The celebrity owners of Bankhead Seafood have finally opened the historic eatery on Atlanta’s west side.
The restaurant officially opened on Sunday, Nov. 17 after a long hiatus as Atlanta’s go-to spot for affordable seafood in the community. The new Atlanta restaurant has been revived by rappers, entrepreneurs and now restaurateurs Killer Mike and T.I.
The two businessmen purchased the eatery in 2019 after it had closed down.
When Is Bankhead Seafood Re-Opening?
The new Bankhead Seafood is set to open on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. The restaurant initially had plans to open in early 2021, according to Michael “Killer Mike” Render, who has done extensive press about the eatery.
The seafood restaurant closed abruptly in 2018 after 50 years in operation when longtime owner Helen Harden admitted that she just didn’t have the stamina to run the business like she used to.
“I felt like I wasn’t giving my customers a good service when they had to wait a little longer than they usually had to,” she told 11Alive.
Here is what we know about the re-opening of Bankhead Seafood:
- The restaurant grand opening is still a ways away, but a Bankhead Seafood food truck is in the works, according to WABE.
- The new Bankhead Seafood has plans to expand the 4,200 square foot building and even add a rooftop.
- Renderings for the new restaurant have been released.
Why Are T.I. And Killer Mike Opening Bankhead Seafood?
The Atlanta rappers and businessmen both grew up in underprivileged areas of Atlanta. Bankhead Seafood has long been an institution on the city’s west side.
The two entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to re-invest in their communities and give back.
“I partnered with [Atlanta rapper] Killer Mike and other developers to purchase the Bankhead Seafood building,” Tip told INC. magazine. “There is a corner where I have an assemblage of lots that I acquired with another partner. There’s another, bigger lot that I am acquiring on my own. I’ve gone in on six buildings and spent more than $2 million. I don’t have private equity financing or anything like that. It’s my personal finances and sweat equity.”
Talking to APSTV, Killer Mike said the Grove Park restaurant is very important to the city.
“Bankhead Seafood is a product of this community. And T.I. and I buying it shows that this community has produced good stock,” he said. “We’re not waiting on other people to save us. We’re not waiting for some grand fund to come.”
“We’re taking money we’ve went out and earned through hard work and bringing it back in this community bringing jobs and opportunity.”
Where Is Bankhead Seafood Located?
Bankhead Seafood is located at 1651 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway SW Atlanta, Ga. 30318. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Key Features:
- Expanded Space: The building is being enlarged to 4,200 square feet with the addition of a rooftop dining area, providing a modern touch to the traditional establishment.
- Community Focus: The revival seeks to reinvest in the neighborhood, preserving its cultural significance while creating jobs and opportunities in the rapidly gentrifying area.
- Historical Legacy: Bankhead Seafood served the community for over 50 years, becoming a local institution known for its delicious $5 seafood boxes. The founders and new owners aim to maintain this rich heritage.
- Modern Adaptations: Plans for expanded parking and a potential food truck service ensure accessibility and convenience for customers.
The restaurant is positioned as both a nostalgic homage and a beacon for community growth amidst the changes in Atlanta’s Westside. This blend of history and innovation makes it a must-visit for both old fans and new patrons.
Final Word
“It’s been a part of my life as long as I’ve been on earth,” Render told WSBTV. “If you’re writing a show or a book about Michael Render and his family, (Bankhead Seafood) would definitely be one of the characters.”
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
