Category: Business

Construction crews recently broke ground on the LaGrange Cricket Stadium, a 10,500-seat world-class venue — the largest in the Southeast.

The stadium is designed by TVS, an Atlanta-based firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and planning.

Under Construction: LaGrange Cricket Stadium

The venue is aiming to become a sports destination and landmark for the Southeast and beyond, hosting major events alongside its core function as a cricket hub.

The design pays tribute to cricket’s rich heritage while capturing the vibrancy of its expanding global fanbase, blending innovative architecture with deep ties to Georgia’s landscape and culture

Upon completion, the stadium will comply with International Cricket Council (ICC) standards, enabling it to stage international tournaments, including future Cricket World Cup fixtures.

Fan experience drives every aspect of the concept, fostering connection and comfort through optimized seating, sightlines, and extensive amenities.

An intimate bowl layout brings spectators near the natural turf pitch for an enveloping atmosphere. A cantilevered roof offers shade and protection, while modular east and west stands ensure adaptability for concerts, festivals, community events, and more.

Accessibility, openness, and local integration define the project: open-air concourses, versatile club lounges, and street-level facilities welcome everyday community use, positioning the stadium as a vital civic resource.

“The groundbreaking of LaGrange Cricket Stadium represents a landmark moment for cricket enthusiasts throughout the Southeast and the U.S.,” stated Robert Svedberg, Principal at TVS. “Working closely with the stadium’s leadership, we’ve created a premier venue where the architecture elevates the athlete and spectator experience alike.

Flexibility, comfort, and community connection lie at the heart of our design, building a space that amplifies the sport’s growing momentum and evolves with diverse events and local needs.”

Final Word

Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

More Content From AtlantaFi.com:

• Centennial Yards: 50-Acre Redevelopment of the Gulch
• What Is The Average Cost of an Atlanta Home?
• The Most Fun Things To Do in Centennial Park

In a move that’s sending ripples through the casual dining scene, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews has confirmed plans to shutter up to 70 underperforming locations across the U.S. over the next five years, with 10 to 15 closures slated for 2025 alone.

While the burger chain—famous for its bottomless fries and towering gourmet stacks—hasn’t released a hit list of specific sites, the news has Georgia diners on edge.

Red Robin Faces Restaurant Closures As Losses Mount

With just six Red Robin outposts scattered across the Peach State, locals are left wondering if their go-to spot for family meals and game-day feasts is next.

The announcement, detailed in the company’s fiscal 2024 earnings release and echoed by CEO G.J. Hart during investor calls, comes as Red Robin grapples with mounting financial pressures.

The chain posted a staggering net loss of $77.5 million in 2024, up sharply from $21.2 million the previous year, alongside a $54.5 million dip in revenue to $1.25 billion.

Hart attributed much of the shortfall to sluggish foot traffic and operational inefficiencies, trends exacerbated by inflation-weary consumers tightening their belts on dine-out dollars.

Where Are the Red Robin Locations in Metro Atlanta?

no specific closures have been publicly announced for metro Atlanta locations as of November 9, 2025. All listed spots below are currently operational, but patrons should check directly with the restaurant for the latest updates.

“We’ve made substantial improvements to the guest experience,” Hart noted in a March earnings call, but acknowledged that “we have not yet reached the potential of our iconic brand.”

At the heart of the strategy is a ruthless portfolio trim: targeting restaurants that collectively hemorrhaged about $6 million in operating losses last year. 21 These “underperformers,” as the company dubs them, are largely slated to close as leases naturally expire, minimizing immediate financial hits.

The freed-up cash? It’s earmarked for debt repayment—Red Robin entered 2025 with $169.2 million in borrowings—and reinvestment into high-potential spots, including menu revamps and targeted marketing.

Inside Red Robin’s Restructuring Plan

By year’s end, the chain expects to operate around 393 company-owned units, down from 401 in Q1, after already waving goodbye to seven locations earlier this year (six corporate, one franchise).

For Georgians, the stakes feel personal. Red Robin’s modest footprint here—spanning bustling Atlanta suburbs to quieter spots in Columbus and Macon—has long served as a reliable hub for everything from kids’ birthday bashes to post-Braves game unwinds.

A quick scan of the chain’s directory reveals active locations at places like 3625 Cumberland Blvd. in Atlanta and 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. in Columbus, but no closures have been announced in the state to date.

Still, the broader wave of restaurant rationalizations isn’t new to the South. Chains like Wendy’s (which axed 276 spots last year) and Denny’s (planning 70-90 shutters in 2025) are following suit, citing shifting trade areas and the rise of fast-casual rivals like Shake Shack or local gems such as Yeah! Burger.

So, why now? Experts point to a perfect storm in casual dining: post-pandemic habits favoring quick-service over sit-down, plus skyrocketing labor and ingredient costs that haven’t fully translated to menu prices without alienating value-hunters. 8 Red Robin’s response? A “First Choice” turnaround plan emphasizing craveable eats and efficiency.

Look for fresh limited-time offers like the Hot Honey chicken lineup and ongoing deals such as $10 Cheeseburger Tuesdays and Monster Mondays to lure folks back.

Hart remains optimistic, touting a 3.4% comp sales bump in Q4 2024 and early 2025 momentum that suggests the chain’s 300+ strong performers could carry the torch.

As for Georgia’s Red Robins, the silence from corporate is deafening—but not necessarily ominous. Franchise-owned sites, which make up about 18% of the total, may dodge the bullet, as seen in other markets like Topeka, Kansas.

In the meantime, Peach State patrons are stocking up on those endless fries while they can.

“It’s a bummer if one closes near me,” says Atlanta mom Sarah Jenkins, a regular at the Perimeter Mall outpost. “But hey, more reason to hit the locals—support small, you know?”

Final Word

Red Robin hasn’t tipped its hand on Georgia specifics, but with Q3 earnings looming, updates could drop soon.

For now, the message is clear: YUMMM! might still be the battle cry, but survival means tough choices. Stay tuned to Georgia Eats for the latest on your favorite haunts—and maybe a detour to that hidden BBQ joint down the road.

BEFORE YOU GO, take a look at all the top deals happening on our Retail Page. Don’t pay full price for things when you can get GREAT VALUE on items for low prices. Don’t want to miss a deal? Sign up for our #ATLHaps list HERE🙂

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:

• Like Rihanna? Here’s where to buy FENTY  products in Atlanta
• Here are the best lace front wig shops in Atlanta
• Looking for human hair on sale? Buy lace fronts online here

AtlantaFi.com is your go-to guide for the state’s sizzling food scene. Got a tip on openings, closings, or must-try bites? Drop us a line at cj@atlantafi.com.

In a night that felt like a triumphant homecoming for the city’s soul, OutKast — the visionary hip-hop duo of André “3000” Benjamin and Antwan “Big Boi” Patton — was officially enshrined in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

The induction, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and streamed live on Disney+, celebrated the Atlanta natives’ genre-defying innovation, raw lyricism, and unapologetic Southern swagger that put the A-Town on the global map.

Outkast Inducted Into Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame

Fellow Atlanta-bred star Donald Glover, known as Childish Gambino, did the honors of inducting the pair, delivering an emotional speech that captured their seismic influence.

“I saw you with the whole world in your hands,” Glover said, his voice thick with admiration for the duo who inspired generations of artists, including himself.

He capped it off with a heartfelt declaration: “Outkast, I love you,” underscoring the deep-rooted Atlanta pride that pulsed through the evening.

The ceremony’s tribute performance was a full-circle moment for the Dungeon Family collective, with Atlanta heavyweights like Killer Mike and Janelle Monáe joining forces onstage. Monáe, beaming with energy, declared, “Outkast, so dope,” before launching into a medley of hits that had the crowd — and viewers back home — waving their hands like they just didn’t care.

Killer Mike echoed Glover’s sentiment, reflecting on how OutKast’s boundary-pushing sound reshaped hip-hop: “You saw the whole world in your hands.”

The setlist roared through classics like “Ms. Jackson,” “Hey Ya!” and “The Way You Move,” a sonic love letter to the funky, eclectic vibes that defined OutKast’s nine-album run from 1994’s Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik to 2006’s genre-bending Idlewild.

Onstage, André 3000 and Big Boi radiated humility amid the glamour. André, ever the introspective poet, paused before speaking: “I don’t know what to say… We don’t know how we got here.”

Big Boi, with his signature charisma, kept it real for the hometown crowd tuning in: “This is special, Atlanta,” he said, thanking the Dungeon Family — the extended crew of East Point and Southwest Atlanta talents that birthed their sound — for the foundation that made it all possible.

“Thank you for the love,” he added, his words landing like a bass drop at a Magic City set.

For Atlantans, this induction isn’t just a pat on the back for two legends; it’s validation of the city’s explosive role in hip-hop’s evolution.

OutKast emerged from the gritty streets of East Point in the early ’90s, blending G-funk grooves with P-Funk flair and unfiltered Southern storytelling at a time when the genre was dominated by coasts.

Albums like ATLiens and Aquemini didn’t just top charts — they redefined cool, earning six Grammys and diamond certification for Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.

Their influence echoes in today’s trap kings like Future and Young Thug, and even in pop crossovers from artists like Lizzo.

Local reactions poured in fast on social media, with Atlanta Twitter lighting up in celebration. “Atlanta Iconic group Outkast gets inducted into Rock Hall of Fame,” tweeted

Photographer Tony Bigley captured the vibe perfectly: “Man so stoked to see OutKast inducted… they deserve this so much!” complete with a nod to “Roses” lyrics that had fans chiming in with their own bars.

Final Word

OutKast joins a stellar 2025 class that includes Cyndi Lauper, Salt-N-Pepa, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes, but none carried the weight of Southern hospitality quite like André and Big Boi.

As the duo steps into this elite pantheon, one thing’s clear: From Stankonia to the Hall of Fame, the South got something they tried to say we didn’t — and we been had it.

In a move that’s sending ripples through the restaurant world, Outback Steakhouse has closed 21 underperforming locations across the United States.

The closings — all done in October as of now — are part of a sweeping “comprehensive turnaround strategy” announced by its parent company, Bloomin’ Brands.

Outback Closures: Wake-Up Call for Atlanta’s Casual Dining Scene

The closures, revealed in the company’s third-quarter earnings report released Thursday, signal ongoing challenges for the Aussie-themed steakhouse chain that’s been a staple for family dinners and Bloomin’ Onion cravings since 1988.

While Bloomin’ Brands hasn’t released a full list of shuttered spots, early reports indicate the axe fell in states including Alabama, Florida, Wisconsin, and Maryland, with some locations operating for decades before the sudden pink slips.

For local diners looking for a bite this Atlanta weekend, the news hits close to home—not because any local Outbacks were named (yet), but because it underscores the brutal Darwinism of the casual dining sector right here in the Peach State.

With over 20 Outback locations scattered across metro Atlanta, from the bustling Midtown corridor to the suburbs of Roswell and Marietta, locals are left wondering: Is our neighborhood Outback next?

A Broader Purge: More Closures on the Horizon

The 21 closures are just the tip of the iceberg. Bloomin’ Brands also plans to let leases expire on more than 20 additional U.S. Outback sites over the next four years, bringing the total potential cull to over 40.

This follows a wave of 41 restaurant shutdowns in February 2024, most of them Outbacks, as the company grapples with stagnant sales and fierce competition from trendier spots like LongHorn Steakhouse and Texas Roadhouse.

In its earnings call, Bloomin’ CEO David Deno described the strategy as a multi-year effort to “focus on steak quality, menu simplification, and improving the guest experience.”

The plan includes a $75 million investment for restaurant makeovers by the end of 2028, featuring brighter interiors, streamlined kitchens, and expanded takeout areas to appeal to modern, on-the-go diners.

It’s a stark admission that the chain’s signature bold prints and down-under decor aren’t cutting it anymore in an era dominated by farm-to-table vibes and viral TikTok eats.

Outback’s woes aren’t isolated. Same-store sales inched up a mere 0.4% this quarter—the first positive growth since early 2023—but that’s a far cry from the 5.5% surge at Darden’s LongHorn or Texas Roadhouse’s 5.8% leap.

U.S. traffic dipped just 0.1% recently, a slight improvement from a 2% drop last quarter, but Bloomin’ admits the brand has been “getting traffic below that of competitors.”

Atlanta’s Outback Loyalists React

Here in Atlanta, where barbecue and Southern soul food reign supreme, Outback has carved out a niche as the go-to for reliable ribeyes and that irresistible onion blossom.

But the closures have sparked anxiety among regulars.

“I grew up going to the one in Buckhead with my family—it’s like a time capsule,” says local food blogger Mia Reynolds, who documents her meals on Instagram under @ATLForkful. “If they start closing here, it’ll feel like losing a piece of ’90s nostalgia. But honestly, the menu hasn’t evolved much. We need more plant-based options or local twists to compete with places like Chama Gaucha.”

Bloomin’ Brands emphasized that affected employees are being offered positions at nearby locations where possible, a small mercy in an industry already strained by post-pandemic staffing shortages.

As of late September, the chain still boasts 679 U.S. Outbacks, down from previous highs, but enough to keep the fight going.

What’s Next for Steak Lovers in Atlanta?

For Atlanta’s steak enthusiasts, this could be a silver lining. With Outback refocusing, competitors are poised to pounce. LongHorn’s Georgia outposts, like the one in Sandy Springs, are already buzzing with wait times that rival Friday nights at The Varsity.

And don’t sleep on local gems: Marcel’s in Virginia-Highland for a French twist on beef, or the wood-fired wonders at City Editor in Grant Park.

Outback’s turnaround might just work if it delivers on those promises of fresher steaks and faster service.

Until then, raise a Foster’s (or sweet tea, if you’re keeping it ATL) to the survivors. Got thoughts on your favorite Outback memory or must-try alternatives? Drop us a line at cj@atlantafi.com—we’re all ears (and forks).

Final Bite

Steakhouses aside, Atlanta’s eateries are having a moment. 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:

Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

• Best Restaurants To Try In East Point
• Where To Eat In Atlanta
• Best Restaurants On The Atlanta Beltline Right Now

AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for the latest in local dining news, from hidden speakeasies to chain shake-ups. Follow us for more.