio with retractable ceiling and walls and two private dining areas for groups. A DJ sets the mood on Friday and Saturday evenings with a live saxophonist playing at brunch.
“Thyme is more than just a restaurant—it’s about creating an experience. We want every guest to leave feeling like their time with us was well spent,” Burns says.
Courtesy of Thyme
