10 Atlanta restaurants nab 'four diamond' rating

Oxtail Tortelloni with roasted golden beets, shiraz reduction and horseradish cream. CONTRIBUTED BY: The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta.

Auto and travel group AAA has released its 2018 Diamond List, and several Atlanta restaurants made the cut.

The list — compiled by inspectors who conduct unannounced, onsite evaluations of more than 31,000 restaurants nationally — is comprised of restaurants that "meet a list of common-sense standards for cleanliness, management, and appearance," according to AAA. Restaurants are then awarded a number of "diamonds" based on the type of dining experience provided, with one diamond being awarded for quick-serve; two diamonds for casual; three for trendy; four for distinctive; and five for leading-edge. Review the rating guidelines here.

Four star restaurants “offer distinctive, creatively prepared cuisine, skillfully served in a notable environment,” according to the

Epic Restaurant in Columbus and Grand Dining Room on Jekyll Island also received four diamond ratings.