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Atlanta offers a wide range of hotels, from luxurious five-star establishments like the Four Seasons and The St. Regis to trendy boutique hotels and historic properties like The Candler Hotel. This variety means there’s something for every traveler’s taste and budget
Here are some of Atlanta’s most notable hotels:
Nobu Hotel
3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 | 470-945-8888
Photo credit: Nobo Located in Buckhead, Nobu Hotel offers 152 rooms and suites anchored by a plush Michelin Star-rated restaurant that specializes in Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. There’s also a bar and lounge complete with rooftop swimming pool.
Atlas Hotel
88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | 404) 600-6471
Here’s what one visitor says about the Atlas Hotel. “Beautiful and elegant is the simple way to describe Atlas. I loved the selection of wine and champagne. The service was good. The ambiance was very romantic and relaxing. The food taste and presentation was perfect. There was a slight mix up with the server asking if we wanted another drink from the menu or something, but we bought a bottle of champagne so all the server had to do was replenish our glasses from the champagne bottle. I forgot to get my ticket validated so instead of 15 for valet parking it was 25. Still not bad for Atlanta parking.”
4 Seasons
75 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 881-9898
Photo credit: 4 Seasons / Facebook Celebrities love to stay at the 4 Seasons because it offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown Atlanta, but doesn’t scrimp on the amenities.
Ritz-Carlton
181 Peachtree Street N.E, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 659-0400
The Ritz-Carlton is a go-to spot for celebrities because of its proximity to Atlanta’s core financial district and major companies along Peachtree Street. Celebrities are known to frequent the bar in the evenings.
Marriott Marquis
265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 521-0000
Photo credit: Marriott Marquis / Facebook The Marriott Marquis is a favorite spot for celebrities, sports figures and leaders to stay when they visit Atlanta.
St. Regis
Eighty-Eight, West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 563-7900
Photo credit: St. Regis / Facebook The St. Regis in Buckhead is one of the nicest hotels in all of Atlanta. It offers an exquisite look at the city’s well to do. Among them will be a few celebrities who have chosen to stay in a place 20 minutes away from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
The Hilton
255 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 659-2000
The Hilton is a regal option for anyone looking to stay close to downtown Atlanta. The hotel’s Hilton Honors Reward program offers a way to save money on your stay.
The Hilton downtown is simply close to everything you need and want in Atlanta. Nearby landmarks include the College Football Hall of Fame, the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Book a room at the Hilton downtown.
The Westin Peachtree Plaza
210 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 659-1400
The Westin Peachtree Plaza not only towers above the city’s skyline, but is known for its rotating restaurant at the very top.
An elegant stay in downtown, the Westin is in the perfect spot for nightlife and relaxing views of the city.
Here’s what one guest had to say about the Westin. “This hotel was everything and then some. We had the best time ever. We went for a business event, but I’m definitely coming back to stay here for leisure, as well! The staff were amazing and helpful, the hotel was very beautiful and clean, my room was fantastic and the view of ATL from the room was exquisite. I would definitely recommend this hotel to ANYONE. I’m definitely planning on coming back.”
Book a room at the Westin Peachtree.
Why Stay at an Atlanta Hotel?
Atlanta’s reputation for having some of the best hotels can be attributed to several key factors:
- Diverse Accommodations: Atlanta offers a wide range of hotels, from luxurious high-end options like the Four Seasons and The St. Regis to trendy boutique hotels and budget-friendly chains. This variety caters to all kinds of travelers, whether for business, leisure, or events.
- Southern Hospitality: Atlanta is known for its warm, welcoming culture, which extends to the hotel industry. Guests often experience exceptional service, a hallmark of Southern hospitality that leaves a lasting impression.
- Prime Location for Business and Travel: As a major business hub and one of the busiest airport cities in the world, Atlanta attracts travelers from across the globe. The city’s hotels cater to the needs of both business professionals and tourists with state-of-the-art facilities, business centers, and convenient access to downtown, midtown, and other key areas.
- World-Class Amenities: Many Atlanta hotels boast luxurious amenities like fine dining restaurants, rooftop bars with stunning views, world-class spas, and wellness centers. Some hotels offer unique experiences, such as historical tours, cultural events, and art displays that showcase the city’s rich heritage.
- Proximity to Attractions: Atlanta is home to popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the Atlanta BeltLine, and historic neighborhoods. Hotels often position themselves near these landmarks, providing convenient access to top tourist spots.
- Major Event Destination: Atlanta frequently hosts major conferences, conventions, and events such as DragonCon, sports championships, and concerts. The city’s hotels have become experts at accommodating large groups and offering packages tailored to these events.
Together, these elements make Atlanta a standout city when it comes to hotel accommodations, offering a blend of luxury, service, and accessibility that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
Final Word
Aside the hotels, the city has plenty of nice places to stay and numerous cool things to do.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Atlanta’s premier shopping destination— Lenox Square — is commemorating 65 years in business.
The festivities include a public celebration on Thursday, Aug. 1, featuring remarks by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, a special proclamation presented by the Atlanta City Council on Monday, Aug. 5, and a $1,000 shopping spree social media contest throughout August.
The mall has come a long way over the years.
“From an initial open-air shopping center with 60 shops to a massive, enclosed community hub featuring nearly 250 stores, Lenox Square has increased its presence and profile over six decades to become the leading retail destination in the Southeast,” Lenox Square General Manager Robin Suggs said in a statement. “We appreciate our community, visitors, staff, and retailers for helping Lenox Square achieve and celebrate 65 years as a landmark in Buckhead and Atlanta.”
Join the Anniversary Celebrations:
- Aug. 1 Public Event: The celebration kicks off at 10 a.m. on the upper level between Nike and Apple. Attendees will hear about Lenox Square’s rich history and tremendous impact on Buckhead, Atlanta, and the Southeast from Suggs, Mayor Dickens and Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum. Please RSVP to attend the event here.
- Aug. 5 Proclamation: The Atlanta City Council will honor Lenox Square’s 65th anniversary with a proclamation during their full council meeting at 1 p.m. at Atlanta City Hall, 55 Trinity Avenue SW, in the Marvin S. Arrington, Sr. Council Chamber.
- Social Media Contest: To commemorate this major milestone, Lenox Square invites the public to join the celebration by participating in a social media contest throughout August for a chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree. To enter, follow @lenoxsqmall on Instagram and share your favorite Lenox Square memory by commenting under the anniversary post. Be sure to tag @lenoxsqmall and use #lenoxsquare65 in the caption. Enter Aug. 1 through Aug. 31. See the link for contest entry and rules.
Key Milestones over Lenox Square’s 65 Years
Throughout its rich history, Lenox Square has celebrated numerous significant milestones, including:
- 1956: Ed Noble, a former developer from Kansas City, Mo., and founder of Noble Properties, acquired the site for the mall.
- 1957: The groundbreaking event for Lenox Square was hosted in July 1957.
- 1959: Two years later, the mall was completed, and Lenox Square’s grand opening ceremony was held on August 3, 1959.
- 1960-1963: The magnificent three-level Lenox Square initially boasted an expansive 800,000 square feet of retail space, home to 60 diverse and vibrant tenants. Its original attractions included a lively bowling alley, an indoor golf driving range, and the charming Kresge five and dime store. Prestigious anchors like Rich’s, Davison’s, and the bustling Colonial Stores supermarket added to the mall’s allure. In 1963, the mall added a movie theater on the Market Level.
- 1970: In the early 1970s, Lenox Square underwent a significant renovation and expansion. A new wing was added, featuring the debut of the prestigious Neiman Marcus, marking its first location outside of Florida and Texas.
- 1980: Lenox Square embarked on a grand expansion on the south end, unveiling a three-level section with a vibrant food court, replacing the open-air Plaza Court and supermarket. This included a 19-story office building, a 24-story hotel, and a hotel-office parking garage and deck. These additions were conveniently positioned adjacent to MARTA’s Lenox transit station, which began operations in December 1984, linking the mall to the city’s transportation network.
- 1995: Lenox Square’s next expansion made it the largest shopping center in Georgia at the time. That year, a second story was added above the original Mall Level, bringing the shopping center to 1.457 million square feet.
- 2007-2014: Neiman Marcus expanded by 52,000 square feet, adding a 36,000-square-foot upper level to connect it to the main mallway. This brought Lenox Square’s total leasable square footage to 1.545 million, accommodating 240 stores and services. In 2014, the mall underwent its latest renovation.
- 2024: With over 35 million visitors annually, Lenox Square has emerged as a revered hub of commerce and community within the country and will always be a treasured place for generations of Atlantans to come.
To learn more about Lenox Square’s history, please visit this timeline.
Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, take a look at all the top deals on our Clothes Page, there are PLENTY of good deals that you don’t want to miss! Subscribe to our #ATLHaps Newsletter HERE and get the deals delivered to your inbox 🙂
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!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Atlanta’s weather can be a chameleon with different shades and moods depending on the day, time and season. To get an accurate forecast, we’ve compiled weather data to show you what’s the weather like in Atlanta right now.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta’s Weather Right Now
Currently, Atlanta is experiencing warm and humid conditions. The temperature is around 85°F (29°C), feeling like 87°F (30°C) due to the humidity. The weather is mostly cloudy with a chance of showers and thunderstorms likely throughout the evening. The low tonight will be around 72°F (22°C), and the chance of precipitation is 100%, with heavy rainfall expected (Weather Underground) (National Weather Service) (Timeanddate).
For the next few days, expect similar weather patterns with highs in the mid to upper 80s°F (around 30°C), frequent cloud cover, and chances of rain and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon and evening (Weather Underground) (National Weather Service) (Timeanddate).
Looking for something to do in inclement weather? Check out our Atlanta Rainy Weather Guide.
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The forecast calls for some rainy weather over the Atlanta weekend. No worries! A little water never hurt anybody indoors! Want to know what are the best things to do in Atlanta when it rains?
Locals, visitors and native residents may feel like they should go home and watch Netflix (and chill) but that’s far from the case.
Best Things To Do In Atlanta On A Rainy Day
No, you shouldn’t go to the park, but there is plenty of indoor fun to be had.
Here’s a round-up of activities and best things to do in Atlanta on a rainy day – or any day.The Painted Pin
737 Miami Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 814-8736
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Painted Pin bowling alley in Buckhead: “Drinks, bar, nice music live, bowling, nice fun crowd, good service, seating areas, games, all kinda of random little things to have fun.”
Dave & Buster’s
There are four Dave & Buster’s in metro Atlanta:
- 2215 D and B Dr SE. Marietta, GA 30067 | (770) 951-5554
- 239 Hwy 81 W, McDonough, GA 30253 | (770) 282-3900
- 6500 North Point Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30022 | (678) 256-1100
- 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy Suite 441, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 | 678) 847-5400
Here’s what one reviewer says about Davve & Buster’s: “I haven’t been here but I’ve been here. If that makes since. I was out shopping and stopped inside since it was inside the mall I was in. We walked around the whole place in awe. I haven’t seen so many games. And I love video games. It definitely looks like a lot of fun and I’m ready to experience some. Everyone from kids to the adults were enjoying themselves. We’re going back to experience it ourselves. But the atmosphere is out of this world. So much to do in this facility.”
Georgia Aquarium
225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Photo credit: Youtube.com Here is what one reviewer says about the Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta: “The aquarium was breathtaking! Our favorite parts were watching the Dolphin & Sea Lion performances, walking through and engaging with the interactive and educational wing, and the backstage tour. The performances were amazing.”
College Football Hall Of Fame
250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | 404) 880-4800
Here’s what one reviewer says about the College Football Hall of Fame: “Exceeded expectations!! The staff here makes the difference , they really make it a wonderful experience. Lots to see, history, awards, pictures, and some fun experiences that you should definitely try. I’ll be back for sure!”
Ponce City Market
675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA
Here’s what one reviewer says about Ponce City Market: “I love Ponce City market all year round. They always have cute little events. They have some of the best drinks and food. I recommend the Cuban sandwich spot that is on the first level across from the chicken place. They have strong alcoholic and their sandwiches are awesome!”
Cascade Skating Rink
3335 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 996-0078
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Cascade Skating Rink: “Had so much fun. A lot of little ones though so I had to really watch my mouth while I was out there. Lol. But it was designed for families so I can’t even complain. Glad I finally went.”
Rock Climbing
Yep, you can go rock climbing and have a great time indoors here in Atlanta. Here are some of the best rock climbing places:
High Museum of Art
1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Here’s what one reviewer says about the High Museum: “I visited the High Museum on the Second Sunday of the month when it is free to visit. It was very crowded and there was an incredible diversity of people enjoying the art and activities on offering. If you like it quiet then I suggest going on another day but if you enjoy watching other people also appreciate art…I couldn’t recommend it more strongly!
Fernbank Museum |3D theater
767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 929-6300
Here’s what a reviewer says about Fernbank: “Fernbank is a fantastic natural history museum. I think one of the coolest parts is the fossils in the floor tiles. They have a really good natural history of Georgia that is a permanent exhibit. Their temporary exhibits are always fantastic!”
Lenox Mall
3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Here’s what one reviewer says about Lenox Square mall: “Very nice mall. Parking is always available just have to go to parking deck. Never had a bad experience at mall. Wide selection of store. Can’t really get lost just a oval shape mall. Can get very crowed at times but great mall overall.”
Final Word
Because of the inclement weather, it may not be an ideal way to stroll the Beltline, but you can still check out some of their awesome eateries.
If you want to go out to eat, there’s no shortage of great restaurants in Atlanta, from Southern-style to Caribbean fare.<
Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Check out these FREE events in Atlanta
- These are just some of the things to do when the weather’s bad in Atlanta. When the weather gets a bit better, you can REALLY explore Atlanta proper to the fullestFeeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL
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Teenagers hanging out at Six Flags Over Georgia will need adult supervision in the evenings, according to new rules the amusement park has put into place.
Six Flags Over Georgia just announced that beginning Friday, those ages 15 and younger will need a chaperone after 4 p.m. inside the park.
What Is Six Flags’ Youth Chaperone Policy?
Guests aged 15 years or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old to enter or remain in the park after 4 p.m. daily. The park reserves the right to enforce this requirement earlier if necessary.
The chaperone must possess a valid photo ID and can oversee a maximum of 10 guests per day.
Six Flags did not specify the reason for the policy change at this time, but emphasized their commitment to maintaining the park as a place where families and friends can enjoy fun and immersive experiences together.
Earlier this year, the park’s opening day was marred by multiple altercations, culminating in a teenager being shot outside the park by a responding police officer.
Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Congested gridlock is a part of everyday day life in Atlanta, Georgia, but be way you can save time is to take advantage of Interstate 285.
Do you need to drive on metro Atlanta’s circular highway, this article will help you.
Interstate 285: Things You Need To Know
More than 2 million are said to drive on I-285 every day, coming from as far away as southern Tennessee and western Alabama.
The highway encompasses Fulton, DeKalb and Clayton counties and parts of Atlanta, Decatur, Clarkston, Vinings, Hapeville, College Park, Dunwoody and Doraville.
When Was 285 Built?
The first phase of I-285 was built in 1963 as part of the federal highway system to overhaul interstate travel around the nation. The interstate officially opened on Oct. 15, 1969.
The idea of 285 arose from plans for a loop around the city devise by the Georgia Department of Transportation.
How Many Miles Around Is 285?
I-285 is 66 miles around, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation. While the freeway touches Atlanta and DeKalb counties, it technically does not enter Cobb or Gwinnett counties, the two other major metro Atlanta jurisdictions.
I-285 is connected to three other federal highways, I-75, I-85 and I-20. Another major state road that cross 285 is SR 400, where the toll used to be.
What Time Is The Best Time To Drive Through Atlanta?
If you have to go straight through the middle of the city, it’s best to travel early through Atlanta. I don’t mean 8 a.m., but 5 or 6 a.m. at the latest.
The earlier you travel, the easier it is to get through without gridlock. Around 7 a.m., the rush hour begins and won’t subside until around 10 a.m.
If you want to know what the interstate looks like before you travel, go to some of the TV stations that will tell you, like:
One of the most prominent areas of I-285 is Spaghetti Junction. It is the I-85 interchange with I-285. If you want to know how to drive in Atlanta, you need to put safety first… and pray!
How Long Does It Take To Ride Around I-285? Let’s See
When you drive in Atlanta, you may think your fellow motorists are in a race, but Interstate 285 is a true racetrack.
Explore Atlanta at your own pace
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. CNN Center often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
- For a month’s view: The Official Atlanta Events Calendar
- For a more immediate look, check Things to do in Atlanta This Week
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Check out these FREE events in Atlanta
- Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL
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The 15th annual BronzeLens Film Festival once again is happening soon in Atlanta. The event will gather throngs of film enthusiasts, actors, producers and more in the legal, entertainment, film, and television industry to mingle, celebrate and learn from one another.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 BronzeLens Film Festival held in Atlanta.
When Is the 2024 BronzeLens Film Festival?
The 2024 BronzeLens Film Festival takes place August 21 through August 25 in Atlanta, Georgia. Films in the 2024 BronzeLens Official Film Selections line-up include:
- Jamie Foxx is a producer for directors Nikki Lenette’s and Roger Ellis’ HAPPY SONGS ABOUT UNHAPPY THINGS;
- Ben Crump is a producer of director Ben Beder’s HOW TO SUE THE KLAN, and director Coke Daniels’ The WaterBoyz
- Jamie Lee Curtis is a producer of director Russell Goldman’s BURN OUT
- Deborah Riley Draper is co-director with Sabaah Folayan of RATIFY
- BronzeLens selected three films by Directors Ryan Justin Horne and Tyson Alan Horne, A HERO AMONG US, THE DANCER: THE BEAUTIFUL AND TRAGIC LIFE OF GERAUD ALEXANDER, and THE SOUTH GOT SOMETHING TO SAY, and;
- Morris Chestnut is a producer of director Jorge Sanchez’s THE ORIGIN
Festival Official Film Selections are comprised of over 140 films in categories that include short narratives, feature narratives, documentaries, short documentaries, dance, arts, web series, music videos, and students’ films from France, Spain, Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Iran, the Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, Jordan and, Brazil.
“The quality of our 2024 film submissions exceeded our expectations,” said Kathleen Bertrand, BronzeLens Film Festival Executive Producer. “We are poised for an extraordinary 15th Anniversary Celebration for attendees to see masterfully produced films and partake in an elevated programming experience.”
For a full list of the 2024 BronzeLens Official Film Selections go to bronzelens.com/official-selections.
Here’s a snapshot of the 2024 BronzeLens Film Festival programming schedule:
Wednesday, August 21 through Sunday, August 25
Tara Atlanta serves as headquarters for BronzeLens 2024 Official Film Selections daily screenings and all panels and workshops.Saturday, August 24
BronzeLens Inaugural Filmmaker’s Sneaker Ball is a new BronzeLens signature event that is set to take place at Atlanta City Hall.Sunday, August 25
Cinema and Social Justice Sunday features films and conversations that address issues of social justice, and human and civil rights at the Tara Theater.BronzeLens Awards Show program is the culminating festival event at which the “Best of Festival” filmmakers, in their respective categories, and the best actress, and the best actor are honored. In addition, The Founder’s Award and the Chairman’s Award are presented to industry and community leaders for their contributions to the film and television industry. This year the BronzeLens Awards takes place at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center.
Final Word
Cool events are year-round in the city. Every Atlanta weekend has something cool to do. The city has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year.
The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers. Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like: -
Hours after the presidential debate in Atlanta, President Joe Biden stepped inside a local Waffle House and met with patrons and employees.
The date was June 27, 2024. Biden had just went toe-to-toe against presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump and, looking back, Atlanta was the place where Biden’s campaign showed the beginning of the end — but it wasn’t the food!
As he entered the Waffle House, Biden was captured on camera dapping up a fellow diner and greeting onlookers as Secret Service agents secured the perimeter. Can you imagine if you were working at Waffle House and this happened?
When he visits Atlanta, Biden has made it a habit to stop at a local eatery. He once dined at Busy Bee, the popular soul food restaurant near the AU Center on Martin Luther King Boulevard.
If you were a president, would would you order to eat at Waffle House? Would you go for the All Star? Would you opt for Steak and Eggs? Of course, your hashbrowns would have to be covered, smothered and perhaps chunked. There are many things people don’t know about Waffle House.
And while we’re at it, do you know about Waffle House’s secret plate code?
For example, a jelly packet placed at the bottom center indicates two scrambled eggs. To signify a light, runny scramble, an upside-down mayo packet is placed above the jelly. For well-done scrambled eggs, the mayo packet is placed right-side-up. For a standard fried egg, the level of doneness is indicated from left to right across the plate.
Let us know your favorite meal at Waffle House.
Final Word
There are some other breakfast spots Biden could have hit up if he wanted the lowdown. Check out the best breakfast restaurants in Atlanta.
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President Biden shocked the world on Sunday when he announced that he won’t seek re-election in the 2024 presidential campaign.
The news is without precedent but not entirely surprising, given how bad Biden did a few weeks ago in the debate against GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump.
The debate, held in Atlanta and hosted by CNN, exposed the President, 81, as someone who couldn’t remember basic facts and names. The gaffes not only were seized on by Trump, but the political stage at large. What happened in Atlanta became fodder for the world.
“While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote in a letter posted on social media site X. “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”
I’m Atlanta, reaction to Biden’s exit was swift:
Atlanta Mayor Andre DIckens said Biden “an extraordinary American who has dedicated his entire life to working people.”
“His incredible record on jobs, the economy, climate, reproductive rights, and his leadership on the world stage make him one of the most consequential leaders in history,” Dickens said in a statement. “Atlanta is stronger because of his leadership. Our nation is better off because of his service and I’m proud to call him friend, leader, and most of all, President.”
Former Mayor and current Biden Administration aide Keisha Lance Bottoms said “my heart is filled with a profound sense of sadness and admiration for the man who ahs served our nation with unwavering dedication and grace.”
Bill Simmons, a lifelong Democrat and Atlanta resident, said he was stunned when he saw the news about Biden.
”Shocked isn’t the word,” Simmons, a Morehouse College Alumni, said over the phone. “We’re a few months from the election. To say that this will throw the Democratic Party in disarray is an understatement.”
On the other hand, some feel that a younger candidate — like Vice President Kamala Harris —will help energize the base.
”This is actually exciting,” said Kelli Freeman, an occupational therapist from Woodstock, Georgia. “The first black woman president? Are you kidding me?”
In his announcement, Biden said endorsed Harris for president.
“My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President,” Biden posted. “And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year.”
Harris thanked Biden for his support and said she will continue to ready herself for the race.
“I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination,” she said.
Biden visited Atlanta frequently during his term as president as well as vice president to Barack Obama, who weighed in on the race as well post-Biden.
”We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” Obama said in a statement. “But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges. I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.”
Harris is no stranger to Atlanta, having visited the city twice in the past month for different initiatives such as economic empowerment and anti-gun violence.
For his part, Biden made himself at home in Georgia’s largest city as well, eating at soul food place Busy Bee near the AU Center well as Waffle House right after the debate that sealed his presidential fate.
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Sometimes instead of paying for a high-prices meal, an old-fashioned cookbook can yield a wonderful meal. Want to cook like a real Atlantan? It’s in the book.
Here are the best Atlanta cookbooks you can find anywhere.
If you’re looking for tasty dishes centered on fried chicken, grits and other Southern staples, these Atlanta cookbooks won’t specialized in them — but they’re here. Mostly, you’ll find unique takes and twists on old favorites from yesteryear’s dinner table.
The Best Atlanta Cookbooks To Learn From The Pros
Check out these amazing Atlanta-centered cookbooks that you can buy right now and start to cook with:
Atlanta Chef’s Table: Extraordinary Recipes from the Big Peach
Serving up an eclectic mix of foods, “Atlanta Chef’s Table” continues to showcase those who pioneer the South from casual comfort to the finer foods.
Atlanta Kitchens: Recipes from Atlanta’s Best Restaurants
“Atlanta Kitchens” features recipes from 56 of the best restaurants, including Watershed, Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Babette’s Café, Gravity Pub, Horseradish Grill, Wisteria, Busy Bee’s Café and more.
Watch This
Mary Mac’s Tea Room 75th Anniversary Cookbook: History, Hospitality, and Recipes from Atlanta’s Favorite Dining Room
In “Mary Mac’s Tea Room 75th Anniversary Cookbook,” author and owner John Ferrell brings together over 125 classic recipes, including several new ones, from this venerable institution of Southern comfort food. When Mary Mac’s opened in 1945, it was one of sixteen tea rooms around Atlanta, Georgia.
True Grits: Tall Tales and Recipes from the New South
“True Grits” is a collection of regional recipes, inspired photography, and lively, charming stories by renowned southern authors – people like Anne Rivers Siddons, Lewis Grizzard, Terry Kay, and Eugenia Price.
A Culinary History of Atlanta (American Palate)
“A Culinary History of Atlanta” traces the evolution of iconic dishes like Brunswick stew, hoecakes and peach pie while celebrating Atlanta’s noted foodies, including Henry Grady, Martin Luther King Jr. and Nathalie Dupree.
Atlanta Classic Desserts: Recipes from Favorite Restaurants
“Atlanta Desserts” is an irresistible book showcasing the city’s sweet side. Georgia Muscadine, Hummingbird Cake, and Warm Peach Cobbler are only a few of the delectable dishes Atlantans enjoy at the close of an excellent meal.
Fried Chicken: Recipes for the Crispy, Crunchy, Comfort-Food Classic [A Cookbook]
“Fried Chicken” is an irresistible cookbook featuring more than 50 family-friendly fried chicken recipes, including classic Southern, globally influenced, and skillet- and deep-fried variations.
Signature Tastes of Atlanta: Favorite Recipes of our Local Restaurants
With over 130 restaurant recipes, full page photos and descriptions, Signature Tastes of Atlanta truly defines the culinary essence of the Capital City of the South.
Atlanta Cooknotes
“Atlanta Cooknotes” is yet another great cookbook from the Junior League of Atlanta. Illustrated with prominent locations in Atlanta with historical notes.
Food Lovers’ Guide to Atlanta: The Best Restaurants, Markets & Local Culinary Offerings
“Food Lovers Guide to Atlanta” is the ultimate guide to Atlanta’s food scene provides the inside scoop on the best places to find, enjoy, and celebrate local culinary offerings.
Last Bite
From fried fish to authentic tacos, the best food you make in your Atlanta kitchen will often come from a cookbook. The recipes are typically time-honored and based on the seasoned heritage of the South.
At this point, Atlanta cuisine has become indispensable to the South. The largest city in Georgia’s food festivals and culinary events set the tone for the entire Southeast.
Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.
But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?