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The 20th annual Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off takes place this weekend in Atlanta’s Center Parc Stadium on Saturday, August 23.
The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Eagles face off against the Southern University Jaguars in a primetime showdown that marks the start of the 2025 HBCU football season.
With a packed house of over 22,000 fans and a national audience tuning in on ABC at 7:30 PM ET, the game delivered high-stakes competition, vibrant pageantry, and a celebration of HBCU culture.
NCCU Vs. SU: A Clash of Titans
The Eagles, representing the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), enter the game with a 1-1 record in the Challenge, fresh off a 2021 victory over Alcorn State.
Led by head coach Trei Oliver, NCCU boasts a veteran squad, including Preseason First Team All-MEAC honorees quarterback Walker Harris, defensive back Malcolm Reed, and offensive lineman Trevon Humphrey. The team’s offensive line, returning all five starters, promises stability and power in the trenches.
On the other side, the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) powerhouse Southern University Jaguars, under second-year head coach Terrance Graves, comes in with a perfect 3-0 record in previous MEAC/SWAC Challenge appearances. Predicted to win the SWAC West Division, the Jaguars lean on a formidable defense led by Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Chelky Givens and All-SWAC selections Vincent Paige Jr. and Horacio Johnson.
This matchup is only the second meeting between the two programs, with NCCU holding a 27-20 victory from their 2006 encounter in Baton Rouge, a game where the Eagles’ defense forced five interceptions. The stakes were high, as both teams aimed to set the tone for their 2025 campaigns.
More Than Just a Game
The Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge is renowned for its celebration of HBCU traditions, and this year’s event was no exception.
The day kicks off with the Coca-Cola Fan Experience at 3:00 PM in Summerhill Lot A, featuring music, food, and family-friendly activities.
At 4:00 PM, the Band Jamboree showcased high school bands from McNair and Creekside, followed by a highly anticipated showdown between NCCU’s Sound Machine and Southern’s Human Jukebox, fresh off their Super Bowl LIX performance. The post-game 5th Quarter Battle of the Bands promised to keep the energy soaring.
“This is the 20th anniversary of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge,” said John Grant, executive director of ESPN Events. “We expect this will be a can’t-miss clash of titans with both football teams and marching bands.” The event’s historical significance was underscored by the MEAC’s 11-7 lead over the SWAC in the series, though the SWAC has won the last three matchups.
On the Field
The game itself was a showcase of HBCU football’s grit and talent. NCCU, under Oliver’s leadership, has a 6-0 record in classics, bowls, and challenge games since 2019, including a 2022 Cricket Celebration Bowl victory over Jackson State in Atlanta. Southern, coming off an 8-5 season and a SWAC West title in 2024, brought a stingy defense that ranked top-three in the SWAC last year.
Adding intrigue to the matchup, Oliver and assistants Matt Leone and Macander Dieudonne have deep ties to Southern, having coached there earlier in their careers. Oliver served as Southern’s defensive coordinator from 2016-2018, giving him intimate knowledge of the Jaguars’ program. “You’re gonna get mopped,” Oliver quipped when asked about teams underestimating NCCU, while Graves countered, “When you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.”
Community and Culture
Beyond the gridiron, the weekend was packed with events celebrating HBCU culture. On Thursday, August 21, a high school seminar at New Manchester High School inspired over 5,000 students with career-focused panels hosted by ESPN’s Jay Harris.
Friday featured alumni golf tournaments for both schools and an ESPN Welcome Reception at The Gathering Spot. These events underscored the Challenge’s motto, “More Than Just A Game,” emphasizing education, community, and legacy.
A National StageWith last year’s MEAC/SWAC Challenge drawing 1.3 million viewers, the largest audience in the event’s history, this year’s game was poised to captivate an even broader audience.
Atlanta, a second home for NCCU with recent wins in the city, provided the perfect backdrop for this primetime spectacle. Fans packed Center Parc Stadium, located at 755 Hank Aaron Dr. SE, to witness not just a game, but a celebration of HBCU pride, talent, and tradition.
For those unable to attend, tickets are available online, and fans were encouraged to plan parking and review stadium policies at meacswacchallenge.com.
As the Eagles and Jaguars battle under the lights, the 2025 Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off reaffirmed its place as a cornerstone of HBCU football, setting the stage for an unforgettable season.
Where To Eat Near Center Parc Stadium
Atlanta’s Center Parc Stadium is situated in the Summerhill neighborhood, which has become a foodie paradise. Here are some nearby restaurants that are good:
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.”
Want more? Read our Summerhill Food Guide.
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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The Piedmont Park Arts Festival takes place this weekend in Midtown Atlanta. It’s one of the city’s top festivals for a reason.
They’ll be arts and crafts, food and more on site. The festival is free and brought to us by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.
Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2025: What You Need To Know
Bring the whole family out for a good time! There will be more than 250 artisans and craftsmen showing off a a wide variety of arts and crafts. As always, you can also expect plenty of local food and beverage concessions including “gourmet” food trucks.
There will also be live acoustic musical performances as well as a kids area for the little ones.
When Is The Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2025?
This year’s Piedmont Park Arts Festival is set for the following dates:
- Sat., August 16, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Sun., August 17, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where Will The Piedmont Park Arts Festival Be Held?
The festival will be held in Midtown’s crown jewel greenspace, Piedmont Park.Location:
Piedmont Park
1071 Piedmont Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30309Final Word
Don’t let another weekend pass you by! Take advantage of Atlanta’s great outdoors. Here are some fun things to do outside. -
Shein really opened up a new store in Atlanta. On Thursday, August 7, 2025, the popular online store materialized into a brick-and-mortar pop-up store in one of Atlanta’s best marketplaces, Perimeter Mall.
How Long Will the Shein Pop-Up Store Be in Atlanta?
The Shein pop-up store event in Atlanta will be at Perimeter Mall from August 7 to August 10, 2025. This temporary pop-up features curated collections, exclusive in-store deals, and is located next to Macy’s at 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30346.
Videos on social media showed gleeful customers grabbing garments and even dancing in the mall outside the store.
Is Shein Opening a Store in Atlanta?
No, there are no indications of a permanent Shein store in Atlanta as of the latest available information.
Final Word
Shein has not opened a permanent physical store in Atlanta. The company primarily operates as an online-only retailer, which allows it to keep prices low by avoiding the costs associated with brick-and-mortar locations.
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 🙂
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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Laughing is good for the soul, and in Atlanta, there are quite a few laugh-out-loud places to go on the weekend or even a weeknight.
The city’s comedy spots have become a magnet for high-profile comedians as well as up-and-coming acts working on their craft.
Here Are The Best Comedy Clubs in Atlanta
If you’re looking for where to go, here are some of the best comedy clubs in Atlanta:
1Up Comedy Club
644 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 | (770) 895-7137
1Up Comedy Club is where you can find your funnybone. The venue is on the small side, but makes up for it with some of the most fun acts on the stage.
Atlanta Comedy Club
4650 Jimmy Carter Boulevard, Norcross, GA |770-724-6400
The Atlanta Comedy Club is your go-to spot for some laugh-out-loud fun just north of the city. Located in Norcross, the Atlanta Comedy Club regularly brings stars in to keep the crowd laughing.
Dad’s Garage Theatre
569 Ezzard St SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 523-3141
View this post on InstagramDad’s Garage is one of the best places for comedy in Atlanta. The venue is known for bringing in Hollywood actors to wow the crowd.
Laughing Skull Lounge
878 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 369-1017
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The Laughing Skull Lounge is where you can find some of the funniest comedians in Atlanta. This stage is known to host some of the biggest names in the South.Beer & Comedy
195 Ottley Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (770) 895-7137
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Beer and Comedy is one of those best-kept secret type places when it comes to comedy. Located inside Sweetwater Brewing Co., Beer and Comedy is a must-stop if you’re looking to laugh.Relapse Theatre
380 14th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | 404) 464-5894
The Relapse Theatre is a favorite place to catch up and coming stand-up comedians working out their routines. This Midtown Atlanta venue is popular on weekends.
Punchline Comedy Club
3652 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342 | (404) 252-5233
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Punchline Comedy Club is known as Atlanta’s premiere comedy club. The Buckhead venue has a full-service kitchen, bar and features stand-up comedians night in and night out.Village Theatre
349 Decatur St SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 688-8858
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Village Theatre is a one of the best venues for comedy in DeKalb County. Enjoy jokes from comedians in an intimate setting.Whole World Improv Theatre Co.
1216 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 817-7529
View this post on Instagram
Whole World Improv Theatre is a long-running nonprofit situated right in the middle of Midtown. The theater features improvisational performances by a talented troupe.Final Word
If you’re in the mood for a good laugh, Atlanta’s nightlife has plenty of options. The city’s comedy clubs guarantee a good time.
Who doesn’t like to laugh? Atlanta, Georgia has some great places to tickle your funny bone.
After a long day at work and trekking through traffic, a little laughter is good for the soul. The best Atlanta comedy clubs will take your minds off the care of the day.
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It’s back to school time, which means thousands of children and teens will head back into the classroom in days ahead.
If you’re wondering when the first day of school is for a local school district, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of first-day-of-school dates for metro Atlanta school districts.
Back To School Dates: Metro Atlanta School Districts
- Public Schools, Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, and Newton, start on August 4, 2025.
- Charter Schools: Some charter schools, such as Atlanta Heights, may start earlier (e.g., July 31, 2025). Always verify with the specific school.
- Dates are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check with individual school districts or schools for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Below is a table listing the first day of school for the 2025-2026 school year for major school districts in the Atlanta, Georgia metro area.
School District Address First Day of School Atlanta Public Schools (APS) 130 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 August 4, 2025 Fulton County Schools 6201 Powers Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30339 August 4, 2025 DeKalb County School District 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 August 4, 2025 Cobb County School District 514 Glover St, Marietta, GA 30060 August 4, 2025 Gwinnett County Public Schools 437 Old Peachtree Rd NW, Suwanee, GA 30024 August 4, 2025 Clayton County Public Schools 1058 Fifth Ave, Jonesboro, GA 30236 August 4, 2025 City Schools of Decatur 125 Electric Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 August 4, 2025 Newton County Schools 2109 Newton Dr NE, Covington, GA 30014 August 4, 2025 Back To School: How To Prepare
Organize School Supplies and Materials
- Check School Supply Lists: Visit your school’s website (e.g., atlantapublicschools.us, fultonschools.org, or dekalbschoolsga.org) for specific supply lists. Common items include notebooks, pencils, pens, folders, and backpacks. Some schools, like those in Fulton County, may provide tablets or laptops, so confirm tech requirements.
- Shop Smart: Take advantage of Georgia’s tax-free weekend (typically early August) for school supplies, clothing, and electronics under set price limits (e.g., $100 for clothing, $1,500 for computers). Stores like Walmart, Target, or local shops in Atlanta have back-to-school deals.
- Label Everything: Use permanent markers or labels for your child’s belongings to prevent loss.
2. Update Clothing and Uniforms
- Review Dress Codes: Check if your school (e.g., Atlanta Public Schools or DeKalb County) requires uniforms or has specific dress codes. Purchase uniforms early from local vendors or retailers like Old Navy or Lands’ End.
- Ensure Proper Fit: Buy clothes and shoes that fit comfortably, accounting for growth. Atlanta’s warm August weather calls for lightweight, breathable fabrics.
3. Establish Routines Early
- Adjust Sleep Schedules: Start shifting bedtime and wake-up times 1-2 weeks before August 4 to align with school hours (e.g., 7:30 AM for many APS elementary schools). Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep for kids.
- Practice Morning Routines: Simulate school mornings, including breakfast and getting dressed, to ease the transition.
- Plan Meals: Prepare a list of quick, healthy breakfasts and lunches. If your child uses school meals, check district websites for menus and free/reduced lunch applications (common in Clayton and DeKalb County schools).
Final Word
School is in session, or will be soon. Make sure you confirm bus routes on district websites or arrange carpool schedules. For example, Cobb County Schools provide bus route finders online. If walking or biking in areas like Decatur, review safe routes with your child.
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Tamika Newhouse says even as a preteen she knew her destiny. She was going to be a famous author. She was 12. “I have always told stories through the written word since I learned how to write,” she said.
Once she was published at the age of 20, she began to look for ways to generate excitement around her work by creating event-filled book signings.
Meet Tamika Newhouse: Founder Of Black Writers Weekend
“There’s where my concepts of books, music, food, and fun came into play,” she says. “No one was doing it like that then so I began to brand them and invite other authors in a collaborative effort to bring more readers in. I eventually utilized my book club to create an award show for underrepresented authors and it expanded into a three-day festival.”
That festival is Black Writers Weekend, a refreshing event to celebrate black writers in film and publishing. The event takes place this year from July 31-August 2, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
“Experience the only weekend where you’ll meet your favorite author, screenwriter, podcaster, artists, and film & television stars,” she says.
In addition to getting the opportunity to network with like-minded literary minds, you can also expect:
- Meet up with friends at one of the Lit crawl locations which boast several authors in collaborative book signings.
- Intimate book chats with literary rock stars.
- Vibrant panels featuring Black male authors and screenwriters.
- Indulge in rooftop parties and socials so that readers can party with their favorite writers.
- Movie screenings, masterclasses, parties and more!
“Black Writers Weekend was explicitly created for creatives and culture lovers,” she says.
Newhouse says the event, now in its 14th year, is just one of many concepts she’s devised to showcase her work as well as that of other black authors.
“Today, I have elevated well over 10,000 writers and worked with every major studio and publishing house you can think of all because of my unique approach to book signings. It has been a blessing to bless others,” she says.
Although school systems are under duress these days from multiple issues,
Newhouse says reading should be especially important to the black diaspora, which has historically been prevented from educating their descendants.
“Think about our history, how our ancestors could not talk in their language, and they were forbidden to learn and to write,” she says. “Our bloodline, our culture, our sounds, our stories, our looks, and our energies have influenced every culture on this planet, and we must celebrate ourselves by telling our stories through written words, music, movies, and fashion.”
As a black writer, Newhouse says it’s important for scribes to make space for themselves, especially in a world where the history of African people and their descendants has been deliberately hidden.
“It is important to me because we are the mecca of everything, and I refuse to allow them to silence us,” she says. “So, I will be the platform that helps make us loud and proud! Go Black King! Go Black Queen!”
Black Authors You Should Read
Newhouse says if you want to check out some of the best authors in the diaspora, here are her top picks. We’ve included some notable works of each author.
- Terry McMillan: Getting to Happy, Who Asked You?, Disappearing Acts
- Eric Jerome Dickey: The Son of Mr. Suleman: A Novel, The Other Woman, Pleasure
- Mary Monroe: Empty Vows, The Book Woman’s Daughter: A Novel, Mrs. Wiggins
- Octavia Butler: Kindred, Parable of the Sower, Clay’s Ark: Patternist, Book 3
- And of course, Tamika Newhouse: The Words I Didn’t Say, The Ultimate No-No, Cookie: A Fort Worth Story
When Is Black Writers Weekend?
Black Writers Weekend is set for July 31-August 2, 2025. Learn more here.
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The Black Writers Weekend, hosted by AAMBC Inc., is taking place this weekend in Atlanta. The three-day event is built around a vibrant, community-focused festival designed by Creatives for Creatives and culture enthusiasts. It also celebrates and elevates Black literary voices in publishing and film.
When Is Black Writers Weekend?
Black Writers Weekend takes place this year Thursday, July 31 through Saturday, August 2, 2025.
Come on out and immerse yourself in book signings, film screenings, dynamic conversations with writers & filmmakers, captivating live podcasts, vibrant art shows, and unforgettable parties.
Now in its 17th year, Black Writers Weekend, promises an activity-filled three days that will focus on a range of events and activities:
Black Writers Weekend 2025: What Are Some Top Events To Attend?
Black Writers Weekend attendees can expect:
- Day 1: Welcome Mixer @ Buckhead Art and Company
- THURSDAY 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Meet and greet our hosts and featured speakers. This is your opportunity to network and be social!
- Day 2: Artists Talks , Workshops, and Panels @ Auburn Ave Library
- FRIDAY 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Immerse yourself in our Pitch Fest at the resource room + author and writers lounge. We’ll have 6 workshops for you to choose from, food trucks, and 2 panel discussions.
- Day 3: Artist Talks, Workshops, and Marketplace @ Loudermilk
- SATURDAY 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Explore our marketplace, 3 panel discussions, 2 workshops, I Am Creative talk, and an evening mixer.
Check out the full schedule at BlackWritersWeekend.com.
Tamika Newhouse, the founder of Black Writers Weekend, told AtlantaFi.com that she created the event to honor the cultural contributions that black people have made and continue to make.
“Think about our history, how our ancestors could not talk in their language, and they were forbidden to learn and to write,” Newhouse says. “Our bloodline, our culture, our sounds, our stories, our looks, and our energies have influenced every culture on this planet, and we must celebrate ourselves by telling our stories through written words, music, movies, and fashion.”
Where Is Black Writers Weekend Being Held In Atlanta?
Because Black Writers Weekend is a multi-day event, held unless otherwise noted, at the Loudermilk Conference Center or Comedy Hype Studios.
Learn more about Black Writers Weekend here.
How To Get Tickets To Black Writers Weekend?
If you want to attend Black Writers Weekend, click here for tickets.
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Severe turbulence struck Delta Flight DL56 en route from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam, forcing an emergency landing in Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport on Wednesday, July 29.
The turbulence, likely encountered over southwestern Wyoming, sent service carts and unbelted passengers into the air, leaving some terrified and one seasoned traveler describing it as the roughest flight he’d ever experienced.A passenger, Joseph Carbone, gripped his wife’s hand, fearing the plane would crash, while witnessing a flight attendant nearly hit the ceiling.
Twenty-five people were taken to local hospitals for evaluation, with Delta confirming that all seven crew members and passengers who shared their status were released by Thursday morning.
The flight carried 275 passengers and 13 crew members. Medical teams and fire rescue vehicles were on standby as the plane landed safely.
HealthPartners and Allina Health reported assessing and treating passengers, with most released after evaluation.
The incident comes after several aerial mishaps involving Delta and other airlines this year.
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Our girl Beyoncé has been tearing it up on stage in Atlanta. The Cowboy Carter tour is still going on and you’ve got tickets — but you’ll also be hungry.
In this article, I’ll show you some great places to eat in downtown Atlanta before (or after) the Beyoncé concert. I’ll keep my locations in the vicinity of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, so you can walk there, if you so please.
Where To Eat in Downtown Atlanta for the Beyoncé Concert
There are quite a few options for those who Uber down to the CNN Center, which is what I recommend. But just a short walk away, you can dine in some great establishments. Here’s my list.
Ted’s Montana Grill
133 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 521-9796
Ted’s Montana Grill (American, $$): Founded by Ted Turner, this spot serves classic American fare with a focus on bison dishes, alongside steaks and burgers. It’s a solid choice for a hearty, casual meal.
Ray’s in the City
240 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 524-9224
Ray’s in the City (Seafood, $$$): It’s a longer walk away from the stadium, but for top-notch fare, you can’t go wrong. A go-to for Southern seafood, offering fresh catches like swordfish or halibut. It’s a favorite for business travelers and locals alike, with a polished yet approachable vibe.
Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 974-2941
I love Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria. If you want pizza downtown, there’s no other place. Known for their pizza, Max’s has some of the best chicken wings in Atlanta as well.
Here’s what one customer says about Max’s Coal pizza. “This pizza was an absolute standout—simple, balanced, and executed perfectly. The tomato sauce was rich, tangy, and clearly made from high-quality tomatoes. The mozzarella was fresh and creamy, melted nicely on the pie and added just the right amount of saltiness and texture. The crust deserves special praise.”
Hard Rock Cafe
215 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 688-7625
Located in the heart of downtown on Peachtree, the Hard Rock Cafe offers a hearty meal and a prime place to people-watch. Check out Hard Rock Cafe’s menu.
Alma Cocina
191 Peachtree Street Northeast; Atlanta, Ga. 30303
Photo credit: Alma Cocina / Facebook You’ll be able to enjoy the excellent cuisine that Alma Cocina has become known for including street tacos, tasty varieties of Guacamole and salsa and much more.
- Roasted Chicken Mole mashed plantains, grilled green beans, mole negro
- Masa Dumplings grilled asparagus, corn, mushroom, smoked tomatoes, pasilla mixe, cashew crema, masa jus
- Mole Rubed 12 oz New York Strip yucca “tater tot“, salsa cruda, watercress
Read more about Alma Cocina in downtown Atlanta.
Baraka Shawarma Mediterranean
68 Walton St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 230-9232
Here’s what one reviewer says about Baraka Shawarma Mediterranean. “The friendliest service anywhere, great food and affordable prices. The falafel is well seasoned, it’s just not out of this world amazing and portion size I thought was small for a “jumbo” size. Though the taste was good and I would return if again in the downtown area.”
Ritz-Carlton
181 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 659-0400
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Atlanta. “Came in for drinks at the bar, was given great service by the young ladies working. Very friendly. The look and feel of the AG bar is also quite elegant.”
Final Word
If you want to explore Atlanta’s cultural palate a bit, a short ride to East Point offers some great places to eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
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 from AtlantaFi.com:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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So, Beyoncé is finally coming to Atlanta with her Cowboy Carter tour — and you need tickets.
In this article, we’ll show you how to get Beyoncé tickets as well as list her Cowboy Carter tour dates in the United States.
How To Get Beyoncé Tickets in Atlanta
Beyoncé tickets went on sale to the general public on February 14, which means you can get them now.
As an example, you can buy Beyoncé tickets in Atlanta for three dates:
- Thursday, July 10, 2025 @ Mercedes Benz Stadium — Get Tickets
- Friday, July 11, 2025 @ Mercedes Benz Stadium — Get Tickets
- Sunday, July 13, 2025 @ Mercedes Benz Stadium — Get Tickets
- Monday, July 14, 2025 @ Mercedes Benz Stadium — Get Tickets
When Did the Beyoncé Cowboy Carter Tour Begin?
The tour began on April 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and concludes on July 13 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Additional performances are scheduled in cities such as Chicago, New York, Houston, Washington, D.C., London, and Paris.
Ticket Sales and Presales:
- BeyHive Presale: Started on February 11 at 12 p.m. local time.
- Artist Presale: Began on February 13 at 12 p.m. local time.
- Citi Cardmember Presale: Available from February 12 at 12 p.m. local time until February 13 at 11 a.m. local time. Citi is the official card for the tour’s presale in the U.S. sofistadium.com
- Verizon Up Presale: Offered from February 12 at 12 p.m. local time until February 13 at 11 a.m. local time for select shows. More details are available on Verizon’s website. sofistadium.com
- General Public Sale: Tickets become available on February 14 at 12 p.m. local time via Live Nation.
Ticket Pricing:
Specific ticket prices for the official sales have not been disclosed. However, resale platforms like StubHub have listings starting around $200 for the opening night at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Please note that resale prices can vary and may not reflect the official ticket costs.
COWBOY CARTER TOUR DATES:
- April 28, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium
- May 01, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium
- May 04, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium
- May 07, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium
- May 15, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field
- May 17, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field
- May 18, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field
- May 22, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium
- May 24, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium
- May 25, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium
- May 28, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium
- June 05, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 07, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 10, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 12, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 14, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 16, 2025 – London, UK – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- June 19, 2025 – Paris, France – Stade de France
- June 21, 2025 – Paris, France – Stade de France
- June 22, 2025 – Paris, France – Stade de France
- June 28, 2025 – Houston, TX – NRG Stadium
- June 29, 2025 – Houston, TX – NRG Stadium
- July 04, 2025 – Washington, D.C. – Northwest Stadium
- July 07, 2025 – Washington, D.C. – Northwest Stadium
- July 10, 2025 – Atlanta, GA – Mercedes Benz Stadium
- July 11, 2025 – Atlanta, GA – Mercedes Benz Stadium
- July 13, 2025 – Atlanta, GA – Mercedes Benz Stadium
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check official sources and authorized ticket vendors.
Final Bow
Fortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.
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!
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