Ecco Is Expanding With a Third Outpost in Buckhead

Already with its original location in Midtown and a second at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Ecco has plans to open near Buckhead's Phipps Plaza. Fifth Group Restaurants announced the news Thursday, setting the timeline for a mid-2017 launch.

The European-inspired restaurant will take up residence in a free-standing building outside Phipps Plaza at the corner of Peachtree and Wieuca Roads. Local firm The Johnson Studio is in charge of designing the space, which will seat 240, including an 80-seat private dining room and 50 seats on a patio. While Ecco in Midtown serves dinner only, the Buckhead location will also offer lunch seven days a week.

"Ecco has been an essential dining destination on Atlanta's vibrant culinary scene for 10 years," Fifth Group partner Robby Kukler said in a prepared statement. "We're thrilled to introduce a new community of guests to its inspired European cuisine and curated beverage program."

Fifth Group's plan to install Ecco in Buckhead follows a similar expansion for the company's South City Kitchen, which is on track to open in the Capital City Place Building this spring. Fifth Group currently operates South City restaurants in Midtown and Vinings.