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The AU Center is well-known for being the center of student life for Atlanta’s consortium of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), but it’s increasingly garnering a name for it’s food spots.
If you attend or work at Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Spelman College, you know where the food restaurants are nearby.
In this article, we’ll show you the best places to eat near the AU Center in Atlanta.
Where To Eat Near the AU Center
Located just across the street from downtown Atlanta’s western border, the AU Center is where academic brilliance happens on a daily basis, but then there’s the food. Here’s where to eat nearby:
Busy Bee Cafe
810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 | (404) 525-9212
This popular soul food restaurant located on MLK Jr. Drive is known for its fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread.
Tassili’s Raw Reality
1059 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, Ga. 30310
Tassili’s Raw Reality Café is a healthy food option in a sea of bad choices and junk food. Owned by Master Raw Chef Tassili Ma’at, this eatery subscribes to a dining experience full of nutrient-rich delectables that give your body life. Come for the food, stay for the Egyptian Yoga classes.
On the menu you’ll find “That Ish Wrap,” and some of the most beautiful and artfully crafted veggie wraps around.
This vegan and vegetarian restaurant on Westview Drive offers a variety of healthy and flavorful dishes, including wraps, salads, and smoothies.
Soul Box Soul Food Room
1017 Fair St SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 | (404) 494-5805
Located on Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard, Soul Box Soul Food is a cozy restaurant that serves up classic Southern comfort food like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and macaroni and cheese.
The Seafood Menu
880 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Photo credit: The Seafood Menu Rapper Lil Baby opened The Seafood Menu Restaurant & Lounge in summer 2023. The eatery has some great dishes centered on seven custom sauces: Caribbean Jerk Butter, Cajun Butter, Lemon Butter, Hot, Sweet Chili Butter, Honey Hot and Garlic Butter.
Mr. Everything Cafe
882 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 | (404) 521-9903
If you like, everything, Mr. Everything Cafe is for you. The spot serves a variety of subs, burgers, gyros, salads and an assortment of yellow rice dishes.
Atlantatucky Brewing
170 Northside Dr SW suite 96, Atlanta, GA 30313
Atlantucky Brewing has become the beer spot du jour in downtown Atlanta. The establishment is owned by the members of the Southern rap quartet Nappy Roots.
Here are the best craft breweries in Atlanta.
Final Bite
The AU Center is known for their academic excellence and cultural significance in the African American community, but also the food nearby. Its institutions, including the venerable Spelman College, offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as cultural and social activities for students.
So what kind of food is Atlanta known for? Once you explore the city, you’d be surprised. It’s not all grits and sweet tea!
Atlanta is known for its vibrant and diverse food scene, making it a popular destination for food lovers. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Atlanta is also home to many acclaimed chefs and restaurants, including several that have been recognized with prestigious awards.
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual eateries, or unique food experiences, Atlanta has something to offer for every palate.
Georgia’s largest city is a mecca when it comes to the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. 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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Kevin Maxey, a former executive in the Ford Fry empire, has struck out on his own with a new Atlanta restaurant.
Pendolino opened on March 18 in Sandy Springs city limits in the space formerly occupied by Santorini Tavern on Roswell Road.
The eatery boasts inspired decor, including an expansive dining room and sun-friendly patio for an unbeatable setting. One side of the restaurant boasts a curved oak wood bar with casual café style seating, and views of the wood burning oven. The main dining room has a lux mix of comfy banquettes, graciously sized booths, and marble topped tables.
What’s On the Menu At Pendolino?
The menu at Pendolino features authentic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza and salads. Of course, there are vino pairings with many of the meals.
Where Is Pendolino Located?
Pendolino is located at 4600 Roswell Rd, NE Atlanta, Ga. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Bite
Atlanta is a far distance from Italy, but the city has some great Italian food.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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In Atlanta, hunger and humpday go together like red beans and rice.
There are quite a few Wednesday food specials in Atlanta to take advantage of.
Wednesday Food Specials In Atlanta: Best Restaurants To Try
This article is going to go over all the Wednesday food specials we know of:
Wednesday is one of those days you can splurge on a quick meal at a restaurant because it’s positioned at a point where you’ve probably had two days of homecooked food. Why not live a little?
Wednesdays: Kids Eat Free At Beni’s Cubano in East Cobb
Beni’s Cubano in East Cobb lets kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. So parents, go to Beni’s Cubano on hump day!
The kids menu at Beni’s Cubano includes such favorites as chicken fingers, mojo grilled chicken, ham and cheese, cside dishes such as plantain chips and black bean and corn salad. Offer valid for dine-in only.
Wednesday Food Specials: District M
District M in Sandy Springs has drink specials and half-off rolls on Wednesdays. Read more about District M.
Wednesday Food Specials: City Tap
City Tap in Midtown Atlanta offers food specials as part of their Midtown Wind Down every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m.
Whiskey Wednesdays: The Pinewood Restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown Decatur, The Pinewood has always stood out as that cool gastropub you want to go hang out in even if you’re not hungry. On Wednesdays, they make it easy. That’s when they have $5 whiskey in what’s known as Whiskey Wednesdays. 254 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030. (404) 373-5507.Winedown Wednesday: Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
This funky West Midtown joint continues to get national accolades while being one of the city’s best-kept secrets…. but for how long??? If you’re a vino fan, check them Wednesday when you can get half-off on select bottles of wine and complimentary charcuterie. Apex West Midtown, 1133 Huff Road, NW Atlanta Ga. 30318.Wednesday Burger + Beer $9.95: Taco Mac
Taco Mac’s Midtown location has a burger and beer combo for just $9.95. Known for its all-the-world beer selection, there’s no better place to watch a game — or people-watch — than this location. 933 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309.Cinco Wednesdays at Blu Cantina
The Mexican restaurant comes with it every Wednesday with $5 food specials as well as $5 cocktails as part of their happy hour offerings.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 spots 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.
Check Out These Daily Food Specials In Atlanta
https://atlantafi.com/daily-cheap-food-and-drink-specials-atlanta/
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Veteran restaurateur Fan Zhang is planning to open his latest authentic Chinese eatery, The Dumpling Factory, in West Midtown Atlanta, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
Zhang has had major success at Northern China Eatery located on Buford Highway, and now wants to expand his business.
When Is The Dumpling Factory Opening in Atlanta?
The Dumpling Factory is opening in Atlanta in June 2024, according to news reports. The establishment will be located in the space formerly occupied by Boxcar Betty, which is closing down.
Dumplings are an Asian staple, so we are excited to see how Zhang will make the tasty dish more accessible here in metro Atlanta.
On the website of the Northern China Eatery, Zhang gives us his clearest vision yet of what to expect when it comes to his dumplings.
“Tianjin and Beijing is the birthplace of all dumplings and buns,” the website says. “The shape of the dumpling is the gold and silver currency that ancient Chinese would use, so when you eat it, it gives you good luck. Dumpling is a must have meal at 12 am on Chinese New Year day but you can get them year-round at Northern Chinese Eatery.”
Final Bite
Asian restaurants used to be far and few between in Atlanta, but that’s no longer the case.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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They say that when you’re in Rome, do as the Romans do. Well, let me tell you the Romans eat and drink with the best of them. If you’ve got a trip to the Eternal City planned, you’ll want to know where to eat.
Where To Eat In Rome
Rome has some of the best restaurants in Europe, including one of the best cuisines — Italian — in the world.
After a recent trip I had the privilege of taking to Rome, I’ve compiled this Rome Restaurant Guide to help you decide where to spend your hard-earned dollars or euros when in the city. Please note that I’ve also included the hours each restaurant is open as Rome’s eateries close at certain times during the day.
Rome is a city known for its delicious food, from traditional Roman dishes to modern culinary creations. Here are some places to eat in Rome that are highly recommended:
Ristorantes
For a more upscale dining experience, consider a ristorante. These restaurants often have a wider range of dishes and may offer tasting menus.
La Pergola
Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7:30 PM — 11:30 PM
Located at the Rome Cavalieri hotel, La Pergola is Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering gourmet dining with stunning views of the city.
Ristorante Aroma
Via Labicana, 125, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3 PM; 7 PM – 11 PM
Situated near the Colosseum, Ristorante Aroma offers fine dining with a focus on contemporary Italian cuisine and panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.
Enoteca Corsi
Via del Gesù, 87/88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 PM – 3:30 PM; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Here’s what one reviewer says about Enoteca Corsi, which is a 5-minute walk from the Roman Capital Hill. “Amazing food with great wine. Typical service for an Italian restaurant. We did not have reservations yet we were seated, they do accept walk-ins as we arrived when they opened at 7:15pm. We enjoyed the atmosphere and stayed 2 hours eating our food. Highly recommend.”
Da Enzo al 29
Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:15 PM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11 PM
A popular trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its authentic Roman dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
Roscioli
Via dei Giubbonari, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Opens 9 AM-11 PM
A combination bakery, deli, and restaurant, Roscioli is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its delicious Roman specialties.
Emma
Via del Monte della Farina, 28, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM; 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Located near the Campo de’ Fiori, Emma is known for its excellent pizza, made with high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Antico Arco
Piazzale Aurelio, 7, 00152 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12 PM to 12 AM
Nestled on the Janiculum Hill, Antico Arco offers creative cuisine in a charming setting, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto
Via del Casaletto, 45, 00151 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:45 PM — 3 PM; 7:45 PM — 11 PM
Located outside the city center, this trattoria is known for its traditional Roman dishes, including pasta, meat, and seafood specialties.
Pipero al Rex
Via Torino, 149, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | Open ⋅ 12:30 PM- 2:30 PM; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
A Michelin-starred restaurant near Piazza Venezia, offering innovative cuisine by chef Luciano Monosilio, known for his creative approach to Roman classics.
Trattorias
What are trattorias? These are casual, family-run restaurants offering traditional Roman dishes. Look for trattorias in neighborhoods like Trastevere or near popular attractions.
Armando al Pantheon
Salita de’ Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | 12:30 – 3 PM; 7 PM – 11 PM
Near the Pantheon, this trattoria is known for its traditional Roman dishes and historic setting. Reservations are recommended.
Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
Via della Madonna dei Monti, 9, 00184 Roma RM, Italy | 12:30 PM – 3 PM ; 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Situated near the Roman Forum, this trattoria offers a wide selection of Roman dishes and a charming outdoor seating area.
Da Felice
Via Mastro Giorgio, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM; 7 PM – 11:30 PM
Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, Da Felice is a family-run trattoria known for its Roman specialties, including pasta carbonara and cacio e pepe.
Hostaria Romana
Via del Boccaccio, 1, 00187 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12:30 PM – 3 PM; 7:15 PM – 11 PM
Situated near the Trevi Fountain, Hostaria Romana is a classic trattoria offering a variety of Roman dishes in a cozy setting.
Taverna Trilussa
Via del Politeama, 23/25, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7 PM – 11 PM
Another Trastevere favorite, Taverna Trilussa is known for its Roman dishes and friendly service. Reservations are recommended.
Pizzerias
Rome is famous for its thin-crust, crispy pizzas. Try classic Roman-style pizza at places like Pizzeria da Baffetto or Pizzarium.
Dar Poeta
Vicolo del Bologna, 45, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 PM – 12 AM
Located in Trastevere, Dar Poeta is a cozy pizzeria known for its traditional Roman-style pizza and friendly service.
Pizzeria Da Baffetto
Via del Governo Vecchio, 114, 00186 Roma RM, Italy | Open 12 – 3:30 PM; 6 – 12 PM
Near the Pantheon, Da Baffetto is a popular pizzeria known for its thin-crust pizzas and casual ambiance. It can get crowded, so be prepared to wait.
Pizzeria Ivo
Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 158, 00153 Roma RM, Italy | Open 6 PM – 12:30 AM
Located near the Vatican, Pizzeria Ivo is a favorite among locals for its classic Roman-style pizza and welcoming atmosphere.
Pizzeria La Gatta Mangiona
Via Federico Ozanam, 30-32, 00152 Roma RM, Italy | Open 7:30 – 11 PM
Situated in the Monteverde neighborhood, La Gatta Mangiona is known for its creative pizzas and high-quality ingredients.
Pizzeria Ostiense
Via Ostiense, 56, 00154 Roma RM, Italy | Open 6:30 PM – 1 AM
Near the Piramide metro station, this pizzeria offers delicious Roman-style pizza with a variety of toppings to choose from.
Where To Get a Quick Bite In Rome
Rome also has a ton of small eateries that you will pass just by walking or driving the streets. They include:
Bakeries: Start your day with a traditional Roman breakfast of cornetto (similar to a croissant) and cappuccino from a local bakery.
Outdoor Markets: Visit one of Rome’s outdoor markets, such as Campo de’ Fiori or Testaccio Market, for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties.
Gelaterias: Cool off with some gelato from one of Rome’s many gelaterias. Look for places that make their gelato fresh daily for the best flavors.
Coffee Shops: Enjoy a classic Italian espresso or try a cappuccino at one of Rome’s historic coffee shops, known as “caffès.”
Fine Dining: If you’re looking for a special dining experience, consider booking a table at one of Rome’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as La Pergola or Ristorante Aroma.
Final Bite
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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Fulton County Special Prosecutor Nathan Wade has dropped out of the election subversion case involving former President Trump and co-defendants.
The development comes after Fulton County Judge McAfee ruled that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis had to either recuse herself or remove her lover, Wade, from the Trump case.
Wade released a statement, resigning from the case, saying that, “Seeking justice for the people of Georgia and the United States, and being part of the effort to ensure that the rule of law and democracy are preserved, has been the honor of a lifetime.”
Read the Nathan Wade Resignation Letter Here
Wade was under scrutiny for being a prosecuting attorney in Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis’ case against Trump.
Willis, according to critics, has exposed herself to credible claims about her credibility now that other investigations are underway, including one launched by the Georgia Senate. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp can also step in and investigate Willis if he so desires.
Final Word
And so the case continues, albeit different than how it started.
Willis has inferred that she has had to do her job amid intense pressure on her personal life.
Speaking to a church in January, Willis said that she is far from perfect.
““You cannot expect black women to be perfect. We need to be allowed to stumble. We need grace. We are all sinners,” she said.“We need your prayers, We need to be allowed to stumble. We need grace. With that type of support, we will move mountains and do Jesus’s will — stumbling all of the way!”
We’ll see how the hearing unfolds, but it’s no doubt that Republicans will celebrate if Willis is taken down and Democrats will breathe a sigh of relief if she is found to stay
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The Atlanta housing market is perennially one of the hottest in the nation and this year is no exception. It’s also very expensive compared to the rest of the Southeast.
As you may know from our Atlanta housing market forecast, this year homeowners may face increased home prices, mirroring a national trend. Average home values in the metro Atlanta area are expected to rise by as much as 6%. However, not all locations will experience this trend; depending on the neighborhood, town, village, and subdivision, some homes may see price drops.
Despite this, there are signs of concern in the U.S. housing market, as noted by Realtor.com:
- The number of homes actively for sale has decreased by 2% compared to last year.
- Unsold homes have decreased by 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 an average of 50 days on the market, which is one day shorter than last year and more than two weeks shorter than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why Is the Atlanta Housing Market So High?
There are several reasons why the Atlanta housing market is expensive. Let’s explore a few reasons why:
Low Inventory, High Housing Demand
High demand for housing, driven by factors such as population growth, job opportunities, and low mortgage rates, can lead to higher prices, especially in areas with limited housing supply.
In many parts of the country, there is a shortage of homes for sale, which can drive up prices as buyers compete for available properties.
There’s also the issue of land cost. The cost of land for new construction can be high, particularly in urban areas where space is limited, leading to higher home prices.
Construction Costs
The cost of building materials, labor, and regulatory requirements can make new construction expensive, which can contribute to higher home prices.
Government policies, such as zoning laws and building regulations, can restrict the supply of housing and drive up prices.
Low Interest Rates
When interest rates are low, it can make borrowing for a home more affordable, which can increase demand and lead to higher prices.
Economic factors, such as strong job markets and wage growth, can increase demand for housing and contribute to higher prices.
So what does a prospective homeowner do, knowing that the housing market has basically priced them out? You try to save money.
How To Save Up For a Home
Saving up money for a house requires careful planning and discipline. Here are some steps you can take to save up for your future home:
Set a Savings Goal: Determine how much money you need to save for a down payment and other homebuying costs. This will give you a target to work towards.
- Create a Budget: Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back and save more money. Allocate a portion of your income specifically for your house savings goal.
Read our guide on how to save up for a home.
Final Word
Real estate is often seen as a safe investment, leading to increased demand from investors, which can drive up prices.
Overall, a combination of factors, including supply and demand dynamics, construction costs, government policies, and economic factors, can contribute to the high cost of housing in the U.S.
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.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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It’s back again! The music, great food and art once again join forces in Atlanta with the Summer Shade Festival at Grant Park. The two-day event is slated for Saturday, August 24th, and Sunday, August 25th, 2024.
The event is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
It will feature outdoor fun, activities for kids and live music and food for all. There will also be a 5K Run for the Park, food trucks and craft bee. This year, you can bike to the festival and park it for free with the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition Bike Valet.
So, bring your blanket, bring the whole family, but don’t bring any pets, and spend summer’s final weekend at the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival.
Some of the youngest visitors will be able to run and play with abandon at this year’s festival. An extensive lineup of performers, artists, storytellers and musicians will grace the kid’s stage. There will also be craft activities for those who like to keep their hands busy!
The Grant Park Summer Shade Festival will feature music some some of the most notable acts around the United States. While the lineup hasn’t been released just yet, stay with us and check back in this space soon.
Like every year, the festival will kick off early Saturday with the Adams Realtors Run for the Park 5K. There will be a tot trot and a stroller race and runners will be awarded by age group. The funds raised will go to support the Grant Park Conservancy.
Explore Atlanta Like Never Before
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. Midtown Atlanta often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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There’s a new sports bar in town: 42 Bar and Grill recently opened its doors in the eastside neighborhood of Grant Park in Atlanta.
The new Atlanta restaurant is owned by Belen Getachew, a local restaurateur who also opened an eatery called Vanity.
42 Bar and Grill: What’s On the Menu?
On the menu at 42 Bar and Grill, you’ll find the customary items like wings and steak, but you’ll also find delicious items such as:
- Jerk Salmon Philly
- Oxtail Pizza
- Rasta Pasta
- Lamb Chop Entrée
- Blackened Salmon
- Wings (6 Pieces)
- Salmon Bites
- Nashville Honey Hot Whole Wings (3 Pieces)
42 Bar and Grill boasts a happy hour as well, where customers can enjoy 50% off on appetizers, 50 cents wings and $5 drinks and $3 for domestic beer, to name a few items.
On Wednesdays, guests can get half off wine bottles as well.
Where is 42 Bar and Grill Located?
42 Bar and Grill is located at 327 Memorial Dr. SE Atlanta, Ga. 30312. Here are directions.
The hours for 42 Bar and Grill are:
Sunday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Monday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Tuesday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Wednesday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Thursday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Friday 8:00 am – 3:59 am Saturday 8:00 am – 3:59 Final Word
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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It’s International Women’s Month, which means it’s the perfect time to showcase how Atlanta’s best movers and shakers are women at the top of their games.
You already know that Atlanta is one of the best cities in America when it comes to women-led businesses, but do you know who’s who? To give you a hand, we’ve rounded up some movers and shakers that are doing their thing in Georgia’s largest city.
These Powerful Women Are Making It Happen In Atlanta
The common thread among them all is that they have a passion for what they do and they love them some Atlanta.
They are businesses owners, entrepreneurs, and more. We called them Our Top 5 Movers & Shakers. Let’s meet them.
Summer Jackson-Cole
Why do you love what you do and what inspired you to do it?
As a Journalist, I’ve learned that everyone has a story! I love what I do because I get to use my creativity to share those stories, provide information to the community and witness historical moments up close. I was inspired to work in communications when I won my first district-wide speech contest at 8-years-old. At that moment, I realized the power of using your voice! When my high school classmates voted me as “Most Likely to Host a Talk Show,” I knew that my future would include lights, camera and action!Finally, What’s your favorite thing about Atlanta?
May I pick two things? Favorite thing about Atlanta #1: The synergy within the creative community.
Favorite thing about Atlanta #2: The Weather! As a Chicago Girl, I love experiencing all four seasons with milder winters here in the ATL!Keiarra McLean
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Occupation/gig: BloggerWhy do you love what you do and what inspired you to do it?
I run a rising media platform called FLURRY, which seeks to uplift and highlight POC voices in the creative community. We aim to be a safe space for underrepresented voices, to feel supported and beautiful, angry and sad, + every emotion in between. I was inspired by the talented creatives I started to come across the city of Atlanta.
Finally, What’s your favorite thing about Atlanta?
My favorite thing about Atlanta is the creative underground scene. Everyone is their own celebrity in Atlanta, and it is beautiful to see!
Make sure you check out flurrylifestyle.com!
Ronnika A. McFall
Hometown: Biloxi, Mississippi
Occupation/gig: Communications and Media Relations SpecialistWhy do you love what you do and what inspired you to do it?
My passion is very basic. My passion is to help someone else, but in my own special way. I help people through innovative campaigns, I help people by guiding them in their messaging and thoughts. I help people by listening and executing that thought.I think we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to have it figured out. If your passion is not figured out, take a step back to notice what you like to do effortlessly. Take away the layers and look at the core thing you enjoy doing. If you like to help people, like me, figure out how you want to help them. I believe if you start there you can begin to develop your path towards success.
Finally, What’s your favorite thing about Atlanta?
The opportunities here. My journey started in Biloxi, Mississippi. I currently live in Atlanta with my husband of three years. I work as a communicator for the American Red Cross and I currently run my public relations agency part-time. I started my career in marketing and communications right out of college, and I noticed very early that Atlanta was a place full of networking and opportunities. I believe character is built in Atlanta. You learn who you really are, the good and the bad. I realized early in my career that personal branding was important, investing in myself was important, and treating my projects the way I would want my projects to be treated is important. My business grew because of word of mouth and because of that, the opportunities are endless.Jessica ‘Jess’ Davis
Hometown: Stone Mountain, GA
Occupation/gig: Owner/Founder of GameHer, Manager of Youth Basketball Operations, Cleveland CavaliersWhen did you first get into gaming and what was your favorite game?I first got into gaming at an early age with the Nintendo System. My favorite game was Mario Kart now probably NBA 2K
Why do you think women are underrepresented in gaming and what inspired you to create GameHer?I think women are underrepresented because the narrative that is out there is that only guys are into gaming, which is not obviously the case. Seeing the lack of women I played growing up, the creation of GameHer was to create a platform that connected women in gaming together, while also providing clothing that allowed them to be proud of their lifestyle.
Why do you love what you do and what inspired you to do it?I’m inspired and love what I do because I’m very passionate about gaming. GameHer allows me to empower other females in gaming and help change the narrative of being such a male dominated industry.
Finally, What’s your favorite thing about Atlanta?The chicken wings. You will not find chicken wings anywhere else like you find in the A. I’ve traveled to many states/countries and I make a conscious effort to eat chicken wings everywhere I go. Nothing compares!Y’all, check out, GameHER!Danielle Coke
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Occupation/gig: Illustrator/Social Justice AdvocateWhy do you love what you do and what inspired you to do it?
I love creating illustrations about hope and justice because I feel the need for both in the world today. With equity, empathy, and anti-racism taking center stage this past year, it’s become important for me to create art that uplifts these ideals while keeping hope and optimism at the center of it all. It’s helped me to process and express myself, while also creating resources and inspiration for others!
What’s your favorite thing about Atlanta?
My favorite thing about Atlanta would have to be the Beltline. It’s like it never ends- there’s always somewhere new to eat and somewhere different to bike!! I also love getting to grab juice from Lucky Lotus or a donut from Five Daughters Bakery at Ponce City Market.
Check out OhHappyDani.com!
How To Support Extraordinary Atlantans Doing Extraordinary Things
If you’re going to support local businesses in Atlanta, the main thing you may want to do is just get out in the community. Go to the maker’s events, drive around the cities and walk in a local park.
The people doing the most extraordinary things are out there being extraordin
If you’re interested in supporting some great places to eat in your local area, here are the best black-owned restaurants in Atlanta.
You also may be interested in the best black farms and farmers in Atlanta. And we can’t forget about the top grocery stores.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Know of a person or business doing it big? Contact 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.