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As the basketball world buzzes with anticipation for the 2025-26 NBA season opener, one of the league’s most beloved traditions is set to take a historic leap.
Inside the NBA, the Emmy Award-winning studio show produced right here in Atlanta by TNT Sports, will make its highly anticipated ESPN debut during the season-opening action on Wednesday, October 22, and Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Inside The NBA Returns To the Air
Fans across the country will tune in to see Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal bring their signature banter and insights to a new network, all while the production remains firmly rooted in our city’s iconic Techwood Drive studios.
For 36 years, “Inside the NBA” has been more than just postgame analysis—it’s become a cultural phenomenon, blending sharp basketball talk with unscripted hilarity.
As we celebrate this Atlanta export’s next chapter, here are six lesser-known facts about the show that even die-hard viewers might have missed.
1. The Host Who’s Been There Since the Dawn (and a Family Legacy in the Booth)
Ernie Johnson Jr. has anchored “Inside the NBA” since its inception in 1990, making him the steady voice through every twist and dunk. But here’s a nugget: His father, Ernie Johnson Sr., was a Major League Baseball pitcher for 11 seasons, including a stint with the Milwaukee Braves.
Ernie Jr. grew up around sports broadcasting, often visiting his dad’s games, which paved the way for his seamless transition into the family business.
It’s no wonder his calm, uncle-like demeanor keeps the chaos of Barkley, Smith, and O’Neal in check.
2. The Legal Battle That Saved the Show from Extinction
When the NBA inked its massive $76 billion media rights deal in 2024, TNT was initially left out in the cold after 36 years of coverage.
What followed was a high-stakes lawsuit from Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing their billion-dollar annual offer matched Amazon’s bid.
Settled in November 2024, the agreement not only kept NBA TV under TNT’s umbrella but licensed Inside the NBA to ESPN—ensuring the crew’s chemistry lives on without missing a beat.
Without that courtroom drama, Atlanta’s gift to basketball fans might have faded into the archives.
3. Squirt Guns and Body-Lotion Smoothies: The Absurdity That Defines It
“Inside the NBA” thrives on its rule-free vibe, courtesy of legendary producer Tim Kiely, who retired in 2023 after 28 years.
But did you know the show’s most memorable moments often stem from props as simple as squirt guns? One viral segment saw O’Neal drenching Barkley in water while Smith and Johnson dodged the spray in hysterics.
Another time, Smith blended a “smoothie” of body lotion for Shaq to drink as a bet payoff—proving the panel’s willingness to go full absurd for laughs. See it here:
These unscripted antics have earned the show multiple Emmys, outshining more buttoned-up competitors.
4. A Rotating Cast of NBA Stars Before Shaq Joined the Party
The current quartet feels eternal, but “Inside” evolved through trial and error. Kenny Smith arrived in 1998 as the first analyst, followed by Barkley in 2000.
The third seat? It was a revolving door: Magic Johnson held it from 2003 to 2007, then Reggie Miller and Chris Webber tag-teamed it until 2011.
That’s when O’Neal stormed in, introducing the hilarious “Shaqtin’ a Fool” blooper reel that mocks league mishaps.
Fun fact: O’Neal’s addition coincided with the show’s first Christmas Day play-by-play call together in 2017—a rare departure from the studio desk.
5. Barkley’s Near-Miss with NBC and His Fiery City Roasts
Charles Barkley almost never became an Atlanta staple.
In 2000, he was on the verge of signing with NBC for his broadcasting debut but switched to TNT at the 11th hour—a decision that’s defined his career.
Barkley’s unfiltered style shines in his infamous city jabs, like calling Oakland “not a city” after the Warriors’ 2007 upset or dubbing San Antonio’s famed River Walk a “dirty little creek” with no fish. Here he is cutting up:
These zingers, delivered with a grin, have sparked debates but also endeared him to fans who love the raw honesty.
6. A Heartwarming Charity Race and a Tell-All Documentary
In 2008, the crew turned All-Star Weekend into a feel-good spectacle with “The Great All-Star Race,” where Johnson, Smith, Barkley, and O’Neal competed in go-karts—raising $50,000 for charity and drawing record viewership for TNT’s All-Star coverage.
Fast-forward to 2021, and the show pulled back its own curtain with “The Inside Story,” a four-part miniseries aired during the All-Star Break.
Featuring interviews with celebrities, crew, and reporters, it traced the program’s rise from modest postgame chat to global icon—proving even behind-the-scenes Atlanta magic deserves the spotlight.
As “Inside the NBA” crosses over to ESPN, one thing’s clear: This Atlanta-born powerhouse isn’t just surviving—it’s evolving.
Whether you’re courtside at State Farm Arena or streaming from home, tune in October 22 to catch the crew in action.
Final Word
Who knows? Maybe they’ll roast the network switch with a fresh round of squirt-gun warfare. For more local NBA coverage, stay with us here in the Peach State.
AtlantaFi.com covers the Hawks, NBA, and beyond from the heart of the South.
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Kinship Butcher & Sundry is expanding to Atlanta’s Grant Park, opening its second location in fall 2026 in the former Beacon space with direct Beltline access.
Four years after launching in Virginia-Highland, owners Myles Moody and Rachael Pack are set to bring their signature sandwich shop and whole-animal butchery to a new neighborhood.
The 4,000-square-foot space will feature an enhanced butcher shop, increased whole-animal production, a new seafood butchery program, an upgraded dry-aging process, and more seasonal produce and local grocery items.
Kinship Grant Park will also debut an all-day café, serving popular breakfast sandwiches alongside new fish and meat dishes, while staying committed to its zero-waste ethos.
Final Word
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.
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Taco lovers, rejoice! Today marks National Taco Day on October 7, 2025, and the city’s vibrant Mexican and Tex-Mex scene is dishing out a bounty of budget-friendly bites and boozy specials to celebrate. From free entrees for the creatively costumed to app-exclusive drops and BOGO steals, Atlanta’s taquerias are turning up the heat on flavor without scorching your wallet.
Whether you’re craving street-style classics or gourmet twists, here’s a roundup of the hottest local deals to fuel your fiesta.We’ve scoured the metro area for the most tantalizing offers at participating spots. Pro tip: Download those rewards apps and check locations in advance, as some deals are limited-time or stock-dependent.
Restaurant Deal Details Locations Notes Chido & Padre’s $6 El Jimador Mini Margaritas alongside Taco Tuesday favorites like fajita-spiced fried chicken tacos ($5) and crispy Baja fish tacos ($6). 128 East Andrews Dr., Buckhead. Available 4-10 p.m.; reservations via OpenTable recommended. Chronic Tacos Buy one taco, get one free, plus an extra $1 off. 970 North Point Dr., Alpharetta (participation unverified). Redeem via app for loyalty members; one-time use, in-store or online. Chuy’s Dress as a taco for a free entrée, plus $1 ground beef tacos and $1 floaters all day. Perimeter and Kennesaw locations. Statewide offer; costume creativity encouraged for the freebie. Chichería Mexican Kitchen $10 house margaritas, $10 taco plates, and $25 Mexican beer buckets. Various Atlanta spots (check website). Paired with a trivia night for extra fun. Del Taco Free Del Taco with any $10 purchase. 10+ metro locations including Tucker, Conyers, Douglasville, Smyrna (2), Snellville, Lawrenceville, McDonough, Morrow, Riverdale, Loganville, Buford, Kennesaw (2), Woodstock. Rewards members only. El Jimador $2 street tacos (chicken, shrimp, al pastor, etc.; +50¢ for steak). Buckhead, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Fayetteville. All day and evening. Moe’s Southwest Grill $2 tacos (limit 3), excluding extras and premium toppings. Participating locations (see moes.com/ga). Rewards members; redeem via app or online. PONKO Chicken Buy two chicken tacos, get two free (DOUBLE BOGO). Chamblee, Alpharetta, Midtown, Duluth, Marietta, Auburn. Fried or grilled options with slaw and crema. Taco Bell App drops: $1 Cantina Chicken Soft Tacos (2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm; 25K each), $5 off Party Packs all day, BOGO tacos via DoorDash; plus chances for T-shirts and a year of Taco Tuesdays. Various Atlanta locations (tacobell.com/locations). Rewards members; limited quantities. Taqueria Tsunami $3.50 tacos and $8 margaritas. All locations. Simple and straightforward street-style steals. Tin Lizzy’s Cantina $2.99 hard shell beef tacos or $3.99 soft tacos (fish, chicken, veggie options), plus $6 El Jimador margaritas and $4-5 draft beers. Midtown, Perimeter, Downtown, East Cobb (Marietta), Kennesaw. Usual Taco Tuesday menu with National Day flair. These deals showcase Atlanta’s diverse taco landscape, from Buckhead’s upscale sips at Chido to PONKO’s Southern-fried twists in Midtown.
With options spanning the suburbs to the city core, there’s no excuse not to taco ’bout town today. Remember, availability can vary, so verify with each spot. ¡Buen provecho, Atlanta – may your shells stay crispy and your salsa spicy!
Final Word
Tacos are great, but Atlanta has much more. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Tech founder and CEO Shay Levister of Alpharetta has unveiled HerPocket Coach—the world’s pioneering AI-powered pocket companion tailored exclusively for trailblazing women conquering love amid their high-stakes lives.
The app delivers a bespoke AI guide that crafts an intimate, transformative roadmap toward love that resonates deeply with who they are.Forget the superficial swipe-fests of conventional dating apps.
Introducing Shay Levister’s HerPocket Coach
HerPocket Coach is a sanctuary for inner work, evolution, and soulful synergy. Drawing on Shay’s decades of relational mastery and AI ingenuity, it forges a one-of-a-kind itinerary brimming with curated meditation soundscapes, restorative practices, intelligent journaling prompts, playful dating challenges, and ethereal avatar mentors that whisper guidance every step of the way.
“Our top-tier female leaders command elite arsenals for boardrooms and breakthroughs, yet love often feels like uncharted territory without the right map,” shares Shay Levister, founder and CEO. “HerPocket Coach levels the playing field, infusing their romantic worlds with the same cutting-edge empowerment they thrive on professionally. It’s infinitely adaptable, empowering them to steer relationships and claim love that’s authentically theirs—fierce, fulfilling, and fiercely on their schedule.”
Crafted for the unstoppable force of high-powered women whose ambitions fuel their hearts, Levister has mentored legions of Fortune 500 C-suite powerhouses into profound partnerships. These dynamos demand tools as bold and adaptive as they are—companions that don’t just prime them for soulmate-caliber love but flourish and refine with them through every chapter.
Final Word
Merging state-of-the-art AI with Shay’s battle-tested love frameworks, HerPocket Coach empowers women to infuse their romantic pursuits with the deliberate precision of their careers, sparking profound emotional expansion, heightened self-insight, and bonds that truly ignite.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
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.
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Now, you know Atlanta is all about wings. Fast-casual chicken restaurant Wingstop has joined forces with Atlanta hip-hop artist Latto for Latto’s Lemon Herb Remix, a limited-time zesty dry rub that’s now available at all Wingstop locations nationwide.
Crafted in tandem by Latto and Wingstop’s culinary experts, this innovative dry rub blends zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and savory garlic into a mouthwatering profile that’s both comforting and fresh— a game-changer for chicken wings and sandwiches alike.But the collab doesn’t stop at the rub.
Wingstop, Latto Team Up on Latto Deal
Wingstop and Latto are also rolling out The Latto Meal, a shareable feast designed to capture her ultimate Wingstop ritual. Nodding to her lucky 7-7-7 lottery vibes, it includes 21 classic wings (all flats, per Latto’s preference), two dips, and one large fry—perfect for group hangouts where the last wing sparks some friendly rivalry.”
“You can’t beat this flavor—don’t play with me!!! I crafted my very own Lemon Herb Remix flavor with Wingstop, and it’s 10/10,” Latto said. “I’ve been obsessed and eating Wingstop for years. To order The Latto Meal just how I do, go with all flats in my signature flavor and all the ranch. It’s so good that you’ll be fighting over the last wing, just like my sister Brook and I do.”
The hype builds with Wingstop’s latest commercial, where Latto crashes girls’ night armed with hand-sauced Lemon Herb Remix wings and seasoned fries, all set to the beat of her smash hit “Put It on Da Floor.”
Latto isn’t the first Atlanta, er ClayCo artist to partner with a national food brand.
Atlanta Hip-Hop Artists + Food Brand = Remix
Here’s a curated list of notable Atlanta-born or closely associated celebrities (primarily from the hip-hop scene) who have partnered with major brands on food-related items or products. These collaborations often involve limited-time menu items, sauces, or recipes, similar to Latto’s Wingstop partnership.
Celebrity Brand Collaboration Details Quavo (Migos) Zaxby’s Launched the Lemon Pepper Wings flavor in July 2025, paying homage to Southern tastes with a special promo code for free wings via the Zax Rewardz app. qsrmagazine.com Migos (Quavo, Offset, Takeoff) Popeyes Introduced limited-edition combo meals in 2019, each named after a member and featuring chicken sandwiches, tenders, fries, and sides like mashed potatoes. rap-up.com Offset (Migos) McDonald’s Co-created the Offset x Cardi B Meal in 2022 for Valentine’s Day, including a Quarter Pounder with Hi-C Orange, fries, and an apple pie, reflecting his personal order. rap-up.com 2 Chainz Krystal Served as Head of Creative Marketing starting in 2022, launching the “Side Chik” chicken sandwich campaign and developing co-branded menu items like custom chicken options. accessatlanta.com +1 Ludacris Knorr Partnered in 2024 to “remix” fast-food meals into home-cooked versions using Knorr Taste Combos (bouillon packets), featuring a music video and recipes for nutritious twists on classics like burgers and tacos. Final Word
Latto is bringing that ClayCo zestiness to Wingstop’s Lemon Herb wings. And Atlanta is all about wings.
For more information visit wingstop.com. In Atlanta, celebrities and food go together. No city has more celebrity-owned restaurants in the Southeast.
The best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. 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
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One of the biggest arts and crafts festival in Decatur is coming up this weekend: On Saturday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 12, head to Olmsted Linear Park for this free arts and crafts festival.
The Festival On Ponce offers over 125 displays of fine arts, crafts, and folk art, plus local food and a children’s area. It’s a great outdoor option if the weather cooperates.
Saturday’s Festival On Ponce schedule begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. Attendance is Free.
Festival On Ponce 2025: Everything You Need To Know
The Festival on Ponce will be held in historic Olmsted Linear Park, along Ponce de Leon Avenue in NW Atlanta.
There will be scores of displays of fine arts and crafts, folk and “outsider art”. There will also be food, music and a children’s area there.
Additional parking for festival visitors will also be available at Atlanta Primitive Baptist Church located at 1367 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta, GA 30306.
Where Is The Festival On Ponce Being Held?
The Festival on Ponce is taking place at Olmstead Linear Park at 1451 Ponce de Leon Ave, NW Atlanta, Ga. 30307.. Here is a map to help you find it.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome festivals.
If you see some fall colors where you live, drop a comment so we can list the Georgia city.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: Tjohnson@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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Atlanta’s restaurant scene knows few bounds as far as places to eat. The Summerhill neighborhood, which sits just below Interstate 20, is a great area with great restaurants.
Georgia Avenue has emerged as the neighborhood’s commercial heart, hosting a diverse array of chef-driven restaurants, bakeries, and breweries like Little Bear, Southern National, Talat Market, and Halfway Crooks.
Check Out the Best Places To Eat in Summerhill
Here’s a list of some great restaurants in Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood.
Little Bear
71 Georgia Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
- Menu Item to try: Chicken meatballs with congee and Manischewitz glaze
- What one reviewer says: “Food Service and Ambience is amazing! I live in the area and have been meaning to stop by for weeks.”
Southern National
72 Georgia Ave SE Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30312
- Menu Item to try: Lamb Burger Helper
- What one customer says: “The food was so good. My only concern is once the word gets out it will be hard to get in there. Navarro and Caleb made my drinks, Punch Royal and a Margarita and they were truly amazing bartenders. I had the oysters and the collard greens and mussels. The collards and mussels were next level amazing!!!”
Cava
572 Hank Aaron Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
- Menu Item to try: Harrisa Avacado: Harissa honey chicken, Crazy Feta, hummus, fire-roasted corn, avocado, rice, SuperGreens and more.
- What one customer says: “I can’t speak to every Cava but in a city where lunch spots come and go like shifting winds, there exists this humble cava that manages to marry precision with heart. Please say hi to ever-gracious Pricilla and her amazing colleagues, this establishment runs like a well-oiled machine, professional, efficient, and remarkably consistent. The food? Always warm. Always satisfying.”
Love eating healthy options? Check out the best salad restaurants in Atlanta.
Talat Market
112 Ormond St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
- Menu Item to try: Green curry with catfish
- What one patron says: “Talat Market is a gem! The food is absolutely incredible, blending Thai flavors with Southern ingredients in such a creative way. The green curry with catfish was a standout, and the atmosphere is cozy yet vibrant. Highly recommend!”
Wood’s Chapel BBQ
85 Georgia Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Photo credit: AtlantaFi.com - Menu Item to try: Whole hog barbecue
- What one customer says: “Great barbecue joint feel with friendly staff and amazing food. I enjoyed the chopped brisket, smoked wings, Mexican corn, and beans. My wife enjoyed it as well.”
Hero Doughnuts & Buns
33 Georgia Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
- Menu Item to try: Brioche-style yeast doughnut
- What one customer says: “Hero Doughnuts is a must-visit! The doughnuts are fluffy and flavorful, and the staff is super friendly. Perfect spot for a sweet treat in Summerhill.”
Maepole
72 Georgia Ave SE Unit 500, Atlanta, GA 30312
Photo credit: Maepole / Instragram - Menu Item to try: Super greens, brown rice, sweet potatoes
- What one customer says: “Great hidden gem in Summerhill Atlanta! Parking in the back, and neighborhood parking nearby. I really loved the bowl and sauce options! You could build your own, or choose one of their chef specialties! Really cool how they have classic southern cooking options, like Mac and cheese and sweet potatoes, makes them stand out against places like sweetgreen or cava. They also have some yummy teas to choose from! Really love the vibe all around.”
Final Word
Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods and one of the best places to eat on the southside. The street’s walkable, trendy vibe, enhanced by vibrant murals and restored brick storefronts, draws food enthusiasts and supports a burgeoning dining scene.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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In a city where Southern hospitality meets global flavors, Atlanta’s dining scene has long been a tapestry of innovation, comfort, and community.
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.
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
AtlantaFi.com is your source for the stories shaping our city. Follow us for more on the people, places, and plates that define the A-T-L.
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In a bittersweet farewell to one of Atlanta’s enduring culinary landmarks, the beloved meat-and-three restaurant EATS announced on Friday, Oct. 3 that it will shutter its doors for good on October 18 after more than three decades of serving up affordable Southern comfort food and jerk chicken favorites to generations of diners.
EATS Is Shutting Its Doors
Nestled on Ponce de Leon Avenue just across from the bustling Ponce City Market on the edge of Midtown, EATS has long been a no-frills haven for locals and visitors alike.
Opened in 1993 by Bob Hatcher and Charlie Kerns in a repurposed swingers club, the spot quickly became synonymous with hearty, wallet-friendly plates of fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and its signature jerk chicken that drew crowds from all walks of life.
The closure, emblematic of the rapid gentrification sweeping Ponce de Leon from Midtown to Poncey-Highland, comes amid a wave of redevelopment spurred by the Eastside BeltLine and the 2014 opening of Ponce City Market
New boutique hotels, retail shops, and trendy eateries have transformed the corridor, but at the expense of longtime institutions like EATS, which has weathered economic shifts, the pandemic, and now, an evolving neighborhood landscape.
Owners did not specify a single reason for the decision in their public statement, though the announcement follows a recent vandalism incident that affected EATS and several nearby businesses earlier this week.
Atlanta police have made an arrest in connection with the damage, but Hatcher and Kerns emphasized a desire to end on a high note with their community
“If you ever sat down for a meal here, pulled up with your people, or stopped by for a jerk chicken to go, we’d love to see you one last time,” the statement read. “Come through, say hello, and help us close this wild chapter the way it began: together.”
Patrons have already begun sharing memories on social media, reminiscing about late-night pasta dinners—think chicken Alfredo or spaghetti and meatballs—after Braves games or BeltLine strolls. “EATS was more than a restaurant; it was the heartbeat of Ponce,” tweeted one longtime customer, echoing sentiments from Atlanta’s food scene where the spot’s unpretentious vibe stood in stark contrast to the area’s upscale newcomers.
As EATS prepares for its final service, staff assured there will be ample seating for farewells, inviting first-timers and regulars to raise a glass (or a side of cornbread) to 33 years of flavor
In an era of fleeting pop-ups and high-concept dining, the loss of EATS serves as a poignant reminder of Atlanta’s evolving palate—and the irreplaceable role of spots that fed both body and soul.
For those hoping to snag one last plate, EATS will operate normal hours until closing day. No word yet on future plans for the space or whether Hatcher and Kerns will revive the concept elsewhere.
Final Word
Speaking of dining in Midtown, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. 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.
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Cole Haan, the renowned American lifestyle and accessories brand, celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 2, the grand opening of its latest retail destination at Lenox Square.
Spanning 2,018 square feet, this flagship joins three additional Cole Haan outposts debuting across the country this autumn, highlighting the brand’s targeted expansion into high-potential U.S. regions boasting robust online communities.
Cole Haan Opens in Buckhead, Expanding Southeast Footprint
The Lenox Square outpost introduces an evolved store design aimed at enhancing every shopper’s journey. Seamlessly merging classic artistry with forward-thinking elements, the interior showcases inviting color schemes, organic wood finishes, elegant arched motifs, and seamless tech integrations.
Aligned with the Fall 2025 Cole Haan Comfortable initiative, interactive displays spotlight cutting-edge advancements, such as:
- The men’s ØriginalGrand CitySpectre line, powered by Energyfeel Cushioning Platform for sneaker-level bounce and propulsion in every step.
- Women’s Grand Ambition Autumn Boots, engineered with Grand Lux Cushioning for layered, adaptive support that lasts all day.
- Men’s Grand Revolution, a sophisticated build fusing traditional aesthetics with full-length cushioning, agility, and superior grip.
Nestled on the Upper Level amid Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, the store anchors a top-tier shopping hub in the Southeast.“This Lenox Square debut embodies our brand’s forward momentum,” shared Krissie Millan, Cole Haan’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Merging an updated store vibe with the Fall 2025 Cole Haan Comfortable™ push, we’re crafting spaces that feel as dynamic and tech-savvy as they are chic. As one of our fresh launches, it embodies a progressive retail vision that draws us nearer to customers, mirroring their modern lifestyles and shopping habits.”Curating the Fall 2025 lineup under the mantra “Feel What’s Possible,” the store invites guests to discover fresh arrivals in men’s and women’s shoes, apparel, bags, and more—featuring standouts like:
- Women’s Catherine Satchels (in Small and Medium sizes) alongside the Celenea Saddle Bag.
- Men’s Judson Grand Chelsea Boots and Roundhill Grand Chukka Boots, both enhanced by FlexCraft™ Comfort Technology.
- Women’s Lyndon Tall Waterproof Boots.
- GrandPrø All Day Running Shoes, available for men and women.
- GrandPrø Court SkyWeave™ Sneakers, unisex essentials.
Final Word
Lenox is busy adding retailers this year, which is a good thing. The Cole Haan Lenox Square location now welcomes visitors daily, operating Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For round-the-clock browsing, head to www.colehaan.com.
Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
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Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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