• SocialBites Food Hub opens in Sandy Springs

    SocialBites Food Hub Opens in Sandy Springs

    3 Min Read

    Something delicious has been happening in Sandy Springs for the summer of 2024, specifically in July. That’s when SocialBites Food Hub opened its doors.

    The establishment’s first floor has four different food concepts to eat from, all of them with different menus. There’s also a bar upstairs with evenings of live music and Trivia Night.

     SocialBites founder Aziz Hashim insists that the place is not a food hall, which Atlanta has a few of.

    Now Serving in Sandy Springs: SocialBites Food Hub

    “SocialBites is not a food hall, but a food hub, where people can enjoy the convenience of ordering from all of our restaurants at one point of purchase and receiving tableside service instead of standing or waiting near a counter,” Hashim told Eater Atlanta. “Paired with engaging games and programming, SocialBites offers an enhanced experience from that of a food hall or fast casual dining.”

    Wondering what the vibe is like? Here’s what one reviewer says about SocialBites Food Hub:

    “Cool little “food hub” which is basically a restaurant where you can pick from 4 different types of food- Fried Chicken, Pizza, Burgers, and Tacos! The variety is fun. In terms of cost, prices are reasonable, but portions are relatively small- if you’re an average man, you won’t be going home with leftovers. The staff is still learning, but they’re friendly and determined to make things right- when our order of cauliflower came out insanely spicy, the manager made it right with another order and a free set of onion rings! That’s the kind of service that will help this place succeed.

    In terms of flavor- I think that another pass needs to be done on the food to upgrade the flavor level- the sharables were great, but the birria tacos didn’t have that delicious flavor that you get from other spots. The food was definitely good, just lacking flavor. I’ll be coming back later to see if the flavor improves!

    I’d also recommend that this store owner develop their “showstopper” for the restaurant. Right now, they need something that is SUPER shareable and very aesthetic for social media. I’d recommend something like a crazy Bloody Mary, like the other viral ones- or wacky food combos that could use the varieties of food there. Or, upgrade the look of your shakes to really make people want to take pictures.

    Atmosphere feels a little empty at the moment. The store needs a bit more character and fun- maybe more games, arcade games, or some neon vibes. Two different music speakers were playing different songs inside the store- one per each level- which was a bit strange at times.”

    Where Is SocialBites Food Hub Located?

    SocialBites Food Hub is located at 6650 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Final Bite

    Food hubs and food halls proliferate around Georgia’s largest city, but so do standalone restaurants. This is the most fun food scene outside of the Northeast. Not only can you take advantage of the plethora of cool food places on Atlanta’s southside, but the north side is where it’s at when it comes to fine dining and authentic ethnic food of all sorts.

    Want more food suggestions? Check out the best restaurants in Sandy Springs.

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  • Rise Up for the Atlanta Falcons Rally in Midtown

    2 Min Read

    Are you ready to “Rise Up” for the 2024 Atlanta Falcons? Don red and black and join the party.

    Get ready for the return of Falcons football with a free kickoff party featuring special appearances, musical performers and giveaways. Be a part of the excitement as we celebrate the start of the 2024 season with current Falcons players and a lineup of special guests!

    This event will be emceed by announcers Ryan Cameron and Chelsea Phillips Tafoya and will feature:

    • Appearances by current Falcons players including Grady Jarrett, Bijan Robinson and Younghoe Koo
    • Performances by Falcons Cheerleaders and Freddie Falcon
    • Giveaways and more!

    Plus, rep your Dirty Birds all season long and shop our new Kickoff Collection in-person at the Atlantic Station Team Store, located across from the Atlantic Green.

    Date: Friday, September 6 // Time: 7:00 p.m.

    Location: Outdoors in the Atlantic Green at Atlantic Station, near HOBNOB (245 18*thSt NW, Atlanta, GA 30363)

    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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  • Hot Air Balloon Festival in Georgia

    Hot Air Balloon Festival: Things To Know

    3 Min Read

    Things in Callaway Gardens are looking up, up. Hot air balloons are going to be up in the air this weekend.

    If you can make it down to Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, you’ll be glad to know that the annual event known as the “Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival” is on and poppin’!

    Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Garden: What To Know

    This festival typically takes place over Labor Day Weekend and is a celebration of hot air balloons and various related activities. Here are some key features of the festival:

    Hot Air Balloon Flights: The highlight of the festival is, of course, the hot air balloons. Visitors can witness a colorful display of balloons taking flight in the morning and evening, with some balloons often illuminated at night, creating a magical sight.

    Balloon Glow: One of the most popular events at the festival is the “Balloon Glow,” where hot air balloons are tethered to the ground and lit up in sync with music, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.

    Entertainment: In addition to hot air balloon activities, the festival typically includes live music, family-friendly entertainment, and attractions. There may be performances, games, and activities for children and adults alike.

    Food and Beverage: Various food vendors and options are usually available, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of delicious meals and snacks throughout the festival.

    Waterfront Activities: Callaway Gardens often features beautiful lakes and water bodies, providing opportunities for water-based activities like paddle boating or simply relaxing by the water.

    Nature and Gardens: Callaway Gardens itself is renowned for its stunning gardens and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy the lush landscapes, which may also be a part of the festival experience.

    This event may be postponed if it rains.

    Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.

    Explore Atlanta The Cool Way

    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:

    Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:

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  • Final Four tournament chosen in Atlanta, Georgia

    Atlanta To Host 2031 Final Four

    2 Min Read

    The Final Four is coming to Atlanta in the upcoming years. Atlanta has been selected to host the 2031 NCAA Division I Men’s Final Four at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

    For Georgia’s largest city, the event’s return is a long time coming. It was originally selected host the 2020 NCAA Men’s Final Four at the newly built Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic​.

    Atlanta Chosen for Final Four

    “Time and again, Atlanta has proved itself as the best city in America to host global sporting events. We thank the NCAA for selecting us to host this incredible event. The eyes of the sporting world will be on Atlanta, and we know that we will be up to the task once again as a champion is crowned and One Shining Moment is played in 2031.”

    Atlanta has hosted the NCAA Men’s Final Four multiple times. The city hosted the tournament in the following years:

    • 1977: The first time Atlanta hosted the Final Four was in 1977 at the Omni Coliseum.
    • 2002: The Final Four returned to Atlanta, held at the Georgia Dome.
    • 2007: The Georgia Dome again hosted the event.
    • 2013: Atlanta hosted the Final Four at the Georgia Dome, marking the last time the event was held there before the Dome was demolished

    Final Word

    Atlanta is a sports paradise, although it’s not reflected in the number of championship banners that reside here. Our Things You Didn’t Know About Atlanta guide will tell you that and more.

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  • Red Lobster in Atlanta locations

    Red Lobster Closing 23 Restaurants: Here’s the List

    4 Min Read

    Restaurant chain Red Lobster continues to hemorrhage money due to several bad financial decisions and factors. Now, the restaurant announced that it is set to close 23 more of its locations across the United States.

    And yes, the Tara Boulevard location in Jonesboro, Georgia is on the list.

    Which Atlanta-Area Red Lobsters Will Stay Open (For Now)?

    • 3360 Camp Creek Parkway, Atlanta, Ga. 30344

    Why Is Red Lobster in Financial Trouble?

    Red Lobster is facing financial trouble due to several factors, including declining customer traffic, inflation, and rising costs for key ingredients like seafood. The chain has struggled to maintain profitability amid higher food and labor costs, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Additionally, Red Lobster’s mid-range pricing strategy is being squeezed between cheaper fast-food options and higher-end dining experiences. This has made it harder for the brand to attract customers, especially as dining preferences shift and competitors emerge.

    Moreover, Red Lobster has faced challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences, including the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable, and diverse dining options. Its traditional menu and dining model may seem outdated to some consumers.

    The financial strain has also been impacted by changes in ownership over the years, leading to inconsistent management strategies.

    Which Red Lobster Locations Are Closing?

    The following Red Lobster locations are set to shut their doors for good:

    • Arizona — 1521 S. Yuma Palms Pkwy., Yuma
    • Arkansas — 8407 W. Markham St., Little Rock
    • California — 8703 Murray Drive, La Mesa
    • Colorado — 4925 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs
    • Florida — -326 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach
      • 5110 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola
      • 8909 U.S. Highway 19, Port Richey
    • Georgia — 6550 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro
    • Illinois — 1604 N. State Road 50, Bourbonnais
      • 902 Commons Drive, Geneva
      • 4625 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria
    • Indiana — 4353 Franklin St., Michigan City
    • Minnesota — 8900 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley
      • 12515 Elm Creek Blvd. North, Maple Grove
    • Missouri — 2381 Maplewood Commons Drive, Maplewood
    • New York — 925 Hunts Point Ave., Bronx
      • 750 Upper Glen St., Queensbury
    • North Carolina — 304 A Western Blvd., Jacksonville
    • Ohio —17227 Southpark Center, Strongsville
    • South Carolina — 1270 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce
    • Virginia –555 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria
    • 4415 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond
      • 709 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach

    What Is the History of Red Lobster?

    Red Lobster was founded in 1968 by entrepreneur Bill Darden in Lakeland, Florida. The restaurant began as a single seafood restaurant aimed at making fresh seafood more accessible to middle-class families. It quickly gained popularity due to its affordable prices and high-quality seafood offerings, leading to rapid expansion.

    In 1970, the company was acquired by General Mills, which helped fuel further expansion across the United States. By the 1980s, Red Lobster had become a well-known national chain with hundreds of locations, offering signature dishes like cheddar bay biscuits, shrimp scampi, and a variety of seafood platters.

    In 1995, General Mills spun off its restaurant holdings, including Red Lobster, to create a new company called Darden Restaurants. Under Darden, Red Lobster continued to grow and remained a cornerstone of the casual dining industry. However, by the 2000s, the brand began experiencing challenges due to changing consumer preferences, economic downturns, and increased competition.

    In 2014, Darden decided to sell Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, for $2.1 billion. The sale was part of a broader strategy to refocus on Darden’s other brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Under Golden Gate Capital, Red Lobster went through various management changes and attempts to revitalize the brand, including efforts to modernize its menu and restaurant design.

    In 2020, Red Lobster was sold again, this time to a consortium led by Thai Union, a major seafood supplier, alongside other investors. Despite the ownership changes and rebranding efforts, Red Lobster has continued to face financial challenges in recent years, driven by rising costs, competition, and evolving dining trends.

    Final Word

    When it comes to seafood, Red Lobster has had a footprint in Atlanta for decades — but it’s not the only tuna in town. Check out our Atlanta Seafood Guide.

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • J's Smokehouse opens in Doraville

    Usher’s Mom Opens BBQ Restaurant in Metro Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    You can’t tell from its exterior, but Jo’s Smokehouse is not your average barbecue joint and food truck.

    The new Atlanta restaurant opened August 2, 2024, and is owned by Jonnetta Patton, the mother of musical powerhouse Usher.

    Ms. Patton recently held a grand opening for the eatery, which is located in Doraville.

    Yes, Usher, as well as his brother Grammy-nominated producer James “JLack” Lackey, we’re on hand to support their mother’s entrepreneurial venture.

    “J’s SMOKEHOUSE grand opening,” Ms. Patton shared on Instagram. “Head Chef Greg Dennis BBQ Ribs and Brisket were a Hugh hit and Usher dropped in during the live celebration!!! I was very happy and appreciative for all the support from everyone in attendance. We are now open so drop in for lunch or dinner between 11am to 8pm Monday – Saturday at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd.”

    Usher was all smiles for fans and customers alike. “So happy to be out here supporting my mom and her new business,” he said to the camera.

    Ms. Patton is a businesswoman through and through. Before this, she ran J’s Kitchen Culinary Incubator, which provides commercial kitchen space and equipment to up-and-coming chefs and caterers.  

    Earlier this summer Patton was honored by Sysco Foods with the Influencer Award for her contributions to the culinary industry. 

    What’s On the Menu At J’s Smokehouse?

    J’s Smokehouse has several traditional menu items like smoked turkey wings, grilled BBB chicken, grilled BBB ribs, fried catfish, grilled sausage and sides like braised collards, kale and more.

    “What makes the menu different are our options, are vegan options,” Patton said. “We have pulled pork sandwich and we have a vegan hot dog in the smokehouse. And they are amazing.”

    Helming the kitchen, Ms. Patton tapped renown plant-based guru, Chef Greg Dennis.

    “We have delicious ribs falling off the bone. Thirteen hours low and slow smoked brisket. Grandma’s delicious southern fried collard greens,” Dennis told local TV station WSB-TV. “I do a seven cheese macaroni blend, I also have a vegan menu.”

    Where Is J’s Smokehouse Located?

    J’s Smokehouse is located at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd ste 104 B, Atlanta, GA 30340. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Atlanta is no stranger to celebrity-owned restaurants, and Patton said the chef is what makes the difference.

    Do you like barbecue? How about Mesquite or smoked brisket on hickory? Check out our Atlanta BBQ Guide.

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  • best black restaurants in Atlanta

    9 Of The Best Black-Owned Brunch Spots In Atlanta

    7 Min Read

    Did someone say something about delicious food and cool atmospheres for brunch? It’s time to check out some of the best black-owned brunch spots in Atlanta, Georgia.

    No matter if you’re into one of those all-day breakfast spots, or brunch-centric weekend restaurants, Georgia’s largest city has what you need. Many of the best brunch spots in Atlanta also happen to be owned by celebrities.

    Here Are The Best Black-Owned Brunch Restaurants In Atlanta

    As you browse through our curated list of black brunch spots, you’ll notice a trend of high-end dishes like salmon and grits, lobster tail eggs and honey biscuits — all that good stuff!

    Breakfast At Barney’s

    349 Decatur St. SE Unit A1, Atlanta, GA 30312| (404) 549-6042

    Breakfast at Barney's has the best outdoor seating for brunch in Atlanta

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Breakfast At Barney’s. “Cute trendy spot. I loved the different wallpapers and I would definitely take this design in my own place. The fresh flowers on the table add class. Our waitress was super nice and then I had the summer spritz. I can’t remember the name of it and then we ordered the fried green tomatoes, the yard bird and the shrimp and grits. Between my boyfriend and I we did finish all of it, but that was the goal. It was delicious and would recommend.”

    Toast On Lenox

    2770 Lenox Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 |  (404) 748-4594

    Toast on Lenox is one of the best brunch spots in Atlanta.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Toast on Lenox. “Marquis was an AMAZING waiter! This was our first time here, and it was amazing. We have reservations tomorrow morning to go back! We ordered the blackened salmon and shrimp and the GA honey hot chicken with greens and candied yams and Mac n cheese. We drank sweet tea and it was nap inducing and delish!”

    Esco Restaurant & Tapas

    327 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 404-941-7907

    best b lack owned restaurants in Atlanta

    Esco Restaurant & Tapas Bar is owned by rapper and entrepreneur 2 Chainz and is known for its lavish brunch.

    Here is what one reviewer says about Esco Tapas Bar. “Came in for Brunch, loved the atmosphere, food, plus the Service was A1. For Brunch I had 2 entress… Peach Cobbler French Toast, Eggs, grits, turkey sausage, plus hashbrowns. Enjoyed Unlimited Mimosas while the Atmosphere was Lit, the Bartender possibly popped about 10 bottles of Champagne bubbly with Music and other guests rolling. Definitely a Go To Spot!”

    Frost Bistro

    281 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA. 30313 |  (404) 963-5495

    Frost Bistro owners Kirk and Rasheeda Frost

      Music and rReaiity TV stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost own Frost Bistro, an Atlanta restaurant in Castleberry Hill. Kirk and Rasheeda’s restaurant offers a hip alternative to the stuffy eateries scattered around downtown Atlanta. Here are more details about the restaurant.
     
    Here’s what one reviewer says about Frost Bistro. “The food was delicious, but I’m disappointed that they no longer serve pasta. That’s what I wanted to try. I ended up getting the peach cobbler French toast. I thought it was a meal, but I had to pay extra for chicken sausage. The waitress was attentive and provided professional service. Drinks were perfect!”

    Gocha’s Breakfast Bar

    Atlanta Locations:

    • 695 Cascade Rd SW STE 440 Atlanta, GA 30331 | (678) 927-9166
    • 834 Glynn St S suite 244,248, Fayetteville, GA 30214 | (770) 629-7443
    Gocha's Breakfast Bar -black-owned restaurants in Atlanta

    Gocha Hawkins has a hit on her hands with Gocha’s Breakfast Bar in the Cascade area of Atlanta. There’s also another one in Fayetteville.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the brunch. “In town for the weekend and needed some breakfast and Gotcha’s was everything we needed to sum up our trip. We had the Grit cakes, pancakes, salmon, salmon croquettes and the shrimp skillet. Everythign was cooked to perfection and we will surely be back when we stop in town again ! Thanks Mija your service was impeccable, great menu recommendations and you were attentive and friendly !”

    Johnny’s Chicken And Waffles

    3725 Main Street, College Park, GA 30337

    Johnny's Chicken & Waffles opens in College Park, Georgia

    Atlanta celebrities Ne-Yo and wife, Chef Crystal Smith, along with reality TV star Karlie Redd have teamed for College Park: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles. Another location opened on Crescent Avenue in Midtown.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the spot. “The best waffles I have ever had. I ordered the grits with lobster & shrimp. The food was delicious & the service was superb. The waiter whose name escapes me & was from Brooklyn was the nicest waiter I’ve experienced. The chef also came out & greeted us & made a fresh batch of grits when the first was a little salty. The grits were delicious. I absolutely recommend this restaurant & the grits with Lobster. I will be back when I’m in town.”

    See what’s on the menu at Johny’s Chicken and Waffles.

    The Breakfast Boys

     3387 Main St, Atlanta, GA 30337 | (470) 312-2108

    The Breakfast Boys opens in College Park, Georgia
    Lonzo Wyche pictured with celebrity Rolonda Rochelle at The Breakfast Boys. Source: Instagram

    Atlanta restaurateur Lorenzo Wyche recently opened The Breakfast Boys, an all-day breakfast spot in College Park. The eatery is a partnership between Wyche and the proprietors of Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen, Juan and Gee Smalls.

    Here’s what one customer says about The Breakfast Boys:”My experience here was great with TESHA as my server. The general manager was helpful and very accommodating as well. The food and ambiance here are amazing and I am happy to be spending my money with this brand new black owned business! The brunch food was so [good]. I had the catfish, shrimp and grits that has chicken sausage in it too! I will definitely be back again and again!”

    Blaze Seafood & Steak

    3752 Cascade Rd Ste 110, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 907-4700

    Blaze Steak and Seafood opening in Atlanta

    Atlanta reality TV star couple and entrepreneurs Todd Tucker and Kandi Burruss of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” fame already have a hit with their Old Lady Gang restaurants. Now, they’ve opened Blaze Steak & Seafood, an upscale restaurant in Cascade.

    Learn more about Blaze Steak & Seafood.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Blaze Steak & Seafood: “COVID-19 measures are in place. The decor inside is on point. Bar is huge and great selection of liquor and wine. Great menu selections as well. I had the seafood omelette and we had a peach mimosa carafe. This is the soft opening so a few kinks have to be worked out. I will say that customer service is pretty good as well.”

    The Real Milk & Honey Restaurant

    3719 Main St, College Park, GA 30337 | (404) 458-2883

    The Real Milk and Honey restaurant has the best brunch in Atlanta.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about The Real Milk & Honey. “Once we arrived, we were greeted… Well looked at by a young lady near the door. I guest she was the hostess. She wasn’t that friendly…. She escorted us to our table and we sat down. Our waitress was really nice. The honey butter biscuits were absolutely amazing!! I got the steak and eggs. The steak was a bit chewy. However everything else was great. My daughter got the cookies and cream waffle with eggs and bacon. She enjoyed her meal. They also have great coffee and the mimosas are decent. This was our first visit but I would definitely try this restaurant again.”

    Final Bite

    Atlanta  continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat!  If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.

    As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
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  • Pinky Cole opens Bar Vegan in Lawrenceville

    Pinky Cole Takes Over Former Space of The Boujee Southerner Restaurant

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta Restaurateur extraordinaire Pinky Cole-Hayes recently announced that she has taken over The Boujee Southerner, a black-owned vegan restaurant that recently closed its doors.

    Cole-Hayes, the owner of Slutty Vegan and Bar Vegan, has plans to turn the restaurant into her second Bar Vegan location.

    “When I heard about everything that they [The Boujee Southerner] were going through, I felt the need to step in,” says Cole-Hayes. “Their foundation is built on being a completely plant-based Southern Fusion concept that provides comfort food, which is right up our alley.” 

    In March 2024, The Boujee Southerner, owned by Tara Gilbert, announced it was reducing its hours of operation to Friday through Sunday after one year in business. Eight days later, the business shared that it had closed.

     Gilbert, who has been a raw vegan for several years, will now serve as Executive Chef at Bar Vegan Lawrenceville. This is a full-circle moment as Gilbert looked to Cole-Hayes for inspiration when becoming a vegan and opening her restaurant.

    “This is a part of my Restaurant Takeover initiative, where Slutty Vegan or Bar Vegan will take over the lease for existing restaurants that are looking to increase their foot traffic and awareness to the public,” adds Cole-Hayes. “It’s all about collaboration and empowering one another.”

    Food featured on the menu includes General Tso Chik’n, White Spaghetti, maple glazed brussels sprouts, loaded steak fries, corn ribs, jerk kabobs and Lemon Pepper Chik’n salad.

    “With the menu, we plan to make it leaner, healthier and sexier,” says Gilbert. “We plan to make the food extremely yummy but also appealing to the eyes – so get prepared to snap your photos for social media,” she adds. 

    Bar Vegan Lawrenceville is officially opened for business.

    Cole’s current business portfolio includes 12 Slutty Vegan locations across Georgia, New York, Alabama and Texas, a cookbook and Slutty Vegan products on metro Atlanta Target shelves. In 2022, Cole raised a $25 million Series A funding round for Slutty Vegan that at the time valued her business at $100 million, according to Forbes.

    Final Word

    We were there when Cole-Hayes opened her first brick-and-mortar Slutty Vegan in the Westview neighborhood of Atlanta in 2019. Since then, she’s been on an amazing expansion plan.

    Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are several 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.

    The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s  food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.

    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.

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Big Boi concert at Big Night Out in Atlnata

    Big Boi To Perform at College Football Hall of Fame’s Football Fest

    2 Min Read

    Hometown legendary rapper Antwan “Big Boi” Patton will take the stage at the College Football Hall of Fame for the 10th anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest.

    The event is set for Saturday, August 23, 2024 and features a free concert from Big Boi, one half of the famous musical duo Outkast.

    Football Fest: What To Know Before You Go

    Football Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the Big Boi concert kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Join us for a day of entertainment. Enjoy live DJs, the Home Depot GameDay Bus, local team mascots, cheerleaders, inflatables, prize giveaways, and more.

    The event is free as part of “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day” and provides the perfect opportunity to see Big Boi perform, along with the unveiling of new exhibits, clinics with Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables, prize giveaways, and much more, all free-of-charge.

    Where is The College Football Hall of Fame?

    The College Football Hall of Fame is located in downtown Atlanta at 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Final Word

    If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Atlanta, make sure you grab a bite at one of the top downtown restaurants. You’ll also find plenty to do there every Atlanta weekend.

    More from AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Louisiana Bistreaux has some of the best shrimp and grits in Atlanta

    These Restaurants Have The Best Shrimp And Grits In Atlanta

    5 Min Read

    If you want to eat fancy, most of us will go for the shrimp and grits. Let’s just get that out of the way. Atlanta, Georgia has several great restaurants that can prepare the dish to perfection with various twists.

    But let’s focus on shrimp and grits, which is a Southern delicacy. Grits has long been one of Georgia’s iconic dishes. The addition of the shrimp is likely an addition from that came much later.

    6 Restaurants With The Best Shrimp And Grits In Atlanta

    This article is going to show you some of the best restaurants in Atlanta that serve shrimp and grits.

    Restaurant Holmes

    50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 691-8320

    Restaurant Holmes has the best Shrimp and Grits in Atlanta.

    Here’s what one customer says about Restaurant Holmes. “The salmon dish was so delicious and presented beautifully. The wine we chose from Paso Robles “If You See Kay” was very good also. Wonderful sitting outside and waiter was really nice and attentive. Great job and highly recommend. Compliments to the chef!”

    Flying Biscuit Cafe

    1001 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 |  (404) 874-8887

    Shrimp and grits at Flying Biscuit cafe in Atlanta

    Here is what one reviewer says about the Flying Biscuit: “The grits here are amazing (and I usually don’t like grits) but they are the best thing that we had. The jelly is great tasting also but unfortunately the biscuits are hard and dry and I only used some of it to get the jelly in my mouth. The restaurant could use a thorough cleaning. Be aware that they do require masks and one of the staff was telling customers to get a mask on. That took a star off for me.”

    Louisiana Bistreaux

    Atlanta Locations:

    Louisiana Bistreaux has some of the best shrimp and grits in Atlanta

    Here is what one reviewer says about Louisiana Bixtreaux’s shrimp and grits:”A good place for a yummy meal! The chargrilled oysters are fantastic! I would also recommend the “Red fish ponch” and the shrimp and grits!”

    South City Kitchen

    Atlanta Locations:

    Best shrimp and grits in Atlanta, South City Kitchen

    Here is what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “If your looking for a great bowl of Shrimp & Grits on a cold rainy day or a sunny day you will not be disappointed at South City Kitchen- Best I have had- Comes with homemade Biscuits & Cornbread- Sweet tea to drink – Makes my mouth water just thinking about it- The help is ready to serve you with a smile- Go by and see them today- Your tummy will thank you!!”

    Sweet Auburn Seafood

    171 Auburn Ave NE P, Atlanta, GA 30303 |  (678) 974-5019

    Sweet Auburn Seafood's shrimp and grits

    Here is what one reviewer says about Sweet Auburn Seafood: “The brunch at Sweet Auburn is great. I know that every place that offers brunch usually has shrimp and grits on the menu, but the shrimp and grits at Sweet Auburn is probably better than all of those places you’ve tried. Give it a try. You wont be disappointed. The service is good. Bottomless mimosas are available. Music is playing. Pretty nice spot.”

    Old Lady Gang Southern Cuisine

    177 Peters St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 |  (404) 748-9689
    Old Lady Gang shrimp and grits
     
    Here is what one reviewer says about Old Lady Gang: “My husband and I ordered delivery and were skeptical at first. However, our skepticism was soon put to rest when took our first bite! This food is phenomenal and great if you’re looking for good comfort food! The fish and grits are my new personal favorite, but the rib tips are a close second. Not one thing on our order was anything less than delicious. If you’re in downtown Atlanta, this is a must try! We will definitely order from here again the next time we’re in the area.”

    Buckhead Diner

    3073 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 |  (404) 262-3336
    Buckhead Diner's shrimp and grits
    Here is what one reviewer says about Buckhead Diner: “I visit this great restaurant from time to time! This is my favorite place to pass a nice evening. I go there at least once a month. The food is very good, the staff is friendly and the price is affordable. I enjoy being in this spot for a decent meal.”

    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 more: 15+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta

    The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.

    For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.

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