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Restaurant chain Red Lobster continues to hemorrhage money due to several bad financial decisions and factors. Now, the restaurant announced that it is set to close 23 more of its locations across the United States.
And yes, the Tara Boulevard location in Jonesboro, Georgia is on the list.
Which Atlanta-Area Red Lobsters Will Stay Open (For Now)?
- 3360 Camp Creek Parkway, Atlanta, Ga. 30344
Why Is Red Lobster in Financial Trouble?
Red Lobster is facing financial trouble due to several factors, including declining customer traffic, inflation, and rising costs for key ingredients like seafood. The chain has struggled to maintain profitability amid higher food and labor costs, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Red Lobster’s mid-range pricing strategy is being squeezed between cheaper fast-food options and higher-end dining experiences. This has made it harder for the brand to attract customers, especially as dining preferences shift and competitors emerge.
Moreover, Red Lobster has faced challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences, including the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable, and diverse dining options. Its traditional menu and dining model may seem outdated to some consumers.
The financial strain has also been impacted by changes in ownership over the years, leading to inconsistent management strategies.
Which Red Lobster Locations Are Closing?
The following Red Lobster locations are set to shut their doors for good:
- Arizona — 1521 S. Yuma Palms Pkwy., Yuma
- Arkansas — 8407 W. Markham St., Little Rock
- California — 8703 Murray Drive, La Mesa
- Colorado — 4925 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs
- Florida — -326 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach
- 5110 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola
- 8909 U.S. Highway 19, Port Richey
- Georgia — 6550 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro
- Illinois — 1604 N. State Road 50, Bourbonnais
- 902 Commons Drive, Geneva
- 4625 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria
- Indiana — 4353 Franklin St., Michigan City
- Minnesota — 8900 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley
- 12515 Elm Creek Blvd. North, Maple Grove
- Missouri — 2381 Maplewood Commons Drive, Maplewood
- New York — 925 Hunts Point Ave., Bronx
- 750 Upper Glen St., Queensbury
- North Carolina — 304 A Western Blvd., Jacksonville
- Ohio —17227 Southpark Center, Strongsville
- South Carolina — 1270 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce
- Virginia –555 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria
- 4415 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond
- 709 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach
What Is the History of Red Lobster?
Red Lobster was founded in 1968 by entrepreneur Bill Darden in Lakeland, Florida. The restaurant began as a single seafood restaurant aimed at making fresh seafood more accessible to middle-class families. It quickly gained popularity due to its affordable prices and high-quality seafood offerings, leading to rapid expansion.
In 1970, the company was acquired by General Mills, which helped fuel further expansion across the United States. By the 1980s, Red Lobster had become a well-known national chain with hundreds of locations, offering signature dishes like cheddar bay biscuits, shrimp scampi, and a variety of seafood platters.
In 1995, General Mills spun off its restaurant holdings, including Red Lobster, to create a new company called Darden Restaurants. Under Darden, Red Lobster continued to grow and remained a cornerstone of the casual dining industry. However, by the 2000s, the brand began experiencing challenges due to changing consumer preferences, economic downturns, and increased competition.
In 2014, Darden decided to sell Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, for $2.1 billion. The sale was part of a broader strategy to refocus on Darden’s other brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Under Golden Gate Capital, Red Lobster went through various management changes and attempts to revitalize the brand, including efforts to modernize its menu and restaurant design.
In 2020, Red Lobster was sold again, this time to a consortium led by Thai Union, a major seafood supplier, alongside other investors. Despite the ownership changes and rebranding efforts, Red Lobster has continued to face financial challenges in recent years, driven by rising costs, competition, and evolving dining trends.
Final Word
When it comes to seafood, Red Lobster has had a footprint in Atlanta for decades — but it’s not the only tuna in town. Check out our Atlanta Seafood Guide.
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One of the key things in you in show business is a winning headshot — and in Atlanta, there are several places to choose from. This article will show you some of the best places to get headshots in Atlanta.
You may be wondering where to get a good headshot for acting, and that’s a good question. But you may be wondering this: Can you take your own headshots for acting?
Can You Take Your Own Headshots For Acting?
if you have a smartphone that takes good photos, you can take your own headshots for acting or other aspects of the business. The question you need to ask yourself is whether you consider yourself a professional photographer.
Professional photographers are highly skilled at taking photos that look high quality. You can try to take headshots yourself, but you may find yourself wasting a lot of time and effort.
Some things you’ll want to make sure of if you do decide to take your own photos is to:
- Take multiple shots
- Make sure your lighting is right
- Take multiple pictures but always smile
What Should You Wear For Headshots?
One thing you always need to consider is how to dress when you take a headshot. Because the photos will be in black and white, you may need to wear dark-colored shirts.
Mix it up a bit by wearing light-colored shirts, including white and other pastel colors.
How Much Does It Cost To Get Headshots?
If you want to opt for a professional photographer for headshots, it’s going to cost money. The cost of some headshots can range between $75 to around $500.
In Atlanta, the average price of some headshots is about $250, although you can get some done for as low as $125, but the quantities will be low.
Now let’s go over some good places to get headshots in Atlanta.
Where To Get Headshots For Acting
- Headshots Atlanta: 1012 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 892-3533
- CK Headshots Atlanta: (704) 608-3006
- Happy Hour Headshot Atlanta: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (720) 306-7404
- Hollywood Headshots: 2849 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 500-6413
- Corporate Headshots Atlanta: 3365 Piedmont Rd NE #1400, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (770) 953-1719
- Buckhead Studio Photography: Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 462-2385
- Atlanta Photographer Kris Janovitz: 3355 Lenox Rd NE #750, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (770) 570-9661
- Robert Kim Photography: 3833 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319 | (212) 645-5788
Do Your Headshots Be Black And White?
Back in the day, most actors only took black and white headshots. The reason was because if you were a struggling actor, it cost money to hire a professional photographer. That’s not so much the case today.
Yes, actors are still struggling, but the rise of smartphones with great cameras has made color headshots a popular option.
If you’re unsure of which way to go, choose both color and black-and-white photos for headshots. That way, you can give producers options.
Last Words
If you want to get into the acting business, you need to have professional headshots so that your credentials can circulate throughout the industry.
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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Atlanta comedian and actor Drew “Druski” Desbordes has signed on as a brand ambassador for PrizePicks, the largest daily fantasy sports operator in North America.
The recent announcement expands on PrizePicks’ relationship with Druski, which began organically through the comedian’s own play with the daily fantasy sports operator.
Thanks to his online skits, Druski, a South Gwinnett High School graduate, is one of the fastest-growing comedic stars with millions of followers.
Druski Strikes Brand Ambassador Deal With PrizePicks
Druski will partner with PrizePicks to develop original online content, co-branded specialty merchandise, national advertising campaigns, and other one-of-a-kind engagements for the daily fantasy sports community.
As part of the partnership, Druski and PrizePicks will collaborate on creating social skits, an original short-form series for YouTube, and a co-branded line of exclusive merchandise.
Additionally, Druski will participate in several events for the PrizePicks community such as the PrizePicks World Championship and social media takeovers on select football Sundays. PrizePicks is also the title sponsor of Druski’s Inaugural Coulda Fest happening in Atlanta at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on September 7th.
“I’m fired up to work with PrizePicks, we’ve done some cool stuff over the years and I’m excited to keep it coming,” Druski said. “Coulda Fest is a celebration of Atlanta’s culture that brings us back to the special times in our city’s history with a night of music and comedy. This concept has never been done before, so I’m looking forward to bringing this vision to life, thanks in part, to the support from PrizePicks.”
Final Word
Atlanta loves Druski and he loves the food.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Toastique, a gourmet toast and juice bar, is set to open in fall 2024, according to the company.
oastique is a gourmet toast and juice bar that focuses on offering healthy, quick, and customizable meals. The restaurant’s menu centers around elevated toast creations made with fresh, high-quality ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, and nut butters.
They also serve a variety of smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and açaí bowls, catering to health-conscious customers seeking flavorful yet nutritious options.
Toastique is popular for its vibrant, Instagram-worthy presentations and its emphasis on wellness, making it a hit among those looking for healthy, on-the-go meals. The concept is casual, with a focus on fast service without sacrificing quality.
The brand positions itself as more upscale than a traditional juice bar but more approachable than a full-service brunch spot.
Where Is Toastique Located in Atlanta?
Toastique is located at 1230 W Peachtree St NE Suite 160. Here is a map to help find it.
Final Bite
Memphis has its barbecue. New Orleans has its gumbo. Atlanta has its lemon pepper wings and much, much more. The largest city in Georgia’s food festivals and culinary events set the tone for the entire Southeast.
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You can’t tell from its exterior, but Jo’s Smokehouse is not your average barbecue joint and food truck.
The new Atlanta restaurant opened August 2, 2024, and is owned by Jonnetta Patton, the mother of musical powerhouse Usher.
Ms. Patton recently held a grand opening for the eatery, which is located in Doraville.
Yes, Usher, as well as his brother Grammy-nominated producer James “JLack” Lackey, we’re on hand to support their mother’s entrepreneurial venture.
“J’s SMOKEHOUSE grand opening,” Ms. Patton shared on Instagram. “Head Chef Greg Dennis BBQ Ribs and Brisket were a Hugh hit and Usher dropped in during the live celebration!!! I was very happy and appreciative for all the support from everyone in attendance. We are now open so drop in for lunch or dinner between 11am to 8pm Monday – Saturday at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd.”
Usher was all smiles for fans and customers alike. “So happy to be out here supporting my mom and her new business,” he said to the camera.
Ms. Patton is a businesswoman through and through. Before this, she ran J’s Kitchen Culinary Incubator, which provides commercial kitchen space and equipment to up-and-coming chefs and caterers.
Earlier this summer Patton was honored by Sysco Foods with the Influencer Award for her contributions to the culinary industry.
What’s On the Menu At J’s Smokehouse?
J’s Smokehouse has several traditional menu items like smoked turkey wings, grilled BBB chicken, grilled BBB ribs, fried catfish, grilled sausage and sides like braised collards, kale and more.
“What makes the menu different are our options, are vegan options,” Patton said. “We have pulled pork sandwich and we have a vegan hot dog in the smokehouse. And they are amazing.”
Helming the kitchen, Ms. Patton tapped renown plant-based guru, Chef Greg Dennis.
“We have delicious ribs falling off the bone. Thirteen hours low and slow smoked brisket. Grandma’s delicious southern fried collard greens,” Dennis told local TV station WSB-TV. “I do a seven cheese macaroni blend, I also have a vegan menu.”
Where Is J’s Smokehouse Located?
J’s Smokehouse is located at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd ste 104 B, Atlanta, GA 30340. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Atlanta is no stranger to celebrity-owned restaurants, and Patton said the chef is what makes the difference.
Do you like barbecue? How about Mesquite or smoked brisket on hickory? Check out our Atlanta BBQ Guide.
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Getting your hair done can take a lot of time and money, which is why you need a reliable hairstylist in Atlanta. But where???
In this article, we’ll show you the best hairstylists in Atlanta.
10 of the Best Hair Salons in Atlanta
If you’re a DIY girl, you could get you some “fire” hair color and high-quality salon scissors and go to work. But you don’t have to.
Atlanta stays on top of the beauty and hair game. These 10 Atlanta salons are the best of the crop, according to reviews.
Egyptian Hairstyles
3655 Marketplace Blvd #250, East Point, GA 30344
Photo credit: @egyptianhairstyles/Instagram Dread the salon wait? One thing customer reviews boasted about Egyptian Hairstyles is the salon’s quick service, budget friendly prices and friendly atmosphere.
Godiva Salon
3209 Paces Ferry Pl NW Suite 2, Atlanta, GA 30305
Photo credit: @the.godiva.salon/instagram This hair salon may not be serving chocolate as a style but Godiva Salon lists quality and service as ingredients to their success.
Drybar
- 60 11th St NE #3B, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 921-0813
- 102 W Paces Ferry Rd NW Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 382-5310
Photo credit: @thedryerbar/instagram There’s bar food, bar drinks, and a bar for your hair. Drybar first got it starts as an at-home blowout service later transitioning to a salon catering to the growing blowouts trend. Plus, it’s the only place you can get a “Hair Shot”.
Embrace Me Naturally
1766 Old Norcross Rd Suite K, Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Photo credit: @embracenaturally/instagram Embrace Me Naturally specializes in protective hairstyles and caters to every texture and curl pattern helping naturalistas to keep their curls popping.
W Hair Studio
515 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Photo credit: @whairstudioatl/instagram If you’re a fan of color and enjoy all eyes on you, W Hair Studio just may be the salon for you. W Hair Studio is a jack-of-all trades from custom color, braids, microlinks, and lace frontals, you will definitely find what you are looking for.
Jacob K Hair
597 Atlanta St, Roswell, GA 30075
Photo credit: @jacobkhair/instagram Jacob K Hair is all about the cut and definitely the color. The owner—member of Cosmopro artistic team—sets the standards in creating an atmosphere that delivers on clients’ expectations.
Melrose & McQueen
337 Elizabeth St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Photo credit: melrosemcqueen/instagram Melrose and McQueen brings west coast vibes, runway couture, and hipster with an edge atmosphere to Atlanta. Located in Inman Park, this salon is attracting all the cook kids in town.
Vis-A-Vis
327 Buckhead Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
Photo credit: @visathesalon/instagram If you’re ever looking for an exclusive one-stop beauty shop look no more and make your way to one of the most popular salons in Buckhead, Vis-a Vis.
Natural Creations
2380 Benjamin E Mays, Atlanta, GA 30311
Photo credit: @luvlocs/instagram To our readers with locs, we didn’t forget about you. Natural Creations is the go-to salon for those looking to start their loc journey or the routine care and maintenance. In addition to their natural hair services, Natural Creations has a henna artist on staff for tattoos if you wanted to really spice up your look.
Final Word
In Atlanta, there are many hair salons that do good work. If you’re unsure about an establishment, make sure you read the reviews.
The Atlanta hair industry is one of the largest in the Southeast, with more than 8 million people getting groomed each month.
Want To Shop For Hair? See Our Products Page
But you can do it yourself. All you need are some quality shears and some high-performance clippers to get the job done. Check out these other grooming links to get shaped up in Atlanta.
- 15 Of The Best Barbershops in Atlanta, Georgia
- Best Premium Wigs For Black Women
- Here Are The Best Wigs For Your Head
Up next: Where To Get Your Lashes Done in Atlanta
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Did someone say something about delicious food and cool atmospheres for brunch? It’s time to check out some of the best black-owned brunch spots in Atlanta, Georgia.
No matter if you’re into one of those all-day breakfast spots, or brunch-centric weekend restaurants, Georgia’s largest city has what you need. Many of the best brunch spots in Atlanta also happen to be owned by celebrities.
Here Are The Best Black-Owned Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta
As you browse through our curated list of black brunch spots, you’ll notice a trend of high-end dishes like salmon and grits, lobster tail eggs and honey biscuits — all that good stuff!
Breakfast At Barney’s
349 Decatur St. SE Unit A1, Atlanta, GA 30312| (404) 549-6042
Here’s what one reviewer says about Breakfast At Barney’s. “Cute trendy spot. I loved the different wallpapers and I would definitely take this design in my own place. The fresh flowers on the table add class. Our waitress was super nice and then I had the summer spritz. I can’t remember the name of it and then we ordered the fried green tomatoes, the yard bird and the shrimp and grits. Between my boyfriend and I we did finish all of it, but that was the goal. It was delicious and would recommend.”
Toast On Lenox
2770 Lenox Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 748-4594
Here’s what one reviewer says about Toast on Lenox. “Marquis was an AMAZING waiter! This was our first time here, and it was amazing. We have reservations tomorrow morning to go back! We ordered the blackened salmon and shrimp and the GA honey hot chicken with greens and candied yams and Mac n cheese. We drank sweet tea and it was nap inducing and delish!”
Esco Restaurant & Tapas
327 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 404-941-7907
Esco Restaurant & Tapas Bar is owned by rapper and entrepreneur 2 Chainz and is known for its lavish brunch.
Here is what one reviewer says about Esco Tapas Bar. “Came in for Brunch, loved the atmosphere, food, plus the Service was A1. For Brunch I had 2 entress… Peach Cobbler French Toast, Eggs, grits, turkey sausage, plus hashbrowns. Enjoyed Unlimited Mimosas while the Atmosphere was Lit, the Bartender possibly popped about 10 bottles of Champagne bubbly with Music and other guests rolling. Definitely a Go To Spot!”
Frost Bistro
281 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA. 30313 | (404) 963-5495
Music and rReaiity TV stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost own Frost Bistro, an Atlanta restaurant in Castleberry Hill. Kirk and Rasheeda’s restaurant offers a hip alternative to the stuffy eateries scattered around downtown Atlanta. Here are more details about the restaurant.Here’s what one reviewer says about Frost Bistro. “The food was delicious, but I’m disappointed that they no longer serve pasta. That’s what I wanted to try. I ended up getting the peach cobbler French toast. I thought it was a meal, but I had to pay extra for chicken sausage. The waitress was attentive and provided professional service. Drinks were perfect!”Gocha’s Breakfast Bar
Atlanta Locations:
- 695 Cascade Rd SW STE 440 Atlanta, GA 30331 | (678) 927-9166
- 834 Glynn St S suite 244,248, Fayetteville, GA 30214 | (770) 629-7443
Gocha Hawkins has a hit on her hands with Gocha’s Breakfast Bar in the Cascade area of Atlanta. There’s also another one in Fayetteville.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the brunch. “In town for the weekend and needed some breakfast and Gotcha’s was everything we needed to sum up our trip. We had the Grit cakes, pancakes, salmon, salmon croquettes and the shrimp skillet. Everythign was cooked to perfection and we will surely be back when we stop in town again ! Thanks Mija your service was impeccable, great menu recommendations and you were attentive and friendly !”
Johnny’s Chicken And Waffles
3725 Main Street, College Park, GA 30337
Atlanta celebrities Ne-Yo and wife, Chef Crystal Smith, along with reality TV star Karlie Redd have teamed for College Park: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles. Another location opened on Crescent Avenue in Midtown.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the spot. “The best waffles I have ever had. I ordered the grits with lobster & shrimp. The food was delicious & the service was superb. The waiter whose name escapes me & was from Brooklyn was the nicest waiter I’ve experienced. The chef also came out & greeted us & made a fresh batch of grits when the first was a little salty. The grits were delicious. I absolutely recommend this restaurant & the grits with Lobster. I will be back when I’m in town.”
See what’s on the menu at Johny’s Chicken and Waffles.
The Breakfast Boys
3387 Main St, Atlanta, GA 30337 | (470) 312-2108
Lonzo Wyche pictured with celebrity Rolonda Rochelle at The Breakfast Boys. Source: Instagram Atlanta restaurateur Lorenzo Wyche recently opened The Breakfast Boys, an all-day breakfast spot in College Park. The eatery is a partnership between Wyche and the proprietors of Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen, Juan and Gee Smalls.
Here’s what one customer says about The Breakfast Boys:”My experience here was great with TESHA as my server. The general manager was helpful and very accommodating as well. The food and ambiance here are amazing and I am happy to be spending my money with this brand new black owned business! The brunch food was so [good]. I had the catfish, shrimp and grits that has chicken sausage in it too! I will definitely be back again and again!”Blaze Seafood & Steak
3752 Cascade Rd Ste 110, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 907-4700
Atlanta reality TV star couple and entrepreneurs Todd Tucker and Kandi Burruss of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” fame already have a hit with their Old Lady Gang restaurants. Now, they’ve opened Blaze Steak & Seafood, an upscale restaurant in Cascade.
Learn more about Blaze Steak & Seafood.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Blaze Steak & Seafood: “COVID-19 measures are in place. The decor inside is on point. Bar is huge and great selection of liquor and wine. Great menu selections as well. I had the seafood omelette and we had a peach mimosa carafe. This is the soft opening so a few kinks have to be worked out. I will say that customer service is pretty good as well.”
The Real Milk & Honey Restaurant
3719 Main St, College Park, GA 30337 | (404) 458-2883
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Real Milk & Honey. “Once we arrived, we were greeted… Well looked at by a young lady near the door. I guest she was the hostess. She wasn’t that friendly…. She escorted us to our table and we sat down. Our waitress was really nice. The honey butter biscuits were absolutely amazing!! I got the steak and eggs. The steak was a bit chewy. However everything else was great. My daughter got the cookies and cream waffle with eggs and bacon. She enjoyed her meal. They also have great coffee and the mimosas are decent. This was our first visit but I would definitely try this restaurant again.”
Final Bite
Atlanta continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following. -
Atlanta Restaurateur extraordinaire Pinky Cole-Hayes recently announced that she has taken over The Boujee Southerner, a black-owned vegan restaurant that recently closed its doors.
Cole-Hayes, the owner of Slutty Vegan and Bar Vegan, has plans to turn the restaurant into her second Bar Vegan location.
“When I heard about everything that they [The Boujee Southerner] were going through, I felt the need to step in,” says Cole-Hayes. “Their foundation is built on being a completely plant-based Southern Fusion concept that provides comfort food, which is right up our alley.”
In March 2024, The Boujee Southerner, owned by Tara Gilbert, announced it was reducing its hours of operation to Friday through Sunday after one year in business. Eight days later, the business shared that it had closed.
Gilbert, who has been a raw vegan for several years, will now serve as Executive Chef at Bar Vegan Lawrenceville. This is a full-circle moment as Gilbert looked to Cole-Hayes for inspiration when becoming a vegan and opening her restaurant.
“This is a part of my Restaurant Takeover initiative, where Slutty Vegan or Bar Vegan will take over the lease for existing restaurants that are looking to increase their foot traffic and awareness to the public,” adds Cole-Hayes. “It’s all about collaboration and empowering one another.”
Food featured on the menu includes General Tso Chik’n, White Spaghetti, maple glazed brussels sprouts, loaded steak fries, corn ribs, jerk kabobs and Lemon Pepper Chik’n salad.
“With the menu, we plan to make it leaner, healthier and sexier,” says Gilbert. “We plan to make the food extremely yummy but also appealing to the eyes – so get prepared to snap your photos for social media,” she adds.
Bar Vegan Lawrenceville is officially opened for business.
Cole’s current business portfolio includes 12 Slutty Vegan locations across Georgia, New York, Alabama and Texas, a cookbook and Slutty Vegan products on metro Atlanta Target shelves. In 2022, Cole raised a $25 million Series A funding round for Slutty Vegan that at the time valued her business at $100 million, according to Forbes.
Final Word
We were there when Cole-Hayes opened her first brick-and-mortar Slutty Vegan in the Westview neighborhood of Atlanta in 2019. Since then, she’s been on an amazing expansion plan.
Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are several more. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Hometown legendary rapper Antwan “Big Boi” Patton will take the stage at the College Football Hall of Fame for the 10th anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest.
The event is set for Saturday, August 23, 2024 and features a free concert from Big Boi, one half of the famous musical duo Outkast.
Football Fest: What To Know Before You Go
Football Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the Big Boi concert kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Join us for a day of entertainment. Enjoy live DJs, the Home Depot GameDay Bus, local team mascots, cheerleaders, inflatables, prize giveaways, and more.
The event is free as part of “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day” and provides the perfect opportunity to see Big Boi perform, along with the unveiling of new exhibits, clinics with Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables, prize giveaways, and much more, all free-of-charge.
Where is The College Football Hall of Fame?
The College Football Hall of Fame is located in downtown Atlanta at 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Atlanta, make sure you grab a bite at one of the top downtown restaurants. You’ll also find plenty to do there every Atlanta weekend.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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If you want to eat fancy, most of us will go for the shrimp and grits. Let’s just get that out of the way. Atlanta, Georgia has several great restaurants that can prepare the dish to perfection with various twists.
But let’s focus on shrimp and grits, which is a Southern delicacy. Grits has long been one of Georgia’s iconic dishes. The addition of the shrimp is likely an addition from that came much later.
6 Restaurants With The Best Shrimp And Grits In Atlanta
This article is going to show you some of the best restaurants in Atlanta that serve shrimp and grits.
Restaurant Holmes
50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 691-8320
Here’s what one customer says about Restaurant Holmes. “The salmon dish was so delicious and presented beautifully. The wine we chose from Paso Robles “If You See Kay” was very good also. Wonderful sitting outside and waiter was really nice and attentive. Great job and highly recommend. Compliments to the chef!”
Flying Biscuit Cafe
1001 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 874-8887
Here is what one reviewer says about the Flying Biscuit: “The grits here are amazing (and I usually don’t like grits) but they are the best thing that we had. The jelly is great tasting also but unfortunately the biscuits are hard and dry and I only used some of it to get the jelly in my mouth. The restaurant could use a thorough cleaning. Be aware that they do require masks and one of the staff was telling customers to get a mask on. That took a star off for me.”
Louisiana Bistreaux
Atlanta Locations:
- 1375 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 574-6210
- 1496 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 963-1463
- 3312 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 941-9545
Here is what one reviewer says about Louisiana Bixtreaux’s shrimp and grits:”A good place for a yummy meal! The chargrilled oysters are fantastic! I would also recommend the “Red fish ponch” and the shrimp and grits!”
South City Kitchen
Atlanta Locations:
- 3350 Peachtree Rd #175, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 815-6677
- 1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 873-7358
- 1675 Cumberland Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | (770) 435-0700
- 9000 Avalon Way, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 722-3602
Here is what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “If your looking for a great bowl of Shrimp & Grits on a cold rainy day or a sunny day you will not be disappointed at South City Kitchen- Best I have had- Comes with homemade Biscuits & Cornbread- Sweet tea to drink – Makes my mouth water just thinking about it- The help is ready to serve you with a smile- Go by and see them today- Your tummy will thank you!!”
Sweet Auburn Seafood
171 Auburn Ave NE P, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (678) 974-5019
Here is what one reviewer says about Sweet Auburn Seafood: “The brunch at Sweet Auburn is great. I know that every place that offers brunch usually has shrimp and grits on the menu, but the shrimp and grits at Sweet Auburn is probably better than all of those places you’ve tried. Give it a try. You wont be disappointed. The service is good. Bottomless mimosas are available. Music is playing. Pretty nice spot.”
Here is what one reviewer says about Old Lady Gang: “My husband and I ordered delivery and were skeptical at first. However, our skepticism was soon put to rest when took our first bite! This food is phenomenal and great if you’re looking for good comfort food! The fish and grits are my new personal favorite, but the rib tips are a close second. Not one thing on our order was anything less than delicious. If you’re in downtown Atlanta, this is a must try! We will definitely order from here again the next time we’re in the area.”Buckhead Diner
3073 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 262-3336
Here is what one reviewer says about Buckhead Diner: “I visit this great restaurant from time to time! This is my favorite place to pass a nice evening. I go there at least once a month. The food is very good, the staff is friendly and the price is affordable. I enjoy being in this spot for a decent meal.”Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
Fast-casual is also the dining trend du jour around metro Atlanta restaurants. The concept involves mixing the quick accessibility of fast food with the casual dining experience. Food in Atlanta is also adapting to the various tastes of the migrants that come here to live.
Read more: 15+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
