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If you’re looking for a pretty cool time in Atlanta after the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, there are plenty of things to do this weekend in Atlanta – and it all centers around what’s happening on the field.
The No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers face off against the Oregon Ducks in this weekend’s Peach Bowl, which is being played in downtown Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Here’s what to do this Atlanta weekend, including everything you need to know.
Downtown Atlanta and establishments within walking distance of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be rocking with fans of both Texas and Arizona State.
Here are six things to know and do in Atlanta after the Peach Bowl:
1. Explore Fan Fest and Tailgating Around Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Head to the areas surrounding the stadium for pre-game festivities, fan zones, and tailgating. The energy from thousands of college football fans will make downtown electric!
2. Grab A Bite In Downtown Atlanta
The city’s downtown Atlanta area has several top-notch restaurants and bars that you can enjoy. Read our guide on downtown Atlanta restaurants.
From Margaritaville, The Vick sports bar and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, there’s so much to see and eat! And if you prefer newer eateries check out our New Atlanta Restaurant Guide.
3. Hit Ponce City Market
This vibrant food hall and shopping spot is ideal for meals, desserts, or coffee. Enjoy rooftop views and a lively vibe that’s perfect post-game.
Ponce City Market has a full slate for the winter, including skating and more.
4. Walk The Atlanta Beltline
Perhaps you’ve heard of Atlanta’s 20+ mile loop that connects some of its most storied neighborhoods. The weather is pretty agreeable, so hit the Beltline. Take a photo on the trails, enjoy the art, run, walk, go Beltlining!
5. Destiny’s Child Candlelight Tribute
Destiny’s Child: Iconic Reimagined Tribute showcases the top bops from 2000’s group Destiny’s Child. Enjoy a remarkable performance by a live string ensemble with an unforgettable string sound. Get tickets.
6. Trolley Ride Atlanta
Ride a classic trolley to discover Atlanta on a 90-minute tour. See all the iconic landmarks downtown like the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, MLK Jr. National Historical Park, Oakland Cemetery, and more . Get tickets.
7. Go To The College Football Hall of Fame
Photo credit: Youtube.com With it being a huge college football weekend, if you haven’t already, visit the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta. 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. CNN Center often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
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Want that head-turning, confident physique without waiting forever? Getting a bangin’ body is totally achievable quickly—if you do it smart and safe. “Fast” means noticeable changes in weeks to months, like dropping fat, building muscle tone, and boosting energy.
This article is going to show you some easy steps you can put in place to get in shape right now and get that hot body.
How To Get Back In Shape Fast: 7 Easy Steps
When it comes to fitness, the key is to start making better choices for your well being.
1. Challenge Yourself
The way to begin to make better choices is to challenge yourself that you can. Nobody knows you like you know yourself.
Make a pact with yourself that you’re going to change your habits and keep your word… to yourself if no one else.
2. Start Exercising
You don’t have to do crazy with it, but see if you can carve out 15-30 minutes a day. Working up a sweat is the #1 way you can lose weight by being active.
Start off working out twice a week, then ramp it up to three times a week in the second way. By the third week see if you can exercise five times a week.
Tip: Schedule your workouts in our Google calendar so they can pop up on your phone or laptop. That way, you’ll be more likely to see it as a priority you need to stick to.
3. Nail Your Nutrition
The Fat-Loss Foundation)Diet drives body composition. Create a moderate calorie deficit while prioritizing protein to preserve (and build) muscle.
- High-Protein Foods: Aim for 1.6-2.2g per kg of body weight daily. Think chicken, fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, and legumes. Protein keeps you full and supports muscle repair.
- Veggies and Fiber: Fill half your plate with greens, broccoli, spinach, etc. They add volume without calories.
- Smart Carbs and Fats: Choose whole grains, sweet potatoes, avocados, nuts. Cut processed junk and sugary drinks.
- Meal Prep for Success: Batch-cook to avoid temptations.
Now that you have an exercise regimen, you’ll need to change the way you eat. Consuming fewer calories is a great way to drop some pounds.
You’ll need some nutritional guidance on this one:
- Remember to eat vegetables (green ones, if possible)
- Limit your meats to lean pieces with very little fat.
- Stay away from sugar and processed foods altogether (I know, I know)
4. Get Some Sleep
Experts say healthy humans need around eight hours of sleep to properly function. Not only is this a sweet spot for clear thinking, but you’ll find that this gives you optimal metabolism.
If you get less than seven hours of sleep, consider going to bed earlier so that your body can have more time to heal itself when you finally do fall asleep.
5. Stay Motivated
One of the main things that stops people from transforming their lives is that they eventually lose interest. It could be because of an unexpected life event that sets them back, or just an inability to stay focused.
Whatever it may be, remember that you can stay motivated by joining groups of like-minded people. Go to the gym with friends, family or co-workers. Join Facebook groups with your same goals.
6. Track Your Progress
There’s no shortage of fitness apps and trackers to keep tabs on your weight loss. While these can be a good thing, it’s important to remember you don’t want to get too caught up in numbers.
No matter what the scale says, your main judge will be how you feel in the morning, noon and night. Your body will be the first to let you know if something’s not right — not the meter.
7. Splurge Once In A While
Because you’re not a robot, it’s OK to splurge once in a while. A scoop of ice cream is not going to destroy your life if you are determined to remain on track.
Treating yourself every now and then (I stress, every now and then) is actually healthy for your well being. It not only encourages you, but reinforces that rewards are part of your journey.
How Long Does It Take To Get In Shape?
If you’re watching your clock, you’re going to be disappointed. The length of time it takes to get in shape depends on several factors.
This time course is changeable but only if the person increases in either of three main areas, according to experts.
“The ‘time course’ of fitness changes depends on the training stimulus: intensity, duration and frequency,” Friederike Scharhag-Rosenberger, a researcher at the University of Potsdam in Germany who published a study on the topic, told the Globe & Mail.
Further research also indicates that as little as a single workout can trigger proteins in your muscles that can begin to effectively change your tissue for the better, but it takes more than that to “get in shape.”
Some people think six weeks is enough to see changes, but that’s not true for everybody. Each person is different. Each person’s body is even more different.
Final Word
The truth is that you shouldn’t focus on a time course. The reason why you begin working out or pick up weights is because you’re serious about a lifestyle change.
When it comes to time, after about two months of strength-training, eating healthy and getting plenty of rest, your body should look different from Day One. But again, it’s a process.
The shape your body’s in at the two-month mark may be a pit stop to where it will be in four months or six months. The bottom line is to keep going!
If you’re serious about your well being and nutrition, you might want to read up on the keto diet. It is a no-sugar regimen to help you live a healthy life.
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In his inauguration speech on Monday at Georgia State University’s Convocation Center, Mayor Andre Dickens officially began his second term as Atlanta’s 61st mayor.
The event followed a landslide reelection victory with 85% of the vote in November.
Dickens Begins Second Term as Mayor
Addressing thousands of attendees—including former mayors, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, and Ambassador Andrew Young—Dickens reflected on first-term achievements while outlining an ambitious vision for the next four years.
“When you first elected me mayor, I promised that I would set the vision, remove barriers, deliver resources, and work from ‘can’t see morning’ to ‘can’t see night.’ And today, I am proud of how this city responded,” he said.
The mayor emphasized that while Atlanta has made significant progress—such as finishing 2025 with fewer than 100 homicides, record-high graduation rates in Atlanta Public Schools, and strides in affordable housing—he remains unsatisfied as long as inequities persist, particularly in south and west Atlanta neighborhoods.
Mayor Dickens’ 5 Focal Points for Atlanta
Drawing from his remarks and administration priorities, here are 5 key takeaways from Mayor Dickens’ speech and second-term focus:
1. Affordability and Housing
Dickens highlighted expanding affordable housing as a top priority, building on first-term efforts that included over 13,000 units started or completed and a historic $60 million Homeless Opportunity Bond.
He championed proposals to extend tax allocation districts (TADs) to generate billions for affordability initiatives and vowed to address homelessness and rising living costs so every Atlantan can afford to stay in the city they love.
2. Public Safety
The mayor celebrated major reductions in violent crime, including one of the nation’s largest drops in homicides and a 56% decrease in youth-related crime through programs like Midnight Basketball.
He pledged to continue this momentum with community-focused policing, youth development, and initiatives like Light Up the Night to ensure safe neighborhoods for residents and visitors alike.
3. Neighborhood Infrastructure and Equity
Dickens committed to targeted investments in long-overlooked areas, especially south and west Atlanta, through the Moving Atlanta Forward package (with $240 million in active projects for roads, public spaces, and connectivity).
”We expanded access to parks, expanded the BeltLine, and connected to the Chattahoochee river, reclaiming public space for public good,” Dickens said.
He stressed addressing historical inequities to create stronger, more connected communities across the city.
4. Youth Opportunities and Education
Building on successes like the highest-ever APS graduation rates and youth crime reductions, the mayor plans to expand programs that empower young people, including summer employment, early childhood development grants, and positive outlets to foster upward mobility and keep Atlanta’s next generation thriving.
”Atlanta has been named the best city in the nation to live, start a business, start a career—and the most educated city in America,” he said.
5. Ethical, People-Centered Government
Dickens described Atlanta as a “group project” where residents and city employees work together toward one indivisible future.
He thanked the city’s workforce and promised an innovative, dependable administration focused on equity, service, and leaning in amid national challenges to deliver for all Atlantans.
“The group project is working. We are no longer guessing,” he said. “We are not debating whether this approach works. We have seen the results with our own eyes, and we’re ready to face Goliath head-on.”
Final Word
Mayor Dickens concluded by reaffirming his commitment to a brighter, more inclusive Atlanta ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “We are choosing to remain indivisible, committed to one city, to one future, and most importantly, to one another,” he said.
As the city continues its rise, residents can expect these priorities to shape policy and projects throughout the mayor’s second term. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for ongoing coverage of City Hall developments.
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Are you trying to get in shape this year? If so, you know that the best way to do that is to join one of the best gyms in the Atlanta area: LA Fitness.
In this article, I’ll list the LA Fitness locations in Atlanta as well as how to cancel your membership.
In Atlanta, LA Fitness has taken over many of the Bally Fitness locations, thus giving it a huge advantage over other fitness centers where people get their exercise on.
Here Are LA Fitness Locations In Atlanta
- Ansley Mall: 1544 Piedmont Ave NE, Suite 115, Atlanta, GA 30324
- Akers Mill: 2995 Cobb Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Atlanta-Peachtree Road: 3535 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30326
- Atlantic Station: 261 19th St., Suite 1140, Atlanta, GA 30363
- Lenox/Buckhead: 3232 Peachtree Road NW, #A, Atlanta, GA 30305
- Brookhaven: 755 Brookhaven Ave, Atlanta, GA 30319 (Note: This appears to be an alternate or former name for an existing club, but it’s not separately listed in current official results)
- Camp Creek: 3755 Carmia Dr. SW, Suite 700, Atlanta, GA 30331
- College Park: 6385 Old National Highway, Atlanta, GA 30349
- Midtown: 75 Fifth Street NW, Suite E, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Toco Hills: 2880 N. Druid Hills Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
How Much Does It Cost To Join LA Fitness In Atlanta?
The exact cost of membership at LA Fitness varies slightly depending on whether you have signed up under a special or not. I have a Multi-Club and multi-state membership that costs $29.99 a month.
The $29.99 membership allows you to go to multiple LA Fitnesses in your city and across the nation.
For $26.99 a month, you can get membership to a single LA Fitness.
I had to pay a $99 initiation fee for that though. For single club access, you can get a membership for about $25 a month.
History
The reason is because, if you’re like me, you need to know where you can workout, train or just play basketball around the city.
What would become LA Fitness was first named Rainbow Nautilus. It was founded by Chin Yi and Lisa Maria Novins in 1983. In Covina, just outside Los Angeles, California, the name change stuck and LA Fitness took off.
If you’re looking for a gym that has it all, LA Fitness is it!
How To Cancel An LA Fitness Membership
If you want to cancel your LA Fitness membership, it’s not as easy as it could be. There is no button on their website that allows you to cancel.
Instead, you have three ways you can cancel your LA Fitness membership:
- You have to write a cancellation letter to the corporate headquarters at PO Box 54170, Irvine, CA 92619-4170
- You can also call LA Fitness and tell their customer service representative that you would like to cance. The number is
- Finally, you can print a cancellation form online. from the LA Fitness site. Once you log on at My LA Fitness, click on Account Information tab and then click on the “Cancellation Form” option on the right side of the screen. Once you have the form, you can deliver the notice to the operations manager at your local LA Fitness facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Pro tip: If you mail the notice by certified mail and keep a record for your files. Also, make sure your cancellation is postmarked at least five business days before your next billing date to avoid being billed.
Final Word
If you’re an LA Fitness nut like me, you know that one is never too far away no matter where you are in Atlanta. I wanted to show you where all the LA Fitness locations were in Atlanta.
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We’re not getting any younger. That means a big part of our personal health and wellness is physical fitness. And the good news is that you don’t have to be bulky to look fit.
Atlanta fitness guru Elle Ross has been helping people take better care of themselves by showing them workout routines and techniques. The Tacoma, Washington native says before she dedicated herself to self-transformation, she was once 40 lbs heavier, depressed and not feeling herself.
4 AWESOME Workout Routines For Beginners
“I took control of my life by making the conscious decision to improve my health holistically,” she tells AtlantaFi.com. “I created a solid routine. Fitness and weight training became my outlet and passion each morning.”
In the videos below, Ross shows us four workout routines that can change your life.
1. Work On Your Core
“Everyday is Abs Day. Get Summer Body Ready with these 10 Moves!
Core training targets the muscles in your abdomen, back, pelvis, and hips, creating a strong foundation for nearly every movement.
- Improved balance and stability: A strong core helps you stay steady, reducing fall risk.
- Better posture and reduced back pain: It supports the spine, alleviating lower back issues common in daily life.
- Enhanced everyday function: Makes bending, twisting, lifting, and standing easier.
- Injury prevention: Protects against strains during sports or activities by promoting efficient movement.
“I love what I do because each day I get to inspire others, specifically women, to improve their strength and self-esteem through fitness,”Ross says. “Body, Mind & Soul. Allowing them to gain greater confidence, develop SELF-LOVE and know that they are beautiful, powerful and strong!”
Buy Some Free Weights
You might want to think about investing in some free weights to build muscle and tone along with your workouts. Here are some free weight options from Amazon:
- Adjustable Dumbbells
- AmazonBasics 20 lb Adjustable Barbells
- Balance From BF 32 lb Barbells
- Adjustable Dumbbells
These tools excel at building serious strength and muscle, often overlapping with general strength training benefits.
- Maximal strength gains: Barbells allow heavier loads for compound lifts (e.g., squats, deadlifts, bench presses), ideal for power and muscle growth.
- Functional improvements: Dumbbells correct imbalances, enhance stability, and allow natural movement patterns.
- Bone and joint health: Builds density and resilience.
2. Cardio & Total Body:
“No Excuses. Get Up. Get Moving & GO ALL IN on YOU.”
Treadmill running delivers cardio benefits with added convenience and control.
- Cardiovascular endurance: Strengthens heart/lungs, lowers disease risk, and burns calories effectively.
- Convenience and consistency: Weather-proof, adjustable speed/incline for precise training (e.g., intervals or hills).Joint-friendly options: Cushioned surface reduces impact compared to pavement; great for beginners or recovery.
- Mental boost: Improves mood and stamina, with easy tracking for progress.
3. Upper Body Strength
“Get in tune with YOUr vision for life and invest in your health.”
This builds muscle, boosts metabolism, and supports long-term health.
- Increased muscle mass and strength: Counters age-related loss, improving daily tasks and independence.
- Stronger bones: Increases density, reducing osteoporosis risk.
- Better metabolic health: Helps manage weight, blood sugar, and chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
- Improved quality of life: Enhances joint protection, balance, and mood while reducing inflammation.
4. Boxing Conditioning
“The Time is N:OW! Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing!”
Buy A Punching Bag
If you want the convenience of working on your body in your own home, you might want to invest in a punching bag. Here are some good ones from Amazon:
Elle Ross: ‘My Mind, Body And Soul Transformed For The Better’
“What inspired me is my own personal life and self-transformation,” she says. “That transformation led to me writing my book “The Blueprint: The 90-Day Breakthrough to Shift Your Mindset & Transform Your Life.“
She says it also motivated her to start her personal brand and business: The Elle Ross LLC – B-FIT with Elle.
“Now each day I wake up I get to live out my passion and encourage others to SWEAT (Success With Every Action Taken) toward their dreams.”
Bottom Line
If you want to take your health seriously, exercising is a great way to improve your body and mind. You don’t have to be an athlete to lose weight and train your body. There are workout routines for beginners that can help.
Exercising is not about how you look on the outside, it’s about how you feel on the inside and even more importantly, how you view yourself. Never forget that it’s you who can transform you life. If you look better, you’ll feel better.
The sooner you take the necessary steps you need to feel whole, the easier it will be for you in the future. Relax, you got this!
If you need training or branding help with Ross, reach out to her via info@theelleross.com.
And if you’re determined to change your life through exercise and eating right, never give up.
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In a development that could signal the end of an era for the Atlanta Hawks, four-time All-Star guard Trae Young and his representatives are actively working with the franchise to explore trade options, sources told ESPN on Monday.
Young’s agents — Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison, and Austin Brown of CAA — have engaged in positive and collaborative discussions with Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh over the past week, aiming to find a mutually agreeable resolution, according to the report from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trae Young, Hawks in Talks Before Trade Deadline
The 27-year-old Young, drafted by Atlanta in 2018 after a draft-night trade with Dallas, has been the cornerstone of the franchise for nearly eight seasons.
He holds the Hawks’ all-time records for 3-pointers made and assists, and led the team to three postseason appearances, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021.
However, the relationship appears to have reached a turning point. The Hawks notably declined to offer Young a contract extension last summer, fueling speculation about his long-term future in Atlanta.
This season has added to the uncertainty: Young has been limited to just 10 games due to leg injuries, with the Hawks posting a 2-8 record in those contests compared to 15-12 without him. Opponents have scored nearly 10 fewer points per game when Young sits, per ESPN Research.
Emerging talents like forward Jalen Johnson — who is averaging impressive numbers this season — and recent additions such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker have shifted the team’s dynamics, prompting questions about whether Atlanta is ready to build around a new core.
While no specific trade destinations have been confirmed by the Hawks or Young’s camp, early rumors have linked potential suitors, including discussions involving teams like the Washington Wizards.
The NBA trade deadline is February 5, leaving just a month for negotiations to intensify.
Hawks fans have mixed emotions about the news, with Young’s electrifying playstyle — including his deep range and playmaking wizardry — making him a beloved figure at State Farm Arena.
Yet, the team’s struggles to build sustained contention around him have led many to wonder if a fresh start could benefit both sides.
The Hawks organization has not commented publicly on the report as of Monday evening. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Journal for updates as this story develops.
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Less than 24 hours after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, Morris is already drawing interest from another NFL team.
According to ESPN’s Peter Schrager, the Tennessee Titans plan to interview the former Falcons coach for their vacant head coaching position later this week.
The news comes as the NFL’s coaching carousel spins into high gear following “Black Monday.”
The Falcons fired Morris on Sunday night despite the team closing the 2025 season with a four-game winning streak and an 8-9 record – matching the mark from his first season in 2024.
Over two years at the helm in Atlanta, Morris compiled a 16-18 record but failed to reach the playoffs, prompting owner Arthur Blank to seek new leadership.
Morris, 49, is no stranger to head coaching opportunities. He previously served as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ head coach from 2009-2011 and as the Falcons’ interim coach in 2020 (4-7 record).
His most notable success came as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
For Falcons fans, the quick interest in Morris from Tennessee may come as a mixed bag.
While his tenure here ended without postseason success, Morris was widely respected in the locker room for his player-friendly approach and ability to foster team unity.
Players Voiced Support for Morris
Players like Jessie Bates III and Bijan Robinson publicly supported him late in the season, crediting his leadership for the late surge.
Falcons Owner Sought a Change
On NFL.com, Kevin Patra noted the futility of the hot streak: “A four-game winning streak to end the season couldn’t save the jobs of Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.”
The Falcoholic’s Dave Choate cited insiders on the premeditated nature: “Per NFL insiders Ollie Connolly and Josina Anderson… Atlanta has ‘had feelers’ out to potential candidates for weeks now and were going to fire both Morris and Fontenot regardless of the season’s end result.”
The Titans, who fired Brian Callahan earlier in the 2025 season and finished with another disappointing campaign, are casting a wide net in their search.
Reports indicate they are also eyeing recently fired coaches like Kevin Stefanski (Cleveland Browns) and several high-profile coordinators.
Morris is expected to draw interest from multiple teams for both head coaching and defensive coordinator roles, given his track record on defense and reputation as a strong communicator.
As the Falcons turn the page and begin their own search for a new head coach and GM – with names like Kevin Stefanski already linked – it’s clear Morris won’t be out of work for long.
We’ll keep you updated on any further developments involving former Falcons staff as the offseason unfolds.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for full coverage of the coaching search and all things Dirty Birds. Rise Up!
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Food lovers in the city have reason to celebrate as Ponce City Market announces two exciting additions to its bustling Central Food Hall this spring: NoriFish, a premium sushi concept sourcing ultra-fresh seafood directly from Tokyo’s legendary Toyosu Fish Market, and Okiboru, the beloved ramen and tsukemen spot already hailed as Atlanta’s go-to for authentic Japanese noodles.
Both concepts come from a powerhouse duo of local restaurateurs: Sean Park, a formally trained sushi chef with over 15 years of experience mastering traditional Japanese cuisine, and Justin Lim, the ramen-obsessed visionary behind some of the city’s most acclaimed Japanese eateries.
2 New Japanese Eateries Opening in Ponce City Market in Spring 2026
NoriFish will bring its signature omakase-style experience — where the chef curates a personalized progression of nigiri, sashimi, and creative small plates — to the heart of Ponce City Market.
Known for flying in the freshest fish weekly from Toyosu (the successor to the iconic Tsukiji market), NoriFish has already earned rave reviews at its Sandy Springs flagship and Buckhead location for impeccable quality, modern twists on classic preparations, and stunning presentations. Diners can expect standout bites like wild yellowtail with yuzu ponzu or chu-toro nigiri, all highlighting Park’s precise technique and deep respect for Japanese traditions.
Meanwhile, Okiboru will introduce its Michelin-recognized menu to the Old Fourth Ward crowd.
As the only ramen spot in Atlanta to earn a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide (originally for its California roots, now celebrated locally), Okiboru specializes in tsukemen — “dipping ramen” featuring thick, house-made noodles served alongside rich, concentrated broths for dipping — along with traditional ramen bowls.
Favorites include the signature Buta Paitan with gyokai elements, spicy tonkotsu options, and vegetarian broth varieties.
The restaurant’s commitment to on-site noodle production and authentic techniques has built a devoted following since its Atlanta debut.
Park and Lim’s partnership has already produced hits across the city, from NoriFish’s upscale sushi counters to Okiboru’s cozy ramen shops in Sandy Springs and beyond.
Their collaboration blends rigorous training in Japan with an understanding of Atlanta’s evolving food scene, delivering approachable yet elevated Japanese dining.
The Central Food Hall at Ponce City Market — already a hotspot for diverse global flavors — will gain even more prestige with these additions.
Spring 2026 can’t come soon enough for locals craving next-level sushi and slurp-worthy ramen under one iconic roof.
Stay tuned to Ponce City Market’s announcements for exact opening dates, menu previews, and more. In the meantime, mark your calendars — Atlanta’s Japanese food game is about to level up!
Final Word
Atlanta has some of the best Asian cuisine in the Southeast. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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In a move that signals a significant shift in the Atlanta Falcons’ front office structure, the team is set to introduce a new president of football operations role, with former star quarterback Matt Ryan emerging as the frontrunner for the position.
Ryan is set to interview this weekend — Friday or Saturday, signaliing he and the organization’s willingness to get a deal done quickly.
This development, widely reported by football insiders including Adam Shefter, comes as longtime executive Rich McKay steps away from his CEO duties with the Falcons, transitioning to a broader role within owner Arthur Blank’s business empire.
It also occurs one day after Blank fired Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot.
Falcons Set To Hire Matt Ryan in Front Office
Sources close to the organization indicate that the new president of football operations will hold primary decision-making authority over all team-related matters, including personnel, coaching, and strategy. This restructuring aims to streamline football decisions and inject fresh leadership into a franchise looking to build on recent progress under head coach Morris.
Ryan, who spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback from 2008 to 2021, is widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in team history.
Although it was first reported that Ryan may wish to hold onto his NFL commentator job for TV, it looks like he is willing to let it go and give the Falcons his all.
The 2016 NFL MVP led Atlanta to a Super Bowl appearance and holds numerous franchise records, including passing yards and touchdowns.
After retiring following a stint with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, Ryan has stayed connected to the game through broadcasting and philanthropy, often expressing his deep ties to the Atlanta community.”Matt Ryan embodies the Falcons’ spirit—resilient, intelligent, and deeply committed to winning,” said a team insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His football acumen and understanding of the organization’s culture make him an ideal candidate to guide the team forward.”
McKay, who has been with the Falcons since 2003 and served as CEO since 2011, will no longer oversee day-to-day football operations. Instead, he will focus on Arthur Blank’s expansive portfolio, which includes AMB Sports and Entertainment, encompassing the Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
McKay’s tenure has been marked by key achievements, such as the construction of the state-of-the-art stadium and navigating the team through multiple rebuilds.
“Rich has been instrumental in shaping the Falcons into a first-class organization,” Blank said in a statement released earlier today. “His expertise will continue to benefit our entire family of businesses as we evolve.”
The creation of this new position reflects a growing trend in the NFL, where teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have empowered dedicated football executives to handle on-field decisions separately from business operations.
For the Falcons, who finished the 2025 season with a 8-9 record but missed the playoffs, this could provide the stability needed to contend in the competitive NFC South.
Final Word
Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement about Ryan’s potential return. “Matty Ice back in the building? That’s the spark we need!” one supporter posted on social media.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days, with the team holding a press conference at Flowery Branch.
As the Falcons prepare for the offseason, including free agency and the NFL Draft, this leadership change could be the catalyst for a new era of success in Atlanta.Stay tuned to Atlanta Pro Football Insider for updates on this story and all things Falcons.
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The Atlanta real estate market in 2026 is poised for further stabilization as affordability improves gradually and inventory continues to build. Following a year of cooling prices and increased supply in 2025, the industry is shifting toward a more balanced environment, though challenges like lingering high mortgage rates persist.
That said, buying land in Georgia remains competitive as property values have moderated but not crashed, with experts anticipating a modest rebound in some areas. According to recent forecasts, existing home sales are expected to rise modestly, aligning with national trends.
Metro Atlanta Real Estate Outlook: 2026
The metro Atlanta housing market in 2025 is anticipated to experience stabilization with moderate growth, following a period of rapid appreciation in recent years. Key projections include:
The metro Atlanta housing market in 2026 is expected to see continued moderation, with prices stabilizing or experiencing slight changes after the declines observed in 2025. Key projections include:Home Prices
- Stabilization with Minimal Growth: Analysts predict home prices in Atlanta will either hold steady or dip slightly in the first half of the year, potentially rebounding modestly by year-end, diverging from the rapid growth of prior years. noradarealestate.com
- National Context: Broader U.S. forecasts indicate a 1-2.2% appreciation in home values over the year, though Atlanta may underperform with a projected -1.3% change from mid-2025 to mid-2026 per Zillow data. noradarealestate.com +1
Market Activity
- Rising Inventory: Inventory is forecast to grow by around 9% nationally, providing more options for buyers and reducing intense competition, a trend already evident in Atlanta’s 4.4-month supply as of late 2025.
- Sales Pace: Home sales are anticipated to increase slightly (1.7-3% nationally), with Atlanta seeing deliberate buyer behavior amid a stronger spring season.
Economic Factors
- Mortgage Rates: Rates are expected to ease to an average of 6.1-6.3%, offering some relief but remaining elevated compared to pandemic lows, influenced by Federal Reserve policies.
- Affordability Improvements: With prices growing slower than wages, affordability should see gradual gains, though a full reset to pre-pandemic levels is unlikely in the short term.
Regional Considerations
- Potential for Correction: Southern markets like Atlanta could face ongoing adjustments due to increased new home supply and shifting migration patterns, but no major crash is anticipated.
Atlanta remains a leading housing market to watch, though the explosive growth of recent years has given way to a more measured pace.
Will 2026 Be a Better Time To Buy a Home?
The year 2026 will be one in which homeowners face increased prices for homes. Average home values in the metro Atlanta area will mimic much of the nation, which is forecast to see as much as 6% hikes.
Not every location will have home values that increase though. Depending on the neighborhood, town, village and subdivision, some homes see drops in price.
Still, some ominous signs are starting to appear in the U.S. housing market based on national trends, according to Realtor.com.
- Homes actively for sale have fallen 2% compared to last year.
- Unsold homes have fallen 3.7% compared to last year.
- The median price of homes for sale in October 2023 remained stable compared to the same time last year.
- Homes spent 50 days on the market – one day shorter than last year and more than two weeks shorter than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Will 2026 Be a Better Time To Buy?
In 2026, buyers may find more opportunities as inventory builds and competition eases. Average home values in metro Atlanta, currently around $385,000 (down 4.4% from last year), are projected to stabilize or see minimal declines.
zillow.com Not all neighborhoods will follow suit—some may even appreciate.National trends show homes spending more time on the market, with inventory accumulation leading to softer demand.
Is Atlanta’s Housing Market Overpriced?
While Atlanta was previously ranked among the most overpriced markets, the cooling in 2025 has helped correct some imbalances. Current median prices sit at about $411,000, with values adjusting downward in many areas
Will Prices Go Up Or Down In 2026 In Atlanta?
Based on Zillow forecasts, Atlanta home values may decrease by about 1.3% through mid-2026, contrasting with national modest gains of 1.2-1.7%. Increased inventory (up 25% year-over-year in core counties) will likely extend days on market.
Affordability challenges persist, but lower rates could encourage more transactions. Rental demand may remain strong in urban areas.
There will be a glut of inventory of homes for sale in the metro area, and they will likely take longer to get offers and sales. How to afford a home will also be more of a challenge this year as economic factors loom, expert data says.
As home shoppers are expected to pre-qualify for a mortgage, there will be more homes for sale, homes will likely take longer to sell, and buyers will not face the extreme competition that was commonplace over the past few year.
If you have a home for rent inside the Perimeter, finding a tenant shouldn’t be a problem as favorable rents will drive strong demand from the north side of the city to the southern end.
Will House Prices Be Cheaper This Year?
With so many people moving to Atlanta annually, rather than become cheaper, leading real estate market experts expect home prices to increase slower than they have over the past two years.
Atlanta, one of the fast-growing cities when it comes to home sales, is not unlike other large Southern cities in that it is expected to continue to be a red-hot market. That means a dip in housing prices is unlikely.
One of the main factors that will influence home prices is the economic landscape of the United States. Namely, the incremental movements by the Federal Reserve to get inflation in check.
While interest rates are ticking upward, the chance that a full-blown recession takes hold in 2023 can’t be entirely discounted. But what such a move will no doubt do is slow down the mortgage industry.
Rising mortgage rates are expected to continue to shed competition among people looking to buy a home. While a buyers market is a possibility in some areas, for metro Atlanta, it is anticipated that real estate prices will hold up just enough that such a market won’t firmly take hold.
Home shoppers priced out of the market will likely create pressures on the rent market, boosting prices once again.
Home Prices On Atlanta’s Southside: Up
One of the most dramatic increases in home prices is happening on Atlanta’s southside, below Interstate 20. Take for instance the Sylvan Hills neighborhood.
Sylvan Hills
Average home prices in Sylvan Hills hover around $300,000, up from prior years but with sales pending longer due to increased options.
The area is only four miles from downtown Atlanta and is a historically economically depressed area, but not anymore. Gentrification is happening there and in similar areas on a large scale.
Like Capitol View just north, Sylvan Hills homes sell for about 4% below list price and pending sales last around 62 days.
Adair Park
Adair Park over the past five years has had some of the hottest real estate parcels in Atlanta. In Adair Park, averages are near $320,000, benefiting from proximity to downtown and the airport, though market-wide declines have tempered growth.
Bordered by the West End on one side and the Pittsburgh community on the other, Adair Park has benefited from its close proximity to downtown Atlanta as well as Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
The average home price in Adair Park is around $240,000, according to RedFin. Homes there sell for about 4% below list price and sales are pending around 41 days.
Atlanta Beltline
But we can’t talk about Atlanta housing trends and real estate outlook with the “B” word: Beltline.
Nothing has shaped Atlanta real estate prices more than the Atlanta Beltline project, which continues to finish a 22-mile loop around the city’s best neighborhoods.
The Beltline remains a driver of value, with surrounding areas seeing resilient demand. Redevelopment projects continue to support prices in Eastside, Westside, and Southside trails, though overall growth is slower.
Suburban preferences persist in areas like Dawsonville, Cumming, Stockbridge, and Cartersville.Georgia’s real estate market has grown significantly over the past 15 years, concentrated in metro Atlanta.
Redevelopment, such as the opening of Krog Street Market and other projects have skewed home prices in the city’s interior in many cases leading to double digit growth.
As more projects see the light of day, we can only predict that home values around the Eastside, Westside and Southside Trails will continue to rise.
Read more: This People Are Having Too Much Fun On The Atlanta Beltline
Overall, many people, especially those relocating to Atlanta, continue to opt for the suburbs. They also are choosing areas farther out, including Dawsonville, Cumming, Stockbridge and Cartersville.
The Georgia real estate market is up 20% over the decade, with most of that confined to the metro Atlanta area.
Here Is How The Georgia Real Estate Market Has Grown From 2010-2024
- Home Price Growth: Median home prices in Georgia increased by over 150% since 2010.
- Population Growth: Georgia’s population grew by over 1.8 million people, with Atlanta being a key driver.
- Employment Impact: Job growth in tech, film, and logistics fueled demand for housing across the state.
Final Word
Homeownership is becoming attainable for more Americans than ever before. And especially is that the case in Georgia.
The Peach State’s largest city has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
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