Sidney “Starr” Favors, the reality TV personality known for appearances on Love & Hip Hop: New York, Baddies ATL, and other shows, faces multiple felony charges in Fulton County stemming from her Aug. 2, 2026, arrest by Hapeville police. Court hearings are scheduled for Aug. 25.
Favors, 37 (legal name Sidney Favors), remains in custody at the Fulton County Jail. According to jail records, the charges are sexual battery against a child under 16, aggravated child molestation, and sodomy.
Sidney Starr Accused of Sex Sex Crimes
The Fulton County District Attorney’s Office brought the charges after Hapeville officers investigated.
Details of the Hapeville Arrest
Hapeville police responded to the Embassy Suites at 3450 International Blvd. (near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport) on Aug. 2. Reports indicate a hotel employee contacted authorities regarding an alleged incident involving a juvenile.
According to arrest warrants and contemporaneous reporting, Favors allegedly met a male in the hotel lobby; the two went to her room, where she allegedly performed oral sex. She reportedly told investigators the encounter was consensual and that the individual had said he was 18. Parents of the juvenile informed police he was under 16.
Officers noted an open condom fell from her pocket during questioning, and another was found in her possession. Because the case involves a juvenile, Hapeville police have stated that no additional information will be released.
Favors was transported to the Fulton County Jail, where she has been held without bond. She has denied the allegations, with statements indicating she intends to vigorously defend herself; her mother has also described the claims as out of character.2
Upcoming Court Proceedings
On Aug. 25, Favors is scheduled for a preliminary hearing at 9 a.m. in Magistrate Court (room 1B), followed by a bond hearing at 9:30 a.m. in Superior Court before Judge Cox. Earlier proceedings deferred a bond decision, and she has sought release on the grounds that she is not a flight risk, has no prior criminal history, and is indigent.
The case remains under the jurisdiction of Fulton County authorities. Further developments will depend on the Aug. 25 hearings and any subsequent grand jury review.
Alicia Denise Brown, the wife of Atlanta radio personality Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan, has filed a federal lawsuit against Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat and his department, alleging she was subjected to a high-risk felony traffic stop and arrest due to an erroneous kidnapping warrant.
The suit, filed Friday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, stems from events surrounding Brown’s July 6, 2026, arrest in Hart County, Georgia, on Maryland kidnapping-related charges. Brown contends that the warrant and/or its active status was erroneous.
Big Tigger’s Wife Alicia Brown Threatens Federal Lawsuit Against Fulton County Sheriff Over Warrant That Led to High-Risk Arrest on I-85 in Hart County
Law-enforcement agencies nonetheless relied on the information, resulting in her being subjected to a high-risk felony stop on Interstate 85, apprehension, loss of liberty, detention, humiliation, emotional distress, and other damages.
Details of the Hart County Arrest
According to the Hart County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a “be on the lookout” (BOLO) alert around 8:46 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, regarding a vehicle traveling north on Interstate 85 whose driver was believed to be wanted on outstanding kidnapping-related warrants out of Maryland.
Hart County deputies located the vehicle near Exit 177 on I-85 (just south of the South Carolina state line) and, with assistance from the Georgia State Patrol, conducted a felony traffic stop. The 37-year-old driver, identified as Alicia Denise Brown of Atlanta, was taken into custody without incident. Two young children were safely recovered from the vehicle and were not injured. Reports indicated one of the children is the child Brown shares with Morgan.
Authorities confirmed Brown was wanted by the Baltimore County Police Department on warrants stemming from the disappearance of a 10-year-old child reported missing in 2019. She was also wanted at the time by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office on felony charges of interference with child custody (those local charges were later dismissed, according to some reports). Both jurisdictions confirmed the warrants as valid at the time of the stop, and Maryland authorities advised they would seek extradition.
The child connected to the Maryland warrants has been identified in media reports as Ailea (or Ailiea/Aileah) Brown, last seen on May 25, 2019, at a home on the 300 block of Erin Russell Court in Reisterstown, Maryland. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has noted she may have been in the company of her mother. Baltimore County police have said the child related to their investigation remains missing, and the two children recovered during the Georgia stop are unrelated to that case.
Brown’s arrest and the subsequent lawsuit form the latest chapter in a series of highly publicized legal matters involving the couple. In late June 2026, Morgan was arrested on charges of aggravated battery and cruelty to children stemming from a May 9 argument at their Sandy Springs home. According to the arrest warrant, the dispute began over text messages between Morgan and a co-worker; Brown allegedly sustained a bruise to her lip and a laceration over her eye after being pushed into a door. The couple’s then-13-year-old son was present. Morgan has denied the allegations and later stepped away from his V-103 radio position.
Separately, in late June, V-103 co-host Francesca Amiker filed a federal defamation lawsuit against Brown, alleging false Instagram posts claiming an affair with Morgan and implying involvement in the alleged domestic violence. Amiker seeks damages and a jury trial.
Brown’s federal lawsuit against Sheriff Labat and Fulton County officials seeks compensation related to the alleged erroneous warrant and the resulting high-risk stop and detention in Hart County. The case continues to unfold amid the broader legal and personal disputes involving the Morgans.
You’re a really cool person and you deserve a cool restaurant in Atlanta. Many spots here invest as much in atmosphere, design, and vibe as they do in the food—think rotating views, taxidermy goats, intimate dessert dens, rooftop skylines, and spaces that feel like destinations.
A lot of Atlanta restaurants are investing in decor and atmosphere to supplement what’s on your plate. If you’re hungry, an intimate setting can make or break a culinary experience.
13 Cool Places To Eat In Atlanta Right Now
So we’re about to show you some cool places to eat in Atlanta this year. These spots are not all new, but many of them have added a few wrinkles since you’ve last been there. Besides, they’re cool.
1. Polaris
265 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 460-6425
Polaris is probably one of the coolest restaurants you’ll find in Atlanta from a cosmetic perspective. Hidden inside the Hyatt Regency, Polaris literally rotates — not unlike the Sun Dial four miles away in downtown Atlanta.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Polaris: “The food and the staff made this meal a wonderful experience. Add on the atmosphere and views as Polaris spins, and I have to recommend everyone try it at least once. Weekdays are typically easier to be seated and allow the staff to provide even better personal service.”
2. Restaurant 356
One Porsche Dr, Atlanta, GA 30354 | (770) 290-4356
Restaurant 356 is an upscale restaurant located at the Porsche headquarters in Hapeville.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Restaurant 356: “The food here was awesome! I had the scallops and tagliatelle which was phenomenal. My colleagues had chicken and waffles and schnitzel and spaetzle which they reported was also fantastic. Service was great.”
3. Los Cuatro Milpas Atlanta
7056 GA-85 Suite C, Riverdale, GA 30274 | (770) 883-7734
Los Cuatro Milpas Atlanta is about 20 minutes outside Atlanta, but it’s well worth the ride!
4. South City Kitchen
1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 873-7358
South City Kitchen’s menu is one of the most celebrated in the Southeast. And it’s relatively close to a MARTA Station.
Here’s what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “Picked this place for out of town co-workers who wanted a “southern experience”. Everyone LOVED it. Couldn’t stop talking about the amazing food. Manning and staff took really good care of us. I even got a “high-five” for recommending 🙂 A classic and modern Atlanta experience all-in-one.”
5. Avize
956 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
West Midtown’s modern Alpine standout is a must-visit. Chef Karl Gorline’s seasonal menu draws from Swiss/Austrian/French/German mountain traditions with Southern touches—standouts include lemon-pepper wet frog legs and inventive plates. The room features a taxidermied white mountain goat, open kitchen energy, and a soundtrack that keeps it from feeling stuffy. High-end but approachable cool.
640 N. Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 228-2058
Photo credit: Madeira Park
One of Buckhead’s best-kept secrets opened in August 2018 in Phipps Plaza. Grand Lux Cafe is from the same people that brought us the Cheesecake Factory.
Poncey-Highland wine bar from the Miller Union team (Steven Satterfield and partners). Excellent small plates, rare/reserve wines by the half-glass (a smart way to try special bottles), and a cozy, high-energy neighborhood vibe with wood accents and a vintage map. Perfect for sharing, lingering, and discovering something new by the glass.
7. 9 Mile Station
675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, Georgia 30308 | (770) 999-1532
Entrepreneur Kelvin Slater and wife Mandy have a hit on their hands with 9 Mile Station. Described as an “elevated beer garden,” 9 Mile Station is located on the rooftop of Ponce City Market in Midtown Atlanta.
8. New South Kitchen
100 CNN Center Atlanta, Georgia 30303 | (404) 659-0000
New South Kitchen is one of the best upscale restaurants in Atlanta. Because it is primarily located primarily in a business district, many families don’t know about the daily buffets and gourmet desserts.
If you’re in the mood for a hidden gem with an open kitchen, come to the Omni Hotel’s New South Kitchen.
Here’s what one reviewer says about New South Kitchen. “Good breakfast buffet, but very expensive. Enjoyed my breakfast with a nice variety of good breakfast foods. The service and environment were very nice. Everything was great until I got my $30 bill! Probably will go somewhere else next time just based off the cost even though it was convenient and good.”
9. Bar ANA
939 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (basement of El Ponce) | (470) 763-9626
Bar Ana is a new Atlanta restaurant from James Beard-nominated pastry chef Claudia Martínez’s intimate 21+ late-night dessert and cocktail bar. Afro-Latin-Caribbean influences, artfully plated seasonal sweets that feel like modern art, and creative cocktails in a stylish, cozy courtyard-inspired space. Daytime coffee via Recuerdos; nights are the main event for industry-edgy but warm vibes. A true “last bite, best bite” destination.
10. Two Urban Licks
820 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 522-4622
Two Urban Licks is one of those places that hometown natives tell you about, but they can’t do it justice. This place has ambiance by the pound! And the menu is great.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Two Urban Licks: “The atmosphere alone is enough to make you come back for more. The salmon chips were incredible, I could’ve had a double order and been satisfied. The Brisket was perfectly charred and an enormous portion and the Scallops with Grits were absolutely delicious.”
11. Superica
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (678) 791-1310
3850 Roswell Rd NE #100, Atlanta, GA 30342 | (678) 705-1235
Superica’s two locations are hard to be when it comes to upscale Tex-Mex, eclectic selections and creative drinks.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Superica: “Great Mexican cuisine. Very attentive staff and fairly priced. Nice ambiance and very good bar area. Portions are generous. It gets super busy so go early or be ready to wait..a while..”
12. Bar-bacoa
1000 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 815-9155
Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland area has a new restaurant for tapas, tacos and Tequila: Bar-bacoa. This new Atlanta restaurant features Caribbean and Latin American-inspired cuisine. See more details.
13. Mi Barrio Mexican Restaurant
571 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 223-9279
Here’s what a reviewer says about Mi Barrio’s tacos. “Already loved Mi Barrio, but this weekend catered them for a party. Worked with Lisa. She was upfront and fair with pricing. When I arrived to pick up my food everyone helped me out to the car, the food was INCREDIBLY fresh and tasty and the portions were SO GENEROUS. Needless to it’s Wednesday, I’ve given away quite a bit of leftovers and I’m still happily eating tacos.”
Final Word
Opening a new restaurant in Atlanta is not for the weak-hearted. Still, scores of eateries continue to debut each year in Georgia’s largest city.
There are some cool places to eat in Atlanta. And the reason is because there are good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South.
All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
Undefeated multi-division champion Claressa Shields headlines a historic women’s boxing card at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena tonight, August 15, 2026, challenging Kaye Scott for the WBA and WBC middleweight titles.
The bout marks the first time a women’s boxing event has ever headlined the arena. It is also Shields’ professional debut in Atlanta.
Shields (18-0, 3 KOs), the self-proclaimed “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time), returns to the 160-pound division after a successful run at heavyweight. The two-time Olympic gold medalist and Flint, Michigan native is the first boxer in the four-belt era—male or female—to become undisputed champion in three weight classes.
She currently holds the undisputed heavyweight titles and previously captured undisputed honors at middleweight and junior middleweight, along with titles in other divisions. She last fought in February 2026, defeating Franchon Crews-Dezurn by unanimous decision to retain her heavyweight crowns.
Scott (5-1-1), a 42-year-old Australian from Sydney, enters as the unified WBA and WBC middleweight champion. She captured the vacant belts via majority decision over Olivia Curry in December 2025. The IBF and WBO titles remain with Desley Robinson, so tonight’s fight is not for undisputed status, but it represents a key step for Shields in reclaiming middleweight supremacy.
The event, promoted by Salita Promotions (in partnership with Wynn Records, Claressa Shields Promotions, and Route 30 Promotions), streams live on DAZN. The main card is scheduled to begin in the evening (times vary slightly by report, generally around 8–9 p.m. ET), with the main event expected later in the night depending on undercard length. Prelims air earlier on Zeus Network.
Supporting bouts feature additional women’s title action and rising contenders, underscoring the card’s focus on elevating women’s boxing. Shields has described the night as more than just another fight, emphasizing legacy, growth of the sport, and the significance of headlining a major arena in a cultural hub like Atlanta. Local officials have even proclaimed the day in her honor.
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Fans can expect a high-profile atmosphere, with reports of celebrity attendance and special ring-walk performances adding to the occasion.
Tonight’s historic main event puts the spotlight firmly on Shields as she aims to add to her already unmatched collection of world titles while continuing to push the boundaries of women’s professional boxing.
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A reality television personality known as Betty Idol has been arrested and charged in connection with a real estate fraud scheme that allegedly defrauded a Volusia County couple out of nearly $200,000, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
‘Love & Hip Hop’ star Betty Idol Arrested in Connection with alleged $200K real estate scam in Florida
Salomes Jackson, 40 (also referred to in reports as Salome or Salomé Rengifo Jackson), who goes by the stage name Betty Idol, was taken into custody on Aug. 13, 2026, following a nearly year-long investigation. She is best known for her supporting role on season 5 of VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta and appearances on Cartel Crew. She has also been described as a fashion ambassador and recording artist.
Authorities say the scheme began when a couple who own a mobile home park in Orange City attempted to buy a vacant parcel of land next to their property on North Thorpe Avenue. On July 11, 2025, the victims made an initial $2,000 deposit and then wired the remaining balance—totaling approximately $196,786.65—to what they believed was a legitimate escrow account after responding to a “Land for Sale” sign and communicating with individuals posing as a realtor and an escrow officer from a well-known national company.
Investigators later determined the property was never actually for sale. The real owners confirmed they had not listed it, and documents used in the transaction—including a driver’s license—were fraudulent and allegedly generated with artificial intelligence. The escrow company told authorities it does not provide the closing services claimed and that the purported officer was not an employee; the firm has previously been aware of scammers using its name.
Sheriff’s office detectives described the incident as a coordinated real estate scam and money-laundering operation involving the fraudulent use of the property owners’ identities, an unauthorized “For Sale” sign, an unauthorized sale, and the dispersal of proceeds through multiple accounts, structured transfers, mobile transfers, and shell companies. Stolen identities were allegedly used in the process.
Jackson is accused of receiving $178,786.65 of the stolen funds and exercising direct control over accounts used to receive, transfer, withdraw, and launder the money. Investigators traced a deposit at a New York ATM on or around Oct. 4–6, 2025, and identified her through facial recognition software and her distinctive tattoos—a red heart below her eye and a neck tattoo.
She faces multiple felony charges, including money laundering involving a transaction of $100,000 or more, grand theft over $100,000, organized scheme to defraud, and use of another person’s identification without consent involving $50,000 or more. Her first court appearance was scheduled for Aug. 14, 2026, in Volusia County. Some reports indicate she remains in custody.
The investigation was initiated after the victims contacted authorities on Sept. 8, 2025, when they encountered difficulties reaching the purported realtor and escrow officer and learned the transaction was not legitimate.
Information in this report is based on details released by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. Jackson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended without pay for the first eight games of the 2026 regular season after violating the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy, the league announced.
The suspension means Pearce Jr. will miss the opening half of the Falcons’ schedule and will not receive his salary for those contests. He will be eligible to return for Week 9, provided he fulfills any additional requirements set by the league.
Falcons’ James Pearce Jr. Suspended 8 Games for NFL Personal Conduct Policy Violation
The discipline stems from a February 7, 2026, incident in Doral, Florida, involving Pearce and his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson of the Los Angeles Sparks. According to police accounts and an arrest affidavit, Pearce—driving a Lamborghini SUV—followed Jackson, attempted to enter her vehicle at a stop, and intentionally rammed her car multiple times as she tried to reach the Doral Police Department for safety. Officers alleged he struck a police vehicle while attempting to flee and resisted arrest.
Jackson later told authorities she feared for her life. She detailed prior threats, verbal and physical abuse, and obsessive behavior during their three-year relationship and was granted a temporary protective order shortly after the incident. atlantafi.com
Pearce initially faced five felony charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (using his vehicle), aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police, and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer. Prosecutors later dropped the battery-on-officer count after reviewing body-camera footage and reduced the stalking charge to a misdemeanor, leaving him with three felonies and one misdemeanor.
In April 2026, reports indicated Pearce was expected to have all pending charges dismissed if he successfully completed a Florida pretrial diversion or intervention program. The program involves therapy and a period of staying out of legal trouble (initially reported as six months, with later accounts referencing a longer term). The victim and local police reportedly agreed to the resolution. Upon successful completion, the charges would be dismissed with no conviction on his record. Pearce’s attorney confirmed the terms at the time, and his legal team has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy allows the league to impose its own discipline independent of the criminal justice process. The policy includes a baseline six-game suspension for first-time domestic violence-related violations, which can be adjusted for aggravating or mitigating factors. In this case, the league handed down an eight-game ban.
Pearce, selected by the Falcons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as one of the league’s top young pass rushers in his rookie season. He led the Falcons and all rookies with 10.5 sacks and finished as a finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had been limited in offseason participation while the legal matter was unresolved.
The Falcons declined to comment on the suspension. The organization continues to prepare for the 2026 season without its leading returning pass rusher for the first half of the regular-season schedule.
Pearce Jr., a key part of Atlanta’s defensive line rotation, will now be unavailable for the early portion of the season as the Falcons look to build momentum. The team is expected to lean on other edge rushers and depth players during his absence.
The Falcons organization has not issued an immediate detailed statement beyond acknowledging the league’s decision. Players suspended under the Personal Conduct Policy generally remain under contract but are prohibited from participating in team activities during the ban, though they may be allowed limited access for rehabilitation or treatment if applicable.
This development adds an early-season challenge for Atlanta’s defense as the club prepares for the 2026 campaign. Pearce Jr. will be eligible for reinstatement after serving the eight-game ban
Atlanta is about to get a glittering new theatrical experience. AU Room Show makes its Atlanta premiere at Pullman Yards on Thursday, August 27, and runs for a limited engagement through Sunday, October 11.
Inspired by humanity’s centuries-long fascination with gold, the 100-minute production explores the beauty, power, and temptation tied to the metal throughout history. Produced by Pink Puma Inc. in partnership with BucketListers and Pullman Yards, AU Room Show blends world-class aerial performances with powerful music and contemporary choreography.
AU Room Show at Pullman Yards: What To Know
Spectacular LED visuals and a rich theatrical atmosphere transform the stage into immersive worlds where story, music, movement, lighting, and design create an unforgettable evening.
The show is created and produced by Polina Volchek, a former Cirque du Soleil soloist, four-time World Pole Sport & Artistic Pole Champion, world record holder, and Master of Sports at the International Level. Volchek previously brought her sold-out AfterDark Show to Atlanta at the same Pullman Yards venue earlier this year, giving local audiences a taste of her distinctive style.
“Gold has inspired civilizations for thousands of years. AU Room isn’t about luxury. It’s about our relationship with one of history’s most powerful symbols,” Volchek says. “We wanted to create a world where audiences don’t simply watch a performance; they step inside a living work of art.”
Maureen Meulen of Pullman Yards highlights the artist’s connection to the city: “Polina brings an extraordinary artistic perspective to AU Room, shaped in part by her Russian roots and a strong appreciation for theatrical storytelling, discipline, and visual artistry. Her talent to transform movement into emotion and create these breathtaking, immersive worlds is truly remarkable. Atlanta audiences are going to experience something remarkable—an artist at the height of her craft bringing her vision to life in a way that feels both timeless and completely original.”
Performances take place Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8:30 p.m., and Sundays at 6 p.m. at Pullman Yards, 225 Rogers St. NE, Atlanta. Tickets are on sale now, including Diamond and Platinum levels that include one complimentary signature cocktail, wine, beer, champagne by the glass, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Full details and all ticket levels are available at auroom.show.
AU Room Show is an all-ages production but recommended for guests ages 12 and older. For Atlantans looking for a unique night of immersive theater this fall, the limited run at Pullman Yards offers a rare chance to step into a world forged from gold.
Final Word
As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.
ATLANTA — The College Football Hall of Fame is kicking off the football season with its annual Football Fest & Free Day on Saturday, Aug. 22.
Fans are invited to enjoy free admission to the Hall, along with a full day of appearances, activities and entertainment featuring some of Atlanta’s biggest sports organizations.
Football Fest & Free Day
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, located at 250 Marietta St. N.W. in downtown Atlanta.
Presented by the Peach Bowl, the celebration offers free entry to the Hall thanks to the sponsor. Activities will take place both inside the Hall and outside along Marietta Street. No ticket is required for the outdoor portion.
What to expect:
The College GameDay Bus and appearances from local Atlanta sports teams
The Hall’s interactive exhibits and live entertainment
Football-themed games and activities inside the Hall and along Marietta Street
The Locker Exhibit recognizing the incoming 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Class
The event serves as an energetic kickoff to the college football season in the city often called the Capital of College Football. Visitors can explore newly unveiled interactive exhibits, enjoy family-friendly fun, and take in the festive atmosphere created by local sports organizations.
Parking is available at the nearby Green Deck Parking Garage (corner of Baker and Marietta streets), though entry may be from the rear due to road closures on Marietta Street. Officials recommend considering MARTA or rideshare services to ease congestion. The Hall closes at 5 p.m., with the box office closing at 4:30 p.m.0
For more details, visit the College Football Hall of Fame website.
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.
Kroger, the Cincinnati-based grocery giant, has shuttered at least 39 stores across nine of its banners as part of a broader plan to close 60 underperforming locations by the end of 2026.
While the company has not released a complete official list, online tracking and local reports confirm the closures, including four in the Atlanta metro area that hit neighborhoods in Fulton and DeKalb counties particularly hard.
The moves stem from Kroger’s announcement last year that certain stores were not “delivering sustainable results.” Company statements emphasized the goal of running more efficiently and securing the long-term health of the business. Employees at the affected sites were offered opportunities to transfer to other Kroger locations.
Atlanta-area stores among the first to go
Metro Atlanta saw four Kroger-banner stores close in 2025 as the national plan took shape:
2452 Morosgo Way NE, Atlanta (near Lindbergh MARTA station/Buckhead area) — closed in mid-July 2025.
11877 Douglas Road, Alpharetta — closed in mid-August 2025.
3479 Memorial Drive, Decatur — closed in mid-September 2025.
3855 Buford Highway NE, Brookhaven — closed in mid-October 2025.
These were among the earlier confirmed closures in the company’s 18-month effort. Shoppers in surrounding apartment communities, residential neighborhoods, and along busy corridors like Buford Highway and Memorial Drive faced the inconvenience of longer trips to remaining Kroger stores or competitors such as Publix, Aldi, and Walmart. Local reports at the time noted community concerns about pharmacy access and everyday convenience, especially for seniors and residents relying on nearby options.
Georgia still maintains a strong Kroger presence, with roughly 164 stores statewide as of recent counts (including multiple locations in Atlanta and nearby suburbs), but the loss of these four reduced options in key northern and eastern metro spots.
What’s Next for the Atlanta Sites
As of January 2026, Kroger operated about 2,697 supermarkets across 35 states under roughly 20 banners (including Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Harris Teeter, King Soopers, Mariano’s, Pick ’n Save, QFC, and others). The 39 identified closures span 15 states and multiple banners, with additional shutdowns expected before year-end. Some locations elsewhere have been consolidated into larger Kroger Marketplace formats, which expand beyond groceries into clothing, toys, home goods, and furniture.
In the Atlanta region, updates on the former sites vary. The Brookhaven location on Buford Highway is slated for a new Compare Foods grocery store (focused on Hispanic and ethnic products) expected as soon as September 2026. Meanwhile, Kroger is advancing a major new Marketplace project in nearby Dunwoody—a roughly 166,000-square-foot store with drive-thru pharmacy and gas station planned for a former Walmart site at Perimeter Village, with local approvals moving forward in mid-2026.
The closures coincide with Kroger’s planned $1.65 billion acquisition of regional chain Giant Eagle, which would add nearly 200 stores primarily in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, helping expand its footprint in those markets even as it prunes underperformers elsewhere.
For Atlanta shoppers, the message is mixed: fewer neighborhood options in some pockets, but continued investment in larger-format stores and a still-substantial regional network. Kroger has not detailed further Georgia closures beyond the four already completed, and company officials have stressed that sales from shuttered locations are expected to shift to nearby remaining stores.
As the nationwide overhaul continues through the rest of 2026, metro Atlanta residents will be watching closely for any additional changes—and for how the empty storefronts on Morosgo, Douglas, Memorial, and Buford fill in.
Fashion retailer Nordstrom plans to open a new Nordstrom Rack location in Athens, Georgia, in summer 2027.
The 22,000-square-foot store will be situated at Athens Marketplace, a shopping center on Atlanta Highway (U.S. 78) that includes retailers such as Office Depot and GameStop. The outparcel is owned and managed by Crimson Companies under the leadership of Pamela Day.
Nordstrom to Open New Rack Store in Athens in Summer 2027
“We look forward to being a part of the Athens community and serving our customers with an amazing offering of great brands at great prices,” said Gemma Lionello, president of Nordstrom Rack. “We’re excited to grow our footprint in the Atlanta market and introduce new customers to the Nordstrom experience.”
Lionello noted that shoppers at the new location will have access to convenient services, including online order pickup from both Nordstrom.com and NordstromRack.com, as well as easy returns.
“We are excited to welcome Nordstrom Rack to Athens Marketplace,” said Mike Riso, property manager of Crimson Companies. “This new location underscores Nordstrom’s long-term commitment to investing in the community through local job creation, economic development, and a customer-first approach that has made the brand a trusted destination for millions of shoppers nationwide.”
Nordstrom Rack, the off-price division of Nordstrom, Inc., offers customers up to 70% off on-trend apparel, accessories, beauty products, home décor, and shoes from many of the top brands sold at full-line Nordstrom stores. The division also provides core services such as online order pickup and easy returns, with alterations available at select locations. Nordstrom Rack serves as the company’s largest source of new customers.
The Athens store will expand Nordstrom’s physical presence and economic impact in Georgia, where the company currently operates two Nordstrom stores and seven Nordstrom Rack locations, supporting more than 700 jobs statewide.
