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ATLANTA — A popular local coffee chain is under fire after painting over a prominent mural of the late WSB-TV Channel 2 anchor and reporter Jovita Moore at its new Grant Park location.
The decision has sparked widespread outrage on social media, highlighting tensions around community memory, gentrification, and public art in Atlanta.
Atlanta Coffee Shop Faces Backlash for Painting Over Jovita Moore Mural
The mural, located on the side of the building at 568 Boulevard SE that now houses Bellwood Coffee, was created shortly after Moore’s death in 2021.
She had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, just seven months earlier. Moore joined Channel 2 in 1998 and became a beloved figure in Atlanta for her journalism and community presence.
Neighbors and residents noticed the mural’s removal after the coffee shop’s buildout, which included new windows that significantly altered the wall.
Social media quickly filled with disappointment and anger, with many viewing the act as disrespectful to Moore’s legacy and emblematic of broader changes in the neighborhood.
Bellwood Coffee initially addressed the issue on social media, acknowledging they knew Moore’s story but underestimated the mural’s deep significance to the Atlanta community. “Unfortunately, the windows in our buildout cut into the mural significantly,” the company posted.
In a follow-up Instagram statement, the owners issued a fuller apology: “The truth is, the reasons aren’t good enough. We made a mistake and acted without enough consideration… We want to make this right by commissioning another mural. We want to be better, to listen well to our community, and to slow down before making impactful decisions.”
The company has pledged to commission a new mural and seek community input, aiming to rebuild trust after the incident.
Context and Community Reaction
Jovita Moore was more than a news anchor—she was a local icon whose battle with cancer inspired the #JovitaStrong campaign, which included public displays of support across the city.
Murals like hers play a key role in Atlanta’s vibrant street art scene, with the city now boasting over 2,000 such works that honor icons, commemorate losses, and shape neighborhood identities.
The backlash reflects sensitivities in areas like Grant Park, where new businesses can sometimes clash with longstanding community symbols. Comments online ranged from calls for boycotts to expressions of sadness over the loss of a visible tribute.
Bellwood Coffee, which has operated in Atlanta for seven years with a focus on community-building, now finds itself in a position to demonstrate that commitment through action.
Many in the community say they will be watching to see how the replacement mural develops and whether it appropriately honors Moore’s memory.
As of this writing, the coffee shop remains open, and discussions continue on local forums. This episode serves as a reminder of the power of public art in preserving cultural memory in a rapidly evolving city.
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In a heartwarming display of family bonds and sisterhood, Angelina Jolie joined her eldest daughter, Zahara Jolie, at a special Mother-Daughter Luncheon hosted by the Pearls of Purpose Foundation and the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc.
The elegant event took place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia.
Zahara, 21, a graduating senior at the prestigious historically Black college for women, is a psychology major (with a minor in educational studies) and an active member of Spelman’s Mu Pi Chapter of AKA, where she serves as vice president.
The luncheon, held ahead of Mother’s Day, celebrated the powerful connections between mothers and daughters within the sorority community.
Heartfelt Speeches Highlight a ‘Kindred’ Bond
The event featured touching tributes, with Zahara taking the stage to speak on the value of mother-daughter relationships. Her words resonated deeply with attendees.
“When asked to speak with you all today on the value of mother-daughter relationships, it felt challenging to find the words,” Zahara shared. “Not challenging because I don’t value it, but because my mom and I have a unique, almost kindred relationship that can be hard to put into words.”
She continued by praising her mother’s influence: “I’m a strong woman because a strong woman raised me,” and described Angelina as the “most selfless” person and her role model. Zahara concluded with a simple, emotional “Thank you, Mom.”
Angelina Jolie, 50, also addressed the gathering, reflecting on her pride in Zahara’s growth and their shared journey. The pair’s appearances at such events remain relatively rare, making this a particularly special public moment for the family.
Sisterhood and Style in Full Bloom
The luncheon brought together other notable mother-daughter pairs, including Real Housewives of Potomac star Gizelle Bryant and her daughter Angel, 19, who is also a Spelman student and AKA member. Gizelle shared a joyful photo on Instagram Stories featuring both families, captioning it “Mother Daughter Magic.”
Fashion-wise, the duo embraced a soft spring palette perfect for the occasion. Angelina opted for a sleek, elegant cream gown, while Zahara wore a soft floral dress, creating a polished and coordinated look amid the garden-party setting.
The event underscored themes of legacy, intention, and empowerment—core values of AKA and Spelman College. For Zahara, it highlighted not only her academic and sorority achievements but also the strong foundation built by her mother, who adopted her as a baby from Ethiopia in 2005.
This mother-daughter milestone celebrates more than celebrity glamour; it reflects personal growth, cultural pride, and the enduring impact of mentorship and love.
As Zahara prepares to graduate, moments like these remind us of the quiet strength in family ties and the power of community.
The luncheon stands as a beautiful tribute to the special bond that continues to inspire both on and off the Spelman campus.
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In a move that sent shockwaves through the travel industry, Spirit Airlines announced on May 2, 2026, that it has begun an orderly wind-down of its global operations, effective immediately.
The ultra-low-cost carrier, known for its bright yellow planes, no-frills service, and rock-bottom fares, is ceasing flights after more than three decades in the skies.
Spirit Airlines Ends Operations After 34 Years
The announcement came via the airline’s official social media account, marking a somber farewell for one of America’s most polarizing aviation brands.
“It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has started winding down its global operations, effective immediately. All flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available. While we are not able to help rebook your flight on another airline, we will automatically process refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit with a credit or debit card to the original form of payment. We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry for the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come.”
This statement, shared alongside a formal notice, underscores the airline’s inability to continue amid ongoing financial pressures. Reports indicate that a potential $500 million rescue deal with the U.S. government fell through, leaving the carrier with few options as fuel costs and operational challenges mounted.
A Disruptor in the Skies
Founded in the early 1990s, Spirit Airlines revolutionized budget travel by pioneering the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) model in the U.S. Passengers could fly for a fraction of traditional fares—but at the cost of add-on fees for everything from carry-on bags to seat selection.
The approach made air travel accessible to millions who might otherwise have driven or skipped trips altogether, particularly to destinations in Florida, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Spirit’s bright yellow livery and cheeky marketing earned it a cult following, even as it became a punchline for chaotic onboard experiences, viral passenger incidents, and customer service complaints. For budget-conscious travelers, it was a lifeline. For others, it was “Altima Airlines”—a flying embodiment of bare-bones service.
The airline employed thousands and operated hundreds of routes. Its presence forced legacy carriers to rethink pricing, contributing to lower fares industry-wide. Yet, persistent challenges—including the failed merger with JetBlue, high fuel prices, and post-pandemic recovery struggles—ultimately proved insurmountable.
Reactions Pour In
Social media erupted with a mix of nostalgia, memes, and tributes. Many shared stories of affordable family visits, spring break getaways, and memorable (if uncomfortable) flights.
Others expressed relief at the end of an era marked by delays and fees. Employees face uncertain futures, while frequent flyers worry about rising prices as budget options shrink.
One passenger reflected the bittersweet sentiment shared by many: the airline enabled exploration and connection despite its quirks.
What’s Next for Travelers?
Spirit passengers with upcoming flights should check refund status automatically processed to original payment methods. The airline directed customers to a restructuring website for more details. Travelers are advised not to head to the airport, as all operations have halted.
The void left by Spirit could mean higher fares on affected routes, particularly in leisure markets. Competitors like Frontier, Allegiant, and larger carriers may absorb some demand, but the loss of a major ULCC is expected to reduce overall capacity and affordability in the short term.
Spirit’s departure highlights the brutal economics of modern aviation: even disruptive innovators can fall victim to rising costs, thin margins, and shifting market conditions.
For 34 years, the “yellow planes” made flying more democratic. But there are other budget airlines. Though the journey ends here, the impact on the industry—and the memories of millions of passengers—will linger.
Farewell, Spirit. The skies won’t be quite as… spirited without you.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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After 15 years of drama, chart-topping hits, breakout stars, and cultural impact, the Love & Hip Hop franchise is officially coming to a close.
VH1 revealed on May 1, 2026, that the long-running reality series will wrap up with a six-part limited event series titled Love & Hip Hop: The Final Chapter, set to premiere on VH1 this Fall 2026.
MTV Announces Love & Hip Hop End Date
The announcement marks the end of the story lines for Little Scrappy, Big Momma, Kirk and Rasheeda and one of television’s most influential and polarizing reality franchises, which launched in 2011 with its original New York edition and expanded into multiple cities, including Atlanta, Miami, and Hollywood.
Known for its unfiltered look at the lives of aspiring and established hip-hop artists, their romantic entanglements, and industry struggles, Love & Hip Hop became a staple of VH1’s programming and a major platform for stars like Cardi B, who rose to global fame partly through her appearances.
A Reflective Send-Off: Love & Hip Hop: The Final Chapter
According to the official announcement, Love & Hip Hop: The Final Chapter will serve as a retrospective celebration of the franchise’s legacy.
The series is expected to feature interviews with cast members from across the various cities, executive producers, and cultural critics. It will revisit iconic moments, address controversies, examine the show’s influence on hip-hop culture and reality television, and reflect on its broader societal impact.
Produced by Antoinette Media, the limited series has Mona Scott-Young (via Monami Productions) and Lashan Browning (alongside Donna Edge-Rachell, Alissa Horowitz, and Daniel Wiener) as executive producers.
Current Seasons Continue
While the franchise is winding down, fans can still enjoy ongoing drama. Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta continues airing on Tuesdays at 8/7c on MTV, and Love & Hip Hop: Miami airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on BET.
Fan and Industry Reactions
Social media has been buzzing since the announcement, with many longtime viewers expressing nostalgia and excitement for the final look back. Hashtags like #LoveAndHipHop and #TheFinalChapter quickly trended as fans shared favorite moments and debated the franchise’s complicated legacy — from empowering storylines to its fair share of criticism over portrayals of relationships and Black culture.
This six-part event promises to deliver both closure and fresh insight into a show that undeniably left its mark on unscripted television for a decade and a half.
Stay tuned for more details on the cast, specific premiere date, and what surprises The Final Chapter may hold as Fall 2026 approaches.
The era of Love & Hip Hop may be ending, but its influence on reality TV and hip-hop culture will likely endure.
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In the latest development in the high-profile and contentious divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Kim Zolciak and her estranged husband, former NFL player Kroy Biermann, a Georgia judge has ordered a temporary change in custody arrangements for their four minor children.
According to court documents, Zolciak, 47, must complete four sessions of parent therapy before regaining physical custody.
Until then, the children — Kroy Jagger “KJ” Jr. (14), Kash Kade (13), and 12-year-old twins Kaia Rose and Kane Ren — are to remain in Biermann’s physical custody.
Kim Zolciak Divorce Battle Leads To Loss of Custody
The order took effect after school on Friday, April 3, 2026, with the earliest possible resumption of Zolciak’s parenting time set for April 13, 2026, once the therapy requirement is met.
Background of the Custody Dispute
The couple, who share four children together, has been embroiled in a messy divorce for several years, marked by financial troubles, public disputes, and repeated legal filings.
In late March 2026, Biermann, 40, filed for sole custody and decision-making authority, alleging that Zolciak had been “wholly unavailable” to the children. He claimed she missed parenting time, therapy sessions, and had even been out of the country for extended periods.
The temporary order stems from an agreement signed by both parties at the end of January 2026, which required each parent to participate in counseling sessions — two per month for the first two months, then one per month thereafter — as part of their parenting plan.
Zolciak later addressed the situation directly on her Instagram Stories, pushing back against headlines suggesting she had permanently “lost custody.” She clarified that she had signed a temporary custody order and emphasized there had been “no modification to the custody arrangement outside the agreed-upon temporary order.”
“I signed a temporary custody order at the end of January,” she wrote. “The order clearly states that both the mother and father are to participate in two counseling sessions per month for two months, followed by one session per month thereafter.”
She noted that work obligations in February and March made it difficult to attend the required sessions but stated her counseling was scheduled and would be completed soon.
At the time, she also mentioned having some of the children with her recently, while Kroy had them for spring break under the existing plan.
Court Ruling and Next Steps
A Cobb County Superior Court judge approved the temporary parenting plan, stipulating that the children would stay with Biermann until Zolciak completes the four parent therapy sessions. Once fulfilled, the parties are expected to resume the previously court-ordered parenting plan, which remains in effect unless further modified by the court.22
Zolciak has maintained that she has not lost custody overall and that the arrangement is temporary and consensual in nature, tied specifically to completing the therapy. Biermann, meanwhile, has continued to seek primary (or sole) custody on a more permanent basis, citing concerns about Zolciak’s availability and adherence to the parenting plan.
Ongoing Divorce Drama
The custody battle is just one chapter in what has been a prolonged and public split.
The pair’s divorce has involved significant financial issues, including reported debts, property disputes, and multiple court appearances. Both have previously filed for divorce and reconciled at times, but the proceedings appear to have intensified in recent months.
As of early April 2026, the situation remained fluid. Zolciak indicated she planned to resume her parenting time once the children returned from spring break and her therapy sessions were done. The court’s emphasis on parent therapy appears aimed at improving co-parenting dynamics amid the acrimony.
This case highlights the challenges many high-profile couples face when separating, where child custody decisions often hinge on compliance with court-ordered counseling, demonstrated stability, and the best interests of the children. Updates are expected as Zolciak completes the required sessions and the broader divorce proceedings continue.
Note: Divorce and custody matters can evolve rapidly. The information reflects reports available as of early April 2026.
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The Georgia Forestry Commission has officially determined the cause of the massive Highway 82 Fire burning in Brantley County.
What Is the Cause of the Georgia Wildfire?
Georgia fire officials say that a Mylar balloon that drifted into a power line, creating an electrical arc that ignited dry vegetation below.
In a statement posted Friday, the agency addressed public questions about the fire’s origin, noting that a thorough investigation uncovered clear evidence of the balloon’s role. “While this may sound unusual, it is a well-documented type of ignition that has occurred in other areas of the country and conditions,” the commission wrote.
Update: New Blazes Popping Up Amid Georgia Wildfires
The Highway 82 Fire erupted on April 20, 2026, amid severe drought conditions across South Georgia.
It has since exploded in size, scorching more than 22,000 acres and reaching only about 32% containment as of the latest updates. The blaze has destroyed dozens of homes—reports range from 80 to more than 120 structures lost—and forced evacuations in communities including Atkinson and Waynesville.
Governor Brian Kemp first publicly referenced the balloon theory during an April 24 site visit and news conference, describing how the metallic, party-style balloon contacted the power line and sparked the blaze.
Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo confirmed at the time that it was the type of aluminum-coated Mylar balloon commonly seen at children’s celebrations.
The commission’s latest statement emphasizes that the investigation remains active while the fire continues to burn. For that reason, investigators are not yet releasing photos or other materials from the scene.
Officials are working over the weekend and are instead urging the public to recognize that everyday items can become dangerous wildfire starters under the right (or wrong) conditions.
Mylar balloons are particularly risky near power infrastructure because their metallic coating conducts electricity.
When one makes contact with a live line, it can create an arc or short circuit hot enough to ignite surrounding grass, brush, or pine needles—especially in drought-stressed areas like coastal Georgia this spring.
Watch this video that references the origin of how the Highway 82/Brantley Fire started:
The agency’s message is clear: wildfire prevention starts with awareness. “Understanding wildfire causes is an important part of prevention,” the statement concludes. “Our focus remains on supporting the ongoing response and protecting communities.”
The Highway 82 Fire is one of two major wildfires currently challenging crews in southeast Georgia. The nearby Pineland Road Fire has burned more than 32,000 acres and remains only 23% contained.
Both fires continue to threaten homes, infrastructure, and timberland under hot, dry, and windy conditions.
Firefighters, supported by state and federal resources, are working around the clock to build containment lines and protect lives and property.
Officials continue to warn residents to avoid any activities that could spark new fires, noting that even a single ember can divert critical resources from the main blazes.
The unusual cause of the Highway 82 Fire serves as a stark reminder that wildfire ignition sources extend far beyond the traditional culprits of lightning, campfires, or discarded cigarettes. A drifting party balloon, under the wrong circumstances, proved devastating.
As containment efforts progress, the Georgia Forestry Commission says it will provide further updates on the investigation once the fire is no longer an immediate threat.
For now, the priority remains clear: fighting fire, protecting forests, and serving Georgia.
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In a dramatic turn for one of America’s most recognizable ultra-low-cost carriers, Spirit Airlines remains in operation today but faces mounting pressure that could force a full liquidation within weeks.
The Florida-based airline, often jokingly misremembered or autocorrected as “Sprite Airlines” in casual online chatter, has been fighting for survival after two Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings in less than a year.
With a potential government-backed rescue package now stalled and an interest payment missed, the carrier’s future hangs in the balance.8
Spirit Airlines: Teeters: A Long Road of Financial Turbulence
Spirit Airlines launched in 1992 (originally as Charter One) and grew into the largest ultra-low-cost carrier in North America, known for rock-bottom fares, a young Airbus fleet, and a no-frills model that charged extra for nearly everything.
By 2023 it was the seventh-largest U.S. passenger airline. But aggressive expansion, the failed 2024 merger attempt with Frontier, and repeated economic headwinds proved too much.
The airline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024, restructured, and briefly emerged in March 2025—only to file again in August 2025.
restructuring support agreement signed in late February 2026 had aimed for an “early summer” exit from bankruptcy by shrinking the fleet, focusing on high-performing routes, and adding some premium options. That plan is now in serious jeopardy.
Spirit Airlines Liquidation: Fuel Shock, Creditor Gridlock, and a Stalled Bailout
Skyrocketing jet fuel prices—fueled by geopolitical tensions including the ongoing conflict involving Iran—have accelerated Spirit’s cash burn. In mid-April, multiple outlets reported the airline could liquidate assets “as early as this week.” Spirit quietly reached out to the Trump administration for emergency aid, including a proposed $500 million loan or bailout package that would have included government equity participation.
As of April 29–30, a critical bankruptcy court hearing was postponed after lenders (including major creditors such as Citadel, Ares Management, and Cyrus Capital) blocked key terms.
Spirit has not filed the necessary motion to access new financing, and the airline recently missed an interest payment that could trigger further defaults. Liquidity is reportedly down to days or weeks, with roughly $250 million in cash currently inaccessible due to creditor liens.
A May 1 update confirms: Spirit planes are still flying, new bookings are being accepted, and no immediate shutdown has been announced. However, industry analysts warn that without a last-minute creditor deal or court intervention, liquidation remains a distinct possibility by late May.
What Shutdown Would Mean
A full liquidation would be rare for a major U.S. airline but not unprecedented. It would eliminate more than 17,000 jobs (including pilots, flight attendants, and ground staff) and trigger billions in creditor claims
Dozens of airports—especially secondary hubs in the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America—would lose low-fare service, forcing passengers onto higher-priced competitors.
Travel experts urge anyone with Spirit tickets to have a backup plan. If the airline ceases operations:
- Tickets may become worthless, though the U.S. Department of Transportation typically requires refunds or rebooking assistance in such cases.
- Passengers are advised to rebook on other carriers now while seats remain available at reasonable rates.
- Credit-card travel insurance or trip-protection plans may offer reimbursement.
Spirit itself has not issued a public statement confirming imminent closure and continues to operate its full schedule as of this writing.
The Bigger Picture for Ultra-Low-Cost Travel
Spirit’s potential exit would shrink capacity in the ultra-low-cost segment, likely driving up fares industry-wide in the short term. Competitors such as Frontier, Allegiant, and Breeze could absorb some routes, but the loss of Spirit’s aggressive pricing model would be felt by budget travelers nationwide.
Whether Spirit receives a last-minute lifeline, finds new private financing, or ultimately liquidates, the coming days will be decisive. For now, the yellow-and-black planes keep flying—but the runway ahead is shorter than ever. Traveler
and employees alike are watching closely as negotiations continue behind closed doors.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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ATLANTA — Delta Air Lines announced Friday that it will give more than 80,000 employees a 4% pay increase starting June 1. The raise does not apply to pilots or dispatchers.
In a memo to staff, CEO Ed Bastian credited the increase to the employees’ strong performance and the airline’s solid financial position.
Delta Pay Raises Coming in June
“This raise is possible thanks to your solid performance and Delta’s strong foundation,” Bastian wrote.
A company spokesperson noted that 2026 marks the fifth consecutive year of pay increases for eligible employees.
Read: Spirit Airlines speaks out as operations cease
Delta, Georgia’s largest private employer, has been generous with its workforce recently. Earlier this year, the airline shared $1.3 billion in 2025 profits with employees — the equivalent of about four weeks of extra pay. Bastian said the company expects to invest roughly $18 billion in its people this year.
“Thank you for everything you do to keep safety first and care for each other and our customers,” he added.
The move reflects Delta’s ongoing efforts to reward its workforce amid strong financial performance.
Want to work for Delta? Read our in-depth guide on how to get a job with Delta Air Lines.
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My goal is to try all the new Atlanta restaurants this year. Georgia’s largest city has new places to eat opening all the time. There are several highly anticipated restaurants that have slated to open in early 2026.
I’ve compiled a list of the best new Atlanta restaurants that grows regularly and you should send me ones I miss.
Check out these top Atlanta restaurant openings that are serving or are planning to serve customers soon.
What New Atlanta Restaurants Are Opening in Early 2026?
This article will explore some of the best new eateries that have opened recently and what’s on the menu, including any favorites you should order.
Việtvana Pho Noodle House
In October, Việtvana Phở Noodle House will open in Lenox Square across from Sweetgreen, transforming the space into a vibrant, open-kitchen concept that captures the energy of Vietnam’s bustling street-side eateries.
So. Fox
So. Fox, from chef Myles Moody and sommelier Rachael Pack of Kinship Butcher & Sundry, is set to open in early May 2026 at 1017 N. Highland Ave. NE — right next door to their popular butcher shop, cafe, and market. Read more.
Koshu Club
Koshu Club, a grill-focused restaurant from the team behind the acclaimed Michelin-starred Mujō, is opening soon.
The 46-seat venue will specialize in binchōtan charcoal grilling, highlighting premium seafood, meats, and vegetables prepared over the traditional white charcoal known for its clean, high-heat burn and subtle aroma.
Heritage
Summerhill, at 63 Georgia Avenue
From chef Demetrius Brown (of Bread & Butterfly and the Heritage Supper Club pop-up). This will be a permanent brick-and-mortar spot focusing on African, Caribbean, and Afro-American diaspora cuisine, with elements like a cocktail lounge, multi-course tasting menu (e.g., jerk chicken yakitori, braised oxtail, cassava cake), and dessert area. Read up on Heritage Supper Club’s opening.
Multiple reports describe it as a “full-body experience” tied to cultural storytelling. The team has expressed hope for an April opening.
Some Luck
Some Luck (Poncey-Highland, in the former Highland Ballroom Lounge space adjacent to Madeira Park)
From chefs Parnass Savang and Rod Lassiter (of Talat Market).A Thai-focused bar with street-stall-inspired snacks, noodle soups, wings, grilled items, quick-fired cocktails using Thai ingredients, Singha beer pitchers, and late-night bites.
It aims for a dive-bar vibe with post-midnight hours. Targeted for spring 2026, with some national previews noting an April window.
Que Delicia
Que Delicia, a vibrant new Puerto Rican restaurant, is officially openied its doors March 17, 2026, in Peachtree City—bringing authentic island flavors to the southern suburbs just outside Atlanta.
Que-Riosity
1931 Jonesboro Rd, McDonough
Atlanta’s culinary scene just got a whole lot smokier—and more sophisticated—with the grand opening of Que-Riosity, the latest venture from acclaimed chef and Atlanta icon Todd Richards.
The highly anticipated restaurant debuted on March 13, bringing Richards’ signature blend of Southern tradition, modern flair, and legendary hospitality to the fast-growing suburb just south of Atlanta.
The Busy Bee (Third Location)
Owner Tracy Gates inked a deal to expand The Busy Bee at The Mitchell residential development at Centennial Yards. The eatery is set to open later this year. Read about the third Busy Bee opening.
Norifish and Okiboru (Ponce City Market)
Photo credit: JETPVCK Media Ponce City Market says two Japanese eateries will open in spring 2026: NoriFish, a premium sushi concept, and Okiboru, a beloved ramen spot. Read about Norifish and Okiboru.
Babygirl (East Lake)
An all-day café and bistro from chef Hudson Rouse (Whoopsie’s, Rising Son), Babygirl in East Lake will focus on lighter breakfast and lunch items like smoothies, salads, and limited biscuits.
Sugar Loaf (Reynoldstown)
Southern-inspired with global influences (Ethiopian and Albanian heritage), featuring biscuits, granola, yogurt bowls, and toasts.
Sammy’s Boba & Coffee
Sammy’s boba shop is targeting mid-January to late January, with the buildout in final stages and awaiting final inspections.
Busy Bee Cafe (second location)
Photo credit: Busy Bee Cafe The iconic soul food spot known for its fried chicken is expanding to Atlantic Station. Read up on when Busy Bee is opening.
Koshu Club
From Castellucci Hospitality Group and chef J. Trent Harris (of Mujo), this Japanese supper club featuring slow-grilled meats and seasonal dishes is coming to Buckhead.
Broad Street BBQ
A new barbecue concept from the team behind Sammy’s sandwich shop, opening in South Downtown.
Sozou
A Japanese restaurant from the chef behind Umi, completing a trio of concepts in Midtown’s Ten Twenty building.
Bellwood Coffee (relocated location)
The coffee shop is moving its East Atlanta Village spot to a new home in Grant Park, taking over the former Bennett’s Market space.
Mule Train
A Southern restaurant emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients, from Michael and Shyretha Sheats , the creators of The Plate Sale pop-up, in South Downtown.
Seahorse Advisors
A potential members-only sushi spot from the team behind Muss & Turner’s and Roshambo, in the Borghese building.
The Jagger Suite
A rooftop lounge atop the new Moxy Hotel in Downtown Atlanta.
Other spots like Shake Shack in South Downtown and various concepts in Ponce City Market (e.g., Terminal 26 Thai seafood) are also eyed for 2026 openings, though some may lean later in the year.
Final Bite
If you’re a fan of crab cakes or even fried fish, Atlanta’s diverse dining scene has just what you need and more. And you can find a new food spot just about every weekend in Atlanta.
New Atlanta restaurants continue to pop up around Atlanta. The good news is that this has been a banner month for buzzworthy debuts, with a mix of Michelin-caliber spots, casual gems, and neighborhood glow-ups.
Aside from dining at the best new Atlanta restaurants, there are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
Ultimate Guide: Where To Eat In Atlanta
Midtown’s pedestrian-friendly streets, centered around Peachtree Street and 10th Street, make it easy to hop between eateries, bars, and cafes. It’s a social hub where locals and visitors mingle, enhanced by proximity to cultural spots like the Fox Theatre and High Museum of Art.
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Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland neighborhood is gaining another standout from one of its most dynamic hospitality duos. So. Fox is the latest new Atlanta restaurant.
So. Fox, from chef Myles Moody and sommelier Rachael Pack of Kinship Butcher & Sundry, is set to open in early May 2026 at 1017 N. Highland Ave. NE — right next door to their popular butcher shop, cafe, and market.
So. Fox Opening in Virginia-Highland in Atlanta
The name “So. Fox” nods to the Southern Fox grape (also known as the muscadine or scuppernong), an indigenous Southeastern varietal. This choice reflects the restaurant’s deep roots in local ingredients, seasonality, and a sense of place.
Moody and Pack aim to create a convivial neighborhood spot that feels welcoming and community-oriented — a place for early reservations, last-minute walk-ins, and gathering around thoughtful plates and glasses.
Pack and Moody bring impressive pedigrees. They met while working at the two-Michelin-starred Aska in New York and have experience at icons like Eleven Madison Park and Blue Hill at Stone Barns.
Their fine-dining background informs So. Fox, though Moody hesitates to label it strictly as such. Instead, it offers an “elevated, smaller-format, à la carte menu” that prioritizes technique, precision, and hyper-local sourcing.
Menu and Wine Program Highlights
Expect a tight, rotating selection of about 14–16 dishes that changes every two weeks, with daily micro-adjustments based on the freshest available produce, proteins, and pantry items from local farms and purveyors.
The focus leans toward fermentation techniques, composed plates, and showcasing quality ingredients without unnecessary fuss.
Early menu teases include:
- Snacks like Georgia olives, Gulf oysters, and warm olives seasoned in beef fat or house-fermented pickled vegetables.
- Entrees such as cobia cooked over pecan shells with charred fermented cabbage and preserved flowering dill sauce.
The beverage program shines under Pack’s direction, featuring a curated natural wine list with organic, biodynamic, and thoughtfully selected bottles. It pairs seamlessly with the food, alongside non-alcoholic options for broader appeal. The vibe emphasizes knowledgeable yet approachable service.
Design and Atmosphere
So. Fox will seat around 50 guests in an intimate, light-filled space.
Renderings show a bright, wood-toned dining room with ample natural light, evoking warmth and approachability. The building adds historical charm: it originally served as a Standard Oil filling station nearly a century ago before becoming a service station and later Farm Burger (which closed in late 2025).
Building owner Lynn Dewitt highlighted its long role in serving the Virginia-Highland community.
The restaurant positions itself as a neighborhood hub — elevated but unpretentious, ideal for date nights, casual gatherings, or solo glasses of wine at the bar.
Context in Atlanta’s Scene and Kinship Expansion
So. Fox arrives as Moody and Pack expand their footprint. They are also opening a second Kinship location in Grant Park later in 2026, featuring an expanded butcher shop, seafood program, market, and cafe. Their sold-out k|n fine-dining pop-ups have already built excitement for their more polished style.
In a city buzzing with new openings, So. Fox stands out for its focus on seasonality, sustainability, and hospitality rooted in high-end training but tailored for everyday enjoyment. It fits Virginia-Highland’s blend of historic charm and modern energy.
As it prepares for its May debut, So. Fox promises to become a go-to for Atlantans seeking ingredient-driven cooking and thoughtful wines in a relaxed setting. Keep an eye on their Instagram (@so.fox.atl) for updates, reservations, and previews.95
Welcome to the neighborhood, So. Fox — Atlanta is ready for you.
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