The 50-year tradition started by a mother, now maintained by sons, attracts visitors from across metro Atlanta.

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Decatur’s Kimball House won a $50,000 grant from American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, part of the “Backing Small Historic Restaurants” program.

Located east of Atlanta, Decatur offers residents a small-town vibe with big-city amenities, including a bustling downtown district home to a thriving restaurant and bar scene. At just over 25,000 ...