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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A soul food restaurant in Atlanta has gotten one of the most prestigious honors in the culinary arts: Busy Bee Cafe has been named one of “America’s Classics,” by the James Beard Foundation.
The designation means the restaurant is one that is “Distinguished by [its] timeless appeal” and serves “quality food that reflects the character of their communities,” it says on the foundation’s website.One of the best soul food eateries in Atlanta, Busy Bee is a black-owned establishment that has served the Atlanta University Center students and faculties for decades.Busy Bee will get a James Beard Foundation Award and be designated as one of “America’s Classics.“ And that’s exactly what’s on the menu at Busy Bee, which is currently operating as a takeout restaurant due to COVID.What Are Busy Bee’s Hours Of Operation?
Here are Busy Bee’s restaurant hours:
- MONDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- TUESDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- WEDNESDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- THURSDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- FRIDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- SATURDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
- SUNDAYS: 11AM – 7PM
The James Beard Foundation annually recognizes the nation’s top restaurants and chefs.The 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony will take place in Chicago, on Monday, June 13.We also have special coverage of Black Farmers In Atlanta as well as How To Keto In Atlanta.
More Food Coverage:
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Lapeer Seafood Market in Alpharetta is now going by the name Lapeer Steak and Seafood. The rebrand took place right after the new year and signals a new approach for the eatery.
Known for such delicacies as oysters and scallops, Lapeer will know add steaks to its repertoire.
The establishment originally opened in spring 2019, with Executive Chef Blake Hartley, Sous Chef at South Main Kitchen, behind the reins. Cody Brown, of South Main Kitchen, ran the cocktail program and mezcal bar. Elise Vitale, Pastry Chef at Butcher & Brew and South Main Kitchen, manned the desserts.
In early January 2022, the eatery posted on its Facebook page that it would be closing down for a few days to make the transition into Lapeer Steak & Seafood.
Now that Lapeer is back open, things have changed a bit as far as offerings are concerned, but you can still expect the Lapeer quality to be there.
What’s On The Menu At Lapeer Steak & Seafood?
The menu at Lapeer Steak & Seafood consists of an assortment of steak cuts, including Porterhouse, Prime NY Strip and Dry Aged Ribeye, among others.
You’ll also find dishes such as:
- Frites Royale, steak jus 12
- Warm buttered lobster
- Broiled Lump Crab Cake and more.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the restaurant: “Last night my date and I witnessed firsthand Blake Hartley’s incredible culinary artistry in action. Our food was beyond delicious and the presentation was over the top. Lapeers has a great vibe, a great staff and I really enjoyed all the different serving pieces used to plate different selections. Super cool. The kitchen concept in itself is well worth seeing and knowing about. Chef Hartley is particularly personable and not only came by our table but talked us through his amazing menu and gave excellent recommendations. I can hardly wait to go back!! It’s a must go!”
Where Is Lapeer Steak & Seafood Located?
Lapeer Steak & Seafood is located at 12 N Broad St, Alpharetta, GA 30009. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final WordIf you want a great steak and seafood experience in North Fulton County, Lapeer is definitely a place you should check out.
Many restaurants are leaning into steak and seafood. Here are some other top steak joints around Atlanta.
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Eating healthy has become not only a choice for many people, but a necessity. In Atlanta, that’s easier than ever because of its many gluten-free options.
We’re going to show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants that serve gluten-free food on their menus. But you may be wondering what does the term “gluten-free” entail?
What Does Gluten-Free Mean?
Gluten is a common protein in some whole foods like barley, rye, wheat and more. While many people aren’t affected, others are sensitive to gluten, especially those with celiac disease and other aliments.
A gluten-free lifestyle is not something that you can leave to chance. As a paying customer, you deserve to get the food and quality dishes you need. So, we’re going to let you know of the best gluten-free Atlanta restaurants for takeout and delivery.
Best Gluten-Free Atlanta Restaurants Near Me
But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself in Atlanta’s dining scene. Here are some of the best gluten-free Atlanta restaurants…
Arepa Mía
209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 880-8575
Here is what one reviewer says about Arepa Mía: “Not kidding: The BEST food I’ve tasted in YEARS! So many wonderful choices. Everything gluten-free!! I wish it were close to me so I could go there several times a week. Can’t wait until the next opportunity.”
KarmaFarm
54 Pharr Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 812-0477
Here is what one Google reviewer says about KarmaFarm: “Stopped here for a lunch break. This place was great! Very friendly and helpful staff serving awesome food. I was happy to learn about where their ingredients are sourced locally. I think that it’s awesome that they are certified gluten free. I had the arepa “fried” chicken sandwich. It was terrific!”
Fritti
309 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 880-9559
Here is what one Google reviewer says about Fritti: “I just dream about this pizza sometimes. The gluten free crust is made in house with an Italian flour blend. If you have other allergies you can ask about what is in it. We’ve also had great salads and the meat skewers here. Everything is so good.”
Curry Up Now
1575 Church St, Decatur, GA 30033 | (470) 343-2911
This Francisco-based chain specializes in Indian food. The restaurant opened in Decatur in July 2019 and has quickly become a top spot for curry. There are also some good gluten-free options.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Curry Up Now: “The restaurant had plenty of space for those wanting to dine in and a great atmosphere. The staff was very helpful with explaining the different popular menu options to help me decide. Even though I had a short wait for my food, members of the staff were friendly in providing a complimentary drink and communicating on how long my wait would be. The food was delicious and I would definitely return to try their other great options!”
Little Bangkok
2225 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 315-1530
Thai restaurants offers a great option to eat gluten-free food. You’ll love the rice noodle dishes and assortment of curries.
Here is what one reviewer says: “This is a little but marvelous Thai spot on Cheshire bridge. I went there multiple times. Their seafood spicy soup are very tasty, and so are the curries. Plenty of options for meat and vegetarian eaters. Amazing value for the price.”
Bole Ethiopian Restaurant
1650 Virginia Ave, College Park, GA 30337 | (404) 549-9111
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about Bole Ethiopian Restaurants: “First off the customer service is A-1! As soon as we entered the space we were greeted by the owner, who is also the chef! What?! The vibe is very warm and inviting. The food was savory. The portion sizes were massive! I enjoyed every minute in there. Talking to the staff and eating authentic Ethiopian food made it a night to remember.”
Folk Art Restaurant
465 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 537-4493
Here is what one reviewer says about Folk Art Restaurant: “Eclectic, artsy, down to earth feel. Friendly staff. Old school decor (like 50s ish) i got an omelet and latte. The food could use a little more seasoning for my taste but over all good stuff. Good mix of music.”
Bantam + Biddy
1544 Piedmont Avenue NE #Suite 301, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 907-3469
Here is what one reviewer says about Bantam + Biddy: “Bantam + Biddy is an Atlanta favorite. Their fried chicken is naturally gluten free, and absolutely delicious. Their sweet potato fries are to die for! Their menu is clearly marked for allergens, making it a very friendly restaurant for those with specific dietary needs.”
True Food Kitchen
Lenox Square |, 3393 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 3058B, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (404) 481-2980
Here’s what one reviewer says about True Food Kitchen: “Gluten. Free. Heaven. I love this restaurant. I love the servers’ knowledge of healthy food. I love the atmosphere. Even on a busy night we just grabbed a high-top immediately. The servers are respectful and professional.”Chick-a-Biddy
264 19th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363 | (404) 588-1888
Here is what one reviewer says about Chick-a-Biddy: “Gluten free chicken tenders were great. The waffles taste like a waffle mixed with cornbread. Not bad…just different. The staff was very friendly and helpful. I would most definitely recommend the tenders and I hear the onion rings are great.”
Marrakesh Mediterranean Market
Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 600-4171
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about Marrakesh Mediterranean Market: “I ordered the chicken plate. The person taking my order suggested their fries, and I had the tsatziki sauce. Excellent, plenty of chicken, the fries were as good as advertised, and the sauce was delicious and cool and offered a good contrast to what was being dipped in it.”
There are several other Atlanta restaurants with gluten-free options, but you’ll want to have a look at their menus to see if the dish is what you want.
The gluten-free restaurant scene is not a fad, it’s here to stay. Check out more food options on below.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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If you love chicken sandwiches, you’ve got to check out How Crispy Express. The new Atlanta restaurant opened Monday, January 24, 2022 in the city’s Summerhill neighborhood.
How Crispy Express Opens In Atlanta
How Crispy Express fits in nicely with the food establishments along Georgia Avenue, which is turning into quite the dining destination.
What’s On the Menu At How Crispy Express?
How Crispy Express serves just five fried chicken sandwiches on its menu:
- Classic chicken sandwich and a lemon pepper wet version, as well as chicken nuggets and Buffalo chicken dip.
We stopped by the joint one day about 3:15 p.m. and it was closed. If you want to try a chicken sandwich during the week, get there before 3 p.m. That’s when they close.
As of now, the hours for Crispy Express are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Where Is Crispy Express Located?
Crispy Express is located at 71 Georgia Ave SE Unit B, Atlanta, GA 30312. Here’s a map to help you find it.
A new Atlanta restaurant, Crispy Express, has opened in the Summerhill neighborhood just south of downtown. While the eatery is still getting its footings, it’s serving some great food.The eatery promises tasty chicken sandwiches. It’s open from 11 am to 3 pm daily.
Final Word
The restaurant eventually plans to offer beer and wine, which we’re looking forward to.
Part of the Benumkermi Hospitality Syndicate, How Crispy Express is poised for success. The Georgia Avenue food corridor could use it.
If you’re a fan of the yard bird, you’ve got to know about the best chicken sandwiches in Atlanta.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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One of the top dishes in Atlanta on any given weekend night is crab legs. The seafood delicacy has become a staple at many top Atlanta restaurants. But where can you get them?
We’re going to show you some of the best places to get crab legs in Atlanta.
Who Has The Best Crab Legs In Atlanta?
Restaurants that serve crab legs have taken an upper hand in Atlanta’s dining scene as they are seen as more popular, especially among brunch lovers.
Baltimore Crab & Seafood
1075 Fairburn Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 505-2900
Here’s what one reviewer says about Baltimore Crab & Seafood’s crab legs: “Awesome atmosphere and great service. The crab cakes are the bomb! Crab legs are a must have and the cheese cake is delicious!”
Bon Ton Atlanta
674 Myrtle St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 996-6177
Here’s what one reviewer says about Bon Ton Atlanta:” The food was delicious here. I highly suggest the gouda mac n cheese with crawfish (+$2) and the blackened catfish banh mi. The atmosphere is cozy and feels like you’re eating inside a chic living room lounge with a bar. Parking is available behind the restaurant. The restaurant is the one with the pink walls on the outside.”
Fontaine’s Oyster House
1026 1/2 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 872-0869
Here’s what one reviewer says about Fontaine’s Oyster House. “Some of the best seafood that I have had since I’ve come to Atlanta. Flavor was amazing. Service was amazing. Drinks were good. Will definitely be back and I can’t wait to introduce my friend to this place.”
Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House
Atlanta locations:
- 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 523-6664
- 685 11th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 810-0040
Here’s what one customer says about the crab legs at Six Feet Under. “The calamari was delicious as the rest of the seafood dish. Good sized crab legs, with muscles, corn, potatoes, sausage and shrimps. Very spacious inside and an easy ordering process for take out. Very good customer service and good parking.”
Spondivits
1219 Virginia Ave, East Point, GA 30344 (404) 767-1569
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about Spondivits. “Second time here. It seems they’ve switched to market pricing, so our bill was a lot higher this time around. They also add 15% gratuity to bills over $50. Food was good, wife and I ordered 2 different crab buckets. The garlic bread was a let down at $9. Also ordered the key lime pie martini which I recommend!
“Overall, good dining experience. One weird thing was the waitress said they have a policy to stand there and watch you sign the bill when it’s brought to the table…not a big deal, just weird.”The Juicy Crab
Atlanta Locations:
- Camp Creek: 3650 Marketplace Blvd Ste 920, East Point, GA 30344 | (404) 963-6966
- Jonesboro: 6608 Tara Blvd Ste A, Jonesboro, GA 30236 | (678) 489-2685
- Howell MIll: 1715 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA 30318 (678) 712-4231
- Stone Mountain: 5150 Stone Mountain Hwy, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 | (770) 417-8899
- Smyrna: 2524 Cobb Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30080 | (678) 403-1677
- Tucker: 4349 Lawrenceville Hwy, Tucker, GA 30084 | (770) 674-5646
- Fayetteville: 172 Banks Crossing, Fayetteville, GA 30214 | (770) 731-2499
Juicy Crab has quickly grown into a go-to restaurant for seafood in metro Atlanta. After its first location in Conyers, Juicy Crab opened its only location inside the perimeter on Camp Creek and it was over. In 2018, more Juicy Crab locations opened locally:
One reviewer of the Smyrna location said this: “A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!! The lb of KING CRAB LEGS were the best. Our waiter Kierra was AMAZING as well. The atmosphere was very nice also. Our food was done in a timely manner!! Loved it Last week, I had the 1/2 pound Snow Crab legs were small, but delicious as well. I loved the lemon pepper seasoning more than the all in one. However, they were both GREAT!”
Final Word
Atlanta has become a seafood capital in the last 20 years. We’re not saying that they have the best crab cakes or even fried fish, but the fact is you can get those items here.
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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If you want to take care of your pizza cravings as well as be health-conscious, Mellow Mushroom has some new vegan offerings you might enjoy.
For a limited time only, customers can try two new vegan pizzas featuring Follow Your Heart® Dairy-Free Cheeses. Follow Your Heart is a producer of premium dairy-free cheeses and other plant-based foods.
Mellow Mushroom Adds Two Vegan Pizzas To The Menu For A Limited Time
Here are the two plant-based pizzas added to the Mellow Mushroom menu for January:
Photo credit: Mellow Mushroom - The “Miss Mushroom” pizza features spinach, minced garlic, portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, chives, Follow Your Heart Vegan Mozzarella, and Follow Your Heart Vegan Feta Crumbles.
- The “Greek Goddess” pizza features roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, kalamata olives, and caramelized onions, Follow Your Heart Vegan Mozzarella, and Follow Your Heart Vegan Feta Crumbles.
The pies are meatless and packed with healthy veggies and herbs. Visit a Mellow Mushroom near you to take advantage of these two excellent plant-based options.
Oh and by the way, Veganuary, as you might have ascertained, is the challenge to go vegan for all 31 days of January. Learn more here.
Mellow Mushroom is one of many top pizza joints around the city. Make sure you eat in moderation and tip generously wherever you go!
A plant-based diet has been proven to improve the cardiovascular system as well as promote overall health in body and mind. It also supports environmental sustainability, which is a great thing.
Final Word
Mellow Mushroom’s vegan push is in support of Veganuary, which promotes vegan options for the month of January and beyond with the goal of making the people and the planet healthier.
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A new seafood restaurant, The Captain’s Boil, opened January 6, 2022 in Cumberland Mall just outside Atlanta.
The company is new to metro Atlanta as it looks to expand in the Southeast.
The Captain’s Boil also plans to open locations in the following metro Atlanta cities:
- Woodstock
- Lawrenceville
- Sandy Springs
“We are very excited to have Atlanta as the launch point of our U.S. expansion,” Eugene Chan, CEO of The Captain’s Boil, said in a news release. “The city’s growing reputation as a ‘food destination’ is what makes opening our first locations in the U.S. right here so special, and we can’t wait to share our favorite meal with Atlantans.”
What’s On The Menu At The Captain’s Boil?
The Captain’s Boil serves an assortment of fresh, delectable seafood mixed with Southern and Asian flavors and favorites. You can have your seafood just the way you like it, including hand-breaded and fried to order.
Seafood options include shrimp, crab legs, lobster and mussels. You can also order crawfish seasoned in flavors like lemon pepper, garlic, Cajun, and The Captain’s special blended sauce when ordering a boil.
The Captain’s Boil also serves classic side dishes like corn, potatoes, Cajun fries, sausages, and okra. “Shareables” for the table include dishes like creamy gouda macaroni and cheese bites, chicken wings, breaded calamari, and fresh oysters and much more.
Final Word
“We can’t believe the time has finally come to give Atlanta a taste of the seafood we’ve known and loved for quite some time,” said Chan. “We’re proud to offer our authentically delicious seafood and sides to the greater metro area.”
As we wait for The Captain’s Boil, seafood lovers can check out these top seafood spots around Atlanta.
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Vietvana is opening in Ponce City Market on Dec. 20, 2021, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The pho restaurant will be located in the Central Food Hall of the high-profile development in Midtown Atlanta.
The Ponce City Market location is the third metro area Vietvana, with the others in Avondale Estates and Spring Street in Midtown.
According to Vietvana’s website, Veitvana is the brainchild of husband and wife team, Dinh Tran and Khanh Dang, who both credit Sài Gòn as the inspiration for the eatery’s cuisine.
What’s On The Menu At Vietvana?
On Vietvana’s menu you’ll find such time-honored Vietnamese dishes as:
All types of pho, like Rare Steak: Tái Well Done Steak Chín Flank Nạm Fatty Brisket.
Special Combination Sandwich: BÁNH MÌ ĐẶC BIỆT House-made paté, ham, roasted pork & dried shredded pork. LEMONGRASS CHICKEN SANDWICH* BÁNH MÌ GÀ
ROASTED PORK SANDWICH* BÁNH MÌ THỊT NGUỘI
LEMONGRASS CHICKEN SANDWICH* BÁNH MÌ GÀ
Where Is Vietvana Located?
Vietvana is located at 675 Ponce de Leon Ave. in Atlanta in the Central Food Hall. Here is a map to help you find it.
Interested in dining outside? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.
If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
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Ever wanted to appear on one of the most iconic shows on television? Now’s your chance. Dynasty, the CW’s newly rebooted TV show is looking for actors and extras in Atlanta.
If you want anything about Dynasty, you know that is was one of the most popular shows in the 1980s. Looking to get hired on set? Read on.
Dynasty Casting Call: Audition Details
The show stars Grant Show as Blake Carrington, Nathalie Kelley as Cristal Flores, Elizabeth Gillies as Blake’s daughter Fallon, and James Mackay as his son Steven. The show premiered in October 2017 and has been a hit for the CW.
Producers are looking for the descriptions for a male dancer first, then we’ll get into needs for a bartender below:
***NOW CASTING REAL BELLY DANCERS***Show: DynastyDate: Friday 1/7 (COVID Test), Saturday 1/8 (COVID Test), Monday 1/10 (FilmingRate: Hire TBDLocation: NorcrossCovid Testing: You must clear TWO back to back covid tests 1/7 and 1/8 in Norcross to start work on 1/10 – you will be paid for each of your pre-employment covid tests*Masks are required at all times unless filming*We are searching for experienced belly dancers to be a part of our exciting club scene!If this is you and you’re FULLY available to work this booking please submit the following information1. Legal Name2. Contact Phone Number3. Current Photos (these will be sent to the Show runner please make sure they are clear with no other people in them – no filters 1 head shot and 1 full body)4. Current Sizes (height / weight / dress / pants / coat / shoes)5. Are you registered with Central Casting?6. What experience do you have with belly dancing? Tell us about it and send a video of you performing (if you have one).7. Are you available 1/7 and 1/8 for pre-employment Covid tests and 1/10 for filming?8. Do you have any tattoos? If so, please let us know how many, how big, and where on your body.Please send the following info to DYNASTY@CENTRALCASTING.COM Subject Line: BELLY DANCER
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.
Atlanta has become a movie mecca in recent years and Georgia has been a favorite location for TV productions since the state instituted generous tax breaks for film companies that agree to shoot locally. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in 2018-19 and the foreseeable future.
With more than 800 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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Vegan sensation Slutty Vegan opened its doors in Duluth, Georgia, on Saturday, December 18, 2021. The grand opening vent ran from 1 to 6 p.m.
The expansion marks the fourth location for the popular vegan spot run by entrepreneur and former TV producer Pinky Cole.
Slutty Vegan Opens In Duluth
Cole is not satisfied with staying in Georgia either. In early August 2021, she took the Slutty Vegan experience to Harlem, New York in a partnership with Shake Shack.
She’s also put food trucks at strategic locations around the Southeast, including Birmingham, Alabama.
Slutty Vegan has been a huge success since it opened the first brick-and-mortar restaurant in early 2019. Before that, Cole ran the business as a food truck.
To show just how popular the restaurant is, more than 2,000 people recently waited in a long line to order from the eatery’s West End location. Granted, the special was a free burger, but still.
Slutty Vegan has since opened a location on Edgewood Avenue, and another in Jonesboro south of the city. Now, the restaurant is growing, well, like a plant.
Where Is The Slutty Vegan Restaurant In Duluth?
The Slutty Vegan restaurant in Duluth is located at 2045 Pleasant Hill Road. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Plant-based eateries are far in few between in metro Atlanta, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find nutritious food in the city. Check out these pescatarian joints for your taste.
Read more: 20+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?