I have a 2 Hour Layover at the Atlanta Airport...?

Are there any restaurants that are outside of the security area? I want to have lunch or coffee or something with a friend while on layover, and they obviously can't come through security, but I can go out? How much of the Atlanta stuff is outside of the closed-off security area?

There are several restaurants off of the atrium before the security line. You would take the train to baggage claim, go to the top of the escalator...and instead of proceeding to baggage claim, head back towards ticketing and security - and you'll find restaurants and coffee shops there. I would opt for something not too time consuming. Make sure you have your boarding pass for your next flight.

One important note: Depending on what time you land in Atlanta and what day of the week, getting through the security line can be VERY time consuming, so make sure not to get caught up in conversation and only leave yourself 30 minutes to get back to your gate, I've missed a flight before cutting it too closely, and rookie travelers in the security line - and the train is quick....it's that run to the top of the escalator and down the concourse to your gate that will get you.

Your best bet would eat at the airport. Theres a restaurant inside the airport, but outside security so your friend can meet you there. You'll probably only get about an hour to eat. As the other person said, depending on what time and what day your traveling, you can expect long lines going back through security. I travel through Atlanta airport frequently and have seen the lines so bad, I've had to wait 40 minutes just to get through security. Heres a link for the airport, so you can check out what all there is to eat.

yeah there is an Atrium area near the security gate with shops and restaurants. its like a mini-mall. a couple things I would do before sitting down and chatting/eating with that friend:

1-find out where your connecting flight's gate is! if that gate is like a #1 gate, it will be at the VERY END of the concourse which is about a 20 minute walk! give yourself enough time to walk to that gate. ask someone where your gate is and how far it is from the train stop.

2-after you get off the train and go to the Atrium, find the security gate and see how long the lines are! if you see long lines, make sure you give yourself enough time to get thru security.

no joke, a 2 hour layover in Atl might only be a 20 minute visit with your friend! (5 minutes to get off plane, 20 minute walk from gate to train, 10 min train ride, 5 min walk to Atrium area, 20 min eat with friend, 30 min security line, 10 min train ride, 20 min walk to gate)

My suggestion would be to stay inside the secured area. It can take 30-45 mins to get through security at the peak times, then you may have to go a long way to get back to the gate. It can take an additional 30 mins or more to get to the gates. You probably wouldnt have much time to spend with your friends. There are TONS of stores, bars and restaurants inside of security between all of the gate areas. Theres a train system to take you around to make it easier also. There are maps that show restaurants and stores for each gate area. Its almost like a mall, seriously. Check out this link: http://www.ifly.com/hartsfield-jackson-atlanta-international/shops-stores

I really wouldnt risk leaving the secured area. The line to go back in is always long. One time recently I waited an hour just to go through. As much as you want to see your friend I wouldnt bother trying to meet them. You probably wont have enough time to make it back. Dont forget Atlanta is the largest and busiest airport in the states and you have to ride the trains just about everywhere.