The food lovers guide to cheese in Atlanta

The best pimento cheese in Atlanta

Photograph by Emily Marie Schultz

1 Alon’s Bakery and Market
The smoky sweetness of pimentos hits first in this creamy blend of aged cheddar and housemade mayo. Could make a rusty nail taste good. 1394 North Highland Avenue

2 Star Provisions
Subtle and smooth, this version is made with leftover cheese scraps—often mild cheddar—from the shop, bound with freshly made mayo and seasoned with smoked paprika and cayenne. Try it with La Panzanella’s Original Mini Croccantini. 1198 Howell Mill Road

3 Empire State South
Syrupy bacon marmalade adds intense layers of smoke and barbecue to Hugh Acheson’s popular pimento spread. 999 Peachtree Street

4 Holeman and Finch Public House
This chunky, peppery preparation gets its heft from sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and a few drops of Tabasco. Best enjoyed with a baguette. 2277 Peachtree Road

5 The Imperial
This classic effort, made with cheddar and mayo, is mild and creamy with a slight kick at the end. Served with saltines. 726 West College Avenue