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Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead has named celebrated local chef Todd Richards as its new Executive Chef.
The move brings Richards’ acclaimed Southern perspective and storytelling through food to the Forbes 4-star luxury property in Buckhead.
Chef Todd Richard’s To Helm Kitchen at Waldorf Astoria
Richards will oversee all culinary operations at the hotel, including the signature restaurant Brassica, the renowned afternoon tea service, in-room dining, and banquet offerings.
Known for his innovative take on soul food and Southern cuisine, Richards is a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist, award-winning author, and a fixture in Atlanta’s dining scene.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Chef Todd Richards to the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead family,” the hotel announced in a recent statement. “His nationally recognized voice, deep cultural storytelling, and guest-centered approach make him the perfect fit for one of the city’s most distinguished destinations.”
Richards joins the property after a standout career that has significantly influenced Atlanta’s food landscape.
He served as the opening chef for One Flew South at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where his team made history as the first airport restaurant to be a James Beard Award contender. He is also chef and part-owner of the popular Soul: Food & Culture at Krog Street Market.
A twice-published author, Richards’ debut cookbook, Soul: A Chef’s Culinary Evolution in 150 Recipes, won the 2019 IACP Award for Best American Cookbook and earned spots on best-of-the-year lists from Grub Street and Food52.
His 2024 release, Roots, Heart, Soul: The Story, Celebration, and Recipes of Afro Cuisine in America, further established him as a leading voice in culinary storytelling and inspired a podcast of the same name.
“After years in restaurants, returning to luxury hospitality felt like an unexpected and exciting next chapter,” Richards said. “What drew me to Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead was the opportunity to cook with real intention and freedom. The entire team encouraged me to shape a dining experience that reflects both this city and my Southern perspective. The food is seasonal, expressive, and technique-driven, while still delivering the sense of refinement guests expect. It’s exceptional hotel dining with a strong sense of place, seen through my lens of Atlanta.”
A Chicago native, Richards first arrived in Atlanta in the early 1990s to train under Executive Chef Darryl Evans at the Four Seasons Atlanta.
He went on to hold key leadership roles at The Ritz-Carlton properties in Atlanta and Palm Beach, as well as the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, before returning to Atlanta in 2008.
At Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, Richards will take a hands-on approach to menu development, drawing inspiration from Georgia’s seasons and collaborating closely with local farmers and purveyors.
Blending classic French technique with thoughtful sourcing, he plans to reinterpret soul food staples with nuance, precision, and care—creating dishes that feel both deeply rooted in tradition and forward-looking.
His appointment comes at an exciting moment for the hotel, as Brassica approaches its four-year anniversary.
The restaurant’s lively programming includes a weekend-long prix-fixe Valentine’s Day dining experience, along with themed teas such as a Bridgerton-inspired masquerade tea and a Galentine’s tea.
Under Richards’ leadership, guests can expect refreshed interpretations of Brassica’s brasserie-inspired dishes and elevated culinary touches throughout the property.
Final Word
The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, located at 3376 Peachtree Rd NE, continues to position itself as a premier destination for refined dining in Atlanta, now elevated by one of the city’s most respected culinary talents.
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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Atlanta’s dining scene is getting a major boost downtown! Chops Lobster Bar, one of the city’s most beloved and best steakhouses, is expanding with a second location at Centennial Yards, the massive $5 billion mixed-use redevelopment transforming the Gulch area into a vibrant sports and entertainment district.
This move marks Chops Lobster Bar’s second location in Georgia (and third overall), giving more Atlantans—and visitors—easy access to one of the city’s most celebrated dining experiences amid the energy of downtown events, games, and redevelopment.
Chops Is Opening Downtown
The original Chops Lobster Bar, a Buckhead staple since opening in 1989 under the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, has long been a go-to for Atlanta diners craving top-tier steaks and ultra-fresh seafood.
Here’s how a recent diner described the experience at the Buckhead location: “The steaks and lobster tails were cooked and seasoned wonderfully. Having the warm butter to dip just elevated the entire meal.”
“The Grilled Jumbo Asparagus was good. It was cooked perfectly to al dente, but had no grill marks, char or seasoning just lacked flavor,” the customer said. “The Hashed Potato Tots were as expected AMAZING, and the Brussels Sprouts and Mushrooms were so full of flavor you did not need to overeat.”
Consistently ranked among the nation’s best steakhouses, it delivers USDA Prime aged beef, seafood flown in fresh (often 18–36 hours out of the water), and standout dishes like Champion Breed Miyazaki Prefecture A5 Wagyu, Nova Scotia lobster, Spanish octopus, and Genuine Holland Dover Sole—all served in a warm, elegant atmosphere perfect for business dinners or special occasions.
The new spot will bring that same signature excellence to downtown.
When Will Chops Lobster Bar Open in Downtown Atlanta?
Slated for a late 2026 opening in the Entertainment District (at 85 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW), the restaurant will occupy a spacious 13,000-square-foot space on the ground floor of a new hotel, overlooking Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
It will mirror the look, feel, and high standards of the Buckhead original while adding fine-dining prestige to the growing Centennial Yards lineup.
“Chops is more than a restaurant – it’s an Atlanta institution,” said Brian McGowan, president at Centennial Yards, in a recent statement highlighting the excitement around bringing this local legend to the heart of the city.
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the opening—we’ll be there for the ribbon-cutting (and probably the first bites)! What are your favorite dishes at the Buckhead Chops? Drop them in the comments below.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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South Fulton is poised for a major economic boost with the upcoming development of the SoFu Commerce Center, a state-of-the-art industrial facility set to bring hundreds of jobs and a significant increase in property tax revenue to the area.
A $28 million private investment will fund the construction of a 213,580-square-foot Class A light industrial building at the site along a key industrial corridor in South Fulton. The modern facility is designed for uses including distribution, cold storage, and light manufacturing.
The Development Authority of Fulton County (Develop Fulton) approved a bond inducement resolution during its January board meeting to support the project.
This incentive helps address infrastructure needs like traffic signals and access improvements, making the development viable while driving private investment.
The project is owned by Roosevelt COSF Owner, LLC and developed in partnership with KMT Partners, LLC, a minority-owned commercial real estate firm.
Currently, the property generates just $6,548 in annual property taxes.
Once complete, it’s projected to contribute about $215,386 in property taxes in the first year of the incentive period — a dramatic jump — and more than $3.1 million in new tax revenue over the full 10-year period.
Job creation is a major highlight: the development is expected to generate 150 permanent positions and 150 temporary construction jobs, for a total of around 300 jobs.
Overall, the $28 million investment is anticipated to deliver an estimated $251.8 million in economic impact for the region.
Construction is slated to start in early 2026, with completion targeted for late 2026.
Greg Boler, Managing Partner at KMT Partners, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “KMT and its partners are excited to deliver this state-of-the-art Infill Light Industrial Facility along an Historic Industrial Corridor, close to a major state route and interstates, and during a time when leasing absorption has removed most of the competition and new construction is down more than 40% from its peak. It was a pleasure working with the city’s leadership and nearby residents to garner support for this unicorn of a project.”
The project has also earned backing from nearby businesses, including operations like Wellspring, signaling strong local confidence in its potential to enhance the area’s industrial strength.
Develop Fulton Chairman Kwanza Hall highlighted the broader benefits: “Projects like SoFu Commerce Center reflect how smart public-private partnerships can deliver immediate returns for communities that include new jobs, expanded tax base, and modern infrastructure while positioning South Fulton for long-term economic competitiveness.”
This development marks an exciting step forward for South Fulton’s growth, blending job opportunities, infrastructure upgrades, and fiscal gains for residents and the city. Stay tuned for updates as construction gets underway!
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When you decide to get on what’s called an keto diet, it’s a lifestyle change — not a fad.
In Atlanta, there are plenty of keto-friendly restaurants you can try to maintain healthy eating.
In this article, I’m going to show you the best keto-friendly places to eat in Atlanta.
What Are Some Keto-Friendly Restaurants In Atlanta?
If you’re just starting your keto journey, you may be apprehensive about trying new dishes, but don’t worry. These places will take good care of your body and wallet (they’re affordable, too).
Before we get started, let’s explain a bit about keto and what we mean when we refer to the term.
What Is Keto Food?
Keto food consists of many natural ingredients and whole foods, including dishes that have:
- Moderate protein
- High-fat
- Reasonable Proportions
Keto foods also include breads and desserts that you may like to eat during or after your meal.
Best Keto-Friendly Restaurants In Atlanta | Takeout And Delivery
Here are some restaurants in metro Atlanta where you can eat keto-friendly meals. All of these Atlanta restaurants offer takeout / delivery:
Zakia
3699 Lenox Rd NE Ste 3, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 433-2180
Located in the heart of Buckhead, Zakia’s menu features plenty of Mediterranean fare along with fish and meats cooked in olive oil, making it perfect for keto lovers.
KarmaFarm (Inside Savi Provisions)
54 Pharr Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 812-0477
Pictured: KarmaFarm’s signature truffle avocado toast is always a good idea. Add a local, pastured egg or pair with an iced chai latte or warm turmeric latte. Either way, it’s the perfect way to start the day. Served every morning from 8-1030.
LaRayia’s Bodega
675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Suite N149 Atlanta, GA 30308
LaRayia’s Bodega serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner inspired by Caribbean and Puerto Rican cuisine. In other words, you’ll find vegan options as well as a lot of oats and great dishes like Jamaican Jerk Jackfruit Tacos with mango salsa. Learn more here.
Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine
6080 Pkwy N Dr #200, Cumming, GA 30040 | (678) 208-0341
Pictured: Fresh ‘N Fit Cuisine’s Ginger Peach Glazed Salmon served with an Asian Veggie Medley. Get your order placed before our 9 a.m., Friday morning cutoff time.
Farm Burger
3365 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 816-0603
Pictured: Farm Burger’s delicious Ginger Peach Glazed Salmon served with an Asian Veggie Medley. This amazing meal is part of our #lowcarb menu next week. Get your order placed before our 9am, Friday morning cutoff time.
Find a metro Atlanta location near you.
Aviva by Kameel
225 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 698-3600
Aviva by Kameel has the deliciousness waiting for you in Lilburn. They have many menu items that ascribe to a keto diet.
Aviva by Kameel is offering curbside pickup and no-contact delivery. Order here.
Tassili’s Raw Reality Café
1059 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30310
In southwest Atlanta, 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 food that give your body life. Come in and visit!
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.”
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 for takeout and delivery.
So as a recap, if you ever want to eat at an Atlanta restaurant compatible with your keto diet, here are some places to go:
Where Can I Eat Keto In Atlanta?
- KarmaFarm
- Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine
- Farm Burger
- Aviva by Kameel
- Keto Life
- Egg Harbor Cafe
Keto-friendly restaurants aside, you can still get a healthy meal at many Atlanta eateries.
What Is The Best Fast Food Restaurant In Atlanta For The Keto Diet?
Because the keto lifestyle requires a certain amount of carbs, you can’t go wrong with a burger as long as you use lettuce for the bun.
Here are some of the best burger joints in Atlanta.
Once thing about eating healthy, once you go keto, you won’t want to go back!
Last Words
Staying healthy has a lot to do with what you eat, but also the amount of exercise you put in regularly.
There are so many places to eat fast food in the city, but if you want to eat healthy, your options drop off dramatically. If you want to eat the “keto” way, though, you do have a select list of Atlanta restaurants to choose from.
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 about How To Start The Keto Diet Here
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.
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Super Bowl Sunday is all about the Big Game, but the chicken wings, dips and beer are a close second. Of course, you can’t make it to the big game, but you can root hard for the New England Patriots Eagles or Seattle Seahawks at an Atlanta sports bar near you. But which one?
We’re going to show you some of the best Atlanta bars to watch the Super Bowl.
Hungry? Here’s Where To Eat In Atlanta To Watch The Super Bowl
Here are some of the best new Atlanta restaurants to drink some good beer, eat some great food and enjoy the Big Game.
HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern
(Multiple locations: Town Brookhaven, Dunwoody/Perimeter, Halcyon in Alpharetta, Atlantic Station, and more)
Hosting free Super Bowl watch parties with multiple big screens, game-day vibes, and neighborhood tavern energy. A top chain pick for reliable viewing.Hyatt Centric Buckhead – Spaceman Rooftop Lounge
(Buckhead)
Elevated Super Bowl watch party with big screens, skyline views, signature cocktails, and rooftop energy (doors open early; reservations recommended).Your 3rd Spot
Photo credit: Your 3rd Spot (West Midtown)
Features impressive large screens (like 15-foot ones) and a fun, social setup—highlighted for game-day viewing.Barleygarden Kitchen & Craft
If you’re in the Alpharetta area, there’s no better place to eat some grub and watch some Super Bowl action than at Barleygarden Kitchen & Craft in the Avalon, where the brews are strong and the sense of community is stronger.
Buttermilk Kitchen
Start off your Super Bowl Sunday (or Saturday) with breakfast (or brunch) at Buttermilk Kitchen in Buckhead. Chef Suzanne Vizethann uses sustainable, locally sourced ingredients to give back to the Atlanta community with every bite.
Coalition Food & Beverage
Coalition Food & Beverage at 50 Canton Street, Alpharetta, GA 30004 is going big for the big game by offering $1 wings (diners’ choice of buffalo or Coalition’s famous wood-grilled chili-spiced honey-glazed wings) and $5 draft specials. The special on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019 runs from 4:30 – 9:30 p.m. EST.
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q
If you’re going to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the big game, you’ll want to stop by Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, an Atlanta staple named the official barbecue of the Atlanta Falcons. If you’re going to watch it on TV, come to Fox Bros. to indulge at their location near Little Five Points.
Table & Main
Whether you’re down to come chow down inside or want to order some wings for the big game, Table & Main in Roswell has what you need. The 1028 Canton St.restaurant will be taking to go orders for a delicious football feast starting January 15 through Friday, February 1. Orders include 50 chicken wings, served your choice of style (BBQ, Mild, Hot, or Southern Fried), veggie sticks with creamy bleu cheese, and 10 homemade chocolate chip cookies. Orders will be $50 (not including tax) and can be placed by calling 678-869-5178. Orders must be placed by close of business on Thursday, January 31 and will be available for pick up on Sunday, February 3, between noon and 2 p.m. EST.
Taqueria del Sol
If you’re in the mood for Mexico-inspired cuisine and you’re on the westside of town, come grub down on Taqueria del Sol’s famous tacos and tasty margaritas.
Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours
For a taste of Southern dishes with an elegant twist, head to Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, in West Midtown, where Chef Deborah VanTrece redefines soul food with her twist on traditional Southern cooking.
Contrast Artisan Ales
Brewmaster Chase Medlin, the man behind Slow Pours Brewing, Twains and Locomotions, has opened another spot to get your ale on: Contrast Artisan Ales. Menu faves-to-be: Double Dry-hopped Fever Dream DIPA w/ Citra.
The new brewpub is located in Chamblee at 5504 Peachtree Rd, a short distance from Lowes home improvement.
Final Word
It doesn’t have to be the Braves, Hawks or Falcons on TV for you to enjoy the game. This city is living proof of that. Atlanta is a sports town and there’s no doubt about it. The fans just happen to be from a whole lot of different teams! But that’s what makes its bars so popular!Keep up with the latest game info on our Sports Page
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One of the most important figures in American history is Rosa Parks, an Alabama woman whose courageous act against Jim Crow tyranny is credited with starting the civil rights movement across America in the 1960s.
What Did Rosa Parks Do?
Despite facing discrimination and very real physical danger, Parks refused to move. This act of defiance sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, a year-long protest that became a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
But she did more than that.
As widely known as Parks’s story is, there are some things you may not know. This article will show you some little-known facts about Parks and her fight for freedom and equality in the South.
1. Parks Faced Intimidation As a Youth
Harassment and intimidation was something that Parks came to endure at a young age. In her book, she recalls when the Ku Klux Klan marched outside her door and her grandfather guardedly stood at the entrance.
At school, she was also bullied. “As far back as I remember, I could never think in terms of accepting physical abuse without some form of retaliation if possible,” said in her memoir.
When Was Rosa Parks Born?
Born on February 4, 1913, Parks faced racial injustice from a young age. Her parents were Leona (née Edwards), a teacher, and James McCauley, a carpenter.
As a child, Parks experienced bullying and witnessed the horrors of segregation firsthand. This shaped her commitment to fighting for equality.
2. Others Resisted Montgomery Bus Segregation Before Parks
Other people, namely Claudette Colvin, stood up to bus segregation in Montgomery before Parks did it, but it didn’t spark a movement.
On March 2, 1955 — nine months before Parks — Colvin and three other young African-Americans refused to give up their seat for white patrons on a Montgomery bus.
“It felt like Sojourner Truth was on one side pushing me down, and Harriet Tubman was on the other side of me pushing me down. I couldn’t get up,” Colvin recalled years later.
While others had resisted bus segregation before, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) saw Parks as the ideal candidate to legally challenge Alabama’s segregation laws. With Parks as the ember, the fire that would light the civil rights moment and become a guiding light for change ignited into a societal symbol.
3. Parks Was Inspired By Emmett Till
The violent abduction and murder of Emmett Till greatly affected Parks, who was killed just three months before she decided not to give up her seat on the bus.
At that fateful moment on the bus in Montgomery, Parks’s mind flashed to what had happened in rural Mississippi.
“I thought of Emmett Till — a 14-year-old African American who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955, after being accused of offending a white woman in her family’s grocery store, whose killers were tried and acquitted—and I just couldn’t go back,” she recalled in her memoir.
In her own words, Parks said she wanted to use the bus moment to claim her rights as a human being, something that had been denied to young Emmett.
4. Parks Knew the Bus Driver
Montgomery bus driver James F. Blake was known for giving black woman a hard time. He reportedly drove one black female motorist off the road and exchanged epithets with another.
Parks had boarded a Montgomery public transit bus from the front in 1943 and was accosted then by Blake, who scolded her to obey segregation rules and get off and re-enter the bus from the back door, which was a custom.
When Parks got off that bus that time in 1943, Blake drove off. That event became seared in Parks’s mind whenever she rode public transportation.
It was Blake’s bus, who on December 1, 1955, stopped to pick up Parks, who was at first unaware she was facing the same driver who had drove off and left her on the roadside years earlier.
As the situation unfolded anew in 1955, Parks made up her mind then and there that she was not going to capitulate to segregation. She became unwavering in her belief for justice.
Blake said, “Y’all better make it light on yourselves and let me have those seats.” When Parks refused, Blake followed protocol and contacted the bus company. “I called the company first, just like I was supposed to do,” Blake recalled in a later newspaper interview. “I got my supervisor on the line. He said, ‘Did you warn her, Jim?’ I said, ‘I warned her.’ And he said, and I remember it just like I’m standing here, ‘Well then, Jim, you do it, you got to exercise your powers and put her off, hear?’ And that’s just what I did.”
He drove for the bus company until 1999, when he retired.
5. Other Black People Gave Up Their Seat
Parks was not the only African-American on the bus. At least four black people, including Parks, were aboard the public transportation vehicle.
“The driver wanted us to stand up, the four of us. We didn’t move at the beginning, but he says, ‘Let me have these seats.’ And the other three people moved, but I didn’t,” she recalled.
A black man who was seated next to her gave up his seat, she said.
Blake said, “Why don’t you stand up?” Parks replied, “I don’t think I should have to stand up.”
6. Parks Refused To Give Up Her Seat — But Not Because She Was Tired
Parks wanted the world to know that her act of defiance in the face of Jim Crow had nothing to do with physical fatigue on her part.
In her autobiography, Rosa Parks: My Story, Parks said, “People always say that I didn’t give up my seat because I was tired, but that isn’t true. I was not tired physically, or no more tired than I usually was at the end of a working day. I was not old, although some people have an image of me as being old then. I was 42. No, the only tired I was, was tired of giving in.”
7. She Moved — But Not To The ‘Colored’ Section
Instead of moving to the redesignated colored section, Parks moved, but toward the window seat.
Parks said, “When he saw me still sitting, he asked if I was going to stand up, and I said, ‘No, I’m not.’ And he said, ‘Well, if you don’t stand up, I’m going to have to call the police and have you arrested.’ I said, ‘You may do that.'”
When Parks refused to give up her seat again, that’s when Blake contacted the police. When the officers came, Blake then signed the warrant for her arrest, which sparked the Montgomery bus boycott.
8. Parks Not Only Faced Arrest, But Harassment And Lost Her Job
After Parks was arrested and the incident garnered significant press exposure, not only nationally, but internationally, her life changed drastically.
Though hailed as a hero later, Parks’s actions had immediate consequences. She lost her job and endured years of threats and intimidation.
Blacklisted by white employers in Montgomery, Parks and her husband decided to relocate to Detroit, where she worked for in the office of U.S. Congressman John Conyers. In Michigan, Parks became a national figure and gave speeches and published her autobiography.
9. How Did Rosa Parks Die?
On October 24, 2005, Rosa Parks died of natural causes. She was 92 years old. Parks lived in Detroit from 1961 to 1988, staying in a modest flat on the city’s east side.
At her funeral, more than 4,000 people packed Greater Grace Temple in Detroit. Parks’s coffin was draped with an American flag during the seven-hour ceremony.
At the funeral, then-Illinois Senator Barack Obama said, “The woman we honored today held no public office, she wasn’t a wealthy woman, didn’t appear in the society pages. And yet when the history of this country is written, it is this small, quiet woman whose name will be remembered long after the names of senators and presidents have been forgotten.”
Final Word
Rosa Parks’s courage lit a fire in the Black community of Montgomery and caused them to come together to demand equal treatment under the law.
Parks’s individual courage will always be remembered, and the collective action it sparked will go down as the signature moment of a true act of freedom in this country.
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Atlanta’s restaurant scene has been tested fo late like never before. Some very well-known restaurants have gone by the wayside.
From hole-in-the-wall gems to upscale staples, our restaurants have hosted first dates, family reunions, and late-night celebrations. But over the past 25 years, economic shifts, pandemics, rising rents, and the relentless march of urban development have claimed dozens of beloved spots.
This article will show you the iconic Atlanta restaurants and bars that have closed their doors from 1999 to 2025. As we reflect, we honor the eateries that shaped our culinary identity—and left us craving one last bite.
These losses aren’t just about empty storefronts; they’re chapters in Atlanta’s story. Many succumbed to the 2008 recession’s aftershocks, the COVID-19 fallout, or the post-pandemic squeeze of inflation and labor shortages. Others bowed out gracefully after decades of service, their owners ready for retirement.
Here’s a look at some of the top casualties, drawn from the memories of longtime locals and the archives of our evolving food landscape.
Bahama Breeze (February 2026)
Popular Caribbean-themed chain Bahama Breeze announced that is is closing all of its U.S. locations, including two metro Atlanta restaurants. The stunning news was announced by Bahama Breeze’s parent company, Darden Restaurants, on February 3, 2026.
Agave (December 2025)
Photo credit: Agave Atlanta Agave, an established neighborhood restaurant just off Memorial Drive, announced in December 2025 that it will close after 25 years in business.
The Original Taco Mac (Closed 2025)
What began as a humble sports bar in Virginia-Highland in 1979 evolved into an Atlanta institution, slinging buffalo wings and endless drafts to generations of Braves fans. The flagship location on North Highland Avenue shuttered in May 2025 after 46 years, following the closure of other outposts. 27 “It was more than a bar—it was where we watched our first Falcons game,” recalls one former patron. The chain’s expansion couldn’t save the original from rising costs and changing tastes.
Eats (Oct. 18, 2025)
Perched on Ponce de Leon Avenue since 1992, this Midtown mainstay was a beacon of affordable comfort: jerk chicken plates, Southern veggies, and $10 specials that drew everyone from artists to office workers. Owners Bob Hatcher and Charlie Kerns transformed a former swingers club into a neighborhood anchor, but after 33 years, Eats announced its final service for October 18, 2025. 4 Recent vandalism added to the woes, but Hatcher cites the evolving Eastside Beltline scene as the tipping point. “It was a place to gather,” he said. Loyalists are already planning farewell feasts.
West Egg Cafe (Closed 2024)
For 20 years, this West Midtown brunch haven at Westside Provisions dished out award-winning shrimp and grits, sour cream pancakes, and chicken-and-waffles stacks that made weekends legendary. 39 Owners Jennifer and Ben Johnson closed on December 29, 2024, blaming a post-pandemic drop in in-person dining. “Our hearts are breaking, but it is time,” they shared. The spot’s dog-friendly patio and bottomless mimosas will be sorely missed amid the area’s restaurant exodus.
The General Muir (Closed 2024)
This Sandy Springs deli, a 2014 James Beard semifinalist, channeled Jewish deli nostalgia with towering pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup. It closed in late 2024 as pandemic scars lingered, marking a quiet end to a decade of acclaim. 24 Chef/owner Jenny Ung praised her team’s resilience but noted the industry’s brutal economics. For many, it was Atlanta’s answer to New York’s classics—gone too soon.
Floataway Cafe (Closed 2022)
Tucked away on Zonolite Road for 25 years, Anne Quatrano’s Westside gem offered intimate, farm-to-table magic: think wood-fired pizzas and seasonal tasting menus in a converted warehouse. 52 The James Beard-winning chef closed it days before Christmas 2022, opting for retirement after a storied career. Patrons mourned the loss of its dog-friendly patio and anniversary-worthy ambiance, a casualty of rising rents in the booming neighborhood.
Ann’s Snack Bar (Closed 2022)
In Kirkwood since 1971, this no-frills dive was the birthplace of the “World Famous Ghetto Burger”—a double-patty masterpiece slathered in chili, slaw, and hot sauce for under $5. 50 Owner Ann Price shut it down in April 2022 at age 92, ending 51 years of greasy-spoon glory. Featured in Esquire and Anthony Bourdain’s travels, it embodied Atlanta’s unpretentious soul. The building’s sale sealed its fate, but copycats keep the spirit alive.
10 Degrees South (Closed 2024)
Buckhead’s go-to for South African braai (barbecue) since 1999, this family-run spot grilled boerewors sausages and bobotie for 25 years. 49 Justin Anthony’s eatery closed in 2024 when the space sold to new owners. It introduced Atlantans to peri-peri prawns and bunny chow, filling a niche in our diverse scene.
The Tavern at Phipps (Closed 2020)
This Buckhead fixture inside Phipps Plaza dished upscale pub fare—fish and chips, shepherd’s pie—for over a decade. 13 COVID-19 forced its permanent shutdown in 2020, part of the pandemic’s toll on mall dining. CentraArchy Hospitality eyed a relocation, but the original’s cozy vibe remains irreplaceable.
A Wave of Recent Losses: West Midtown’s Woes
Atlanta’s restaurant roulette peaked in West Midtown, where over 20 spots shuttered since 2023, including Snooze A.M. Eatery (2025), Humble Pie (2025), and Culinary Dropout (2025). 17 Blame high rents, parking woes, and oversaturation—taco joints and pizzerias couldn’t sustain the boom. “It’s going backwards,” lamented one resident.
Looking Ahead: Resilience in the Rubble
As we bid adieu to these icons, Atlanta’s scene rebounds with fresh faces like El Super Pan and Pink Lotus. 38 But the pain lingers. “These places weren’t just about food—they were our history,” says local food historian Beth McKibben. Support your neighborhood spots; they might be tomorrow’s memories.
Favorite Atlanta Restaurants Gone But Not Forgotten
These span various eras and neighborhoods, capturing that nostalgic vibe you described—perfect for crossing off your “what might have been” list while building new memories.
- 88 Tofu House (Buford Highway area)
- Aunt Fanny’s Cabin
- BBQ Corner
- Bien Thuy
- Bobby and June’s Country Kitchen
- BoBo Garden
- Boston Sea Party (on Roswell Rd.)
- Bridgetown Grill
- Cafe 101 (Buford Highway area)
- Cafe Tu Tu Tango
- Cantina la Casita
- Caruso’s
- Carver’s
- Chateau Fleur de Lis
- Chef’s Cafe
- China Delight (Buford Highway area)
- Cleve’s
- Coach and Six
- Cross Roads
- Dante’s
- Delicious Kabob (Buford Highway area)
- Dreamland (in Norcross)
- Elite ’25
- Everybody’s Pizza
- Famous Dave’s
- Fratelli Di Napoli
- Fuoco di Napoli
- Garlic Thai & Sushi
- Geisha House
- Go Hyang House (Buford Highway area)
- Gumbo-a-go-go
- HD1
- Hashiguchi Jr.
- Houck’s (in East Cobb)
- Houston’s (in Dunwoody)
- Hudson North
- Iris (East Atlanta)
- J’s Country Cafe (in Ormewood Park)
- Jilly’s
- Junior’s (on Tech campus)
- Kitsch’n 155
- Korea House
- Kool Korners
- La Madeleine (in Buckhead)
- Le Papillon
- LOLA at Terminus
- Mammy’s Shanty
- Mick’s
- Oh Maria
- Old Country Buffet
- Owens (on Old National)
- Pho 96 (Buford Highway area)
- Pleasant Peasant
- Pura Vida
- Ray’s NY Pizza (on Ptree)
- Ribs Etc
- RiceSticks
- Rio Vista
- Royal Gourmet (in Marietta)
- Sambucas Jazz restaurant (on Piedmont Rd.)
- Shaun’s
- STG Trattoria
- Steady Hand
- Super Pan
- Sylvia’s Soul food (downtown)
- Tartufo
- The Abbey
- The Ambassador
- The Magic Pan (at Lenox)
- The Sandpiper
- Tortilla’s
- Veggieland
- Vickery’s (Midtown)
- Victory Sandwich (in Inman Park)
- Waffle House (at N. Peachtree and 285)
Have a favorite that’s faded? Share in the comments. Atlanta eats on, but let’s savor the flavors we’ve lost.
Final Word
As many restaurants close down, Atlanta restaurant openings are on the rise at the same time. In Midtown, the best restaurants are on the Beltline and they all have excellent customer service and food. What separaes them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
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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Popular Caribbean-themed chain Bahama Breeze is closing all of its U.S. locations, joining a long list of metro Atlanta restaurants that have shut their doors.
The stunning news was announced by Bahama Breeze’s parent company, Darden Restaurants, on February 3, 2026.
The chain, known for its island-inspired menu of jerk chicken, fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere, has 28 remaining restaurants across the country.
Bahama Breeze To Close in Metro Atlanta, Elsewhere
Darden cited sagging sales in recent years as a factor in determining the brand is no longer a strategic priority.
Of the 28 locations:
- 14 will close permanently, with operations continuing through April 5, 2026.
- The other 14 will be converted to other Darden brands (such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, or similar concepts) over the next 12 to 18 months. These spots will remain open as Bahama Breeze until any temporary closures needed for the rebranding.
In the metro Atlanta area, the two Bahama Breeze restaurants are affected as follows:
- Duluth location (3590 Breckenridge Blvd, Duluth, GA 30096) – This site is among those set for permanent closure on April 5.
- Kennesaw location (755 Earnest W. Barrett Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144) – This restaurant will be converted into another Darden concept in the coming months.
Darden, which also owns popular chains like Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, stated that the moves are not expected to materially impact its overall financial results.
The company emphasized support for affected team members, aiming to place as many as possible in other roles within its portfolio.
“Every Bahama Breeze location in the U.S. is closing down, but some of them will get a new life as another restaurant,” a summary of the announcement notes.
The news follows earlier closures in 2025, when about one-third of Bahama Breeze spots shuttered. Fans of the chain’s island vibes and signature drinks like the Bahama Mama have just a couple of months left to visit the Duluth spot before it closes for good.
Final Word
Despite the closings happening all around, 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
- WhereTo Eat In Atlanta
- The Best Atlanta Restaurants Near Atlanta
- Best Date Night Restaurants You Have To Try Right Now
Have you dined at one of the local Bahama Breeze locations? Share your favorite memories or menu picks in the comments below. We’ll keep you updated if more details emerge about what will replace the Kennesaw location.
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In the ever-evolving world of sports broadcasting, several Major League Baseball (MLB) teams have taken control of their destinies by establishing or partnering in their own regional sports networks (RSNs).
These team-owned or partially owned channels not only broadcast regular-season games but also provide exclusive content, analysis, and behind-the-scenes access, enhancing fan engagement while securing lucrative revenue streams.
MLB Teams Leave Regional Sports Networks? Braves, Your Play
As a hub for sports in the Southeast, Atlanta has a keen interest in this trend, especially with the Atlanta Braves navigating recent upheavals in the RSN market.
Here’s a breakdown of the MLB teams leading the charge with their own TV channels, along with insights into the Braves’ future.
The Rise of Team-Owned Networks
The shift toward team-controlled broadcasting has accelerated in recent years, driven by the instability of traditional RSN operators like FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally Sports).
Financial troubles, including bankruptcies and missed payments, have prompted teams to seek more stable, profitable alternatives. According to industry reports, local media accounts for over 20% of MLB’s overall revenue, making these networks critical for team finances.
Teams with ownership stakes in their RSNs can better control distribution, negotiate carriage deals, and explore direct-to-consumer streaming options. This model was pioneered by powerhouses like the New York Yankees and has been adopted by others seeking independence from third-party broadcasters.
Key MLB Teams with Their Own TV Channels
Here’s a list of prominent MLB teams that own or partially own dedicated RSNs broadcasting their games. These networks often feature pre- and post-game shows, documentaries, and other team-specific programming.
- Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox broadcast on NESN (New England Sports Network), fully owned by Fenway Sports Group, which also owns the team. NESN reaches millions in the New England region and has been a staple since 1984.
- New York Yankees: Games air on the YES Network, majority-owned by Yankee Global Enterprises (the team’s parent company). Launched in 2002, YES has become one of the most valuable RSNs, generating significant revenue through high subscriber fees.
- New York Mets: SNY (SportsNet New York) is majority-owned by the Mets’ ownership group. Since 2006, it has provided comprehensive coverage, including Mets games and related content, serving the tri-state area.
- Toronto Blue Jays: Sportsnet, owned by Rogers Communications (which also owns the Blue Jays), handles national and regional broadcasts. This integrated model allows seamless coverage across Canada.
- Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles control MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network), which they own outright following disputes with the Washington Nationals. MASN broadcasts Orioles games to fans in the mid-Atlantic region.
- Chicago Cubs: Marquee Sports Network, launched in 2020, is 50% owned by the Cubs with the other half held by Sinclair Broadcast Group. It offers exclusive Cubs content and has expanded into streaming.
- Chicago White Sox: The White Sox are part of Chicago Sports Network, a joint venture with the NBA’s Bulls and NHL’s Blackhawks. This collaborative RSN debuted in 2024 and focuses on Chicago-based teams.
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Spectrum SportsNet LA is wholly owned by the Dodgers through American Media Productions. Since 2014, it has been the exclusive home for Dodgers games in Southern California. en.wikipedia.org
- Houston Astros: Space City Home Network is a joint venture between the Astros and the NBA’s Rockets. Launched in 2023, it provides local coverage for both teams in the Houston area.
- Texas Rangers: The Rangers operate Victory+, a streaming-first platform under Rangers Sports Network. Introduced in 2024, it’s a direct-to-consumer service that bypasses traditional cable for greater accessibility.
- Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies hold a 25% stake in NBC Sports Philadelphia, which broadcasts their games alongside other local teams. This partial ownership gives them influence over content and revenue.
- San Francisco Giants: With a 30% ownership in NBC Sports Bay Area, the Giants have a say in their broadcasts, which share the network with the NBA’s Warriors.
Other teams, like the Pittsburgh Pirates (on SportsNet Pittsburgh, owned by Fenway Sports Group via the Penguins), benefit from shared networks but lack direct ownership.
The Atlanta Braves’ Path Forward
Closer to home, the Atlanta Braves have been caught in the crossfire of FanDuel Sports Network’s financial woes.
On February 2, 2026, six MLB teams—the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, and Tampa Bay Rays—announced they would partner with MLB for game production and distribution starting this season, leaving FanDuel after missed rights payments.
The Braves, along with the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Angels, terminated their deals but have not joined MLB’s in-house media unit.
Instead, the Braves appear poised to launch their own broadcasting venture. In a statement released on Monday, Feb. 2, the team noted they “have been actively preparing for this outcome and are well on our way towards launching a new era in Braves broadcasting.”
Industry sources suggest this could involve a team-owned RSN or a hybrid streaming model similar to the Rangers’ Victory+, potentially increasing accessibility for fans in Georgia and beyond.
This move aligns with the broader trend: as RSN giants falter, teams like the Braves are seizing opportunities to control their narratives and revenues. For Braves fans, it could mean more innovative viewing options, from enhanced apps to exclusive content, without the blackouts that plagued FanDuel.
The Bigger Picture for MLB and Fans
Team-owned networks represent a double-edged sword. They empower clubs financially but can lead to higher costs for viewers if carriage disputes arise. However, with MLB stepping in for 13 teams this season (including recent additions like the Washington Nationals and Seattle Mariners), the league is pushing toward a more unified, fan-friendly model.
As the 2026 season approaches, Atlanta sports enthusiasts will be watching closely.
If the Braves successfully debut their own channel, it could solidify their status as innovators in the Southeast sports scene. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Insider for updates on Braves broadcasting and all things MLB.
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Atlanta bar and restaurant fans, get ready—hospitality guru and Bar Rescue star Jon Taffer is bringing his popular Taffer’s Tavern concept to the heart of Midtown.
If you love to eat at Midtown restaurants, you’ll love Taffer’s Tavern.
The new spot at 1382 Peachtree St. NE (sometimes listed as 1382 W Peachtree St NE), Atlanta, GA 30309, is scheduled to open its doors on February 10, 2026.
Taffer’s Tavern Opening a Midtown Atlanta Location
This marks the third location in the metro area for multi-unit franchisee Hemant Suri and his partners, following the original groundbreaking opening in Alpharetta (which celebrates its fifth anniversary on February 11) and a location inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Taffer’s Tavern, which debuted in Atlanta back in 2020, aims to deliver more than just drinks and bites—it’s designed as a welcoming neighborhood gathering place with soul. The Midtown version features an evolved menu highlighting elevated tavern classics, bold takes on favorites, and craft cocktails (including those featuring Taffer’s own Browned Butter Bourbon).
Expect crowd-pleasers like the Bourbon Burger topped with signature bourbon sauce, glazed onions, whiskey bacon, and aged cheddar; Hangover Wings in flavors such as Michelada or Fireball Whiskey; the Whiskey Business Burger with whiskey ketchup, fried egg, and more; and indulgent desserts like the Salted Caramel Triple Chocolate Brownie with honey bourbon ice cream.
The space promises a next-generation design that blends modern energy with warmth and consistency, perfectly suited to Midtown’s lively mix of professionals, locals, arts lovers, and nightlife seekers. It’s a walkable, hospitality-first spot accepting both walk-ins and reservations.
Hemant Suri, who first brought the concept to Georgia, shared his excitement: “Being the first franchisee to make Jon’s idea for Taffer’s Tavern a reality has been an incredible journey. From Alpharetta to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and now Midtown Atlanta, I’ve witnessed these taverns become community centers where people come together to connect, celebrate and make memories. Each new location raises the bar, and I’m proud to continue growing alongside Jon and the team as we bring the soul of Taffer’s Tavern to the heart of the city.”
Jon Taffer added: “With Midtown Atlanta, we’re bringing the soul of Taffer’s Tavern to reach more guests in a city that values warm hospitality. This brand was built on decades of experience in the people business, where systems support service and food and cocktails bring people together. Hemant and his team have been incredible partners from the very beginning, and this location reflects everything we believe a tavern should be.”
The franchise, now scaling with support from Craveworthy Brands (partnered in 2025), emphasizes streamlined operations for reliable quality. For more details, menus, reservations, or franchise info, check out tafferstavern.com.
Mark your calendars for the grand opening on February 10—Jon Taffer himself is expected to be there shaking things up starting at 11 AM. Midtown’s bar scene just got a major upgrade!
Final Word
Midtown is full of some of the best eats in the city. You’ll definitely need to check out where to eat on the Beltline. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
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
