-
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) announced Thursday that the GWCC/Georgia Dome/CNN Center/Philips Arena/Omni Station – long one of the rail system’s most confusingly named stops – will officially become Sports, Entertainment, and Convention District Station, with the shortened nickname “SEC District Station.”
Loading … MARTA’s Sports, Entertainment, and Convention District Station
The change, effective immediately on all signage, maps, apps, and train announcements, is intended to better reflect the cluster of major venues within walking distance of the station and to help first-time riders and tourists more easily identify the stop.
MARTA made the announcement with a clever social media video that commemorated the eighth anniversary of the implosion of the old Georgia Dome, which has since been replaced by Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“Visitors arriving in Atlanta shouldn’t have to memorize a 30-year history of arena sponsorships to figure out which station serves Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, and the Georgia World Congress Center,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood. “This new name instantly tells you exactly what this area is all about – sports, entertainment, and conventions.”
The station, located on the Red and Gold lines just west of Downtown Atlanta, is a primary transit hub for:
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC, major concerts, 2025 College Football Playoff events)
- State Farm Arena (Atlanta Hawks, concerts)
- Georgia World Congress Center (major conventions, trade shows, Fan Expo, Dragon Con)
- Centennial Olympic Park
- World of Coca-Cola
- Georgia Aquarium
- College Football Hall of Fame
- CNN Center (studio tours)
The old name, GWCC/CNN Center, had become increasingly outdated as Philips Arena became State Farm Arena in 2018, the Georgia Dome was demolished in 2017, and the Omni Coliseum closed in 1997.
“SEC District” is already being embraced by fans and event organizers. The abbreviation conveniently mirrors the Southeastern Conference (SEC) whose championship football game is played annually at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, though MARTA officials stress the letters officially stand for Sports, Entertainment, and Convention.
New permanent signage is expected to be fully installed by early 2026, with temporary signage and digital updates already in place.
MARTA says the rename is part of a broader effort to make station names more intuitive across the system, especially ahead of Atlanta’s hosting of multiple 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For more information and updated system maps, visit itsmarta.com.
MARTA is not just for transit, but its name is now associated with several great Atlanta restaurants near stations.
-
In a drama that could rival any episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, city police have dropped bodycam video showing reality TV icon Porsha Williams getting booted from a Delta flight after a heated exchange turned physical mid-air.
The Sunday night showdown, which unfolded en route from Las Vegas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, has fans buzzing about whether this is just another chapter in Williams’ headline-grabbing life or a case of cabin fever gone wrong.
Atlanta Police: Porsha Williams Flight Turns To Fight
According to the Atlanta Police Department, the dust-up started as a simple beef over phone etiquette but quickly spiraled into accusations of assault.
Williams, fresh off a Vegas getaway and no stranger to on-screen squabbles, was deep into her Instagram scroll with the volume cranked up—think full-blast Reels echoing through the cabin.
Her seatmate, clearly not vibing with the soundtrack, finally snapped after 25 minutes of what she called “jarring” noise.
What Went Down: A Play-by-Play from the Bodycam
The footage paints a chaotic picture of a flight that’s anything but smooth sailing:
- The Spark: Williams is glued to her phone, blasting videos. The other passenger, fed up, turns and quips, “So, am I going to have to listen to that the whole flight?” Williams fires back casually, “Well, do you want to?” The tone? Tense from jump.
- The Escalation: The passenger claims Williams got snippy about her delivery, leading to a verbal volley. Hands fly up—literally. The woman says Williams’ manicured nails came inches from her face, screaming “crazy” and other choice words while the plane was still taxiing for takeoff. Crew? Strapped in and helpless.
- The Phone Fumble: Desperate to document the drama, the passenger whips out her cell to record. That’s when things allegedly go next-level: She accuses Williams of swatting the phone right out of her grip, sending it skidding down the aisle like a rejected prop in a bad rom-com. A flight attendant reportedly witnessed the whole thing, calling it straight-up assault.
Once wheels touched down at ATL around 7 p.m., Delta crew called in the badges. Officers swooped in, separating the two like feuding housewives at a reunion taping.
Williams, ever the poised Peach State queen, calmly explained her side to the cop on camera: “So, the lady who was sitting next to me, I was on my phone and the volume was up… She turned to me out of nowhere and said, ‘So you’re going to make me listen to that the whole flight?’ And I said, ‘Well, do you want to?’ She said, ‘No.’ She tried to cut her phone, record, and she drops her phone on the floor. She’s like, ‘You hit me. Oh my God, you hit me.’ And I’m like, what’s happening?”
Not buying the victim narrative? The other passenger tells a flipped script: “After about 25 minutes of her on Instagram, full blast… I said, ‘Am I going to have to listen to that the whole time?’ and she said, ‘Do you like it?’… The next thing I know, there was a fingernail so close to my eye… She had her hands in my face, screaming… So, I take it to video to try and protect myself. And as soon as I go like this, she takes her hand and goes like that and throws my phone… And the flight attendant told me he saw her knock it out of my hand. And that’s assault.”
Official Word: Separation, Scrutiny, and a Side of Shade
APD kept it cool, noting both women were interviewed on the spot and sent their separate ways—no arrests, no cuffs, just a whole lot of he-said-she-said. But the feds aren’t letting it slide: The FBI’s now poking around to see if Uncle Sam wants to press charges.
Williams’ legal eagle? She’s throwing shade from the sidelines, insisting her client was the one minding her business. “Ms. Williams was verbally assaulted by an irate and unhinged passenger without provocation,” the attorney fired off in a statement.
For Williams superfans, this feels like déjà vu—remember her explosive RHOA exits and entrances?
The Bravo babe, who’s juggled motherhood, mogul moves, and messy marriages, hasn’t commented publicly yet beyond that bodycam chat. Delta? Crickets so far, but expect the airline to chime in if the investigation heats up.
As Atlanta’s go-to for all things unscripted and over-the-top, we’re glued to this one. Will it spill into Season 16 tea? Stay tuned—because in Hotlanta, the drama’s always first class. Got RHOA hot takes? Hit us up in the comments.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide -
In a plot twist straight out of Hawkins, Indiana, the beloved exterior of the Wheeler family home from Netflix’s Stranger Things has been snapped up by a pair of super-fans right here in metro Atlanta.
The unassuming two-story brick residence at 2530 Piney Wood Lane in East Point—familiar to millions as the backdrop for Eleven’s awkward teen hangouts and family dinners—sold for $365,000 on October 27, just weeks before the show’s highly anticipated fifth and final season drops on November 26.
Stranger Things Home Purchased by Super-Fans
The new owners, a couple who relocated to the Atlanta area in 2021, couldn’t hide their disbelief when the deal closed. “We didn’t think it would ever be possible,” the wife told Homes.com.
For years, the duo—avid Stranger Things enthusiasts—would cruise by the 1963-built, 2,466-square-foot charmer during drives through the quiet East Point neighborhood, dreaming of one day calling it their own.
Little did they know, fate (or perhaps a Demogorgon-sized stroke of luck) had other plans.
Love stranger things? Read up on Atlanta film locations.
The house, with its retro wood-paneled living room, cozy brick fireplace, and sliding doors opening to a back patio, oozes authentic 1980s nostalgia—perfect for evoking the eerie vibes of the Upside Down.
While interior scenes were filmed on soundstages elsewhere, the exterior has become a pilgrimage site for fans, drawing admirers from across the globe to snap photos of its familiar facade.
The buyers’ journey to homeownership reads like a feel-good episode script.
Already rooted in East Point after purchasing another property in the area, the couple first learned of the listing via social media. The wife, who once appeared as an extra on the show, wasted no time looping in their real estate agent, Giovany Gonzalez-Rios of Keller Williams Realty Metro Atlanta.
Their initial offer was edged out in a bidding war, but as a savvy backup, it sprang to life when the top bidder backed out.
“We paid $15,000 over asking to make it happen,” Gonzalez-Rios revealed, recounting the couple’s determination.
A heartfelt letter to Netflix, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the home’s legacy, may have sealed the deal—though the streaming giant hasn’t commented publicly. “Once I got the confirmation, they were ecstatic,” the agent added with a grin. “Everything happens for a reason.”
For this growing family, the purchase is more than a celebrity address; it’s a canvas for new memories. In the midst of adopting children, the couple envisions raising their kids amid the same whimsical walls that sheltered Mike, Nancy, and the gang.
“We are growing our family through adoption and hope that our children will enjoy their childhood just as much as the Wheeler kids did,” they wrote in a note shared with the neighborhood. “We will honor the neighborhood and the legacy of this house and will be available for any future projects and/or reunions.”
Renovations? Not on the horizon, at least not the drastic kind. The pair plans to keep the home’s iconic charm intact, opting for subtle updates to blend modern comfort with mid-century flair. They’ll ease into the move over Thanksgiving weekend, renting out their current East Point residence in the meantime.
And to fellow fans: You’re welcome to slow down for a peek—just no portal-hopping onto the lawn.
As Stranger Things bids farewell next month, this East Point gem ensures the Wheeler house’s story endures, now starring a real-life family ready to flip the script on happily ever after.
For more on Atlanta’s hottest home sales and hidden gems, stay tuned to Atlanta Homes Daily.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for all things residential in the Peach State—from historic renovations to celebrity sightings in the ‘hood.
Read More From AtlantaFi.com:
-
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — In a devastating blow to the Atlanta Falcons’ already struggling season, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been ruled out for the remainder of 2025 following confirmation of a partially torn ACL in his left knee.
The team announced Wednesday that the second-year pro will undergo surgery, effectively ending his campaign and thrusting veteran Kirk Cousins back into the starting role.
Penix Sidelined, Kirk Cousins’ Return
The Falcons’ initial statement on Monday indicated Penix would land on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four weeks after suffering the injury during last week’s matchup.
However, lingering concerns about the knee’s severity prompted the additional consultation, which delivered the harsh verdict.
“After further medical evaluation, it has been determined Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will undergo season-ending surgery for a partially torn ACL,” read the team’s official release.
With Penix out, Cousins steps in as the Falcons (3-7) prepare for a critical NFC South showdown against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome.
Easton Stick is expected to serve as the backup, drawing from his role on the practice squad as the emergency third-stringer.
Stick, reflecting on the abrupt shift, shared his empathy for his teammate during Monday’s media session.
“The thing that’s on the top of my mind the most is how (Penix is) feeling and how he’s doing,” Stick said. “That’s a tough, tough deal however it turns out. But yeah, Sunday looks different. Outside of Sunday, not much changes.”
Head coach Raheem Morris and Cousins are set to field questions from the press later today, offering further insight into the transition. For Morris, the focus remains on rallying the squad amid the heartbreak.
“Obviously, it hurts your heart when your quarterback goes down,” Morris acknowledged Monday. “Anybody in your football team… that’s definitely always one of those things that’s going to be harmful. But you got to recenter, you got to focus. You got to go with the next-man-up mentality. You got to lean on other people, other places, to be able to go find a way to get those things done.”
Penix’s 2025 stats paint a picture of promise cut short: In nine starts, he completed 166 of 276 passes (60.1%) for 1,982 yards, nine touchdowns, and just three interceptions — averaging 220.2 yards per game.
He sat out Week 8’s loss to the Miami Dolphins with a bone bruise in the same knee, though Morris couldn’t confirm if the issues are connected.
Selected eighth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Penix was originally tabbed to sit and learn behind Cousins as a rookie.
That timeline accelerated in Week 16 of his debut year due to the veteran’s inconsistencies, propelling Penix into the starting lineup to close out 2024 and carry into this season. His college career at Washington was marred by right-knee troubles, but this marks a fresh challenge on the opposite side.
The injury compounds a dismal year for Atlanta, who sit dead last in the NFC South at 0-3 in the division and boast slimmer-than-slim playoff odds — under 1% per The New York Times’ simulator — with seven games remaining. Still, Morris struck an optimistic chord: “Just hurting for the young man. We’ll move forward.”
As the Falcons navigate this pivot, Dirty Bird fans will be watching closely to see if Cousins can spark a late-season surge. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports for updates from today’s presser and beyond.
-
In a dramatic turn that’s got the Peach State’s celebrity circles buzzing, former Real Housewives of Potomac cast member Mia Thornton was taken into custody Wednesday at the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International.
The 40-year-old reality TV alum, who traded Potomac drama for Atlanta glamour just months ago, is now facing serious larceny charges stemming from an alleged midnight furniture heist at her former rental.
Busted in ATL: Mia Thornton
According to the Atlanta Police Department, Thornton was nabbed “without incident” on Wednesday, Nov. 19, as she moved through the airport’s terminals.
Officers acted on an active warrant tied to a brazen theft reported last month, booking her straight into Fulton County Jail.
Body cam footage from the arrest, released by APD, captures the moment Atlanta’s newest transplant found herself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
The trouble traces back to Oct. 28, when Thornton’s former landlord – speaking through a property management company – called in the cops over a gutted condo unit.
The owner claims Thornton and her crew slipped in under cover of night and stripped the place bare, hauling off every piece of furniture that came with the lease, plus a wall-mounted TV.
The pilfered goods? Valued at a whopping $11,000, per the police report.
“It’s like they treated the place like a moving sale gone wrong,” the landlord fumed in the incident filing, alleging the tenants “took all of the furniture which was in the unit prior to their move in as well as the TV which was on the wall.”
Atlanta’s rental scene is no stranger to messy breakups, but this one’s got Bravo-level twists – especially since Thornton only unpacked her bags in the A-Town back in April.
Fans will remember Thornton’s emotional farewell to RHOP after four seasons of Potomac palace intrigue. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she announced her big move south, calling it a “new beginning” for her family and teasing “big things are coming.”
She gushed about the “unforgettable journey” on Bravo, shouting out host Andy Cohen for “believing in me and giving me the space to share my story.” To her co-stars: “Thank you for the laughs, the lessons, and the unforgettable moments.” And to viewers: “Your love and support has meant everything to me.”
Thornton didn’t hold back on the hype for her Atlanta chapter, declaring, “I don’t just make headlines — I make History. Atlanta, brace yourself. The empire has expanded. #LegacyInTheMaking.” Well, Mia, the headlines are here – just not quite the empire-building kind.
As of this morning, Thornton’s rep hasn’t fired back with a comment, and details on her next court date remain under wraps. But one thing’s clear: From Potomac tea-spilling to ATL airport drama, Mia Thornton’s still serving looks, lessons, and now a little legal heat.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on this unfolding saga – because when celebs crash-land in our city, we’ve got the full scoop. Got a tip on Atlanta’s A-listers? Drop us a line at tjohnson@atlantafi.com.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
-
Once an industrial powerhouse dotted with factories and rail lines, Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward (O4W) has transformed into a food lover’s paradise, thanks in large part to the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail weaving through its core.
From the towering Ponce City Market—Atlanta’s answer to New York’s Chelsea Market—to the eclectic Krog Street Market, O4W’s dining scene blends Southern comfort with global flair.
Where To Eat in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward
Whether you’re chasing wood-fired pizzas, inventive tapas, or farm-fresh seafood, these spots capture the ward’s resilient spirit. We’ve rounded up our top picks, based on local buzz, chef-driven menus, and those unforgettable BeltLine strolls post-meal.
Grab your walking shoes—dinner here is as much about the journey as the feast.
Ponce City Market: The Ultimate Food Hall Playground
No O4W visit is complete without a detour to Ponce City Market, the neighborhood’s crown jewel at 675 Ponce de Leon Place NE. This adaptive-reuse masterpiece, housed in a former Sears warehouse, boasts nearly 20 eateries under one roof, making it ideal for indecisive groups or solo adventurers.
For a quick hit of Southern soul, head to H&F Burger Co. for grass-fed beef patties stacked with pimento cheese and bacon jam—crispy-edged perfection that locals swear by for under $15. Craving ramen on a chilly fall evening? Ton Ton Ramen & Yakitori delivers steamy bowls of tonkotsu pork broth with bouncy noodles and charred yakitori skewers, a welcome addition since its 2024 debut.
And don’t skip Biltong Bar, the U.S.’s first spot for South African street food, where air-dried beef strips (biltong) pair with peri-peri chicken and boozy milkshakes.
Pro tip: Hit the rooftop Skyline Park for skyline views and skyline-level people-watching while nursing a craft beer from Hop City.
Marcus Bar & Grille: Elevated Comfort with a Nod to History
Photo credit: Marcus Bar & Grille For a sit-down experience that honors O4W’s roots, Marcus Bar & Grille at 874 Ralph McGill Blvd NE stands out as a beacon of refined Southern fare.
Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s outpost draws from Atlanta’s Black culinary heritage, with wood-fired dishes like smoked pork ribs glazed in peach habanero sauce and cornbread muffins slathered in honey butter.
The space—complete with lush greenery and a gleaming open kitchen—feels like a community hub, especially during weekend jazz brunches. Recent diners rave about the lamb chops, seared to juicy perfection and served with creamy mac ‘n’ cheese that could convert a vegetarian.
It’s upscale without the stuffiness, and with entrees around $30–$45, it’s worth the splurge for date nights or family gatherings.
Superica: Tex-Mex with a BeltLine Twist
Photo credit: Superica Overlooking the BeltLine at 1600 North Ave NE, Superica channels Austin’s Ford Fry vibes into Atlanta’s backyard.
This casual powerhouse specializes in wood-grilled tacos—think barbacoa beef tucked into house-made tortillas with fiery salsa verde—and frozen margaritas that go down dangerously easy on a humid Georgia afternoon. The courtyard patio, strung with lights and shaded by oaks, is prime for sunset dinners, where the $16 queso fundido (oozing with chorizo) steals the show. It’s family-friendly yet trendy enough for Instagram, and with gluten-free options galore, it caters to all.
Fun fact: The restaurant’s commitment to local farms means your meal supports Georgia growers, adding a feel-good layer to every bite.
Staplehouse: Philanthropy on a Plate
Tucked on bustling Edgewood Avenue at 541 Edgewood Ave SE, Staplehouse isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a movement. Co-owned by the late Ryan Hidinger and his wife Jen, this gem donates a portion of proceeds to The Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit aiding food and beverage workers in crisis.
The menu evolves seasonally, but staples like the duck confit poutine (fries smothered in duck fat gravy and cheese curds) and charcuterie boards with house-cured salumi keep locals lining up.
The vibe? Intimate and artsy, with exposed brick walls and a wine list heavy on Georgia varietals. At $25–$40 per entree, it’s a delicious way to dine with purpose—perfect for those seeking more than just a meal.
Buena Vida Tapas Bar: Spanish Sun on the BeltLine
For a taste of Iberian sunshine, stroll to Buena Vida Tapas & Sol at 440 Flat Shoals Ave SE, right on the BeltLine.
Owned by Atlanta restaurateurs Adam Berlin and Juan S. Calle, this airy spot serves approachable small plates like patatas bravas (crispy potatoes in smoky aioli) and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp that could headline any feast). The BeltLine-facing patio buzzes on weekends, with pitchers of sangria flowing alongside $12–$18 plates.
Executive Chef Jaime Guzman’s menu nods to Southern Spain, incorporating local peaches into gazpacho for a peachy twist. It’s romantic, lively, and endlessly shareable—ideal for tapas-hopping with friends.
Ruby Chow’s: Noodling Around Global Flavors
Rounding out the list, Ruby Chow’s at 469 Flat Shoals Ave SE brings Cantonese cool to O4W with silky hand-pulled noodles in spicy dan dan sauce and crispy Peking duck wraps. The pink-hued interior, adorned with floral installations, feels like a serene escape amid the neighborhood’s energy.
Ruby Chow’s makes the list–> Best Asian Restaurants in Atlanta.
Yeppa & Co.
Nearby, Yeppa & Co. at the Junction Krog District (347 Boulevard SE) pairs vibey Italian with wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas— the cacio e pepe is a cheesy dream.
Both spots, fresh off 2025 buzz, highlight O4W’s growing Asian and Mediterranean scenes, with dishes under $20 that punch way above their weight.
Final Word
The Old Fourth Ward’s dining renaissance shows no signs of slowing, fueled by its walkable layout and commitment to diverse voices. As we head into holiday season, these spots offer everything from festive brunches to cozy fire-pit dinners.
Pro tip: Download the Atlanta Streetcar app for easy hops between Ponce and Edgewood—pair it with a post-dinner gelato stroll. What’s your O4W must-try? Drop me a line at cj@atlantafi.com. Hungry yet? The BeltLine awaits.
-
A new coffee table book — Delta: 100 Years & Climbing — chronicles the airline’s remarkable journey from its 1925 beginnings as a crop-dusting operation in Macon, Georgia, to becoming a global aviation leader headquartered right here in Atlanta.
The book is a continuation of Delta and the Delta Flight Museum’s Centennial celebrations.
Written by New York-based journalist Mark Ellwood and organized by decade, Delta: 100 Years & Climbing brings the airline’s story to life through breathtaking photography and never-before-shared stories.
Pre-orders for the beautifully crafted volume open November 18, exclusively at assouline.com.
Readers will trace the evolution of Delta’s iconic fleet, branding, and route network, plus meet the generations of Atlanta-area employees who have been the heart of the company for a century.
Highlights include Delta’s first passenger flight in 1929, the arrival of the jet age with the DC-8, the pioneering women who broke barriers in the cockpit, and modern Atlanta-led innovations like in-flight Wi-Fi and the game-changing Delta One suites.
The Delta Flight Museum, located at Delta’s world headquarters near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, played a central role in curating rare photographs, vintage advertisements, and authentic stories that make the book a true keepsake of aviation history.
“Preserving Delta’s history is about honoring the people and moments that shaped aviation and inspiring future generations to keep pushing the boundaries,” said Gail Grimmett, President of the Delta Flight Museum. “This book celebrates the Delta people — many of them proud Atlantans — whose spirit of innovation and resilience brought us here, reminding us how far we’ve come and how much further we can go if we keep climbing, together.”
Delta: 100 Years & Climbing officially launches December 15 and will be available at Assouline boutiques, select retailers, and online at www.assouline.com. It’s the perfect holiday gift for aviation buffs, history lovers, frequent flyers, and anyone who calls Atlanta home.
Pre-order your copy today at www.assouline.com and own a piece of Atlanta’s aviation legacy.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
-
Metro Atlanta’s Muslim community and food lovers alike are gearing up for a brand-new tradition: the inaugural Atlanta Halal Fall Festival, taking place Saturday, November 22 and Sunday, November 23, 2025, in historic Grant Park.
The free, two-day event will turn the park into a colorful celebration of halal cuisine, culture, and family-friendly entertainment from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.
Atlanta Halal Fall Festival: What To Know
More than 50 halal food vendors will line the grounds, serving everything from smoky beef kebabs and chicken shawarma wraps to gourmet halal burgers, loaded fries, biryani, freshly baked mana’eesh, and an array of desserts including kunafa, baklava, and halal-friendly funnel cakes. Vegan and vegetarian options will also be widely available.
In addition to the food, the festival will feature:
- An artisan market showcasing handmade jewelry, clothing, home décor, and Islamic art
- Live cultural performances including nasheed artists, traditional dabke dancing, and henna artists
- A dedicated kids’ zone with face painting, bounce houses, and games
- Prayer areas and wudu facilities for attendees
The event is open to all faiths and backgrounds. Organizers say they expect thousands of visitors over the weekend, especially as halal food continues to surge in popularity across metro Atlanta.
Parking around Grant Park is limited, so attendees are encouraged to use ride-share services, carpool, or take MARTA to the nearby King Memorial station. Limited ADA parking will be available.
Event Details
What: Atlanta Halal Fall Festival
When: Saturday, Nov. 22 & Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 | 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: Grant Park, 840 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Cost: Free admission
More info: atlantahalalfallfest.com (website and social channels launching this week)Whether you’re a longtime halal food enthusiast or just looking for a fun fall outing, organizers say the Atlanta Halal Fall Festival has something for everyone — and they hope it becomes an annual tradition for years to come.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
-
In a city where traffic jams are common time-wasters, Piccadilly Cafeteria is serving up a game-changer for hungry Atlantans on the go.
After months of anticipation, the beloved Southern staple is set to unveil its first-ever To-Go counter this Friday, November 21, transforming the classic cafeteria experience into a seamless, speed-of-life affair.
Piccadilly To-Go Ushers in a New Era of Quick Southern Comfort
The revamped Piccadilly promises to blend its timeless comfort food lineup—think flaky fried chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, and those irresistible yeast rolls—with the convenience of a drive-thru lane.
“We’re almost there!” the team teased on social media this week, sharing glimpses of ladders and last-minute touch-ups.
The grand opening marks a milestone for the chain, which has been a fixture in Georgia dining since its early days dishing out homestyle meals to families and workers alike.
Piccadilly To-Go Grand Opening Offers Food Deals
But Piccadilly isn’t just opening a window—they’re flinging it wide with an all-day extravaganza of buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) deals. That’s right: Purchase your meal on opening day, and score a free one on your next visit. No strings, no fine print, just pure, unadulterated gratitude for being among the first to roll through.
“Swing by, roll through the drive-thru, and be one of the FIRST to experience the newest era of Piccadilly!” the announcement urged, complete with fire emojis and hearts to match the excitement.
Where Is Piccadilly To-Go Located?
Piccadilly To-Go is Located at 2682 Candler Rd in the heart of Decatur.
For those unfamiliar, Piccadilly has long been a go-to for affordable, no-fuss Southern fare in the Metro Atlanta area.
The Decatur location, nestled near the bustling interchange of I-285 and Candler Road, has drawn loyal crowds for decades with its steam-table bounty and self-serve charm.
This drive-thru addition couldn’t come at a better time, as post-pandemic habits have more of us craving grab-and-go options without sacrificing flavor.
Local foodies are already buzzing.
“Finally, Piccadilly in the fast lane—Atlanta’s about to get a whole lot tastier,” said Decatur resident Tiffany Patton, a self-proclaimed yeast roll enthusiast.
The timing feels spot-on too, with the holidays looming and families hunting for easy crowd-pleasers amid the frenzy of Thanksgiving prep.
Doors (and drive-thru lanes) officially swing open at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, with the BOGO magic running through closing at 8 p.m.
Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the line and snag that golden ticket to your next free feast. For more details or to peek at the menu, head to Piccadilly’s website or follow their socials for live updates.
Final Bite
Piccadilly’s drive-thru debut isn’t just about convenience—it’s a nod to how we’re all adapting, one drive-thru order at a time.
Whether you’re dodging rush hour on your commute from downtown or picking up dinner for the crew after a Little League game, Piccadilly’s new setup ensures your collards and cornbread arrive hot and hassle-free.
In a region where good eats are as much a part of the culture as the Braves’ seventh-inning stretch, this could be the spark that reignites cafeteria cool. Mark your calendars, Decatur: Southern soul food just got a turbo boost.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for the latest in Atlanta dining news, from pop-ups to power lunches. Got a tip? Email me at CJ@atlantafi.com.
-
Hey, Atlanta foodies! It’s no secret that the best hotels often have the best restaurants. Hotel restaurants often fly under the radar, but in Georgia’s largest city, they’re shining brighter than ever—blending world-class hospitality with innovative Southern twists and global flair.
As your go-to local spot for all things delicious in the ATL, we’re always on the hunt for those hidden gems that elevate our city’s already stellar dining scene.
In this article, we’ve researched the top hotel restaurants in Atlanta. Yes, this one’s all about hotel eats!
Atlanta’s Hotels: Come for the Sheets, Stay for the Eats
Whether you’re planning a fancy night out, a business lunch, or just craving that perfect steak, these spots deliver.
We’ve rounded up seven standouts based on buzz, flavor profiles, and that unmistakable ATL vibe. For each, we’ve pulled a glowing highlight, plus the deets to make your reservation a breeze. Bon appétit!
1. Il Premio at The Fourth Hotel
800 Rankin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (470) 470-8010
Tucked into the sultry vibes of Old Fourth Ward, Il Premio is your ultimate romantic date night spot with dim lighting, velvet couches, and a grand piano setting the mood.
It’s a sleek haven for corporate dinners too, thanks to seamless service. The menu’s crown jewels? Nine cuts of steak, from tender filet mignon to luxurious Miyazaki wagyu, plus a standout bucatini all’amatriciana in a creamy, tangy tomato sauce laced with cured pork cheek—pure indulgence.
2. Fia Restaurant at The Burgess Hotel
3600 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 949-1450
Buckhead’s Fia channels rustic Mediterranean magic through wood-fired grilling, making it ideal for coworker cheers or cozy date nights in its intimate dining room or casual lounge.
Don’t sleep on the lightly charred branzino with fresh herbs and pickled fennel, the melt-in-your-mouth short rib, or shrimp saganaki scooped up with grilled bread—it’s flavor fireworks every time.
3. Nobu Atlanta at Nobu Hotel Atlanta
3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (470) 945-8800
For that upscale thrill with a side of celebrity spotting (A-listers love it), Nobu delivers sleek, texture-rich interiors and bold bites like the iconic sweet miso-glazed black cod.
Pro tip: Dive into the hot and cold plates up front for max flavor bang for your buck—it’s elevated Japanese-Peruvian fusion at its finest in Buckhead.
4. Bar Margot at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 881-5913
Midtown’s Bar Margot is a all-day winner, from breakfast to late-night bites, in a spacious mezzanine overlooking a grand staircase—perfect for laptop sessions or private booths.
It never misses: Think vegan jollof rice with meaty oyster mushrooms or the legendary juicy Bar Margot Burger piled with crispy bacon and charred red onions. A true ATL treasure!
5. Tiny Lou’s at Clermont Hotel
789 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (470) 485-0085
This Poncey-Highland pink-hued French brasserie feels like a glamorous Barbie dreamhouse crossed with classic Paris, dishing out steak frites and duck confit that hit all the right notes.
It’s prime for friend hangouts or date nights, with rooftop bar options nearby—cap it off with the dreamy layered crepe cake for dessert bliss.
6. By George at The Candler Hotel
127 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (470) 851-2752
Downtown’s By George oozes historic charm in a 1906 building with French brasserie energy and killer street views (bonus: Marta streetcar sightings).
Nail the basics with a grilled cheese and tomato soup sandwich or classic burger and fries, then swoon over the fluffy Coconut Tres Leches for a sweet finish—timeless and satisfying.
7. Capolinea at Signia by Hilton Atlanta
159 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 223-4414
Photo credit: Capolinea Overlooking Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Capolinea’s red-sauce Italian-American scene is elevated with tableside martinis and upscale gems like spaghetti pomodoro or tender short rib.
It’s a satisfying rotation addition for date nights, blending comfort with wow-factor views and flavors.
Final Bite
There you have it, ATL—hotel dining that’s as accessible as it is exceptional. These spots are booking up fast, so snag a table and let us know your faves in the comments. What’s your next culinary adventure? Stay hungry, friends!
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
