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The cost of land isn’t getting any cheaper, no matter if it’s in Atlanta or across Georgia.
If you’re in the market for some Georgia land, you’re making a wise decision. Real estate prices in rural areas are going up, but are still affordable.
With real estate prices continuing to increase, now’s a good time to buy property. Are you uncertain about the process of buying land in Georgia? Read on….
How Do I Buy Land In Georgia?
In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to buy a plot of land in Georgia.
My family owns several plots of real estate around metro Atlanta and because I’m constantly looking for real estate, I’ve also researched the process thoroughly.
Land prices vary wildly. In rural areas like South Georgia, you might find acres for $2,000-$5,000 each. Near Atlanta or Savannah, expect $10,000-$50,000+ per acre, depending on development potential. Factor in taxes, closing costs, and any financing fees.
First things first, you need to get pre-approved for a loan.
1. Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved for a loan to buy land is exactly like getting pre-approved for a mortgage. The reason why this initial step is so important is because Realtors will have an incentive to work with and for you.
Once you’re pre-qualified for a loan, the real estate professionals you’re dealing with will take you more seriously because they want your business.
If you apply and are not approved, take these steps to improve your credit fast.
2. Search For Land
It’s time to begin your search for affordable land for sale.
In a large metropolitan area like Atlanta, parcels of land sell at a premium. If you want several acres, you’ll have to expand your search to cities about an hour’s drive from downtown Atlanta.
How Much Does An Acre Of Land Cost In Georgia?
The price of an acre of land in Georgia depends on where it’s located and whether it is improved or unimproved.Last year, the average price per acre in Georgia increased by 11% to $4,550 per acre. Irrigated land averaged $4,060 per acre while the value of non-irrigated land dropped 5% to $3,010 per acre.
If you’re looking for farmland or just some acreage, if you don’t know a Realtor, then you can begin your search online.
Some websites you can look for parcels of land on are:Know The Zoning Laws
Once you’ve found a piece of land you like, familiarize yourself with the local zoning laws.Some areas won’t let you build wooden structures. Other areas won’t let you build with stone. Others won’t allow livestock. Research what’s allowed where you want to live.The typical zoning regulations govern such things as:- Building specifications of the type of buildings allowed.
- Where utility lines must be located.
- Restrictions on accessory buildings, building setbacks from the streets and other boundaries.
- Size and height of buildings.
- Number of rooms in a structure.
In addition to knowing what type of structures are allowed to be built, you’ll need to know land use rules as well.Here are some common land-use zones that could apply to the area you’re interested in:- Agricultural Zoning
- Commercial Zoning
- Combination Zoning
- Historic Zoning
- Industrial Zoning
- Residential Zoning
- Rural Zoning
You may be saying to yourself, “How do I find out about zoning laws?”The best place to start is with the locality’s department of city planning, or similar office. They’ll tell you all you need to know about the zoning laws in that area.3. Compare Your Land Choices
Photo credit: Observer.globe.gov Once you’ve done all your zoning research, it’s time to whittle down your list of land parcels you like and choose one.
Some things you may want to consider are:
- Access: How far is the property from the interstate or major highway?
- Privacy: How close are you to the neighbors and nearby noise?
- Terrain: Are there hundreds of trees, woods or just undeveloped land, dirt or grass?
- Irrigation: Is there a water source nearby? A lake or creek that runs through the property?
All of these things may increase or decrease the value of the land depending on your intentions for it.
In any event, once you’ve made your decision to buy the land, it’s time to put it in writing.4. Make An Offer On The Land
To make a formal offer on a piece of land you’ll need a real estate agent’s Bid Offer form. You can find samples of a Bid Offer form online.
When making an offer, you don’t want to go too high in price. Let your offer be based not on the property’s asking price, but on the amount you’ve been pre-approved for.
Should You Offer Over The Asking Price?
If you offer over the asking price, you’ll have to go back to your lender to make sure you can get financing to cover it.
You’ll also want to know if the appraisal of the land justifies the asking price.
If you make an offer too low, it may not attract the seller because they may get higher offers from others looking to buy the property.
Bottom line: Your offer will have to be higher than the others if you want the land.
Let’s say the seller accepts your offer. What now?5. Sign The Land Sale Contract And Purchase Agreement
Once the offer is accepted, the buyer and seller typically sign a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement.
This is a legal document that solidifies the intentions of both parties to make a real estate transaction.
Here are some terms typically found in a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement:- Price
- Property size, boundaries and description
- Title
- Seller disclosures
Typically, the buyer’s agent will have the purchase agreement written up by a practicing real estate attorney.
The Land Sale and Purchase Agreement becomes binding when all signatures have been obtained.
6. Prepare For Closing
Unlike a home closing, when you’re buying land you don’t have to worry about such things as an inspection and making some demands for last-minute repairs and replacements.
As a buyer, you will typically be expected to provide for anywhere between 2% to 5% of the closing costs. However, depending on other concessions you make, it’s possible that you may not pay any money at all at closing.
One thing you don’t want to skip is a soil test. A soil test also indicates which elements are missing from your soil and how much to add them if you plan on growing fruits, vegetables and other crops.
A soil test will also tell you:
- The pH level in the soil.
- What nutrients and minerals are in the soil such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
You can buy a soil kit from various retailers such as Lowes and Home Depot. You can also order a soil test kit online. Here’s a comprehensive one that I like:
Once you sign all the appropriate documents at closing, the land will be yours! Some real estate lawyers may break out a bottle of Champagne to celebrate, but that’s optional:)
Final Words
Buying a piece of land is a great investment and something that can stay in your family for generations. If you do it right — following all the steps from zoning laws and getting a soil test, etc. — it can be a smooth process.
Because of the many parts involved in buying land, it’s highly advisable that you use the services of a professional real estate agent. A Realtor can walk you through the land-buying process more easily. Also, many of them have the professionals you need already in their network.
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We all know Wayfair for those particular items not sold at your local Walmart or Target, but now the retailer is launching in the physical space. The company has picked Atlanta for the site of its second brick-and-mortar store.
This will be the second large-format retail store for Wayfair, a leading home goods e-commerce company.
When Will Wayfair Open in Atlanta?
Set to launch in 2026, the 150,000-square-foot store will be located at The District at Howell Mill, offering shoppers an extensive selection of home products in an immersive, in-person shopping experience.
The District at Howell Mill shopping center is located at 1801 Howell Mill Road NW. This site is a former Walmart location that closed in 2023 after a fire in 2022.
The expansion follows the success of Wayfair’s first large-format store in Wilmette, Illinois, which opened in May 2024 and significantly boosted regional sales.
Since its launch, Illinois sales have grown over 15% faster than the national average, reinforcing the company’s confidence in brick-and-mortar expansion. However, Wayfair’s stock has struggled, dropping more than 50% in the past year, though analysts remain optimistic about a potential rebound in profitability, per InvestingPro forecasts.
Liza Lefkowski, Wayfair’s vice president of merchandising and stores, emphasized the company’s dedication to enhancing the customer experience by blending its vast online catalog with a hands-on retail setting.
Strategically positioned in Atlanta’s Upper Westside, the new store will offer easy access from I-75 and serve key neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, and downtown. Additionally, its proximity to Wayfair’s fulfillment center in McDonough, GA, is expected to enable faster delivery for larger items.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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Another stellar eatery is about to open in Dunwoody — and this time it’s got a familiar name behind it.
Atlanta restaurateur Barry Mills—known for FLIP Burger Boutique, HD1, and Big B’s Fish Joint— is set to open his newest venture, Steak & Grace.
The eatery is one of many new Atlanta restaurants opening this year.
When Is Steak & Grace Opening in Dunwoody?
Steak & Grace will open its doors on Friday, March 14, at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy in Dunwoody Village.
Steak & Grace features a spacious 3,500-square-foot layout with an open floor plan and a modern aesthetic. The design embraces light, airy tones, abundant natural light from large windows, and stylish, whimsical elements. A large patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace and an expanded bar, will further enhance the experience.
What’s On the Menu at Steak & Grace?
Steak & Grace reimagines the classic steakhouse experience, blending premium steaks, seafood, and pasta with top-tier service in a relaxed, inviting setting. Guests can expect exceptional quality without the formality of a traditional steakhouse.
Helming the kitchen is Executive Chef Conor O’Reilly (formerly of Fifth Group Restaurants), who takes a composed-plate approach rather than the standard à la carte steakhouse format. His menu emphasizes seasonal, high-quality ingredients, refined flavors, and a range of options, including gluten-free, keto, and dairy-free dishes.
Where Is Steak & Grace Located?
Steak & Grace is located at 1317 Dunwoody Village Pkwy Ste 101, Atlanta, GA 30338. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
When it comes to Atlanta steakhouses, we have high hopes for Steak & Grace.
According to the owner, Steak & Grace’s design fosters a social and casual ambiance aimed at attracting a lively neighborhood crowd. To elevate the dining experience, upbeat music will play throughout the space, creating an energetic yet comfortable environment.
The largest city in the Southeast – Atlanta – has a few things to do as well. An Atlanta weekend is one to remember.
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The hottest sport right now in Atlanta is pickleball. From old tennis courts on the southside to shiny, new facilities on the northside, pickleball is king.
Now a new facility is bringing the popular sport to the West End in a large way. The Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club opened the first week in April in the West End. It’s the first Dill Dinkers franchise in metro Atlanta.
The club, which is being brought to us by husband-and-wife regional developer duo Daniel and Laura Hardeman and their team, is in a former industrial building that’s being remade by Lee + White owners Ackerman & Co.
Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club in Atlanta: What To Expect
Some features of the Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club facilities include these features:
- 11 championship-sized courts with Pro-Cushion surfaces and fencing
- Climate-controlled environment
- Event spaces for birthday parties, corporate events, and more
- Pro shop with paddles, apparel, and accessories
- Ball machine for members and non-members
- Large bathrooms with space to change
Other amenities
- Clinics, lessons, leagues, and social events
- Business advertising
- Event rentals
Pickleball’s popularity
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
Where Is Dill Dinkers Pickleball Club Located?
Dill Dinkers is located at 1200 White Street SW, Suite 1000 Atlanta, Georgia 30310. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Atlanta’s West End is in the middle of transformational change right now, which aim to enhance the area’s character and amenities as travelers look to explore the city. Some key components of the development plans include retail expansion, plans for approximately 125,000 square feet of retail space, including a grocery store, fitness center and local boutiques.
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Atlanta’s real estate market remains a top choice for homebuyers, especially those migrating from the West and Northeast, thanks to its comparatively affordable property prices. However, the city also boasts its share of high-priced luxury homes, including grand mansions, historic estates, and modern builds with cutting-edge features.
Georgia’s capital offers a unique blend of advantages, from a robust transit system and abundant job opportunities to a pleasant climate. While property prices have seen a recent surge, Atlanta’s real estate market continues to be one of the more accessible options for buyers.
Here Are The Most Expensive Homes In Atlanta
To find out which structures constitute the most expensive homes in Atlanta, we analyzed data from Zillow.com and other real estate sites which lists houses for sale in the region. Here’s what we found in Atlanta’s real estate market:
As of December 28, 2024, Atlanta’s real estate market features several luxurious properties. Here are some of the most expensive homes currently listed:
4665 Riverview Rd, Atlanta, GA 30327
Listed at $37,800,000, this estate offers 7 bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms, and spans 17,776 square feet.655 Fairfield Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
Priced at $10,000,000, this new construction features 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, and 12,792 square feet of living space.439 Blackland Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
This property is listed for $9,750,000 and includes 6 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and 15,200 square feet.389 Blackland Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
A new construction home priced at $8,950,000, offering 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and 10,532 square feet.225 Valley Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Listed at $7,795,000, this residence boasts 9 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and 12,896 square feet.These properties showcase the pinnacle of luxury living in Atlanta, featuring expansive square footage, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and high-end amenities.
Please note that real estate listings are subject to change. For the most current information, consult the respective real estate platforms or contact local real estate agents.
Final Word
You may be asking yourself how you can afford a mansion like the ones you see in Buckhead and surrounding areas. Check out these cheap properties for sale.
If you’re looking for a temporary home, Atlanta has some affordable apartments for rent.
Aside from the most expensive homes in Atlanta, the larger market is going through usual ebbs and flows. The city’s upscale home market continues to expand as developers see value in areas other than Buckhead such as Midtown’s Old Fourth Ward and along the Northside corridor into Vinings.
Meanwhile, the median home market has experienced a slight dip, according to prognasticators.
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.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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There are few things more pleasant than gorging on a meal while a stiff breeze rushes around you outside. That’s right, it’s just about patio season once again in Atlanta, Georgia. Looking for a place to eat with a nice patio?
The best Atlanta restaurants with patios and balconies are the ones that cater to sunbathing and eating delectable dishes at the same time (with social distancing of course).
If you’re interested in dining in the Old Fourth Ward, you’ll be glad to know that many of the restaurants along the Atlanta Beltline have patio restaurants. Here’s a great list.
Beltline Patio Restaurants
- Eagle
- New Realm Brewery
- Golden Eagle
- Lady Bird
- Muchacho
- Superica
The weather may be changing, but you’ve still got time to shed those sweaters and drink in the sun (with a cold one). Bookmark this list as your go-to for patio-ready restaurants in Atlanta.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Restaurants With Patios And Rooftops
Ready to people-watch? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants with patios:
5Church
1197 Peachtree St NE,Atlanta, GA 30361
This chic Midtown restaurant has its origins in Charlotte, but you wouldn’t know it: Go outside on the rooftop overlooking Peachtree and 14th Street and enjoy weekend brunch and a full bar.
Bocado
887 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Bocado’s covered patio is perfect for people-watching or taking in the restaurant’s contemporary American cuisine. With a rotating seasonal menu and exciting beverage program, Bocado (or right outside it) is a great place to be.
Cafe Circa
464 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
The Edgewood corridor has become a favorite playground for Atlanta hipsters looking for nightlife. Cafe Circa on Edgewood has a great rooftop particularly suited for day parties and Sunday afternoons.
City Winery
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Enjoy a relaxing drink at City Winery at Ponce City Market. The restaurant’s music scene is unparalleled in the city. Add the Wine Down Weekends and this becomes a party all days of the week. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday starting at 6:30 p.m.
Casi Cielo
6125 Roswell Rd #200, Atlanta, GA 30328
Casi Cielo in Sandy Springs hosts patio parties with live music, local DJs and delicious dishes every Wednesday from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Indulge in and handcrafted cocktails, Oaxacan favorites such as Tlayuda, Tempura Fish Tacos and Enmoladas and more.
Estrella
550 Somerset Terrace NE Suite 102, Atlanta, GA 30306
There’s nothing like capturing the cityscape while taking in a delightful meal at the same time. Estrella’s rooftop gives you a picturesque view of downtown Atlanta and its surroundings.
Gypsy Kitchen
3035 Peachtree Rd NE Suite A209 Atlanta, Georgia
Located at the Shops Around Buckhead, Gypsy Kitchen is the place to be if you want to watch some of the city’s movers and shakers. For those who want a little tempo with their tasty food, there’s live music on the weekends as well.
Golden Eagle
904 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Walk into Golden Eagle and experience a blast from the past, including vintage decor and a sunken patio with table distancing and all the fixings.
Hampton + Hudson
299 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307
Hampton + Hudson has quickly become one of Inman Park’s favorite community bar and restaurants. It has a covered, outdoor patio that lets diners enjoy the breeze while also being protected from the elements.
Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall
684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Ladybird features an outdoor bar and a pet-friendly “Grove” space for those with furry friends. With communal, beer garden-style tables, the Grove is the perfect place to bring your friends, co-workers or family.
Muchacho
904 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
If you like some greenery in your scenery, Muchacho’s expansive brick patio is #1. Eat and drink among the lush, tropical plants and vintage outdoor furniture covered by red and white umbrellas.
Holmes
50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009
The neighborhood restaurant and bar within the historic Jones House at Alpharetta City Center offers outdoor seating on a covered porch and patio.
When it comes to restaurants, Atlanta is quickly gaining ground on some of the dining capitals around the United States. The South is certainly known for its great barbecue, but this is something else.
Check out some of AtlantaFi.com’s best Atlanta restaurant stories
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Few things are as satisfying as a weekend getaway. And the good news is that there are some cool sites and sounds to see and visit for singles and families to travel near Atlanta, Georgia.
If you want to book travel right now, the good news is that domestic fares are still relatively cheap.5 Cheapish Travel Destinations In The South
This article is going to show you some cheap places to travel for spring and summer this year. Let’s get started:New Orleans
Photo credit: Robson Hatsukami Morgan / Unsplash You can visit New Orleans, Louisiana and take in all the Creole and Cajun cuisine your tummy can handle. The drive is about six hours from Atlanta.
Flights From Atlanta
Late May: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $76
Top things to do and see in New Orleans:
- Jazz Fest
- Essence Fest
- Bourbon Street
- Jackson Square
- Fried Chicken Festival
- French Quarter Festival
Charleston
Photo credit: Dylan Mullins / Unsplash Charleston, South Carolina is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride.
Flights From Atlanta
Mid-April: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $120
Top Charleston events this Year:
- Charleston Bluegrass Festival
- Low Country Cajun Festival
- Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival
Savannah
Photo credit:
Jessica Furtney / UnsplashSavannah, Georgia is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride.
Flights From Atlanta
Mid-May: Delta Airlines: Airfare from $269
Top Savannah events this Year:
- Savannah Hemp & Arts Festival
- Tybee Wine Festival
- Savannah Jazz Festival
Augusta
Photo credit: Todd Trapani / Unsplash One of the most popular tourist spots in the South, Augusta has a rich music heritage (James Brown) and is known for cultural sports events (the Masters).
Flights From Atlanta
Mid-May: Delta Air Lines: Airfare from $199
Here are the top events happening in August this Year:
- Augusta Craft Beer Festival
- Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que Music Festival
- Westobou Festival
Jacksonville
Photo credit: David Masemore / Unsplash Jacksonville, Florida is a five-hour drive from Atlanta. If you start at 1 p.m, you’ll be in city limits by 6 p.m., just in time for dinner.
Late May: Delta Air Lines: Airfare from $199
Here are the top events happening in August this Year:
Here are some of the best events to check out in Jacksonville this year:
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival
- Summer Volksfest
- Jacksonville Caribbean Festival
Final Word
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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Another one bites the dust, as they say. And unfortunately, there are less margaritas in the world today than yesterday. On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
And yes, the On the Border restaurant in Buckhead on the Buckhead Loop closed abruptly on March 6, 2025. You’ll have to go elsewhere for the best Mexican food in Atlanta.
On The Border Closes in Atlanta; Company Files Bankruptcy
The filing occurred on March 4, 2025, in the Georgia Northern District Bankruptcy Court. This actifollows a period of financial difficulty attributed to escalating labor costs, decreasing customer traffic, and inflationary pressures, leading to a “rapid loss of liquidity” in recent months.
The company, owned by Atlanta-based OTB Holding (an affiliate of Argonne Capital Group), reported assets and liabilities ranging between $10 million and $50 million.
Which On the Border Locations Are Closing?
Additionally, On The Border had closed more than a dozen locations across the United States in the weeks leading up to the bankruptcy filing, reducing its footprint to approximately 66 locations as of March 2025, from over 120 at the end of 2023.
Confirmed Closures in 2025:
- Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center, Phoenix, AZ – Closed permanently before February 25, 2025.
- 5005 E Ray Rd, Phoenix, AZ – Listed as permanently closed by February 25, 2025.
- Mesa, AZ – Reported closed by March 1, 2025, as part of the Arizona shutdowns.
- Peoria, AZ – Reported closed by March 1, 2025, as part of the Arizona shutdowns.
- Woburn, MA – Closed permanently by February 25, 2025; the last Massachusetts location.
- West Springfield, MA – Closed shortly before February 25, 2025.
- Columbus, OH (4175 Morse Crossing) – Closed by February 26, 2025; the only Ohio location.
- Lubbock, TX (6709 Slide Road) – Closed permanently on February 8, 2025.
- West Des Moines, IA (Jordan Creek Town Center) – Closed permanently by February 25, 2025.
- Orange, CT – Closed permanently by February 28, 2025, amid national shutdowns.
- Long Island, NY (both locations) – Closed permanently in February 2025.
- Biloxi, MS – Last Mississippi location closed permanently by March 6, 2025.
- All Georgia Locations – Closed by March 6, 2025, as reported in connection with the bankruptcy filing.
What Is a Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code that allows a business (or, less commonly, an individual) to reorganize its debts and operations while continuing to operate, rather than shutting down entirely. It’s often referred to as a “reorganization bankruptcy” and is designed to give a struggling company a chance to restructure its finances, reduce debt, and emerge as a viable entity. Here’s a breakdown of what it entails:
Key Features of Chapter 11 Bankruptcy:
- Reorganization, Not Liquidation:
- Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, where a business typically closes and its assets are sold off to pay creditors, Chapter 11 focuses on keeping the business alive. The debtor proposes a plan to restructure its debts and operations, aiming to return to profitability.
- Debtor-in-Possession:
- In most cases, the company filing for Chapter 11 (the “debtor”) retains control of its operations as a “debtor-in-possession” (DIP). This means management continues to run the business under the oversight of the bankruptcy court, rather than a trustee taking over.
- Filing Process:
- The process begins when the debtor files a petition with a bankruptcy court, either voluntarily or, in rare cases, involuntarily (forced by creditors). The filing includes detailed financial statements, lists of assets, liabilities, and creditors.
On The Border closed more than a dozen locations in the weeks leading up to its bankruptcy filing on March 4, 2025. The chain’s operational footprint dropped from over 120 locations at the end of 2023 to approximately 66 by March 5, 2025, indicating significant closures beyond those individually listed above. However, exact addresses for all closures are not universally specified in available reports.
Arizona Closures: Reports indicate that most, if not all, Arizona locations closed by early 2025, though only Phoenix, Mesa, and Peoria are explicitly named.
Georgia Closures: All Georgia locations were shuttered by the time of the bankruptcy filing, though specific cities are not detailed in the provided data.
Ongoing Process: The Chapter 11 filing suggests further closures may occur in 2025 as the company reorganizes, but no specific “planned closures” beyond March 6, 2025, have been publicly confirmed at this point.
Final Word
The closing of On the Border locations is a sad one but it aligns with a broader trend of casual-dining chains, such as Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, and Buca di Beppo, seeking bankruptcy protection over the past year amid challenging market conditions.
If you didn’t know, Atlanta’s restaurants are a vibe. And they have everything from authentic dishes to James Beard-nominated chefs helming the kitchens.
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Dog owners in Atlanta now have a fresh spot to sip their favorite drinks while their pups romp, get pampered, or enjoy daycare.
Skiptown, the city’s latest haven for dogs and their humans, has officially opened its social club bar in Kirkwood, pouring everything from local draft beers to wine, frozen cocktails, seltzers, and spirits.
Skiptown Opens Social Club Bar in Kirkwood
Beyond the bar, Skiptown boasts a sprawling outdoor dog park, daycare and boarding options, plus grooming and training services—making it a one-stop hub for pet lovers.
“What makes Skiptown special is the community we’ve fostered,” CEO Mike Rotondo says in a statement. “It’s not just a drop-in spot for a quick drink or park playtime. Our regulars trust us with grooming, daycare, boarding, and training. After our soft launch late last year, our staff—aka ‘Skippers’—know every pup by name. We’ve built a family-like vibe where members, Skippers, and dogs all feel at home, especially now with our new bar.”
The social club’s bar menu shines with 24 tap options:
- 18 beers
- Three ciders
- Three wines (rosé, white, and sparkling brut)
Guests can sip in the 3,000-square-foot indoor bar or the 13,000-square-foot outdoor park. Skiptown leaned hard into local flavors, teaming up with Atlanta Hard Cider for gluten-free picks like Honey Bee, Crisp Apple, and Peach, and Monday Night Brewing for beers like 404 Atlanta Lager and Death Raptor. The focus on Atlanta-based brands keeps the vibe rooted in the community.
“We prioritized local brews and drinks for our menu,” explains Kirkwood General Manager Stacy Pruitt. “It’s about celebrating Atlanta ties, serving up beers brewed right here, and supporting nearby businesses.” That local love pairs with a lineup of creative cocktails—think frozen “Barking Berry” with berry purée, Bacardi coconut rum, and Chardonnay, or “Paw-rific Peach” with peach purée and Deep Eddy Peach Vodka.
Beyond taps, Skiptown mixes in national partnerships with Jack Daniel’s and Bacardi for canned cocktails like Jack and Cokes and Piña Coladas. Non-drinkers aren’t left out, with mocktails like “Sunrise” and Poodle Punch, while pups can even snag a puppaccino. It’s a midweek (or any day) win for Atlanta’s dog crowd—Wednesday included.
Final Word
Skiptown’s social club features the Skiptown bar, three TVs, numerous tables with seating for over 50 guests, and an additional seating bench next to the bar complete with charger outlets. Looking to bring Fido out for some food? Check out these pet-friendly restaurants in Atlanta.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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In the mood for some authentic Japanese fare? Situated on the ground level of the recently developed Old Fourth Ward complex, Yuji Modern Japanese is a sleek Japanese eatery that opened in early February along Atlanta’s Eastside BeltLine at 667 Auburn Ave, inside the Junction Krog District.
It’s run by the Kinjo Enterprise team (known for MF Sushi and Yakitori Kona) and serves a Kaiseki-inspired menu with dishes like blistered shishito peppers, sushi rolls, and king crab rolls, plus cocktails and sake on draft.
The eatery’s hours are as follows:
- Lunch: Mon-Sun 11am-2pm
- Dinner: Mon-Saturday 5pm-10pm.
- Sunday 5pm-9pm.
What’s On the Menu at Yuji Modern Japanese?
The menu draws inspiration from kaiseki, Japan’s traditional multi-course dining experience, featuring dishes like appetizers like fresh yellow tail, kampachi scallop and salmon crudo.
When it comes to sushi rolls, you’ll love the California rolls, Yuji rolls and lobster rolls.
Here’s what one customer says about Yuji Modern Japanese:
You can tell as soon as you walk in how much time and care they put into the atmosphere, the service, and the food. Everyone was so kind, kept us entertained, and very attentive.
The yellowtail and Kyoto yuji was by far our favorite item from the menu and we finished off with the miso flan which they brûlée at the table. Super cool experience.
Where Is Yuji Modern Japanese Located?
Yuji Modern Japanese is located at 667 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you didn’t know, Atlanta’s Asian restaurants are a vibe. And they have everything from authentic dishes to James Beard-nominated chefs helming the kitchens.