Atlanta's Best Kept Secret
About us
Established in November 2012, Poor Calvin's is a unique oasis in Downtown Atlanta that offers a rare cuisine of Asian with Southern influences. Originally from Vietnam but raised and classically trained in Germany, owner and chef Calvin Phan has brought his perspective of international culinary fusion to the front line of Poor Calvin's. This quaint restaurant, acknowledged as one of Atlanta's best kept secrets, serves up an innovative blending of Eastern flavors and Western techniques and presentations, using only the freshest and most flavorful of ingredients.
RULES & DRESS CODE
Poor Calvin's embraces individuality and creativity for all occasions.
We ask that guests please be respectful in their attire
Gentlemen: no tank tops/sleeveless shirts
Ladies: Nothing excessively revealing
Everyone: no athletic slides, crocs, foam or fuzzy sandals
No strong odor of smoke or noise from audio devices
Last seating one hour before closing
Owner and Chef
Chef Calvin Phan is the owner and executive chef of Poor Calvin's, the acclaimed Midtown Atlanta restaurant known for its inventive blend of Asian flavors and Southern influence.
Born in Vietnam and formally trained in Germany, Chef Calvin developed his passion for hospitality while watching his family operate restaurants throughout Europe. After refining his craft in Switzerland, he relocated to the United States and opened Poor Calvin's in 2012.
Drawing inspiration from his global experiences, Chef Calvin creates dishes that blend Asian flavors with refined Western technique. His signature creations—including Lobster Fried Rice, Crab Beignets, Crying Tiger Beef, Fried Frog Legs, and Midnight Guizhou Sticky Ribs—have helped make Poor Calvin's one of Atlanta's most beloved dining destinations.
More than a decade later, his commitment to creativity, seasonality, and exceptional hospitality continues to define the Poor Calvin's experience.