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A hotel concept co-founded by Hollywood actor Robert De Niro is coming to Buckhead’s Phipps Plaza, AtlantaFi has learned. The Nobu Hotels brand will grace the 150-room structure in the space formerly occupied by Belk department store.
The hotel will also include a 10,000-square foot Nobu restaurant featuring Japanese restaurant. The space will also have a three-level Life Time fitness athletic club featuring a spa, rooftop pool and kids academy.
The project will be ready to open sometime in 2021, according to The Beck Group, the development’s contractor. The Beck Group notably was hired by Simon to renovate Phipps Plaza’s facade, modernizing it for new tenants.
Deniro: Reels and Restaurant
Beyond the cameras and awards, De Niro has built a thriving hospitality empire that spans the globe. As a co-founder of the Nobu brand and owner of several high-profile eateries, De Niro’s forays into the restaurant world have transformed him into a culinary mogul.
His ventures emphasize luxury, fusion cuisine, and a touch of celebrity glamour, with expansions reaching as far as Atlanta and beyond. This article explores De Niro’s restaurant journey, from its New York roots to international growth, and highlights the anticipated – and realized – impact in the Peach State.
The Origins: Tribeca Grill and the Birth of Nobu
De Niro’s restaurant adventures began in the late 1980s amid the gritty transformation of New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood. In 1990, he partnered with renowned restaurateur Drew Nieporent to open Tribeca Grill, a New American spot housed in the historic Martinson Coffee Factory building, which also served as the home of the Tribeca Film Center.
The restaurant quickly became a hotspot for celebrities and locals alike, featuring innovative dishes, a stellar wine list, and original artwork by De Niro’s father, Robert De Niro Sr. Over its 35-year run, Tribeca Grill hosted high-profile events, including visits from Nelson Mandela and gatherings for the Tribeca Film Festival, which De Niro co-founded.
However, it was De Niro’s discovery of Chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa that would launch his most enduring culinary legacy. In 1988, while dining at Matsuhisa’s Los Angeles restaurant, De Niro fell in love with the chef’s Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, particularly the signature black cod with miso.
For five years, De Niro persistently courted Matsuhisa to collaborate on a New York venture. Finally, in 1994, the trio of De Niro, Matsuhisa, and producer Meir Teper – with Nieporent as operator – opened Nobu New York in Tribeca.
The 150-seat restaurant was a massive hit, drawing A-listers and spawning Nobu Next Door to handle the overflow.What started as a single location has exploded into a global powerhouse. As of 2025, Nobu boasts over 56 restaurants across five continents, blending Nobu’s innovative flavors with sleek, modern design.
De Niro’s vision extended beyond dining; in 2013, the first Nobu Hotel opened at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, followed by 13 more properties worldwide, including sites in Malibu, London, and Manila. The brand’s success is attributed to its commitment to quality and “sense of place,” with each location tailored to its city.
Expansion Elsewhere: Locanda Verde, Ago, and Global Reach
De Niro’s portfolio extends beyond Nobu. In 2007, he became a backer of Locanda Verde, an Italian trattoria at The Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca, helmed by chef Andrew Carmellini.
Known for its house-made pastas and welcoming vibe, the restaurant has been a neighborhood staple. In a nod to New York’s evolving skyline, a second Locanda Verde opened in November 2024 at Hudson Yards, featuring artwork by De Niro Sr. and a more refined “neighborhood tavern” atmosphere.
De Niro has emphasized the site’s personal significance, noting his father’s nearby studio in the area.Earlier ventures include Ago, a Tuscan-inspired restaurant at Miami Beach’s Shore Club, where De Niro was a key investor in the mid-2000s.
The poolside spot offered upscale Italian fare and became a celebrity favorite, though it has since evolved under different management. De Niro’s involvement in these projects reflects his hands-on approach, often drawing from personal connections and a desire to create communal spaces.
The Nobu empire’s international footprint is equally impressive.
Restaurants and hotels dot major cities like London (two locations), Tokyo, Dubai, and Los Angeles, with recent openings in Doha and Perth, Australia. In March 2025, Nobu Hospitality announced a major deal for a hotel, restaurant, and residences in a £360 million skyscraper in Manchester, UK.
Final Word
Future projects include developments in Madrid, Marrakech, and Tel Aviv, showcasing De Niro’s ambition to make Nobu a “destination lifestyle experience.”
There are so many buildings popping up and 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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A $450 million mixed-used development featuring residential and business spaces is taking shape in West Midtown. It’s called The Interlock. The project is a partnership from two companies involved at Ponce City Market.
The structure is located at Howell Mill and 14th Street and will feature a stately rooftop that promises to be an architectural wonder. Slater Hospitality Concepts plans to build a one-acre rooftop featuring a private infinity pool and lounge with retractable roof, according to the media release.
Other amenities at The Interlock include a two-story 12,000-square foot restaurant. The concept would be available to members of an exclusive club like those in New York, Chicago and other metropolitan cities.
According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, the Interlock project the inaugural tenant has already signed on: Saint-Germain Bakery, which also has a location at Ponce City Market, will move into a 20,000 square foot space.
The Interlock is scheduled to break ground in November and open in 2020.
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We are back at it again for the 2nd Morningside Wine Walk. This time we will have MORE stations, MORE wine and LIVE music.
The event will be Thursday, November 15, 2018 5:30–7:30 PM EST at Morningside Village 1409 North Highland Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30306.
Spend the evening exploring the shops of Morningside as you taste food and wine from around the world, in the comfort of your own neighborhood.
Each participant will be given a “Passport” to 10+ locations, all within of a block of one another. Each stop will have a generous pouring of wine and/or a tasting of food provided by the local restuarants.
There is a $20 Event Fee with proceeds benefiting the Morningside-Lenox Park Association and Local Farmer’s Market.
Purchase your tickets now as the event tickets ran out last time!
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!
Read more: The best soul food restaurants in Atlanta -
In what is believed to be a first for Georgia, Atlanta Public Schools is going to let girls play flag football in middle school. The girls’ sport will commence in 2019, APS said.
The move would make APS a pioneer in girls’ football, as only a handful of school districts around the nation offer the sport. All 13 of the school district’s middle schools will have a team next fall, APS said in a news release.
“Atlanta Public Schools is excited to partner with USA Football, ESPN and the Atlanta Falcons to be one of the first school districts in the country to provide another outstanding athletic opportunity through flag football for our middle school girls,” said APS Superintendent Dr. Meria Carstarphen said in a written statement. “I can’t wait to have my first workout with one of our teams!”
“Atlanta Public Schools’ forward thinking will foster increased participation opportunities and positive experiences for a new group of student-athletes, setting a great example for school districts nationwide,” said USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck.
APS has the support of local and national sports luminaries in offering girls flag football.
“The Falcons have long appreciated the fan support of girls across our region – now it’s our turn to root for them,” said Vice President, Community Relations, AMBSE Chris Millman was quoted as saying. “We’re happy to support Atlanta Public Schools as the district builds its middle school girls flag program. This continues an exciting trend of girls flag across the greater Atlantaarea and we’re proud to ensure these programs have the budget assistance they need for the good of their student-athletes.”
Read more: The essential bars in Little 5 Points
Food & drink specials: How to eat for cheap in Atlanta EVERY DAY
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As the autumn temperatures come into full effect, that means it’s that time: The Atlanta Gauco Taco Festival 2018 is right around the corner. The event will be held November 10, 2018 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Atlantic Station, 241 20th Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30363.Organizers are expecting more than 5,000 people to show up as there will be mucho live music and margaritas will be on tap for this event. Attendees can enjoy sample size portions priced at $3 from some of Atlanta’s best restaurants.
Atlanta Guaco Taco Fest 2018: Drinks
There will be plenty of delicious beverages to enjoy, but be especially on the lookout for tasty Margaritas, Beer, Wine, Cider, Mimosas, and Vodka drinks.
Atlanta Guaco Taco Fest 2018: Live Music
When it comes to sounds, you’re now rocking with the best. There will be live music from ONE Headlight, and DJ Qtip throughout the day.
Atlanta Guaco Taco Fest 2018: Tickets
General Admission
- Includes Entry and Entertainment
- Food and Drinks will cost extra
$15 Advance, $20 after November 1, $25 day of event
Food samples will be $3 paid directly to restaurant vendors, drinks will be available at our cash bars priced between $6-$9
Bottomless Drinks Tickets
- Includes entry, entertainment, and all drinks from 1pm-4:45pm
- Food will cost extra
$45 Advance, $50 after November 1, $60 day of event
Frist 500 just $35
VIP Tickets
- Includes early entry at 12pm, Unlimited drinks, exclusive VIP area and restrooms, VIP food provided by 101 Concepts in the VIP Tent
$69 Advance, $79 after November 1, (Not available day of event)
First 250 just $55
Tickets will go on sale Wednesday, September 12 at 10am
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!
Read more: The best soul food restaurants in Atlanta -
If you think apartment rent is already too high in Atlanta, findings from a new study suggest you ain’t seen nothing yet.
Apartment List, an online rental site, commissioned a study recently to show what Amazon’s H2Q project would mean for renters in a handful of cities with legitimate chances of landing the company.
Amazon announced last fall that it would be holding what amounted to sweepstakes to choose its next world-class headquarters. The company is based out of Seattle, Washington.
In addition to Atlanta (and nearby suburb Stonecrest) Denver, D.C., Chicago, Baltimore and Washington have all stepped up to the plate with elaborate proposals.
Pundits say Atlanta has to be the leading choice because the city best fits Amazon’s criteria of amenities, including adequate transit system, and a location within in an hour of an international airport.
The study, which took into account data from the U.S. Census as well as Labor Bureau stats, indicated that most metro areas would see more jobs than housing, which would raise real estate prices.
“We project that Raleigh, N.C., Pittsburgh and San Jose will feel the rent increase the most, while the impact will be smaller in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Dallas,” the study said.
The study’s authors added: “According to Apartment List analysis, rents in Raleigh, San Jose, Baltimore and Pittsburgh will be the most impacted by Amazon choosing to build its HQ2 in their metros, with rents expected to increase by an additional 1 percent or more per year over the next ten years.”
Atlanta was among the cities projected to see a “moderate” increase in apartment rents, characterized by 0.5 to 1 percent, according to the study. Other cities in this lot included Boston, Detroit, Austin, Minneapolis and Denver.
The ATL is seen by experts as the city to beat. In November, Sperling’s BestPlaces, a website dedicated to livability issues named Atlanta as the front-runner in a study of likely HQ2 sites.
“In our Amazon Hyper-Ranking, the metro area of Atlanta is the clear winner, with six 1st-place selections,” the report read. “Atlanta was cited by many studies and articles as being large enough to absorb the expected 50,000 new Amazon workers, being a major air hub, and having a reasonable cost of living.”
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The third metro Atlanta location of Gusto! is set to open in Decatur on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018. The eatery is located at N. Decatur Square, 1545 Church St. Ste 310.
If you’re up on Gusto! then you know they offer fresh bowls and wraps prepared to your satisfaction.The restaurant’s proprietor Nate Hybl is giving away 10 complimentary entree vounchers to the first 50 guests.Gusto! is known for using real ingredients in their food. “We don’t name dishes by a theme. You won’t find a ‘South of the Border’ or an ‘Uncle Harry’s Piled High’ on our menu. We call items by what they are made of, plain and simple. We believe there is beauty and straightforwardness in the ingredients we use and we highlight them.”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!
Read more: The best soul food restaurants in Atlanta -
OpenTable diners are a feisty bunch when it comes to high expectations in restaurants. As a mecca of Southern hospitality, Atlanta knows all about it. That’s why it’s so special that a local spot has made OpenTable’s 2018 list of the 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America.
Southern food is highly sought around the United States, but is opened castigated for high blood pressure-inducing foods and salty fare. But those people who blame our culinary exploits obviously aren’t eating some of our most prestigious cuisine.
OpenTable’s 2018 list comes from an analysis of 12,000,000+ reviews of more than 27,000 restaurants across the country. They considered the height, depth and (corn)breadth of countless eateries. One Atlanta restaurant made the list: South City Kitchen.
The Midtown restaurant is officially one of the 50 best Southern restaurants in America, although we already knew that. Its three metro Atlanta locations continue to set the bar on what ATL fine-dining is about.
Atlanta has turned into quite a restaurant town, with new spots popping up by the week it seems. Follow AtlantaFi’s Restaurants tag to stay up on all the latest.
Read more: Grant Park Summer Shade Festival: Everything you need to know
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Family-owned UrbanTree Cidery in West Midtown is set to introduce two new ciders this month: Peary Good, made with Asian pears and blackberries, and Wild Buzz, made with local honey.
Both wild fermented varieties will be released as limited additions at a special event on October 20. Peary Good comes from a contest UrbanTree Cidery held earlier this year.
UrbanTree is located at 1465 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.
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!
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.
Read more: The best soul food restaurants in Atlanta -
If you’re a burger fan, Smashburger just made the holidays sweeter than ever. Since September 28, 2018, Smashburger customers have been able to purchase the Smash Pass for just $100, and this time it’s better than ever.
Available online only, the Smash Pass grants you one FREE entrée every day from November 5, 2018, to February 14, 2019, at participating locations. That’s 100 days of free burgers.
You can order any entrée or choose from options like black bean burgers, grilled and crispy chicken sandwiches, and fresh signature salads.
Last year, the original Smash Pass offered an incredible value with $1 burgers every day. This year Smashburger has raised the stakes with 100 days of FREE Smashburgers. Plus, you can purchase the Smash Pass as a gift for family and friends.
“Our fans raved about the original Smash Pass and have been begging for it to make a comeback,” said David Martinelli, Vice President of Marketing at Smashburger. “We wanted to elevate the experience for our most loyal fans and really give them a lot of burger for their buck. Getting more than $600 worth of burgers for just $100 really takes the sting out of the expensive holiday season.”
To get the new Smash Pass, visit Smashburger.com/SmashPass and sign up for the SmashClub rewards program. Purchase the Smash Pass for $100, and every day from November 5, 2018, to February 14, 2019, a FREE entrée coupon will be added to your SmashClub account and is valid for that day only. Then just visit your neighborhood Smashburger and choose your favorite entrée.
As a bonus, if you buy a Coca-Cola beverage when using your Smash Pass you will be automatically entered to win an all-expenses-paid trip to Las Vegas for two.
Atlanta has one Smashburger location. It is in Buckhead at the following address:
2625 Piedmont RdSte 34AAtlanta, GA 30324When it comes to restaurants, Atlanta is quickly gaining ground on some of the dining capitals around the United States.
Fast-casual is 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: 5 essential soul food spots in Atlanta
Patrons typically order off a menu board like they would at a burger joint, but the convenience of sitting down to leisurely enjoy their food has made the segment a popular one with the restaurant industry.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a fast-caz 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.
