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How can you hate on hot wings? You can’t and especially in Atlanta, where “Lemon Pepper Wings,” are a big thing. But what if you just want regular, delicious wings?
Atlanta is known for its chicken wings scene, with several standout restaurants drawing long lines daily. This article is going to show you where you can get some of the best chicken wings you’ve ever tasted right here in Atlanta, Georgia.
Here Are The Best Chicken Wings In Atlanta
Before we get into who has the best chicken wings in Atlanta, as an avid yardbird lover, it’s necessary that I explain some of the top chicken wing varieties in Atlanta in a little more detail.
Atlanta restaurants have gone way past the simple hot, mild and spicy variety when it comes to chicken wings. These days, you can get jalapeno, Cajun, mesquite wings and more. Here are the top varieties:
Lemon Pepper
Lemon Pepper is by far the most popular type of chicken wing in Atlanta. Hey, I don’t make the rules. This is what all the local sports bars serve.
You will usually have a choice between Lemon Pepper Wet or Dry. If it’s Wet, then that means they use Lemon Pepper sauce. If it’s Dry, that means the chicken wings have been dusted in Lemon Pepper seasoning.
Teriyaki Wings
Teriyaki are typically coated with a glaze that gives it its sweet, tangy flavor. You’ll find these types of wings at many dine-in restaurants around Atlanta.
Maple Bourbon Wings
Maple Bourbon wings include chicken that has been marinated in syrup to give it a sweet taste. Oftentimes, it will be coupled with a spice to give it a little kick.
These Restaurants Have The Best Chicken Wings In Atlanta
Let’s get into some top chicken wing restaurants in Atlanta.
A Town Wings
2644 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 856-0236
Here is what one reviewer says about A Town Wings: “This Atlanta location is very good. The owners of this location are Eastern Asian and each location has some unique items. In this case the chicken egg rolls are it and they are superlative.”
American Deli
Screenshot Here’s what one customer says about American Deli in Atlanta.
“Ok so usually I’m not a fan of American Deli!! I had a bad experience when I was younger so I just avoid them (all)… I was in south Atlanta visiting a friend. I stated I wanted some good wings and she recommended American Deli on Camp creek rd… At 1st I was skeptical because of my past experience but she assured me it was going to be worth it. We both ordered the Philly with 5pc wings and fries. The cashier was super sweet ..professional .. kind and very helpful. They were pretty busy but She handled the front counter with ease. Assisting everyone with a smile and positive attitude.. customer service is lacking alot these days so she was very refreshing… They Philly was well seasoned and very delicious… the wings were crispy and saucy like I ordered and like it.. they’re in the business of giving fries away because of the way they’re sure to load you up!!! But overall the food was delicious and I will revisit that location when I’m in the area!”
ATL Wings
2205 Campbellton Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 | (404) 753-7322
Here’s what one reviewer says about ATL Wings. “It really enjoyed it! Even though i ate after 10 minutes, my food was still delicious. I ordered a 10 peice, half hot honey garlic pepper and half hot ranch with fries.. My partner got a 10 peice lemon Cajun shrimp with okra, she enjoyed it for the most part but said the shrimp was a little over cooked. Would definitely return and recommend.”
I Love Wings
3030 Headland Dr SW #1100, Atlanta, GA 30311 | (770) 626-1000
Here’s what one reviewer says about I Love Wings. “Very pleasant experience on my visit to I love wings random visit just stop by, modern look inside comfortable seating and lots of choices on the menu. I ordered a Philly cheese steak with a side of fried rice and a drink it cost me around $12 in total. I wasn’t disappointed plan to visit again if I’m ever in the area..”KingKong Wings
3334 Colville Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354 | (404) 766-0001
Here’s what one reviewer says abotu KingKong Wings: “This was our first time ordering, and we got 3 combos…Wings/Chicken Gyro/Cheeseburger… Boy, everything was GREAT. The food was done within 10 minutes.”
American Wings
890 Cleveland Ave, East Point, GA 30344 | : (404) 765-9946
Here is what one Google reviewer says about American Wings: “There medium wings with lemon pepper sprinkles are just right. So are just their lemon pepper wings, not to wet not to dry. I love them. That is my go to meal here. I tried their boneless wings for the first time and they were huge.”
Tonys Deli
2685 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (678) 977-6200
Here’s what one reviewer says about Tonys Deli: “The BEST hot wings in ATLANTA! It is better than American Deli. OFF THE CHAIN. Suzi is nice too and the prices are not bad. Over all 5 STARS!”
Terrapin Taproom
755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (404) 494-1202
At Terrapin Taproom at The Battery Atlanta, you can save big money by ordering smoked wings for 20% off. Here are more daily food specials.
G Town Wings & Fish
2084 Campbellton Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 | (404) 752-8777
Here’s what one reviewer says about G Town Wings & Fish. “Every time I visit home, I have to have wings and I have to have it from G Town Wings! Nice and clean, crispy and made-to-order wings that make me proud every time I come!! I love these wings!”
The Wing Bar
494 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 688-8009
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Wing Bar: “Love their wings. Extremely well done. You get a huge portion for what your pay. Love mixing and matching and cannot wait to sop up all the goodness leftover with the fries! Hot honey is definitely worth a try.”
Final Word
Now that the chicken wing shortage has subsided across much of the country, the food lover shouldn’t have a problem finding your favorite drum or flat in Georgia’s largest city.
In a city like Atlanta, eating cheap every day isn’t easy, but it can be done.
Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.
But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Atlanta’s rich cultural landscape, influenced by its history and diversity, fosters a thriving theater community — and the city has a slate of theatrical shows playing right now to prove it.
Atlanta’s theater scene in July, August, and September 2025 offers a vibrant mix of musicals, plays, and unique performances. Why not check out a play in Atlanta this weekend?
What Theatrical Shows Are Playing in Atlanta?
Below is a curated list of some of the top plays and stage shows scheduled in the Atlanta area during this period. Note that some events are yet to be confirmed, and additional shows may be announced closer to the dates.
Mary Poppins
A vibrant Broadway musical adaptation of the beloved story, featuring iconic songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “Chim Chim Cher-ee.” This family-friendly production brings the magical nanny to life with stunning choreography and heartwarming storytelling.
- Venue: The Legacy Theatre, Tyrone, GA
- Dates: July 3 – August 3, 2025
- Tickets: Available through The Legacy Theatre’s website or box office.
Disaster!
A hilarious musical straight from Broadway, packed with 1970s hits like “Knock on Wood” and “Hooked on a Feeling.” This jukebox comedy follows a group of New Yorkers navigating a series of catastrophic events with humor and heart.
- Venue: Marietta’s New Theatre in the Square, Marietta, GA
- Dates: July 31 – August 9, 2025
- Tickets: Check Marietta’s New Theatre in the Square website for details and pricing.
Men On Boats
Written by Jaclyn Backhaus, this play is a witty and adventurous retelling of the 1869 Powell Expedition down the Colorado River. Featuring an all-female cast playing male explorers, it offers a fresh perspective on history with humor and insight.
- Venue: Onstage Atlanta Theatre Company, Decatur, GA
- Dates: July 11 – July 27, 2025
- Tickets: Available via Onstage Atlanta’s website.
Ain’t No Mo’
A bold, comedic exploration of Black identity and culture, this southern premiere production features a stellar cast and thought-provoking themes. Presented in partnership with WABE’s “What’s Good, Atlanta?” podcast, it includes special events like a live recording on July 13 and a performance at Hippin Hops Brewery on July 18.
- Venue: True Colors Theatre Company at The Balzer Theater, Atlanta, GA
- Dates: July 29 – August 24, 2025
- Tickets: Visit True Colors Theatre Company’s website for ticket information.
F.Punk Junkies
A dynamic and boundary-pushing production by 7 Stages, focusing on contemporary themes with a punk-inspired aesthetic. Known for its innovative approach, this show promises to engage audiences with its social and cultural commentary.
- Venue: 7 Stages Theatre, Atlanta, GA
- Specific dates in July to be confirmed (check 7 Stages’ schedule)
- Tickets: Check 7stages.org for updates and ticket availability.
Final Word
Atlanta may be a Southern capital, but it also boasts a diverse and thriving theater community with over 80 theater companies, ranging from major venues like the Fox Theatre to smaller, innovative spaces like 7 Stages and Horizon Theatre.
The Fox, a historic 1920s landmark, hosts large-scale Broadway tours, while smaller theaters focus on local, experimental, and culturally significant productions.
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Whenever it’s time for ice cream you know it’s going to be a sweet time for you and your wallet. Atlanta dairies and other ice cream shops have freebies for us all.
This article is going to show you where you can get the best ice cream in Atlanta.
Best Places To Get Ice Cream In Atlanta
Ice cream is one of those delicacies that bring out strong feelings from people. As you look through our list, these are the ones we’ve personally tried at AtlantaFi.com, so if you know others, please let us know.
Read to take a cool journey around some of the best ice cream spots in Atlanta? Let’s go…
Jake’s Ice Cream
660 Irwin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (678) 705-7945
Here’s what one reviewer says about Jake’s Ice Cream: “Homemade flavors!! The time and quality of creamery makes this a special place. You’ll be reminded of grandma’s back porch ice cream machine with every spoonful!”
Kilwins Atlantic Station
1380 Atlantic Dr #14160, Atlanta, GA 30363 | (404) 817-7500
Here is what one reviewer says about Kilwins Atlantic Station: “This is definitely a chocolate lovers shop! They have many different chocolate choices, milkshakes, cookies, cakes, sundaes, brownies, popcorn, & so much more!! I adore this place, I have a strong sweet tooth and always come here when in the area.”
Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream
749 Moreland Ave SE # B102, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 622-0210
Here’s what one reviewer says abotu Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream: “Great ice cream with new and interesting flavors!! The Heath and Butterscotch was delicious. My dog loved the whipped cream and her opinion is the only one that really matters.”
Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
250 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 343-4837
Here’s what one reviewer says about Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream: “Sub Zero wasn’t our original destination. To avoid a long wait elsewhere I had my son check for ice cream shops nearby. We were not disappointed at all! Staff was very patient and helped wife and I decide on “sensation”. She had the Chocolate Conduction, I had the Peanut Butter Bonds, and our son created his own (Root Beer w/ Cheesecake). A little pricey, but all were very delicious! We’ll definitely visit this location again.”
Wonderkid
777 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 331-0909
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wonderkid’s soft serve options provided by King ofPops: “Wonderkid is such a unique place! The cashier was lovely and super helpful. Our food came out quickly and was DELICIOUS! My personal favorite part of our visit was the King of Pops soft serve. We will be returning in the future!”
Best Ice Cream Makers For Some DIY Ice Cream
If you want to know how to make ice cream at home, surely you want to know what the moms and pops are using. Here are the top ice cream makers from Amazon:
Cuisine Art Yogurt And Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart Automatic Ice Cream Maker
Nostalgia 2-Quart Ice Cream Maker
Ice cream is one of those delicacies that bring out strong feelings from people. As you look through our list, these are the ones we’ve personally tried at AtlantaFi.com, so if you know others, please let us know.
Last Word
Whatever you do, don’t get too hot outside. If you enjoy the hot weather, chances are it’s because you know how to beat the heat with some cool, refreshing treats. The best ice cream can do that.
Aside from the best ice cream in Atlanta, the city has other treats and eats to offer.
Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Visit Stone Mountain Park and you’ll be mesmerized by the huge granite sculpture, beautiful scenery and warm colors all around, but underneath all that serenity is a burgeoning controversy about the site’s past and future.
A lawsuit has been filed against Stone Mountain Park by the Georgia Division of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV).
. This lawsuit challenges a planned exhibit at the park’s Memorial Hall that aims to tell a broader and more nuanced story about the site’s history, including its ties to slavery, segregation, and white supremacy. The SCV argues that this new exhibit violates Georgia law, which they claim mandates the park to primarily serve as a Confederate memorial.
Specifically, the lawsuit alleges that the planned “truth-telling” exhibit, as described by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, goes against the spirit and intent of Georgia laws governing Stone Mountain Park, which stipulate that it should remain a memorial to the Confederate war dead. The SCV also opposes the relocation of Confederate flags from a prominent walking trail and the changing of the park’s logo to a more neutral image. They argue that these actions deviate from the park’s original mandate to honor the Confederacy.
The Stone Mountain Memorial Association, which oversees the park, in 2021 agreed to install this exhibit and relocate Confederate flags following a period of national reckoning on racial inequality and Confederate monuments.
The association intends for the new exhibit to reflect a more complete history of the site, including its role in the rebirth of the Ku Klux Klan and its segregationist roots.
The exhibit is planned to include information on the “Lost Cause” ideology, which the SCV and United Daughters of the Confederacy are accused of perpetuating, according to a museum proposal cited in the lawsuit.
The Georgia legislature approved $11 million in 2023 to fund the exhibit and renovate Memorial Hall.
While the exhibit is not yet open to the public, the changes have already generated backlash from Confederate heritage groups, who accuse the Stone Mountain Memorial Association of attempting to “completely repurpose” the park and disregard the legislature’s original intent. The Georgia Attorney General’s Office has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, citing sovereign immunity and a lack of standing on the part of the SCV.
This lawsuit highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the interpretation and commemoration of Confederate history, particularly at sites like Stone Mountain, which hold significance for both those who view them as memorials to Confederate soldiers and those who recognize their ties to slavery and white supremacy.
Final Word
The outcome of this lawsuit will likely shape the future narrative presented at Stone Mountain Park and could have broader implications for how Confederate monuments and memorials are addressed throughout the United States.
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Passengers on a domestic Delta Air Lines flight experienced a harrowing landing when a man aboard the plane began to act erratically, even trying to pry open a door.
On the evening of Thursday, July 17, Delta Connection flight 3612, operated by SkyWest Airlines, made an emergency landing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, after a passenger attempted to open an emergency exit door and assaulted a flight attendant.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. local time during a flight from Omaha to Detroit, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.The pilot reported the disturbance to the tower at Eastern Iowa Airport, stating a passenger was fighting with a flight attendant and trying to access the emergency exit, per a LiveATC.net recording.
Video footage shared on social media showed police escorting a man off the plane in restraints.
Mario Nikprelaj, 23, from Nebraska, faces five charges, including threatening and shoving a flight attendant, disorderly conduct, and two drug-related charges for possessing 41 Alprazolam (Xanax) pills.
Here’s what Delta will kick you off the plane for.
He appeared in court Friday, with bond set at $10,000. It’s unclear if he has legal representation.
SkyWest Airlines emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for unruly behavior, prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew.
How Many Emergency Landings Have There Been This Year?
Based on available data up to July 18, 2025, at least 20 emergency landings involving U.S. airlines have been reported in 2025. This number is derived from specific incidents documented across various sources, including news reports and aviation safety databases. Below is a summary of several of the incidents identified:
- January 18, 2025: United Airlines flight (details unspecified) made an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport.
- January 25, 2025: Another United Airlines flight (details unspecified) made an emergency landing at Newark.
- January 29, 2025: American Airlines Flight 1847 from San Juan to Dallas returned to San Juan due to a passenger-related security concern (perceived threat from a phone screen).
- February 25, 2025: United Airlines Flight 1544 returned to Newark Liberty International Airport due to possible engine issues.
- March 1, 2025: FedEx Flight 3609, a Boeing 767, returned to Newark after a bird strike caused an engine fire.
- March 2, 2025: Delta Air Lines flight (unspecified) returned to Atlanta after reports of possible smoke in the flight deck.
- March 2, 2025: SkyWest Flight 5690 (operating as United Express) made an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, due to severe turbulence, injuring five passengers.
- April 2, 2025: Alaska Airlines Flight 757 returned to Portland International Airport after reports of fumes in the flight deck.
- April 14, 2025: Delta Air Lines Flight 937 returned to Tucson International Airport due to an engine issue.
- April 15, 2025: SkyWest Airlines Flight 4980 diverted to Colorado Springs Airport due to a passenger medical emergency.
- April 15, 2025: American Airlines Flight 2746 returned to Los Angeles International Airport due to an engine issue.
Final Word
Delta is one of the best airlines there is. Emergency landings and other aviation mishaps are on the ride for numerous reasons.
For example, the many reasons for emergency landings include mechanical issues (e.g., engine problems, cabin pressurization), bird/wildlife strikes, medical emergencies, security concerns, and turbulence-related injuries. -
Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian is set to open a new East Coast headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of its broader investment in the state, where it is also building its second manufacturing plant.
Rivian’s new East Coast headquarters in Atlanta and its $5 billion investment in a Georgia manufacturing plant align with positive trends for electric vehicles as more people opt to leave gas-engines behind.
Where Will Rivian’s East Coast Headquarters Be Located?
The new office, set to open in late 2025 and expand in 2026 alongside the construction of Rivian’s factory in Social Circle, east of Atlanta, will be located at Portman Holdings’ Junction Krog District building at 667 Auburn Avenue NE, near the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail.
The plant in Social Circle, expected to employ 7,500 workers, supports the trend of localized EV manufacturing to leverage incentives like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act.
Rivian expects to employ about 100 people at the site by the end of next year and up to 500 when the headquarters is fully operational.
The California-based company has committed to a $5 billion investment in Georgia, including a 7,500-worker plant at Stanton Springs North.
Rivian: An EV History
Rivian Automotive, Inc., is an American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer founded in 2009 by Robert “RJ” Scaringe in Rockledge, Florida, initially under the name Mainstream Motors.
Scaringe, an MIT graduate with a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, aimed to create sustainable transportation solutions inspired by his love for the outdoors and concerns about the automotive industry’s environmental impact. The company rebranded to Avera Automotive before settling on Rivian Automotive in 2011, named after the Indian River near Scaringe’s hometown of Melbourne, Florida.
Early Years and Pivot (2009–2015)
Rivian’s initial focus was on developing a mid-engine hybrid sports car, prototyped as the R1, designed by Peter Stevens. Financial challenges and shifting market demands led to the project’s cancellation in 2011.
Recognizing growing consumer preference for trucks and SUVs, Rivian pivoted to focus on electric adventure-oriented vehicles, aiming to combine off-road capability with sustainability.
By 2015, significant investments enabled Rivian to establish research facilities in Plymouth, Michigan, and the San Francisco Bay Area, with its headquarters later moving to Irvine, California.Manufacturing and Growth (2016–2018)In 2016, Rivian began negotiations to acquire a former Mitsubishi Motors plant in Normal, Illinois, purchasing it in January 2017 for $16 million.
This facility became Rivian’s primary North American manufacturing hub, a strategic move likened to Tesla’s acquisition of the NUMMI plant.
By late 2017, Rivian unveiled its first two products: the R1T electric pickup truck and the R1S electric SUV, initially named A1T and A1C, respectively. These vehicles, built on a flexible “skateboard” platform housing batteries and electric motors, were revealed at the 2018 LA Auto Show, showcasing off-road capabilities and semi-autonomous features.
Other Automakers Doing Business in Metro Atlanta
Several car companies have significant ties to metro Atlanta, Georgia, beyond Rivian’s new East Coast headquarters. Below is a list of notable automotive companies with operations, headquarters, or significant facilities in the region, based on available information:
- Mercedes-Benz USA: Headquartered in Sandy Springs, GA, since 2018, Mercedes-Benz USA manages distribution and marketing for Mercedes-Benz and smart products in the U.S. The company announced in 2025 plans to establish its North American headquarters in metro Atlanta, adding approximately 500 jobs and a new multimillion-dollar R&D center nearby.
- Porsche Cars North America, Inc.: Based in Atlanta since 2015, Porsche’s North American headquarters includes the Porsche Experience Center, featuring a 1.6-mile test track, a classic car restoration shop, and a business center. This $100 million facility enhances Porsche’s logistics and distribution capabilities in the region.
- Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America: Located in Ellabell, GA (near Savannah but within the broader metro Atlanta economic sphere), this facility began producing the Hyundai IONIQ 5 in October 2024, ahead of schedule. The plant is expected to employ 8,100 workers and represents a significant investment in Georgia’s automotive sector.
- Kia Georgia, Inc.: Operates a major manufacturing plant in West Point, GA, approximately 80 miles southwest of Atlanta, employing around 3,000 workers. The facility, with a $1 billion expansion, produces vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Sorento, contributing to Georgia’s automotive manufacturing hub.
Final Word
So, Rivian is coming to Auburn Avenue as it tries to compete with competition from Tesla, Ford, and others. Rivian remains a key player in the EV market, valued at nearly $28 billion, which is good news for Atlanta’s business sector.
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Through Saturday, July 19, you can catch 100 of the country’s top antique and vintage dealers will pack the Southern Exchange Ballrooms for the Marburger Farm Antique Show in Atlanta.
Boasting over 50,000 square feet of curated treasures and design finds, the iconic show returned to Georgia’s largest city on July 15.
On that same day from 4-7 p.m., Marburger’s VIP Shopping Experience, hosted by Atlanta Magazine, will offer an exclusive first look, offering VIP guests a chance to browse and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces before the show opens to the public.
Promising a night of inspiration and unique finds, the $200 ticketed kick-off event will draw top interior designers, collectors and style enthusiasts from across the region. Complimentary light bites and beverages will be available.
On opening morning, July 16, from 9-10 a.m., Marburger and Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles will host a special Breakfast and Design Panel on the latest trends and ideas in antiques and design, featuring premier designers and antique dealers and moderated by Lauren Iverson, Editor in Chief of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. This exclusive $40 ticketed event includes admission to the show, immediately following the panel.
“Atlanta welcomed us with open arms last year, and we’re eager to return,” said Jeremy Buonamici, CEO of Marburger Farm. “Our dealers bring an incredible mix of European and American antiques, global relics and rare design pieces. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just looking for something out of the ordinary, there’s something for everyone at Marburger.”
For nearly three decades, Marburger’s Texas show has attracted tens of thousands of antique hunters, including design world icons such as Kelly Wearstler, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Joanna Gaines and Carson Kressley, along with celebrities like Gwen Stefani, Jenna Lyons and Camila and Matthew McConaughey.
Event Details:
- July 15 –VIP Shopping Experience hosted by Atlanta Magazine, 4-7 p.m. ($200 ticketed event)
- July 16 – Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Breakfast and Panel Discussion, 9-10 a.m. ($40 ticketed event)
- July 16-19 – Open to the public, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.($10 General Admission Tickets)
- July 19 – closes at 4 p.m.
Marburger Atlanta takes place at Southern Exchange Ballrooms, located at 200 Peachtree St. To learn more and purchase tickets.
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President Donald Trump posted on social media on Wednesday, July 16 that the Coca-Cola Corp. has agreed to use real cane sugar in its U.S. products. Coke has not acknowledged whether that is the case or not, but it presents an interesting development.
The Trump Administration has made a major push to improve the health of Americans by taking aim at sugar and other high-calorie staples in the U.S. diet.
While the Atlanta-based Fortune 500 company has not released any details on Trump’s message, if true, the change would be a significant development.
Coca-Cola and High Fructose Corn Syrup: A History
AI illustration via Playhouse Media
The Coca-Cola Company began using high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in its U.S. products in the late 1970s.
It started with a partial transition in 1980, blending HFCS with sugar (sucrose) for up to 50% of the sweetener in its flagship Coca-Cola beverage and other non-cola drinks like Sprite, Mr. Pibb, and Fanta.
By 1984, the company had fully switched to 100% HFCS for its U.S. market beverages, including Coca-Cola Classic, driven by economic factors such as high sugar prices due to U.S. trade restrictions and tariffs, as well as subsidies making corn cheaper. Therefore, Coca-Cola has been using HFCS in its U.S. products for approximately 45 years.
Top 10 Coke Products And Their Sweeteners
Here is a table listing 10 popular Coca-Cola products in the United States, their primary sweetener(s), and the approximate date when the sweetener began being used in the U.S. market.
Product Sweetener Date Began Using Sweetener (U.S.) Coca-Cola (Classic) High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1980 (partial); 1984 (full) Diet Coke Aspartame 1983 Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium 2005 Sprite High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1980 (partial); 1984 (full) Fanta Orange High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1980 (partial); 1984 (full) Minute Maid Lemonade High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1960 (acquisition, HFCS later) Powerade (Fruit Punch) High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1990s (exact date unclear) Dasani (flavored waters) Sucralose (some variants) 1999 (introduction, sucralose later) Barq’s Root Beer High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1990s (post-acquisition) Coca-Cola Cherry High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) 1985 (introduction, HFCS standard) Coke And Sugar
- Coca-Cola (Classic): Transitioned to HFCS starting in 1980, with full replacement of cane sugar by 1984 due to economic factors like sugar tariffs and corn subsidies.
- Diet Coke: Uses aspartame as its primary sweetener since its U.S. launch in 1982, with early blends including saccharin until 1983 when aspartame became the sole sweetener.
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar: Introduced in 2005 with aspartame and acesulfame potassium to mimic the taste of regular Coca-Cola without sugar.
- Sprite and Fanta Orange: Like Coca-Cola Classic, these non-cola beverages shifted to HFCS in the early 1980s, aligning with the company’s broader sweetener change.
- Minute Maid Lemonade: Acquired in 1960, it adopted HFCS as the standard sweetener for most U.S. juice products by the 1980s, though exact dates are less documented.
- Powerade: Launched in the late 1980s, it uses HFCS, consistent with industry trends for sports drinks in the U.S. during the 1990s.
- Dasani (flavored variants): Introduced in 1999, some flavored versions use sucralose, a zero-calorie artificial sweetener, starting in the early 2000s.
- Barq’s Root Beer: Acquired in 1995, it uses HFCS, standard for Coca-Cola’s U.S. soft drinks post-1980s.
- Coca-Cola Cherry: Launched in 1985, it adopted HFCS as the standard sweetener, consistent with other Coca-Cola products at the time.
- General Note: The shift to HFCS in the U.S. was driven by economic factors, including high sugar tariffs and corn subsidies, making HFCS cheaper. Some products, like Mexican Coca-Cola, use cane sugar but are not standard in the U.S. market.
Final Word
Coca-Cola has not officially confirmed this claim or provided a specific timeline for the transition. Analysts suggest the company might start with limited regional rollouts or specialty offerings, similar to the cane sugar-sweetened “Mexican Coke” already available in the U.S., but no exact date for a nationwide switch has been established.
The lack of an official statement from Coca-Cola leaves the timeline uncertain, and the transition could depend on supply chain adjustments and cost considerations, especially given potential tariff impacts on cane sugar imports.
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Beyoncé’s unreleased music, tour plans, and other materials were stolen from a car belonging to her choreographer and a dancer in Atlanta, just before her Cowboy Carter tour performances there.
What Was Stolen From Beyonce?
The thieves stole the following items, according to media reports from Atlanta PD:
- Two suitcases containing hard drives with unreleased, watermarked music
- Show footage
- Performance plans
- Past and future set lists.
- Laptops
- Designer sunglasses
- AirPods Max headphones
- Luxury clothing
The Atlanta Police Department’s Larceny from Auto Unit is investigating, and an arrest warrant has been issued for a suspect driving a red 2025 Hyundai Elantra with a Georgia license plate, though the suspect remains at large, and the stolen items have not been recovered.
Beyoncé completed her four-night Atlanta tour stop at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 14, with no reported impact on the performances. Jay Z performed as well for the second night in a row.
An arrest warrant has been issued for a suspect involved in the theft, as reported by WSB-TV’s Michael Seiden.
- The stolen items included jump drives with unreleased, watermarked Beyoncé music, footage plans, past and future set lists, laptops, designer sunglasses, clothes, and Apple AirPods Max headphones.
- The incident occurred in a parking deck near Krog Street Market, highlighting security concerns for high-profile events in urban areas.
- This theft is part of a broader context of security risks associated with major entertainment tours, as evidenced by previous warnings about ticket scams for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour.
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Salmon is one of those dishes that gives you a hearty and satisfying experience every time. It’s hard to find salmon cooked just right — fresh, juicy and oozing with flavor. You might wonder where in Atlanta might you find such a salmon?
These Restaurants Have the Best Salmon in Atlanta
We’ve researched far and wide across Georgia’s largest city to compile a list of Atlanta restaurants with the best salmon on the menu. Take a bite.
Atlanta Fish Market
265 Pharr Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 262-3165
Here’s what one reviewer says about Atlanta Fish Market: “We recently dined at Atlanta Fish Market, and it was a fantastic experience! Our waiter Alex, was incredibly knowledgeable and provided excellent recommendations. The salmon was tender and the sauce added a rich, delightful touch. Great food, service, and atmosphere we sat in the back which was cooler and less crowed—we’ll definitely be back!”
McCormick & Schmicks Seafood & Steaks
190 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta, Ga. 30303
Here’s what one customer says about McCormick & Schmick’s : “Food was Amazing! The crab cake app was so flavorful. The Salmon with Farro risotto was delicious and so was the Sea Bass!!! The sourdough bread was a bit too hard and drinks were average.”
Seasons 52
90 Perimeter Center W, Dunwoody, GA 30346 | (770) 671-0052
Here’s what one customer says about Seasons 52. “Great Restaurant, loved the no fried foods concept. Everything we ate was well seasoned and enjoyable: Cedar Plank Salmon and the Wood-Grilled boneless Rainbow Trout. The vegetables were paired well and a good portion size. We shared the street corn, and both ordered a drink; Hawaiian Pineapple Cosmo & Peach Riesling Mule, which the server shared was under 100 calories.”
Catch 12
400 W Peachtree St NW #12, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 418-1250
Here’s what one guest says about Catch 12, which is located in Twelve hotel: “The food was beyond delicious. I had the Alaskan salmon with sweet potatoes. Flavor on top of flavor. I topped it off with a GA peach long island. The meal was tasty. I’ll be back for sure!”
The Optimist
914 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 | 404) 477-6260
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Optimist. “Fantastic restaurant! We went there for our 23rd anniversary, and everything was exceptional. From the hostess to the busboy, everyone warmly wished us a happy anniversary. They even brought us complimentary wine to celebrate.
“Our server, Autumn, was absolutely wonderful—if you can, definitely ask for her. She had a fantastic personality, gave spot-on recommendations, and truly made our dinner feel special.”
Ray’s on the River
6700 Powers Ferry Rd NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30339 | (770) 955-1187
Here’s what one diner says about Ray’s on the River. “The honey glazed salmon was top tier and I really enjoyed the service of Aaron. I’ll definitely be back!”
Final Word
Salmon is one thing, but if you want to check out some other food spots in the area, read guide on the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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