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The Atlanta Hawks are bringing a unique Atlanta flavor to State Farm Arena this March with a special themed night celebrating one of the city’s most legendary cultural spots: Magic City.
On Monday, March 16, 2026, the Hawks will host the Orlando Magic in what they’re calling “Magic City Monday” — a one-night collaboration honoring the iconic Atlanta strip club and entertainment institution that’s been a staple in local nightlife, hip-hop culture, and music history for decades.
Hawks To Host ‘Magic City’ Night in Atlanta
The announcement, released today by the Hawks organization, highlights the game as a chance to spotlight Magic City’s place in Atlanta’s identity.
While full details on in-arena activations are still rolling out, expect special tributes, possible themed elements, appearances, or nods to the club’s legacy — all tied into the matchup against the Orlando Magic (fittingly named for the occasion).
Game info at a glance:
- Date: Monday, March 16, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM tip-off (doors open at 6:00 PM)
- Location: State Farm Arena, downtown Atlanta
- Opponent: Orlando Magic
- Additional note: The Hawks will rock their Peachtree City Edition uniforms and court design for this City Edition contest.
This isn’t just basketball — it’s Atlanta recognizing its own cultural institutions in a fun, high-energy way. Whether you’re a lifelong Hawks fan or someone who knows Magic City as a rite of passage in the city’s entertainment scene, this promises to be a memorable night.
Tickets are available now through official channels like Ticketmaster, the Hawks website, and State Farm Arena. General public availability may be limited for this themed matchup, so fans should act fast.
Stay tuned to local Hawks coverage for more specifics on giveaways, performances, and any special guests as we get closer to March 16. Let’s go Hawks — and happy Magic City Monday!
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Atlanta foodies, get ready—Atlantic Station is welcoming a fresh culinary addition right in the heart of Midtown.
17th & State Restaurant + Bar is gearing up for its grand opening this Friday, February 27, 2026, bringing a casually upscale vibe to the Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Midtown at Atlantic Station.
Grand Opening: 17th & State Restaurant
Located at 290 17th Street Northwest—conveniently at the corner of 17th and State streets—the spot sits inside the popular hotel, making it easy for both out-of-town visitors and local Atlantans to drop in.
Whether you’re shopping, catching a movie, or just exploring the neighborhood, this new restaurant promises easy access to everything Atlantic Station has to offer.
The concept comes from the experienced team behind downtown Atlanta favorite Thrive Restaurant, a spot that’s earned plenty of local love. At 17th & State, they’re serving up Southern comfort food with a modern Atlanta twist—think bold, memorable dishes that nod to the city’s roots while keeping things fresh and contemporary.
Expect a menu of modern American fare infused with hearty Southern flavors, plus a solid lineup of hand-crafted cocktails. To amp up the evenings, an in-house DJ will spin live tunes Thursday through Saturday, turning dinner into a lively night out.
For more details, including the full menu and updates, check out their website at 17thandstate.com.
Atlantic Station’s dining scene keeps heating up—mark your calendars for Friday and head over to see what 17th & State is all about! If you’ve already tried Thrive, we’d love to hear how you think this new spot stacks up. Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
Atlanta’s massive airport (ATL) allows for daily air shipments of incredibly fresh fish from global markets, making high-quality seafood and exceptional Ramen accessible year-round. A burgeoning Asian population and dedicated food enthusiasts have fueled demand for authentic and diverse Japanese cuisine. To dig into these wonderful delights, check out the best Asian restaurants in Atlanta.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Atlanta’s dining scene is about to get a tropical twist with the upcoming arrival of The Grotto, a vibrant Latin-inspired, open-air café channeling the sunny, laid-back energy of Miami right in the heart of the city.
The eatery comes from restaurateur Shema Fulton, a seasoned operator with over 30 years in the industry.
Fulton is no stranger to the local food scene—she currently runs popular spots like Baltimore Crab and Seafood in Fairburn, Bella near Camp Creek and Butner Road, and the brunch favorite Garden Park on Cascade Road.
She previously owned Pearl Restaurant and Lounge in Castleberry Hill before it closed following a fire.
When Is The Grotto Opening in Atlanta?
The Grotto is bringing this fresh concept to 381 Marietta St NW in downtown Atlanta.
The Grotto aims to transport diners to a vacation state of mind, even amid Atlanta’s urban bustle. Fulton describes the vibe succinctly: “The space feels like vacation… You’re going to forget that you’re in Atlanta.
The setup emphasizes open-air dining on a lush, tropical-inspired patio designed as an oasis with stone, concrete, exotic woods, and abundant greenery.
It can accommodate up to 100 guests outdoors, with a small indoor bar seating about 12.
The concept operates primarily outdoors and will close during bad weather, focusing on a midday-to-evening crowd—open Wednesday through Sunday and wrapping up around 10 p.m. (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
The menu highlights Latin-inspired street tacos, drawing on Fulton’s seafood expertise with standout options like fish and shrimp varieties. Expect fresh margaritas and craft cocktails featuring ingredients such as spicy cucumber, roasted pineapple, and passion fruit.
Food will be prepared onsite from a dedicated trailer, ensuring everything stays vibrant and made-to-order.
The location along the bustling Marietta Street corridor places The Grotto steps from major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia Aquarium, plus nearby hotels—positioning it perfectly to attract both tourists exploring downtown and locals looking for a relaxed escape.
Downtown Atlanta, an Evolving Landscape
This new spot arrives in a neighborhood with deep historical roots. The area around Marietta Street and Centennial Olympic Park sits at the core of modern Atlanta’s transformation.
Once part of the city’s early 19th-century growth as a railroad hub (Atlanta was originally called Terminus before becoming Marthasville and then Atlanta in the 1840s), the district saw significant development in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
It became a key commercial zone with warehouses, factories, and hotels.
The 1996 Summer Olympics supercharged redevelopment here—Centennial Olympic Park was built as the Games’ centerpiece, turning what had been underutilized industrial land into a vibrant public space surrounded by new hotels, entertainment venues, and attractions.
Today, the Marietta Street corridor blends historic brick buildings with modern high-rises, reflecting Atlanta’s evolution from a post-Civil War railroad town to a major international city and tourism hub.
The Grotto is targeting an opening within the next 60 days, pending final health inspections and liquor license approvals. Stay tuned for updates as this Miami-inspired oasis prepares to bring a slice of tropical relaxation to downtown Atlanta.
Downtown 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.
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
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ATLANTA, Ga. – February 24, 2026 – In a move that marks the end of Kirk Cousins’ two-year chapter with the Atlanta Falcons, General Manager Ian Cunningham confirmed Tuesday that the team will release the veteran quarterback on the first day of the new NFL league year, March 11.
Speaking on 92.9 The Game from Indianapolis, Cunningham said he personally informed Cousins and his representatives of the decision, describing it as one made “out of respect” for both the longtime starter and the team’s young franchise quarterback, Michael Penix Jr.
Falcons GM Ian Cunningham: Team to Release Veteran QB Kirk Cousins on March 11
Cousins, 37, arrived in Atlanta in March 2024 as a proven, high-volume passer brought in to provide immediate stability at the most important position on the field. The Holland, Michigan native and Michigan State Spartan was originally a fourth-round pick (102nd overall) by the Washington Redskins in 2012.
After backing up Robert Griffin III early on, he blossomed into a starter, posting three straight 4,000-yard seasons (2015-17) — a franchise first — and earning Pro Bowl honors while setting Washington records for passing yards and 300-yard games.
He signed a groundbreaking fully guaranteed three-year, $84 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018, becoming one of the league’s most consistent quarterbacks over the next six seasons.
Cousins earned three more Pro Bowl nods with Minnesota, led multiple playoff runs, and authored memorable comebacks — most famously the largest in NFL history, erasing a 33-point deficit against the Indianapolis Colts in 2022.
Entering 2023, he had thrown for over 24,000 yards and 180 touchdowns with the Vikings before a torn Achilles in Week 8 ended his season.
The Falcons, coming off years of quarterback uncertainty, signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract (with $100 million guaranteed) to anchor the offense while grooming Penix, whom they drafted eighth overall just weeks later.
Cousins delivered early flashes in Atlanta. He led a Monday Night Football upset in Philadelphia in Week 2 of 2024 and exploded for a franchise-record 509 passing yards in a Week 5 overtime thriller against the Buccaneers — the night Matt Ryan was inducted into the Ring of Honor.
But a mid-season slump followed: four straight games without a touchdown pass (a first in his career) and a career-high four interceptions in one outing against the Chargers. The Falcons benched him late in the year in favor of Penix.
Cousins finished 2024 with 3,508 yards, 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions on 66.9% completion in 14 starts.
In 2025, he began as Penix’s backup but stepped in after Penix’s season-ending knee injury, sparking a four-game winning streak to close the year.
He went 5-3 as a starter in 2025, throwing for 1,721 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions in eight starts.
This offseason the sides restructured his deal — dropping his 2026 base salary from $35 million to $2.1 million while shifting money to create a $67.9 million vesting guarantee that would have locked in shortly after the new league year.
Releasing him on March 11 allows Cousins to enter free agency immediately while giving the Falcons cap relief.
Throughout his time in Atlanta, Cousins remained a consummate professional, publicly embracing his role as mentor to Penix while repeatedly stating he still believes he can start and win in this league.
In June minicamp he said, “I’m just here to support [Penix] as he needs it… I also don’t need to be in his ear so much that I’m sort of another weight, another voice.”0
Cunningham made clear the organization is fully committed to Penix as the starter moving forward and will now turn its attention to building depth around him in the quarterback room.
For Cousins, a 14-year veteran with 44,700 career passing yards and 298 touchdowns (ranking among the all-time leaders in completion percentage and passer rating), the next chapter begins as one of the top available veteran signal-callers on the open market.
Falcons fans will remember the big arm, the record-breaking nights, and the steady leadership he brought during a transitional era in Atlanta. As the team looks ahead under new leadership, the focus shifts squarely to the future — with Michael Penix Jr. now firmly at the controls.
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ATLANTA — California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s book tour stop in Atlanta turned into a national flashpoint on Sunday after comments he made during a conversation with Mayor Andre Dickens drew accusations of racism from conservative critics.
The event, held at the Rialto Center for the Arts and hosted by A Cappella Books, was part of Newsom’s promotion for his new memoir, Young Man in a Hurry: A Memoir of Discovery.
Newsom Sparks Controversy in Atlanta with Remarks on Dyslexia and SAT Scores
During the onstage discussion, Newsom sought to connect with the predominantly Black audience by sharing personal anecdotes about his academic struggles, which he attributes to lifelong dyslexia. “I’m not trying to impress you. I’m just trying to impress upon you, ‘I’m like you. I’m not better than you.’ I’m a 960 SAT guy,” Newsom said, referring to his low score on the college entrance exam.
He added, “And I’m not trying to offend anyone; I’m not trying to act all there if you got 940 … You’ve never seen me read a speech because I cannot read a speech.”
The remarks quickly went viral after a clip was shared online, which framed the comments as Newsom telling a “black crowd” that he is “like you” because he “can’t read.”
The post garnered over 40 million views, igniting a firestorm of criticism from Republicans and right-leaning commentators who accused Newsom of perpetuating racist stereotypes about Black intelligence and literacy.
U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a prominent Black conservative, lambasted Newsom on X, calling the comments a “self-own” and implying they revealed underlying bigotry.
Florida Rep. Randy Fine echoed the sentiment, stating, “Gavin Newsom just said he is like a black person because he got a bad SAT score and can’t read.”
Outkick founder Clay Travis described it as “racist,” while rapper Nicki Minaj weighed in, accusing Newsom of “bonding with black ppl” by implying they are “stupid” and slowing down his speech.
Mayor Dickens, who moderated the event, appeared engaged during the exchange, nodding and laughing at points, according to video footage.
However, some observers noted a brief awkward reaction on Dickens’ face before he responded positively.
Dickens has not publicly commented on the controversy, but the event was billed as “An Evening with Gavin Newsom and Andre Dickens,” highlighting the mayor’s role in welcoming the California governor to Atlanta.
Newsom, who graduated from Santa Clara University in 1989, has long discussed his dyslexia publicly, framing it as a challenge that did not define his success.
In a heated response on X, he pushed back against the accusations, calling out critics for “fake f–ing outrage” and pointing to past instances of racism from Republicans, such as former President Donald Trump’s comments on African nations and an ape video involving Barack Obama.
“You didn’t give a s–t about the President of the United States of America posting an ape video of President Barack Obama or calling African nations s—holes — but you’re going to call me racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia?” Newsom wrote.
Supporters argue the remarks were self-deprecating and taken out of context, emphasizing Newsom’s intent to inspire by showing that personal setbacks do not limit potential. “I have dyslexia, right. I mean, I—I struggled, uh, in school. I still struggle reading, to this day. But I didn’t let that define me,” Newsom elaborated in the full context of the discussion.
The incident comes amid Newsom’s multi-state book tour, which has fueled speculation about his ambitions for a 2028 presidential run. 0 Earlier that day, Newsom endorsed former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms for Georgia governor, adding a political layer to his visit.
In his remarks, Newsom also urged Democrats to “fight fire with fire” against the Trump administration, positioning himself as a combative voice for the party.
Locally, the controversy has sparked debate among Atlanta residents about race, politics, and representation.
As a key figure in the event, Mayor Dickens’ involvement places Atlanta at the center of a broader national conversation on how Democratic leaders engage with Black voters in the South.
Critics on social media have called the moment a “major political misstep,” while others defend it as an honest attempt at relatability.
The Atlanta Daily News reached out to Mayor Dickens’ office for comment but has not received a response as of publication. Newsom’s team reiterated that the governor’s comments were about his personal experiences with dyslexia and not intended to offend.
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Violent clashes erupted across parts of Mexico on Sunday after Mexican forces killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the longtime leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during a military operation in Jalisco state.
Cartel members responded with road blockades, arson attacks on vehicles and businesses, and clashes with security forces in at least a dozen states.
How Atlanta Travelers Can Safely Fly Home from Mexico After Violent Clashes Following El Mencho’s Death
While Mexican authorities say they are restoring order with thousands of additional troops deployed, the unrest has disrupted air travel—especially in popular tourist hubs like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara—leaving many American visitors, including those who flew from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Delta and other carriers, temporarily stranded.
Current U.S. Government Guidance for Americans in Mexico
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued updated security alerts urging U.S. citizens in affected areas to shelter in place and avoid unnecessary travel. U.S. government personnel are doing the same in:
- Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco)
- Tijuana and other parts of Baja California
- Parts of Michoacán, Chiapas, Nayarit, Colima, Guanajuato, Guerrero, and several other states
Good news for many travelers: The situation has returned to normal in Quintana Roo state (Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum), Sinaloa, and Tamaulipas. Flights and daily life there are operating as usual.
Flight Status and How to Get Out
- Puerto Vallarta (PVR): Significant disruptions due to flight-crew availability. Multiple U.S. carriers—including Delta (with direct flights from Atlanta), Southwest, American, United, and Air Canada—have canceled or suspended service through at least Tuesday. Some flights may resume as early as today or tomorrow.
- Guadalajara (GDL): Many cancellations, but some scheduled flights are still departing. Travelers whose flights are canceled are advised to rebook connections through unaffected Mexican cities such as Mexico City (MEX), Cancún (CUN), or Los Cabos (SJD).
- All other Mexican airports (including Cancún, Mexico City, Los Cabos, and Monterrey) are open and operating normally with no widespread security-related disruptions.2531
Practical Steps for Atlanta-Area Travelers
- Stay put and stay safe: Remain in your hotel or residence. Avoid roads, airports during peak unrest hours, and any areas with law enforcement activity.
- Check your flight immediately: Use your airline’s app or website (Delta, American, Southwest, United, etc.). Many carriers are offering flexible rebooking or refunds for affected routes.
- Rebook smartly: If your PVR or GDL flight is canceled, look for routings via Mexico City or Cancún—plenty of seats are still available on those routes. Ground transport between cities is not recommended right now due to blockades.
- Contact help lines:
- U.S. Department of State 24/7 crisis hotline: 1-888-407-4747 (from U.S./Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (from Mexico)
- U.S. Embassy in Mexico City: (55) 2579-2000
- Enroll in STEP: If you haven’t already, register your trip at travel.state.gov so the Embassy can reach you with updates.
- Monitor official sources:
- U.S. Embassy Mexico security alerts: mx.usembassy.gov
- @TravelGov on X and Facebook
- Mexican road status: @CAPUFE on X
Delta Air Lines, Atlanta’s hometown carrier, has canceled several Puerto Vallarta flights from ATL but continues normal operations to Cancún and other unaffected destinations. Travelers booked on Delta should check the Fly Delta app for real-time rebooking options and waiver information.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that “peace, security and normalcy” are being restored, and authorities expect most flight disruptions to ease within 24–48 hours.
For Atlantans planning future trips: The State Department maintains a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory for most of Mexico, with higher warnings for certain states. Check travel.state.gov before booking.
Atlanta News will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as flights resume and the security picture evolves. Stay safe, and safe travels home.
If you are currently in Mexico and need assistance, call the State Department hotline listed above.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Well-known fitness brand Barry’s is expanding its footprint in Atlanta with the official opening of its second studio in the heart of Midtown at the 1105 West Peachtree mixed-use development.
This new location joins the existing Barry’s Buckhead studio and underscores the brand’s strong commitment to Atlanta’s thriving fitness scene.
Barry’s Opening Second Atlanta Location in Midtown
Situated in one of the city’s most dynamic and walkable neighborhoods, the Midtown studio is poised to become a hub for locals, professionals, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The studio introduces an innovative multi-room layout to accommodate a variety of training styles. It features the signature Red Room, where Barry’s iconic RUN x LIFT classes take place—blending treadmill sprints with floor-based strength exercises for a high-intensity, full-body burn.
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Classes rotate daily to target specific muscle groups, ensuring balanced progression and variety throughout the week.
Each session offers 45 spots, and for those who prefer to skip the cardio, a “double floor” option provides extra strength-focused time on the floor.
Complementing the Red Room is a dedicated LIFT studio with 18 spots per class. This 50-minute strength-only format emphasizes controlled movements, smart programming, and targeted rep schemes to build muscle, refine technique, and boost long-term performance. It delivers the same motivating structure and intensity Barry’s fans love, but in a lower-impact environment ideal for recovery days or strength-focused training.
Beyond the workouts, Barry’s Midtown is designed as a complete lifestyle spot. Members can refuel at the on-site Fuel Bar, which offers clean, nutritious protein shakes perfect for pre- or post-workout recovery. The spacious locker rooms come equipped with premium touches, including Dyson hair dryers and OUAI’s popular hair care products.
The studio’s prime location at 1105 West Peachtree provides convenient access for Midtown residents, nearby office workers, and commuters.
Barry’s partnered with Selig Development, the leasing arm of Selig Enterprises, to secure the space in this bustling mixed-use project.
Classes, packages, and memberships are available for purchase now. Here are the current options tailored for the Midtown location:
- Midtown Atlanta Originals Plus Membership (requires a 3-month commitment; includes exclusive perks like membership-specific retail gifts, complimentary guest passes, and more):
- 8 classes/month: $157
- 12 classes/month: $214
- 16 classes/month: $255
- 30 classes/month: $285
- Midtown Atlanta Originals Membership (no commitment required; pricing locked for 12 months from studio opening, valid only at Midtown):
- 8 classes/month: $157
- 12 classes/month: $214
- 16 classes/month: $255
- 30 classes/month: $285
- Midtown Atlanta Exclusive Offer: Welcome to Midtown Starter 5-Pack — $85 for 5 classes (valid at Midtown Atlanta only)
Fitness lovers in Midtown can now level up their routines with Barry’s signature high-energy vibe right in their neighborhood.
For the latest details, class schedules, or to book your spot, visit the Barry’s website or stop by the new studio at 1105 West Peachtree. Atlanta’s fitness community just got a major upgrade! -
WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill is set to make a highly anticipated appearance in her Atlanta, as WWE Monday Night Raw returns to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Monday, February 23, 2026.
The powerhouse wrestler, who calls the Atlanta area home, will be on hand for a pivotal segment during the live broadcast, which streams worldwide on Netflix starting at 7:30 p.m. ET (doors open at 6:00 p.m.).
Cargill, the current WWE Women’s Champion, confirmed her plans during a recent appearance on SmackDown, where she declared her intention to be present when Women’s Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan announces her choice of opponent for WrestleMania 42.
Morgan, who emerged victorious in the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, faces a major decision: challenge Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship or pursue the Women’s World Championship held by Stephanie Vaquer.
The announcement is expected to be a marquee moment on Raw, building massive momentum toward WrestleMania—the biggest event on the WWE calendar.
Cargill has been dominating the women’s division since capturing the title, showcasing her unmatched strength and athleticism.
In a recent interview with CBS News Atlanta ahead of the event, the champion emphasized the importance of representation in her journey, inspiring fans across the city and beyond.
“I’m excited to bring this energy back home to Atlanta,” Cargill shared. “The city has always supported me, and stepping into State Farm Arena as champion feels special. Representation matters—seeing someone who looks like you succeeding at the highest level can change everything for the next generation.”
While no in-ring match for Cargill has been officially announced for the February 23 episode, her presence alone promises high drama, especially with tensions rising between the top women’s stars.
Other highlights on the card include a special tribute to Georgia’s own AJ Styles following his recent retirement, the return of Brock Lesnar ahead of Elimination Chamber, and additional matches building toward major storylines.
WWE’s return to Atlanta marks the first live Raw event in the city in 2026, and tickets remain available through Ticketmaster, AXS, and the State Farm Arena box office. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats and to catch all the pre-show excitement.
Don’t miss what could be a defining night on the Road to WrestleMania. Tune in Monday night—or better yet, grab your tickets and witness it live at State Farm Arena.
Atlanta’s own Jade Cargill is ready to remind the WWE Universe exactly who’s in charge.
For more updates, follow local wrestling coverage right here and check WWE.com for the latest card additions.
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Tucker, GA – Get ready to savor the best of Tucker’s diverse dining scene! The sixth annual Tucker Restaurant Week kicks off Monday, February 24, 2026, and runs through Sunday, March 1, 2026.
This beloved week-long event, presented by the City of Tucker and Discover DeKalb, showcases more than 30 local restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus, discounted deals, chef features, and exclusive items at wallet-friendly prices.
Tucker Restaurant Week Returns for Its Sixth Year: February 24 – March 1, 2026
Whether you’re a longtime Tucker resident or visiting the area, Restaurant Week provides the perfect opportunity to rediscover your favorite neighborhood spots or venture out to try somewhere new.
From authentic Latin American flavors and smoky BBQ to Mediterranean classics, sweet treats, craft brews, and everything in between, Tucker’s culinary community is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the love of food.
“Tucker Restaurant Week is a testament to the positive growth of our local economy as the list of participating restaurants continues to increase year over year,” said Mayor Anne Lerner in a recent announcement.
Participating eateries are preparing creative specials designed to highlight their signature dishes while offering great value. Highlights from early previews include:
- Antico Pizza Tucker offering 15% off all menu pizzas (in-store orders).
- Tucker Brewing Company (TKR) featuring a three-course prix-fixe lunch for $20, including their popular Tucker Cheeseburger.
- Las Colinas Tucker bringing back favorites like chori cheese fries, street tacos, and birria tacos.
- The Corner Cup Coffee with a special $5 16 oz menu item.
- Baraka Shawarma serving up authentic Mediterranean options at its third location in Tucker.
And that’s just a taste—dozens more establishments are joining in with unique offers, from multi-course dinners to limited-time creations.
Restaurant Week is more than just great food at good prices; it’s a celebration of Tucker’s vibrant, growing restaurant community right here in Metro Atlanta.
For the full list of participating restaurants, detailed menus, pricing, and any reservation recommendations, visit the official event website at tuckerrestaurantweek.com. Menus and specials are being updated regularly, so check back often as more details roll out.
Mark your calendars, gather your friends or family, and support local businesses during Tucker Restaurant Week 2026—February 24 through March 1. Your next favorite meal might be waiting just around the corner!
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
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- Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more local updates, spotlights on participating restaurants, and tips to make the most of Restaurant Week.
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Atlanta film scene is heating up in 2026, with ongoing projects like features starring Ashley Judd and Sharon Stone, Anthony Mackie in a David Mamet adaptation, and steady episodic work keeping stages busy across metro Atlanta and beyond.
Getting work as an extra in a TV series or movie requires a lot of work, flexibility and good fortune on short notice. These are just a few of the many qualities needed to succeed on set.In this article, I’ll tell you everything you want to know about how to become a movie extra in Atlanta.
Atlanta is #1 when it comes to movie and TV production. There are a lot of ways to get money in Atlanta, like being a movie or TV extra and yes, even becoming an actor.
This article is going to show you what you need to do to become movie or TV extra. I’ve been doing extras work on and off for the past 10 years, including on the sets of some top BET shows as well as Tyler Perry movies.How To Become A Movie And TV Extra In Atlanta
If you want to work as an extra in movies and TV, you need to find out what’s filming. Metro Atlanta has become a hub for movie and TV shows, especially with film mogul Tyler Perry Studios back in action.Being an extra is quite different from being an actor. An actor is a trained professional, while an extra is a contract worker hired on the spot. Here’s how to become an actor.How Much Do Movie Extras Get Paid?
The amount that movie extras get paid largely depend on the project. Most film companies pay an hourly rate to film between eight and 12 hours a day.The typical pay for an extra in Atlanta is around $60 for eight hours of work, but it could be as high as $100 or $200, depending on what they ask you to do. (Sometimes, meals are included).1. Network In The Film Community
You need to be able to find movies and TV shows that are filming throughout the city. One of the best resources for that is to begin networking in the local film community.You should sign up for things like workshops and look in on informational panels having to do with films. Atlanta has a number of organizations that nurture talent in front and behind the camera, including extras.why not try to attend a yearly film festival this year? Atlanta has several good ones you can use to learn more about the industry. They include:- Atlanta Film Festival
- Jewish Film Festival
- Bronze Lens Festival
2. Find Top Casting Companies In Atlanta
After you feel that you’ve learned some of the ups and downs about the industry (and you still want to be an extra) it’s time to find some jobs.Casting calls can be found a variety of places. Sometimes, the movie studio will post about casting calls on its websites. Mainly, they can be found in trade magazines and websites like Backstage.com.One great place to find casting calls is on the websites of casting companies. Here are some of the top casting companies that hire for Atlanta movie and TV productions.On the websites of the casting call companies you will be able to register and submit your information. In some cases, they may ask for a head shot or want you to list relevant experience if the part calls for some specificity or a certain skill. Also check platforms like Backstage, AllCasting, and Gage Talent for daily Atlanta extras calls. Follow their social media (Instagram, Facebook) for last-minute notices—many drop with short notice. Submit recent, natural photos (no heavy filters or heavy makeup), accurate info, and indicate availability. Be ready for quick responses.After you’ve applied for some extras roles, a waiting game begins. If you get a call, then they may ask you to show up to a specific location to be fitted or to do other preparations.If you don’t receive a call to come to filming, you may try another option…3. Attend Open Casting Calls
You can also attend “open” casting calls, which are those that don’t necessarily have specific needs. Some movies and TV shows just need large amounts of people or a group of people to make a scene look busy.One example of this is the airplane scene in Flight, which Denzel Washington played lead actor in. I was an “airline passenger” in the movie, which was partially filmed at Screen Gem Studios in Atlanta.Here’s the scene, which simulated a plane crash. As you can imagine, the people had to scream and make a fuss.There’s rules to everything, of course, and when it comes to being an extra, you’ve got to adhere to some common restrictions if you want to succeed.4. Be Professional
When you’re on the set, you’re going to have to behave yourself if you want to remain an extra. That means no asking the stars for a selfie.Of course you want to be human, but if you’re starstruck, it may be hard for you to restrain yourself and keep your composure. When it comes to being an extra, the production assistant will likely tell you what is and isn’t allowed on set. Try to obey. In most cases, the rules look something like this:- No picture-taking
- No talking on set
- No gum chewing or eating
- No mingling with the talent
So many people who have thought they would use being an extra to get into acting have blew it by not being able to keep cool while filming. Don’t be “that guy” or “that girl.”5. Beware Of Scams
Unfortunately, when it comes to entertainment, there are always some literally bad actors that try to take advantage of people looking to be on the big and small screen.Casting calls are rife with scammers looking to exploit inexperienced people. Don’t fall for it. Here are some casting call scams you need to avoid:Casting Calls Asking For Payment
No legit casting call company will ask you to pay them to be in a movie or TV show. The way it works is that they pay you. It’s a scam.
Vague ‘Modeling’ Jobs
If a casting call or audition reveals very little information other than it’s “looking for an adult for modeling gig” or something like that, it’s super suspicious and shouldn’t be trusted.
Real modeling jobs will state the employer, address and location of the casting call and relevant details such as the time and pay. Always research modeling jobs before you submit your information or go to them.
Inappropriate Requests
Similar to vague modeling jobs, beware of casting calls that ask for inappropriate requests that weren’t specifically mentioned in the casting call.
If the casting director asks you to do something that involves nudity or a bedroom scene and it wasn’t revealed in the casting call, you might want to get out of there.
Read more about casting call scams.
Last Words
If you want to appear in a big budget film or TV show, it’s easier than ever today, especially in a city like Atlanta, Georgia.
Being a movie or TV extra is a great way to earn extra money, but it’s not for everybody. In many cases, you may have to be on your feet for long periods of time.Also, many casting calls may reschedule at the last minute or require you to wait in long lines before filming begins. On the other hand, it’s pretty cool when you see yourself on screen. Also, you can make some great friends in the business. Check out our Casting Section to stay in the loop.If you want to be an extra for money, sorry, but you won’t get rich. it can be a stepping stone into acting, but you’ve got to stand out and be good at what you do.As for money, if you want to know some other ways to earn extra income, here are some top strategies you can do at home.Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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