Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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NCAA March Madness is coming to State Farm Arena and everybody’s gonna have a ball: Atlanta will host the South Regionals of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, which will be played at Georgia Tech.
The Sweet 16 games began on March 28, followed by an Elite Eight game on March 30 at State Farm Arena.
NCAA Men’s Schedule: Who’s Playing This Weekend?
Sunday, March 30 (Elite Eight)
- Sunday, March 30 (Elite Eight)
- (1) Houston 69, (2) Tennessee 50
- (1) Auburn vs. (2) Michigan State, 5:05 p.m. | CBS
The college basketball action is bringing national attention, economic boosts from visitors, and excitement for sports fans, cementing Atlanta’s role as a key player in the “March Madness.”
The Final Four is scheduled for Saturday, April 6.
Watch March Madness At These Top Atlanta Sports Bars
To find out where the bars are that have huge TV screens, good drinks, great food, accommodating servers, hip bartenders and more. We culled numerous reviews from our friends at Yelp, Google and TripAdvisor. This is what we came up with. Here are the best Atlanta sports bars to watch the NCAA tournament.
STATS Brewpub
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, (404) 885-1472The go-to sports bar in downtown Atlanta, STATS is a short walk from the Omni, CNN Center and College Football Hall of Fame. Inside the brewpub, customers can try their hand at tabletop beer taps and exquisite food with screens all around to watch the NFL playoffs.One Google reviewer says: “This place was incredible! Service was excellent, food was amazing! There were so many delicious looking things on the menu that my waitress had to help me out with a recommendation. I’m glad I listened to her, the BBQ Brisket Burger was out of this world. The fries were really good too. And then she talked me into getting the key lime pie, it was every bit as good as everything else was. I will definitely go back whenever I’m in Atlanta again.”The U Bar
3515 Camp Creek Pkwy #50-70, East Point, GA 30344, (404) 349-2301The premiere sports bar at Camp Creek, the U Bar features cool music, wings specials in a club environment that is packed on the weekends.One Google reviewer says: “Pretty lit. Moreso a place to socialize, eat and watch games. Music was good . You can dance but Its not a club. Hoped this helped. Oh and 10 for women 20 for me. I heard they have good wings.”Popular party spot with sports, DJs & dancing, with drink specials & a full menu for dining.The Tavern
3560 Camp Creek Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30344, (404) 349-9285The Tavern, known as Camp Creek’s OTHER sports bar, bhas events almost every weekday night, including karaoke, drink specials and more.One Google reviewer says: “The lemon pepper and hot mixed wings are AMAZING. I also enjoy their karaoke nights which are live and many patrons participate so it makes me feel okay because I can’t sing to save my life. I’d definitely recommend checking them out on Wednesday night and enjoy the atmosphere.”Hudson Grille
942 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 892-0892Hudson Grille has three locations in Atlanta, one downtown, one in Midtown and the other one in Brookhaven. Huge TV screens at every turn and good food make this one of the best Atlanta sports bars to enjoy the game.One Google reviewer says: “Food is always great along with service and overall atmosphere. I personally come here frequently during football season because it is home to Raven Nation South, located in the upstairs area of the bar. I love the sports atmosphere that Hudson Grill provides.”Yard House
261 19th St NW #1100, Atlanta, GA (404) 815-8990 Thanks to an awesome Midtown location (there’s another one at The Battery next to SunTrust Park) and above-average beverage program, Yard House at Atlantic Station has a devoted following among sports fans. The stylish sports bar’s patio is a great people-watching spot and the burgers, steaks and tacos on the menu make this place a must-visit to watch the NFL playoffs. One Google reviewer says: “Happening place with excellent food! You just can’t go wrong with Yard House. We visit Atlanta every year at Christmas time, and Yard House has become a family tradition. The menu is extensive and everything we’ve tried has been delicious! They have an excellent Happy Hour … that includes a HUGE selection of 1/2 price appetizers. I think we have literally ordered everything on the happy hour menu! You can’t beat the price!”Topgolf
1600 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 475-4000
Topgolf caters not to the golf fan so much, but the sports fan. With flat-screen TVs at every station, you can swing clubs or sit back and enjoy your game when you want it. Inside at the bar, you can see multiple screens from several vantage points while you eat and drink.One Google reviewer says: “This is a really fun place for all age groups. If golf is not your thing, they also offer table tennis or ping pong upstairs and pool tables downstairs. The putting area is spacious. Of course it is outdoors, but they offer large heat lamps directly over the seating area. There are two levels to the seating area. The first is a high bar with chairs. The second is a u-shaped outdoor sofa with a center table. All food and drink orders can be placed from your bay. For each game, each player gets 20 chances to “put the ball in the hole”. You can take all 20 swings in a row or rotate players as you’d like. If you aren’t interested in playing any of the game options, you can also dine in or have a round at the bar. Enjoy!”Taco Mac
933 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (678) 904-7211With eight locations in Atlanta, including in Midtown on Peachtree and in Dunwoody, Taco Mac is a sports fan’s favorite place to watch the NFL playoffs, the Hawks or any sports event. Featuring the most expansive beer menu of any Atlanta sports bar, Taco Mac is the perfect place to enjoy a craft beer, malt, ale or IPA with your buffalo wings.One Google reviewer says: “Fast and delicious food. Live music on Friday night. Very personable servers. Really great fajitas. They are very open to accommodate changes to menu. One of my favorite places to eat.”Last Words
The good thing about Atlanta is different sports bars are aligned with different teams. (Don’t go to Copeland’s on South Cobb Drive unless you’re an LSU/Saints fan).
If all you want is great food, drinks and a TV, Atlanta has some of the best sports bars in the Southeast, not to mention being a craft beer oasis. You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Burger fans, get ready for some tasty news—Gwinnett Burger Week is back.
For a decade, 23 locally owned restaurants have been dishing out $10 chef-crafted burgers, and this year promises to be the most delicious yet.
When Is Gwinnett Burger Week?
Gwinnett Burger Week runs from March 17–23, 2025, marking its 10th anniversary with a weeklong celebration of burger brilliance.
Gwinnett’s skilled local chefs have spent ten years perfecting their craft, delivering unique, flavor-loaded burgers that keep us coming back for more. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s cooking for this milestone year:
- “KBBQ Burger” at Stäge Kitchen & Bar: A smashed Angus beef patty slathered in Korean BBQ glaze, topped with roasted cheese corn, house-pickled veggies, gochujang mayo, and served on a sesame brioche bun.
- “That’s My Jam Burger” at Old Fountain Tavern: A succulent patty stacked with melty Fontina and Gruyère cheeses, crispy bacon, balsamic onion jam, fresh arugula, and sun-dried tomato mayo, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun.
How To Participate in Gwinnett Burger Week
Want to level up the fun? Sign up for the Gwinnett Burger Week Digital Pass to track your eats and rack up points for a shot at exclusive merch.
The more spots you hit, the more points you score—and the more burgers you get to savor. Visit 10 restaurants, and you’ll earn a spot on the iconic Gwinnett Burger Week Wall of Fame!
Final Word
Atlanta’s got a solid burger scene that’ll satisfy any craving. Just outside the city in Dunwoody, NFA Burger slings a standout smashburger—two Angus patties with crispy edges, American cheese, pickles, mustard, and a killer Sassy Sauce on a soft Martin’s Potato Roll. It’s tucked into a Chevron gas station, but don’t let that fool you; it’s been hyped as one of Georgia’s best for a reason. In town, Grindhouse Killer Burgers is a go-to with multiple locations, like Grant Park, where you can get a juicy, crunchy classic or pile on Southern toppings like pimento cheese or fried green tomatoes. Plenty of spots like these keep Atlanta’s burger game strong—definitely worth a bite if you’re around.
Check out Atlanta’s best burger joints.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Another stellar eatery is about to open in Dunwoody — and this time it’s got a familiar name behind it.
Atlanta restaurateur Barry Mills—known for FLIP Burger Boutique, HD1, and Big B’s Fish Joint— is set to open his newest venture, Steak & Grace.
The eatery is one of many new Atlanta restaurants opening this year.
When Is Steak & Grace Opening in Dunwoody?
Steak & Grace will open its doors on Friday, March 14, at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy in Dunwoody Village.
Steak & Grace features a spacious 3,500-square-foot layout with an open floor plan and a modern aesthetic. The design embraces light, airy tones, abundant natural light from large windows, and stylish, whimsical elements. A large patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace and an expanded bar, will further enhance the experience.
What’s On the Menu at Steak & Grace?
Steak & Grace reimagines the classic steakhouse experience, blending premium steaks, seafood, and pasta with top-tier service in a relaxed, inviting setting. Guests can expect exceptional quality without the formality of a traditional steakhouse.
Helming the kitchen is Executive Chef Conor O’Reilly (formerly of Fifth Group Restaurants), who takes a composed-plate approach rather than the standard à la carte steakhouse format. His menu emphasizes seasonal, high-quality ingredients, refined flavors, and a range of options, including gluten-free, keto, and dairy-free dishes.
Where Is Steak & Grace Located?
Steak & Grace is located at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy Ste 101, Atlanta, GA 30338. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
When it comes to Atlanta steakhouses, we have high hopes for Steak & Grace.
According to the owner, Steak & Grace’s design fosters a social and casual ambiance aimed at attracting a lively neighborhood crowd. To elevate the dining experience, upbeat music will play throughout the space, creating an energetic yet comfortable environment.
The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.
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Because you can’t get enough of Roy, Horace, Jules, Mallory and the gang, Beauty in Black the smash Netflix hit from Atlanta filmmaker Tyler Perry is returning for a second season.
The popular show has had casting calls in Atlanta as well.
Perry, who films at his namesake studio in southwest Atlanta, confirmed that there will be another season of the series, saying on social media. “You asked. We answered. Season 2 coming soon,” he posted on X.
Netflix has officially renewed “Beauty in Black” for a second season. A teaser has been released, hinting at escalating conflicts and deeper character developments. The release date for Season 2 has yet to be announced.
“We left fans on the edge of their seats at the end of Season 1, and we’re thrilled to continue Kimmie’s journey as she steps into her power as the newest member of the Bellarie family,” Perry tells Tudum. “Kimmie exemplifies the spirit of never underestimating the underdog, and I can’t wait for fans to continue to see her story unfold. If you thought Season 1 was a wild ride, you’re not ready for Season 2.”
About Beauty in Black
Upon its release, Beauty in Black garnered significant attention, debuting as Netflix’s fourth-most-watched series with 5.6 million views in its first four days. In its second week, it rose to the top of Netflix’s TV chart, amassing 8.7 million views.
The narrative centers on Kimmie, an exotic dancer whose life intertwines with the affluent yet dysfunctional Bellaire family, proprietors of a cosmetics empire entangled in illicit activities.
Kimmie’s journey begins as she seeks a fresh start by applying for a scholarship to a prestigious hair school founded by the Bellaire family. Her path leads her into a complex web of power dynamics, family secrets, and criminal enterprises, including a devious trafficking scheme. The series explores themes of survival, ambition, and the dark underbelly of the beauty industry.
Who Is The Main Cast of Beauty in Black?
- Taylor Polidore Williams as Kimmie
- Crystle Stewart as Mallory Bellaire
- Amber Reign Smith as Rain
- Xavier Smalls as Angel
- Julian Horton as Roy Bellaire
- Steven G. Norfleet as Charles Bellaire
- Richard Lawson as Norman
- Terrell Carter as Varney
- Shannon Wallace as Calvin
- Charles Malik Whitfield as Jules
- Debbi Morgan as Olivia Bellaire
Release Information:
The first season premiered on October 24, 2024, comprising 16 episodes split into two parts. The initial eight episodes were released on the premiere date, with the remaining eight episodes (Part 2) made available on March 6, 2025.
Critically, the series received mixed reviews. Some praised its exploration of complex themes and character dynamics, while others critiqued it for over-the-top drama and lack of nuanced storytelling.
Final Word
With more than 700 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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The Atlanta Falcons are releasing one of its top stalwart defensive ends, Grady Jarrett. The news comes from several NFL insiders, citing Grady’s sports agent Todd France.
Jarrett, a two-time Pro Bowler, team captain and Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, may have laced up his cleats for the Dirty Birds for the last time.
He was due to make $16.25 million this upcoming season, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
Grady Jarrett: Falcons Star Being Released
Jarrett, a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, has been one of the team’s most consistent and dominant defenders since being drafted in the fifth round (137th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Clemson.
Career Highlights:
- Super Bowl LI Performance (2016 Season): Jarrett had a breakout moment in Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, tying a Super Bowl record with three sacks of Tom Brady.
- Pro Bowl Selections: He has been named to the Pro Bowl twice (2019, 2020) for his outstanding play.
- Team Leader: A cornerstone of Atlanta’s defense, Jarrett has been known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, tallying numerous sacks and tackles for loss throughout his career.
- Contract Extension: In 2019, he signed a four-year, $68 million contract extension, reaffirming his status as a franchise player.
- Injury Setback: His 2023 season was cut short due to an ACL tear in Week 8, a significant loss for the Falcons’ defense.
Playing Style:
Jarrett is renowned for his quick first step, relentless motor, and strong technique, making him a force against both the run and the pass. Despite being considered undersized for a defensive tackle (around 6’0″, 305 lbs), he has excelled with his agility and power.
Final Word
Jarrett remains one of the most respected players on the Falcons’ roster and continues to be a key leader for the franchise. Where will he end up? It’s hard to tell, but we’re confident it won’t be with the New Orleans Saints.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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The hottest sport right now in Atlanta is pickleball. From old tennis courts on the southside to shiny, new facilities on the northside, pickleball is king.
Now a new facility is bringing the popular sport to the West End in a large way. The Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club opened the first week in April in the West End. It’s the first Dill Dinkers franchise in metro Atlanta.
The club, which is being brought to us by husband-and-wife regional developer duo Daniel and Laura Hardeman and their team, is in a former industrial building that’s being remade by Lee + White owners Ackerman & Co.
Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club in Atlanta: What To Expect
Some features of the Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club facilities include these features:
- 11 championship-sized courts with Pro-Cushion surfaces and fencing
- Climate-controlled environment
- Event spaces for birthday parties, corporate events, and more
- Pro shop with paddles, apparel, and accessories
- Ball machine for members and non-members
- Large bathrooms with space to change
Other amenities
- Clinics, lessons, leagues, and social events
- Business advertising
- Event rentals
Pickleball’s popularity
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
Where Is Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club Located?
Dill Dinkers is located at 1200 White Street SW, Suite 1000 Atlanta, Georgia 30310. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Atlanta’s West End is in the middle of transformational change right now, which aim to enhance the area’s character and amenities as travelers look to explore the city. Some key components of the development plans include retail expansion, plans for approximately 125,000 square feet of retail space, including a grocery store, fitness center and local boutiques.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Atlanta’s real estate market remains a top choice for homebuyers, especially those migrating from the West and Northeast, thanks to its comparatively affordable property prices. However, the city also boasts its share of high-priced luxury homes, including grand mansions, historic estates, and modern builds with cutting-edge features.
Georgia’s capital offers a unique blend of advantages, from a robust transit system and abundant job opportunities to a pleasant climate. While property prices have seen a recent surge, Atlanta’s real estate market continues to be one of the more accessible options for buyers.
Here Are The Most Expensive Homes In Atlanta
To find out which structures constitute the most expensive homes in Atlanta, we analyzed data from Zillow.com and other real estate sites which lists houses for sale in the region. Here’s what we found in Atlanta’s real estate market:
As of December 28, 2024, Atlanta’s real estate market features several luxurious properties. Here are some of the most expensive homes currently listed:
4665 Riverview Rd, Atlanta, GA 30327
Listed at $37,800,000, this estate offers 7 bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms, and spans 17,776 square feet.655 Fairfield Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
Priced at $10,000,000, this new construction features 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, and 12,792 square feet of living space.439 Blackland Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
This property is listed for $9,750,000 and includes 6 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and 15,200 square feet.389 Blackland Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
A new construction home priced at $8,950,000, offering 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and 10,532 square feet.225 Valley Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Listed at $7,795,000, this residence boasts 9 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and 12,896 square feet.These properties showcase the pinnacle of luxury living in Atlanta, featuring expansive square footage, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and high-end amenities.
Please note that real estate listings are subject to change. For the most current information, consult the respective real estate platforms or contact local real estate agents.
Final Word
You may be asking yourself how you can afford a mansion like the ones you see in Buckhead and surrounding areas. Check out these cheap properties for sale.
If you’re looking for a temporary home, Atlanta has some affordable apartments for rent.
Aside from the most expensive homes in Atlanta, the larger market is going through usual ebbs and flows. The city’s upscale home market continues to expand as developers see value in areas other than Buckhead such as Midtown’s Old Fourth Ward and along the Northside corridor into Vinings.
Meanwhile, the median home market has experienced a slight dip, according to prognasticators.
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.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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There are few things more pleasant than gorging on a meal while a stiff breeze rushes around you outside. That’s right, it’s just about patio season once again in Atlanta, Georgia. Looking for a place to eat with a nice patio?
The best Atlanta restaurants with patios and balconies are the ones that cater to sunbathing and eating delectable dishes at the same time (with social distancing of course).
If you’re interested in dining in the Old Fourth Ward, you’ll be glad to know that many of the restaurants along the Atlanta Beltline have patio restaurants. Here’s a great list.
Beltline Patio Restaurants
- Eagle
- New Realm Brewery
- Golden Eagle
- Lady Bird
- Muchacho
- Superica
The weather may be changing, but you’ve still got time to shed those sweaters and drink in the sun (with a cold one). Bookmark this list as your go-to for patio-ready restaurants in Atlanta.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Restaurants With Patios And Rooftops
Ready to people-watch? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants with patios:
5Church
1197 Peachtree St NE,Atlanta, GA 30361
This chic Midtown restaurant has its origins in Charlotte, but you wouldn’t know it: Go outside on the rooftop overlooking Peachtree and 14th Street and enjoy weekend brunch and a full bar.
Bocado
887 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Bocado’s covered patio is perfect for people-watching or taking in the restaurant’s contemporary American cuisine. With a rotating seasonal menu and exciting beverage program, Bocado (or right outside it) is a great place to be.
Cafe Circa
464 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
The Edgewood corridor has become a favorite playground for Atlanta hipsters looking for nightlife. Cafe Circa on Edgewood has a great rooftop particularly suited for day parties and Sunday afternoons.
City Winery
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Enjoy a relaxing drink at City Winery at Ponce City Market. The restaurant’s music scene is unparalleled in the city. Add the Wine Down Weekends and this becomes a party all days of the week. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday starting at 6:30 p.m.
Casi Cielo
6125 Roswell Rd #200, Atlanta, GA 30328
Casi Cielo in Sandy Springs hosts patio parties with live music, local DJs and delicious dishes every Wednesday from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Indulge in and handcrafted cocktails, Oaxacan favorites such as Tlayuda, Tempura Fish Tacos and Enmoladas and more.
Estrella
550 Somerset Terrace NE Suite 102, Atlanta, GA 30306
There’s nothing like capturing the cityscape while taking in a delightful meal at the same time. Estrella’s rooftop gives you a picturesque view of downtown Atlanta and its surroundings.
Gypsy Kitchen
3035 Peachtree Rd NE Suite A209 Atlanta, Georgia
Located at the Shops Around Buckhead, Gypsy Kitchen is the place to be if you want to watch some of the city’s movers and shakers. For those who want a little tempo with their tasty food, there’s live music on the weekends as well.
Golden Eagle
904 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Walk into Golden Eagle and experience a blast from the past, including vintage decor and a sunken patio with table distancing and all the fixings.
Hampton + Hudson
299 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307
Hampton + Hudson has quickly become one of Inman Park’s favorite community bar and restaurants. It has a covered, outdoor patio that lets diners enjoy the breeze while also being protected from the elements.
Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall
684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Ladybird features an outdoor bar and a pet-friendly “Grove” space for those with furry friends. With communal, beer garden-style tables, the Grove is the perfect place to bring your friends, co-workers or family.
Muchacho
904 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
If you like some greenery in your scenery, Muchacho’s expansive brick patio is #1. Eat and drink among the lush, tropical plants and vintage outdoor furniture covered by red and white umbrellas.
Holmes
50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009
The neighborhood restaurant and bar within the historic Jones House at Alpharetta City Center offers outdoor seating on a covered porch and patio.
When it comes to restaurants, Atlanta is quickly gaining ground on some of the dining capitals around the United States. The South is certainly known for its great barbecue, but this is something else.
Check out some of AtlantaFi.com’s best Atlanta restaurant stories
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Another one bites the dust, as they say. And unfortunately, there are less margaritas in the world today than yesterday. On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
And yes, the On the Border restaurant in Buckhead on the Buckhead Loop closed abruptly on March 6, 2025. You’ll have to go elsewhere for the best Mexican food in Atlanta.
On The Border Closes in Atlanta; Company Files Bankruptcy
The filing occurred on March 4, 2025, in the Georgia Northern District Bankruptcy Court. This actifollows a period of financial difficulty attributed to escalating labor costs, decreasing customer traffic, and inflationary pressures, leading to a “rapid loss of liquidity” in recent months.
The company, owned by Atlanta-based OTB Holding (an affiliate of Argonne Capital Group), reported assets and liabilities ranging between $10 million and $50 million.
Which On the Border Locations Are Closing?
Additionally, On The Border had closed more than a dozen locations across the United States in the weeks leading up to the bankruptcy filing, reducing its footprint to approximately 66 locations as of March 2025, from over 120 at the end of 2023.
Confirmed Closures in 2025:
- Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center, Phoenix, AZ – Closed permanently before February 25, 2025.
- 5005 E Ray Rd, Phoenix, AZ – Listed as permanently closed by February 25, 2025.
- Mesa, AZ – Reported closed by March 1, 2025, as part of the Arizona shutdowns.
- Peoria, AZ – Reported closed by March 1, 2025, as part of the Arizona shutdowns.
- Woburn, MA – Closed permanently by February 25, 2025; the last Massachusetts location.
- West Springfield, MA – Closed shortly before February 25, 2025.
- Columbus, OH (4175 Morse Crossing) – Closed by February 26, 2025; the only Ohio location.
- Lubbock, TX (6709 Slide Road) – Closed permanently on February 8, 2025.
- West Des Moines, IA (Jordan Creek Town Center) – Closed permanently by February 25, 2025.
- Orange, CT – Closed permanently by February 28, 2025, amid national shutdowns.
- Long Island, NY (both locations) – Closed permanently in February 2025.
- Biloxi, MS – Last Mississippi location closed permanently by March 6, 2025.
- All Georgia Locations – Closed by March 6, 2025, as reported in connection with the bankruptcy filing.
What Is a Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code that allows a business (or, less commonly, an individual) to reorganize its debts and operations while continuing to operate, rather than shutting down entirely. It’s often referred to as a “reorganization bankruptcy” and is designed to give a struggling company a chance to restructure its finances, reduce debt, and emerge as a viable entity. Here’s a breakdown of what it entails:
Key Features of Chapter 11 Bankruptcy:
- Reorganization, Not Liquidation:
- Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, where a business typically closes and its assets are sold off to pay creditors, Chapter 11 focuses on keeping the business alive. The debtor proposes a plan to restructure its debts and operations, aiming to return to profitability.
- Debtor-in-Possession:
- In most cases, the company filing for Chapter 11 (the “debtor”) retains control of its operations as a “debtor-in-possession” (DIP). This means management continues to run the business under the oversight of the bankruptcy court, rather than a trustee taking over.
- Filing Process:
- The process begins when the debtor files a petition with a bankruptcy court, either voluntarily or, in rare cases, involuntarily (forced by creditors). The filing includes detailed financial statements, lists of assets, liabilities, and creditors.
On The Border closed more than a dozen locations in the weeks leading up to its bankruptcy filing on March 4, 2025. The chain’s operational footprint dropped from over 120 locations at the end of 2023 to approximately 66 by March 5, 2025, indicating significant closures beyond those individually listed above. However, exact addresses for all closures are not universally specified in available reports.
Arizona Closures: Reports indicate that most, if not all, Arizona locations closed by early 2025, though only Phoenix, Mesa, and Peoria are explicitly named.
Georgia Closures: All Georgia locations were shuttered by the time of the bankruptcy filing, though specific cities are not detailed in the provided data.
Ongoing Process: The Chapter 11 filing suggests further closures may occur in 2025 as the company reorganizes, but no specific “planned closures” beyond March 6, 2025, have been publicly confirmed at this point.
Final Word
The closing of On the Border locations is a sad one but it aligns with a broader trend of casual-dining chains, such as Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, and Buca di Beppo, seeking bankruptcy protection over the past year amid challenging market conditions.
If you didn’t know, Atlanta’s restaurants are a vibe. And they have everything from authentic dishes to James Beard-nominated chefs helming the kitchens.
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Dog owners in Atlanta now have a fresh spot to sip their favorite drinks while their pups romp, get pampered, or enjoy daycare.
Skiptown, the city’s latest haven for dogs and their humans, has officially opened its social club bar in Kirkwood, pouring everything from local draft beers to wine, frozen cocktails, seltzers, and spirits.
Skiptown Opens Social Club Bar in Kirkwood
Beyond the bar, Skiptown boasts a sprawling outdoor dog park, daycare and boarding options, plus grooming and training services—making it a one-stop hub for pet lovers.
“What makes Skiptown special is the community we’ve fostered,” CEO Mike Rotondo says in a statement. “It’s not just a drop-in spot for a quick drink or park playtime. Our regulars trust us with grooming, daycare, boarding, and training. After our soft launch late last year, our staff—aka ‘Skippers’—know every pup by name. We’ve built a family-like vibe where members, Skippers, and dogs all feel at home, especially now with our new bar.”
The social club’s bar menu shines with 24 tap options:
- 18 beers
- Three ciders
- Three wines (rosé, white, and sparkling brut)
Guests can sip in the 3,000-square-foot indoor bar or the 13,000-square-foot outdoor park. Skiptown leaned hard into local flavors, teaming up with Atlanta Hard Cider for gluten-free picks like Honey Bee, Crisp Apple, and Peach, and Monday Night Brewing for beers like 404 Atlanta Lager and Death Raptor. The focus on Atlanta-based brands keeps the vibe rooted in the community.
“We prioritized local brews and drinks for our menu,” explains Kirkwood General Manager Stacy Pruitt. “It’s about celebrating Atlanta ties, serving up beers brewed right here, and supporting nearby businesses.” That local love pairs with a lineup of creative cocktails—think frozen “Barking Berry” with berry purée, Bacardi coconut rum, and Chardonnay, or “Paw-rific Peach” with peach purée and Deep Eddy Peach Vodka.
Beyond taps, Skiptown mixes in national partnerships with Jack Daniel’s and Bacardi for canned cocktails like Jack and Cokes and Piña Coladas. Non-drinkers aren’t left out, with mocktails like “Sunrise” and Poodle Punch, while pups can even snag a puppaccino. It’s a midweek (or any day) win for Atlanta’s dog crowd—Wednesday included.
Final Word
Skiptown’s social club features the Skiptown bar, three TVs, numerous tables with seating for over 50 guests, and an additional seating bench next to the bar complete with charger outlets. Looking to bring Fido out for some food? Check out these pet-friendly restaurants in Atlanta.
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