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Angel Reese, affectionately known as the “Bayou Barbie,” has transformed from a dominant college basketball phenom into one of the most marketable and influential figures in women’s sports.
At just 23 years old, the 6-foot-3 forward has already secured two WNBA All-Star nods, led the league in rebounding twice, won an NCAA championship, and built a business empire that far outpaces her on-court salary. Now, she’s headed to Atlanta to join the Atlanta Dream.
Angel Reese: From Baltimore To BR To ATL
Her journey blends elite athleticism, unapologetic confidence, and savvy branding that has made her a millionaire marketing maven.
Humble Beginnings and High School Stardom
Born on May 6, 2002, in Randallstown, Maryland, Angel Reese grew up in a sports-oriented family. Her mother, Angel Webb Reese, played college basketball, and her brother, Julian, competed at the University of Maryland. Reese excelled early, earning McDonald’s All-American honors in 2020.
She began her collegiate career at the University of Maryland, where as a freshman she helped the Terrapins win the Big Ten regular season and tournament titles while reaching the NCAA Sweet 16.
After one season, she transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU), a move that would catapult her into superstardom.
College Dominance: The Making of a Champion
At LSU under coach Kim Mulkey, Reese became a national sensation. In her sophomore season (2022-23), she averaged a staggering 23.0 points and 15.4 rebounds per game, setting an NCAA record with 34 double-doubles in a single season.
he led the Tigers to their first-ever national championship, defeating Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes in the title game. Reese earned NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors after posting consistent double-doubles throughout the tournament, including 15 points and 10 rebounds in the championship.
Her junior year (2023-24) was nearly as impressive: 18.6 points and 13.4 rebounds per game, SEC Player of the Year, and another deep tournament run.
Reese left LSU as one of the most decorated players in recent college basketball history—unanimous First-Team All-American, multiple All-SEC selections, and a record-breaking rebounder who combined scoring, defense, and relentless energy on the glass.
Her flair for the dramatic—flashing the “You can’t see me” gesture after big plays and embracing the spotlight—made her a cultural phenomenon beyond the court.
WNBA Arrival and Professional Impact
The Chicago Sky selected Reese with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. In her rookie season, she immediately made history, becoming the only player to average at least 12 rebounds per game in a season.
She earned All-Rookie Team honors and her first All-Star selection while leading the league in rebounds.
In 2025, she defended her rebounding title, posted another double-digit scoring average, and earned her second All-Star nod.
Over two seasons with Chicago, Reese averaged roughly 14 points and 13 rebounds per game, establishing herself as a defensive anchor and second-chance machine.
She also excelled in the off-season 3-on-3 league Unrivaled, winning a championship and Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2025.On April 6, 2026, in a major blockbuster, the Sky traded Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for Atlanta’s first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 (plus 2028 second-round swap rights).
The move pairs her with stars like Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray on a contending roster, opening new chapters for her career.
Building the Brand: From NIL Pioneer to Marketing Powerhouse
While Reese’s on-court production has been elite, her off-court success has been extraordinary. During her time at LSU, she capitalized on the new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, amassing an estimated $1.8 million in deals—ranking among the top NCAA athletes.
Early partnerships included Reebok (her first major sneaker deal, facilitated by Shaquille O’Neal), PlayStation, Amazon, Calvin Klein, and Sports Illustrated.
In the WNBA, where base salaries remain modest (her rookie-scale contract totaled around $324,000 over four years), endorsements have been the real game-changer. Reese has secured more than 20 major partnerships, including:
- Reebok (with a signature sneaker reportedly launching in 2026 and custom collections)
- Beats by Dre
- Hershey’s (Reese’s Pieces campaigns tied to her fanbase nickname)
- McDonald’s, Amazon, Cash App, PlayStation, Tampax, Airbnb, Raising Cane’s, and more.
Forbes reportedly estimated she earned around $9.4–10 million in 2025 alone, the vast majority from off-court deals. Overall net worth estimates in 2026 range from $2 million to $7 million, with projections suggesting it could climb to $15–20 million in the coming years as her brand grows.
Reese has expanded beyond endorsements into smart investments and ventures.
She has stakes in TOGETHXR (a women’s sports media and commerce company), DC Power FC (a professional women’s soccer team), and recently invested in the Black-owned skincare brand Topicals, helping it close a significant funding round.
She has walked runways for Victoria’s Secret, appeared in high-profile fashion campaigns, attended the Met Gala, and even announced her WNBA draft decision in Vogue.
Her social media presence, charismatic personality, and willingness to embrace controversy (including her high-profile rivalry with Caitlin Clark) have turned her into a content machine that brands love. Reese has said her ultimate legacy will extend “well beyond the court” through business, fashion, and philanthropy via the Angel C. Reese Foundation.
The Complete Package
Angel Reese represents the modern athlete: transcendent on the court with record-setting rebounding and championship pedigree, yet equally dominant in marketing, fashion, and entrepreneurship. From shattering NCAA records at LSU to dominating glass in the WNBA and now joining a rising Atlanta Dream squad, she continues to evolve.
At an age when many players are just finding their footing, Reese has already built a multifaceted empire. Whether she’s grabbing boards, dropping signature poses, closing endorsement deals, or investing in the next generation of brands, the Bayou Barbie shows no signs of slowing down.
Her rise proves that in today’s sports landscape, excellence on the court combined with bold personal branding can create opportunities—and wealth—far beyond the game.
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Jet’s Pizza has made a name for itself as a neighborhood parlor, but now it’s stepping into metro Atlanta’s priciest ZIP Code. Jet’s Pizza is coming to Buckhead!
Local franchisee Noah Creighton is in the final stages of opening his second Atlanta-area location at 857 Collier Rd NW, Suite 11.
This marks the first Jet’s Pizza inside the perimeter (ITP), bringing authentic Detroit-style deep-dish pizza closer to the city. Its entry will add to Atlanta’s best pizza joints ITP.
The 1,160-square-foot spot will serve Midtown, Upper Westside, and Buckhead customers with Jet’s signature square pies—fluffy centers, crispy caramelized cheese edges, and all products made in-house daily, including fresh dough starting at 8 a.m., homemade sauce, and freshly grated cheese using top-quality ingredients.
Creighton, who began as a delivery driver for Jet’s in 2017 and later worked as a corporate trainer, took over the Marietta location in late 2024 and is now expanding. He aims to eventually grow to 5–7 locations in the area.
When Is Jet’s Pizza coming to Buckhead?
The new Buckhead store is currently in the permitting phase, with a targeted opening in late summer or early fall 2026.
It’s a big step for the brand in Atlanta, where all existing spots have been in the suburbs.
As Creighton put it: “This will be the first Jet’s ITP… I’m excited to be the first one. I think it’s going to be an amazing location.”
Detroit-style fans, get ready—proper pizza completion is on the way to Atlanta!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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April 5, 2026 — Atlanta, GA — As Atlanta families gather for Easter Sunday celebrations, many are making last-minute runs for groceries, candy, or household essentials. The question is: Is Publix open for Easter? What about Target or other stores?
While some major retailers close to give employees the day off with family, others remain open with regular or adjusted hours. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from popular chains in the metro Atlanta area.
What Stores Are Open for Easter?
Always call your local store or check their app/website for the most accurate details, as hours can vary slightly by location.
Is Target Open for Easter?
All Target stores in Atlanta and surrounding areas are closed on Easter Sunday.
The retailer traditionally observes the holiday by shutting down operations entirely. This includes Atlanta locations like Midtown, Buckhead, Edgewood, and Perimeter.
Target typically resumes normal hours (usually 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. or similar) on Monday. If you need items like Easter baskets or last-minute gifts, plan to shop Saturday or consider alternatives.
Is Publix Open for Easter
Publix stores across Atlanta will be closed on Easter Sunday.
The popular supermarket chain closes for three major holidays each year — Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas — to allow associates time with loved ones.
Atlanta-area Publix locations, known for their fresh produce, deli items, and bakery goods, will not be open today. Stores were open with normal hours on Saturday for pre-holiday shopping and will reopen Monday.
Is Walmart Open for Easter?
Most Walmart stores in the Atlanta area will be open with regular hours on Easter Sunday.
Walmart typically operates from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the holiday, though some locations may have slight variations. Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets around Atlanta should have groceries, candy, toys, and other essentials available.
Pharmacy hours may be limited or closed — check the Walmart app or website for your specific store. This makes Walmart a reliable option for last-minute Easter needs.41
Kroger
Kroger stores will be open with regular hours on Easter Sunday.
Most Kroger locations in Atlanta, including those under the Kroger, Kroger Marketplace, and related banners, plan to operate their standard schedules (often 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., depending on the store). Note that pharmacy and some specialty departments may have reduced hours or be closed.
Final Word
Fuel centers and pickup/delivery services could also vary. It’s a solid choice for Atlanta shoppers needing fresh meats, produce, or Easter dinner staples.
Other retailers like Costco, Aldi, and Sam’s Club are generally closed, while some convenience stores, dollar stores, and restaurants may have limited operations.
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ATLANTA — The Betty, the stylish modern supper club tucked inside the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel in Buckhead, is welcoming spring with an all-new shareable dinner menu and a refreshed cocktail program designed for lingering nights with friends.
Just steps beyond the hotel’s grand portico, The Betty has refreshed its dinner offerings with seasonal small plates that encourage sharing and connection.
The Betty Launches Fresh Spring Dinner Menu, Cocktail List
The new menu emphasizes fresh, vibrant ingredients perfect for Atlanta’s spring season, inviting guests to slow down and enjoy the convivial supper club atmosphere.
Alongside the food update, the restaurant is debuting a new fruit-forward cocktail menu that mixes classic spirits with fresh produce and playful flavors.
The full beverage program also includes an extensive wine list, local and international beers, and zero-proof options for guests who prefer non-alcoholic choices.
Standout Cocktails on the New Menu:
- Cerulean Summer: Bacardi Ocho Rum, PAMA pomegranate liqueur, Giffard Watermelon, Giffard Blue Curaçao, simple syrup, lemon & lime
- Somu Spritz: Grey Goose L’Orange Vodka, Giffard Crème de Fruits de la Passion, Giffard Mangue, orange juice, orange blossom water & club soda
- Fiery Cactus: Siete Leguas Blanco Tequila, Thatcher’s Prickly Pear, Lime Cointreau, Chareau Aloe & El Guapo Fuego bitters
- Tiny Tini: Lighthouse Gin, Lillet Blanc & a lemon twist, served in a two-ounce glass with a two-ounce sidecar
These bright, seasonal cocktails are expected to be popular as Atlantans look for refreshing sips to pair with the new small plates.
Upcoming Special Events at The Betty:
The restaurant has several themed events on the calendar this spring:
- Easter Brunch: Three-course prix fixe menu on Sunday, April 5 from noon to 4 p.m.
- Spring Sip & Pintxos Tasting: Sunday, April 26 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Mother’s Day Brunch: Sunday, May 10 from noon to 4:30 p.m.
The Betty continues to position itself as a chic neighborhood gathering spot in Buckhead, blending classic supper club charm with modern, approachable hospitality.
Reservations are recommended, especially for the upcoming holiday brunches.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel website or The Betty’s dining page.
Final Word
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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DULUTH, Ga. — Bite More Duluth, a fast-growing halal American-Italian restaurant concept, will officially open its doors this Friday, April 3, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and high-energy grand opening celebration.
The highly anticipated debut will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a formal ribbon cutting featuring Gwinnett County officials and remarks from Founder & CEO Prince Patel.
Bite More Grand Opening: What To Know
The grand opening festivities will begin at 6 p.m., offering guests live entertainment, food giveaways, and an exclusive first look at one of metro Atlanta’s most talked-about new dining destinations.
Bite More blends classic American-Italian favorites with halal ingredients and a modern twist, appealing to a wide range of diners seeking bold flavors and inclusive menu options. The Duluth location marks the brand’s continued expansion in the Atlanta area.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring Bite More to the Gwinnett community,” said Prince Patel. “This grand opening is more than just a new restaurant — it’s a celebration of great food, culture, and bringing people together.”
The event is open to the public, and organizers are encouraging food lovers, media, and local residents to join the festivities. With its convenient location and unique concept, Bite More Duluth is expected to quickly become a go-to spot for families, young professionals, and anyone craving elevated Italian-American dishes prepared to halal standards.
Event Details:
- Ribbon Cutting: Friday, April 3 at 5:30 p.m.
- Grand Opening Celebration: Begins at 6 p.m.
- Location: Bite More Duluth, Gwinnett County
Media and community members interested in covering the opening — whether through a weekend events preview, live coverage of the ribbon cutting, an interview with Founder Prince Patel, or a menu preview — are invited to attend and help share the news.
For more information or to RSVP, reach out to the Bite More team directly.
This grand opening represents another exciting addition to Gwinnett County’s vibrant and diverse dining scene. Mark your calendars — Bite More Duluth is ready to serve up something fresh, flavorful, and worth the hype.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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For the second time in five years, Georgia lawmakers came tantalizingly close to ending the twice-yearly ritual of springing forward and falling back — only to watch the effort die on the final day of the legislative session.
House Bill 154, the latest attempt to lock the state’s clocks and spare Georgians the biannual disruption, never received final approval before the House and Senate adjourned sine die on Friday, April 3, 2026.
Georgia Daylight Savings Bill Ends in Another Dead End
The measure would have directed Gov. Brian Kemp to petition the Trump administration’s Department of Transportation to shift Georgia out of the Eastern Time Zone and into the Atlantic Standard Time Zone.
Had it succeeded, the state would have observed a permanent UTC-4 year-round — the functional equivalent of keeping daylight saving time (DST) in place 365 days a year without ever having to “fall back.”
Sen. Ed Setzler (R), one of the few opponents in the 45-5 Senate vote, has said it wouldn’t work from the jump.
“If Georgia made the move on its own it would be highly disruptive to business and logistics… By moving us to the Atlantic time zone, if Alabama didn’t move, we would have a two-hour separation from Alabama.”
The bill’s demise marks the latest chapter in a decade-plus saga of Georgia lawmakers trying — and failing — to escape federal rules that keep most of the country toggling between standard and daylight time.
A Persistent Push Since 2019
The modern campaign began in earnest in 2019 when Rep. Wes Cantrell, R-Woodstock, filed legislation to exempt Georgia from DST and stay on permanent standard time.
He followed up in 2020 with a resolution urging Congress to let states choose permanent DST instead. Neither went anywhere.
In 2021, the debate reached a fever pitch on the final day of session. The Senate first passed a bill for permanent standard time, then reversed itself and voted 45-6 to adopt permanent daylight saving time — provided Congress ever gave the green light.
The so-called Georgia Sunshine Protection Act passed both chambers but has sat dormant ever since because federal law still prohibits states from unilaterally choosing permanent DST. Only permanent standard time is currently allowed without Washington’s blessing.
Fast-forward to 2025-2026. Frustrated by congressional inaction, sponsors tried a creative workaround. HB 154 — originally an unrelated ambulance-services bill — was stripped and rewritten in the Senate to request the time-zone shift to Atlantic Standard Time. The Senate passed the amended version 45-5 in late March.
Supporters, including Sen. Bo Hatchett, argued the change would eliminate confusion for families, schools, and businesses while delivering the health and safety benefits long associated with year-round later sunsets.
“Every time we change the clock, we create confusion for families, for businesses, for schools, and for anyone trying to maintain a consistent routine,” Hatchett said. And for what? The evidence that this system does what it was originally intended to do is weak at best. But the evidence that it disrupts people’s lives, that is overwhelming.”
Why It Matters — and Why It Keeps Failing
Georgia is far from alone. Nineteen states, including several in the South, have passed similar “trigger” bills waiting on Congress to allow permanent DST nationwide.
The federal Uniform Time Act of 1966 (updated in 2005) still ties states’ hands: they can opt out of DST entirely and stay on standard time, but they cannot choose permanent daylight without explicit congressional approval.
That legal reality has forced Georgia into repeated procedural gymnastics — resolutions, referendums, trigger bills, and now the Atlantic Time Zone petition — all of which have ultimately stalled.Critics of the status quo point to peer-reviewed studies linking the spring-forward change to spikes in heart attacks, traffic accidents, workplace injuries, and lost productivity.
Supporters of the current system counter that permanent DST would mean dark winter mornings for children heading to school and farmers starting their day in pitch blackness.
Whatever the merits, the practical result for Georgians remains the same: on the first Sunday in November they will once again “fall back” an hour, and next March they will “spring forward” again — just as they have for decades.With the 2026 session now over and the bill dead, the question is whether lawmakers will resurrect the effort in 2027.
History suggests they probably will. Georgia has shown remarkable persistence on this issue; what it has not yet shown is success.
Final Word
But the clock literally ran out. The rewritten bill never returned to the House for concurrence before lawmakers packed up and headed home for the year.
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STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — Nearly 500 employees at Stone Mountain Park face job uncertainty as the park’s current private operator prepares to cease operations, according to a state filing. The Stone Mountain Park layoffs, which could affect 497 workers across various roles, are tied to a change in management rather than a simple downsizing.
A Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice filed with Georgia’s Office of Workforce Development indicates that separations are expected to take effect on June 1, 2026.
Stone Mountain Park Layoffs: Major Staffing Overhaul as Private Operator Exits in June
The filing covers positions throughout the park, including gate attendants, maintenance staff, custodians, and other operational roles at Georgia’s popular tourist attraction.
Transition to New Operator
The Stone Mountain Park layoffs stem from the departure of Thrive SMP LLC, which has managed park operations since 2022.
On March 30, 2026, the Stone Mountain Memorial Association (the state entity overseeing the park) announced it had selected Stone Mountain Hospitality LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, as the next operator.
Thrive SMP and the association agreed to end their 10-year contract early, with operations transitioning at the end of May.
Aramark Destinations issued a statement emphasizing a smooth handover: “The Stone Mountain Memorial Association announced on March 30 that it has selected Stone Mountain Hospitality LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, as the next operator for the park. Stone Mountain Park employees will have the opportunity to apply for positions with Aramark Destinations as part of this transition.”
Current employees must reapply for jobs with the incoming operator or seek employment elsewhere. While the WARN notice technically frames the changes as layoffs, many workers may transition to the new management if rehired.
Financial Context and Lack of Official Reason in Filing
Reports indicate Thrive SMP operated at a $1.6 million loss as recently as April 2025, which may have contributed to the early contract termination.
However, the initial WARN filing did not specify a reason for the workforce changes, prompting some local outlets to note that officials had not yet provided a detailed explanation at the time of the announcement.
A law firm has begun investigating potential WARN Act compliance issues, questioning whether adequate advance notice was provided for the mass layoff affecting 497 employees.
Impact on Workers and the Park
The timing—just before the busy summer tourist season—has raised concerns among employees and parkgoers. Some workers expressed frustration over the sudden uncertainty.
Park officials and the incoming operator have pledged collaboration to minimize disruption and support the long-term success of the attraction, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually for its hiking trails, laser shows, and historic granite mountain carving.
Reactions from visitors have been mixed, with some expressing sympathy for affected staff while hoping the transition does not impact park experiences.
This development marks a significant shift for Stone Mountain Park, one of Georgia’s most visited outdoor destinations.
As the June 1 deadline approaches, affected employees are encouraged to monitor Aramark’s application process for potential continued employment at the park.
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Midtown Atlanta — You’ve got a new reason to eat in Midtown Atlanta. Blackjack Bar Tapas, the stylish Asian-fusion craft cocktail bar and tapas lounge, is rolling out some new offerings with the addition of weekday lunch service.
The popular spot is now open daily starting at noon, making it easier than ever for locals and visitors to enjoy its creative small plates and inventive drinks midday or into the evening.
Blackjack Bar Tapas New Hours: Daily
The restaurant’s updated hours are:
- Noon to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday
- Noon to midnight Friday and Saturday
Lobster Peanut Noodles | grilled lobster tail over creamy peanut noodles, grape tomato & chili oil.
The full food and drink menu is now available for both lunch and dinner service. Guests can look forward to the same lineup of Asian-inspired street-food tapas and reimagined classic cocktails throughout the day.
Founded in 2025 by sisters Niki and Tanya Pattharakositkul — the duo behind the acclaimed restaurant group 26 Thai — Blackjack Bar Tapas quickly established itself as a standout destination in Midtown.
The venue blends vibrant Asian-fusion flavors with a swanky, design-forward atmosphere that feels both dramatic and inviting.
Inside, the dimly lit bar glows under soft red lighting, accented by ornate golden chandeliers crafted from traditional Thai lanterns. Striking dragon heads and gently cascading fountains add movement and theatrical flair, creating an immersive experience that complements the bold menu offerings.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, an after-work cocktail, or a leisurely dinner with friends, Blackjack Bar Tapas delivers an elevated yet approachable take on Asian street food in one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
For the complete menu and more details, visit Blackjack Bar Tapas online or stop by their location in the heart of Midtown Atlanta.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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The James Beard Foundation on Tuesday announced its finalists for the 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, with two standout Atlanta establishments making the list.
The James Beard Awards rank among the highest honors in the American culinary world.
Two Atlanta Restaurants Named Finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards
They recognize outstanding talent in food, hospitality, and the broader food system, while highlighting a strong commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and inclusive excellence.
This year, Atlanta’s finalists advanced from a group of 11 Georgia semifinalists announced in January.0
Aria – Outstanding Hospitality
For the second year in a row, Buckhead’s Aria has earned a finalist spot in the Outstanding Hospitality category. This award celebrates restaurants that create a warm, welcoming environment for both guests and staff while maintaining high standards in food, service, atmosphere, and operations. Aria shares the category with notable nominees from Boise, Birmingham, Clayton (Missouri), and Los Angeles.0
Mujō and Chef J. Trent Harris – Best Chef: Southeast
West Midtown’s Japanese-inspired restaurant Mujō earned recognition through its chef, J. Trent Harris, who is a finalist for Best Chef: Southeast. The category features talented chefs from across the region, including nominees from South Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Carolina.0
Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation, celebrated the 2026 finalists in a press release marking the organization’s 40th anniversary: “As we mark 40 years… we’re reminded of just how vital it is to celebrate and champion the people driving American food culture forward.” She praised the honorees for their talent, leadership, and the powerful role food plays in our lives.0
The winners will be revealed at the James Beard Awards ceremony on June 15, 2026, in Chicago.
Congratulations to Aria, Mujō, and Chef J. Trent Harris for representing Atlanta on this prestigious national stage!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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SKOL Brewing Company, the boisterous Nordic-themed brewpub located in the historic 200 Peachtree building in Downtown Atlanta, has announced plans to expand into the adjacent space.
The popular spot, which opened in early 2025, already occupies a striking 5,000-square-foot area featuring a mix of more than 120 high-top, low, and comfortable seats, TVs throughout, a dramatic backlit bar, hardwood floors, and distinctive antler chandeliers.
Introducing SKOL Brewing’s Valhalla Gaming Lounge
The expansion will add approximately 30,000 square feet dedicated to the new Valhalla Gaming Lounge, transforming the venue into a comprehensive entertainment destination.
Portions of the new space are already available for private events, with a full opening scheduled for May.
The project is described more as an extension than a separate concept, leaning heavily into the growing “eatertainment” trend.
It will incorporate experiential bays, dedicated entertainment zones, and authentic regional cuisine and beverages throughout the expanded footprint.
Entertainment has been part of SKOL’s identity from the start, thanks to its partnership with American Axes for axe throwing. Valhalla Gaming Lounge promises to elevate the experience significantly with over 40 gaming options, including simulators, soccer experiences, bocce courts, billiard tables, darts, classic arcade games, and more.
Early discussions also mention the potential addition of a live-music stage and even a climbing wall.
“We are excited to be a part of a growing resurgence of interest and activity in Downtown,” said Drew Tull, Co-Creator of SKOL Brewing Company and president of the 200 Peachtree Group. “SKOL and Valhalla Gaming Lounge are designed to not only showcase Atlanta to out-of-town guests and conventioneers, but to create a destination for everyone.”
A Unique Nordic-Minnesotan Vibe with Southern Flair
Since opening in 2025, SKOL Brewing Company has quickly established itself as a standout destination by blending authentic regional cuisine and beverages with a fun, high-energy atmosphere.
The concept draws heavily from co-creator Drew Tull’s Minnesotan roots while paying homage to Southern traditions in a fresh, Viking-inspired way.
The menu, curated by Master Chef Rich Rosendale, highlights signature dishes such as Ellsworth Creamery cheese curds, smoked brisket poutine, and the playfully misspelled “Jucy Lucy” burger (a Minnesota classic featuring two beef patties stuffed with melted American cheese).
On the beverage side, SKOL offers nearly 20 of its own craft beers, each with creative, full-bodied profiles.
Standouts include the Northern Lights Lager, Big Daddy Rotating Pilsner, Space Wrangler Hazy IPA, and the fan-favorite SKOL Nation Cold IPA—brewed especially for Minnesota Vikings supporters.
True to Viking spirit (and U.S. Bank Stadium tradition), snow falls indoors every time the Vikings score, adding a memorable theatrical touch that also caps off each night.
The brewpub’s design and programming make it a natural hub for sports viewing, with abundant TVs and a lively vibe that appeals to both locals and visitors.
Its convenient location inside the 200 Peachtree building—near Peachtree Center MARTA and the Spring Street Streetcar—positions it perfectly for conventioneers, tourists, and downtown residents alike.
Building Momentum in Downtown Atlanta
The expansion into Valhalla Gaming Lounge aligns with broader efforts to revitalize Downtown Atlanta, especially as the city prepares to host major events, including the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
By combining SKOL’s acclaimed food and beer with extensive gaming and entertainment options, the venue aims to become a must-visit all-day, all-evening destination that goes far beyond traditional dining or drinking.
Whether guests come for the cheese curds and cold IPAs, axe throwing and sports watching, or the upcoming array of simulators, bocce, and arcade fun, SKOL and its forthcoming Valhalla extension promise an immersive experience that celebrates Nordic heritage, Minnesota pride, and Atlanta’s evolving downtown energy.
The full Valhalla Gaming Lounge is expected to open by May, with private event spaces already welcoming bookings.
For more details or reservations, visit the official SKOL Brewing Company website or follow updates on their social channels. SKOL!
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
