Decatur has built one of metro Atlanta’s strongest and most walkable dining scenes. Just east of the city, the square and surrounding streets deliver everything from Michelin-recommended spots and James Beard winners to excellent everyday eats—Indian street food, Italian classics, oysters, Spanish tapas, and Southern game dishes—all within a short stroll.
Decatur has over 80 restaurants, bars, and cafes concentrated in and around the downtown Square and nearby streets—most within a short walk (or a quick MARTA ride from Atlanta). This density lets you hop between spots for breakfast, tacos, fine dining, craft beer, and cocktails without driving. An open-container zone even allows sipping drinks while strolling on weekends in designated areas.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Decatur right now.
The Deer and The Dove
151–155 Sycamore St.
James Beard Award-winning chef Terry Koval’s bistro is a Decatur essential. The menu leans into seasonal, nose-to-tail cooking with wild game (venison, duck, quail, pheasant) and rustic Southern flavors in a cozy, plant-filled space. It frequently ranks among the city’s highest-rated restaurants and is Michelin-recommended. Ideal for date nights or when you want something adventurous.
Kimball House
303 E. Howard Ave.
Set in a historic railroad depot, Kimball House is known for one of Atlanta’s best oyster programs, inventive cocktails, and refined French-Southern dishes. Expect excellent tartares, smoked fish, duck, and a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere. Michelin-recognized and a longtime favorite for special occasions or a polished night out.
Chai Pani
406 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.
James Beard Outstanding Restaurant winner Meherwan Irani’s colorful Indian street-food spot remains a must. Share plates of sev puri, dahi puri, chicken kathi rolls, butter chicken, and daily daals in a vibrant, festive setting. It works equally well for groups or a casual dinner and consistently earns high praise.
no. 246
129 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.
From the Ford Fry team, this is classic “OG” red-sauce Italian done right. Spicy rigatoni vodka, meatballs in gravy, wood-fired pizzas, chicken al limone, and garlic bread define the menu. Reliable, crowd-pleasing, and perfect when you want comforting Italian without pretension.
Iberian Pig
121 Sycamore St
Located on the Decatur Square, The Iberian Pig is a modern Spanish tapas restaurant that consistently ranks among the area’s favorites for shared plates. It emphasizes bold flavors inspired by Spain (with creative touches), including cured meats like jamón Ibérico, and pairs them with cocktails, sangria, and wine in a warm, lively, convivial setting that works well for dates, groups, happy hour, or casual nights out.
The White Bull
123 E. Court Square
Michelin-recommended and focused on house-milled pasta and farm-to-table ingredients with an Italian bent. The daily-changing menu highlights Georgia produce alongside dishes like black spaghetti with shrimp or duck arancini. A strong choice for a refined yet neighborhood-feel meal right on the square.
Other standouts
Iberian Pig (Sycamore Street area) for Spanish tapas, jamón, and a lively sharing-friendly vibe.
Cafe Alsace for classic French bistro cooking in a charming, long-running spot.
Leon’s Full Service for elevated gastropub fare in a converted service station with great patios.
Community Q BBQ for consistent, high-quality barbecue and sides.
Casual hits like B-Side (bagels, sandwiches, and more from the Deer and The Dove team), Che Butter Jonez for smashed burgers, and Taqueria del Sol for reliable tacos.
Decatur’s strength is its density and variety—you can move easily between high-end and casual without getting in a car. Many of the top spots book up, especially on weekends, so reservations help at places like The Deer and The Dove, Kimball House, and The White Bull. The scene rewards both locals and visitors looking for serious food without downtown hassle.
If you’re a health nut and want more local healthy food choices, perhaps you’ll be interested in our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.
ATLANTA/DALLAS — Several passengers were reportedly injured Friday when a laptop caught fire aboard an American Airlines flight from Atlanta to Dallas-Fort Worth, filling parts of the cabin with smoke before the crew contained the blaze.
American Airlines Flight 2398, an Airbus A321 carrying 133 people, departed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport around 5:30 p.m. ET on Aug. 21.
Laptop Catches Fire on American Airlines Flight from Atlanta to Dallas
About 30 minutes before landing, a passenger’s laptop began smoking and erupted in flames, according to accounts from those on board and air traffic control audio.
Passenger Jessica Irgens, who was seated nearby, described the scene as “absolutely terrifying.” “I just saw the smoke first, and then it all happened really fast,” she told ABC’s Good Morning America. “He was trying to get it away from him into the aisle.” Other passengers assisted as heavy smoke filled the area, and Irgens said some people later had their hands in bags of ice and appeared visibly shaken.
The pilot radioed air traffic controllers about a cabin fire toward the rear of the aircraft. Flight attendants worked to extinguish it and ultimately secured the device in a specialized thermal containment bag designed for lithium-ion battery incidents. The pilot reported that four to five passengers may have suffered burns, primarily to their hands, and requested medical personnel meet the plane.
The aircraft landed safely at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport around 8 p.m. ET (approximately 6:55 p.m. local time) and taxied to the gate under its own power. Emergency responders met the flight. American Airlines said one person was treated on scene and released. Airport officials confirmed the same, noting the injuries were minor and no hospital transport was required.
In a statement, American Airlines said: “American Airlines Flight 2398 landed safely at DFW after reports of smoke from a customer’s device during landing. We thank our crew for their professionalism and swift response to quickly contain the device.”
The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the incident. Lithium-ion batteries in personal electronic devices have been linked to multiple smoke or fire events on passenger aircraft this year, according to FAA data.
No further injuries were reported, and the plane arrived without additional incident.
Traveling with your significant other is the best way to go. Looking for a destination? There are some great cities that you can vacation in for cheap right now.
If you’ve ever tried navigating Atlanta with a GPS or asked a local for directions, you’ve probably encountered the city’s most famous quirk: streets named Peachtree seem to be everywhere. Turn left on Peachtree, continue onto Peachtree, then take a right onto… another Peachtree. It’s enough to make newcomers wonder if half the city’s road signs share the same name.
So, how many Peachtree streets are there actually?
How Many Streets Are Named Peachtree in Atlanta? Around 71
The most frequently cited figure is 71 streets, roads, avenues, drives, lanes, and similar thoroughfares in the Atlanta metro area that include some form of “Peachtree” in their name. This number is often attributed to the Atlanta Regional Commission and is echoed by the Atlanta History Center and numerous local publications.1
Exact tallies can vary slightly depending on the criteria used:
Whether the count covers just the City of Atlanta limits or the broader metro area.
Whether directional variants (e.g., Peachtree Street NE vs. Peachtree Street SW) count as separate streets.
Whether minor residential courts or short connectors are included.
Atlanta Magazine’s own survey found about 40 such streets before even clearing the Perimeter (I-285), noting that the full metro total is higher and that the classic “71” figure is approximate and somewhat dated. Other sources describe “over 70,” “around 60–70,” or simply “dozens.” The consensus remains clear: Peachtree-named roads are unusually abundant.
One True Peachtree Street (and Many Relatives)
Locals usually mean one primary corridor when they simply say “Peachtree.” Peachtree Street begins near Five Points in downtown Atlanta, runs north through Midtown, and continues into Buckhead, where it becomes Peachtree Road after crossing Peachtree Creek. Farther north it transitions into Peachtree Boulevard and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, forming a long continuous spine of roughly 18 miles under shifting names.
A separate West Peachtree Street runs roughly parallel through downtown and Midtown. Other well-known variants include Peachtree Battle Avenue, Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Peachtree Hills Avenue, Peachtree Center Avenue, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, and many residential streets such as Peachtree Circle, Peachtree Drive, and Peachtree Lane.
Entire communities also carry the name: Peachtree City (a planned suburb south of Atlanta) and Peachtree Corners (to the north).
Why So Many Peachtrees? (It’s Not Really About Peaches)
Georgia is the Peach State, yet Atlanta’s street-naming obsession has little to do with actual peach orchards. The name traces back to a Muscogee (Creek) settlement near the confluence of Peachtree Creek and the Chattahoochee River. The Muscogee called the site Pakanahuili, commonly translated as “Standing Peach Tree.” Some historians suggest it may originally have referred to a “Standing Pitch Tree” (a pine used for resin or pitch), with “peach” emerging through later mistranslation or adaptation by English-speaking settlers.
In the early 19th century, the U.S. military established Fort Peachtree nearby. The old Native trail that connected settlements became an important early road. As Atlanta grew from a railroad terminus into a major city, developers and planners repeatedly borrowed the evocative name “Peachtree” for new streets, creating the dense web of variations that exists today. The name gained further cultural weight through Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind and the annual AJC Peachtree Road Race, one of the world’s largest 10K events.
Ironically, actual peach trees are scarce along most of these streets—though temporary plantings have occasionally appeared for promotional events.
Navigating the Peachtree Maze
For visitors, the abundance of similarly named roads can be confusing. A few practical tips:
Specify the full name and neighborhood (e.g., “Peachtree Street in Midtown” or “Peachtree Road in Buckhead”).
West Peachtree is a distinct street from Peachtree Street.
Peachtree Road is the northern continuation of the main Peachtree Street corridor.
When in doubt, ask a local which Peachtree they mean—or rely on precise addresses and GPS.
Atlanta’s Peachtree streets are more than a navigational oddity. They form a living reminder of the city’s Indigenous roots, its 19th-century origins, and the way a single evocative name can shape an entire urban identity. Whether you’re running the Peachtree Road Race, exploring downtown skyscrapers, or simply trying to find your hotel, you’re almost certainly on—or near—a Peachtree of one kind or another.
In short: there is one primary Peachtree Street, but roughly 70 variations that keep the name alive across metro Atlanta.
Aside from Peachtrees, Georgia’s largest city is full of sweet treats. Have you seen the donut shops in Atlanta? But there’s more: Our Ice Cream Guide will put a few calories on you.
The National Association of Black Journalists delivered a sharp public rebuke to ESPN personality and political commentator Stephen A. Smith at its 2026 convention in Atlanta, awarding him one of its “Thumbs Down” honors for what the organization called a recurring pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women.
The award was announced during the NABJ’s annual Salute to Excellence ceremony on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
NABJ Scolds Stephen A. Smith Publicly in Atlanta, Sets Off Firestorm
The “Thumbs Down” recognition is given to individuals or institutions the group believes have engaged in “especially insensitive, racist or stereotypical reporting, commentary, photography or cartooning about the Black community” or practices at odds with NABJ’s goals. Smith was one of five recipients this year—the most in the organization’s history. The others were FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, CBS News, The Washington Post, and media executive DuJuan McCoy of Circle City Broadcasting/WISH-TV.
In its citation, NABJ stated: “Smith has established a recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media. Such commentary reinforces harmful narratives, undermines the fair and respectful representation of Black women in public discourse, and stands in direct conflict with NABJ’s longstanding commitment to accurate, responsible, and inclusive portrayals of Black communities.”
The organization pointed to a series of high-profile moments rather than a single comment. These included Smith’s criticisms of former Vice President Kamala Harris, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX). In late 2025, Smith drew particular backlash for remarks about Crockett’s speaking style on Capitol Hill, describing the congresswoman—whom he called “an educated, brilliant Black woman”—as engaging in “verbiage and rhetoric for the streets.” He later apologized for those comments. NABJ President Errin Haines later referenced Smith’s public comments involving Harris, Crockett, and a spat with journalist Joy-Ann Reid as illustrative of the pattern the group found concerning.
The decision stood out because of Smith’s prior relationship with the organization. The ESPN First Take host had appeared at recent NABJ conventions, including live broadcasts of his show in 2024 and 2025. Disney, ESPN’s parent company, maintains a partnership with NABJ, and Smith has previously credited the group with helping launch his career decades earlier after he attended an NABJ job fair.
Smith did not stay silent. Shortly after the announcement, he posted on X: “This is the epitome of Christmas arriving early. The @NABJ wants to call folks out, fine! You had your turn, now mine is coming. And make no mistake…..,I’m coming. Let’s see who REALLY deserves a Thumbs Down award when it comes to the Black Community, after I say my peace! Remember @NABJ, you asked for it. I’ve shut my mouth for years. Now y’all started something.”
In a subsequent lengthy response on his YouTube show Straight Shooter, Smith called the award a “personal hit job” and “the lowest” insult he had received. He criticized NABJ for failing to contact him beforehand or present specific evidence, questioning why President Haines would make the accusation publicly without a private conversation.
“This is a journalism organization that didn’t engage in journalism when it came to critiquing me,” he said. Smith, a registered independent, suggested the move was politically motivated, arguing that his willingness to criticize Democrats rather than offer unqualified praise played a role. He also appeared on Fox News’ Hannity, where he rejected the characterization as a “flat-out lie” and noted that he was raised by Black women, including his late mother and four older sisters, and has Black daughters and nieces.
The episode marks a notable rupture. What had been a cooperative relationship—highlighted by First Take appearances at prior conventions—turned into a public feud almost overnight.
NABJ framed the awards as a call for accountability and better practices, with Haines emphasizing that partnerships do not require the organization to surrender its voice. Smith, for his part, vowed to continue speaking freely on his platforms while promising a fuller accounting of what he sees as NABJ’s shortcomings regarding the Black community.
The controversy underscores ongoing tensions within Black media and public discourse about criticism, representation, gender, and political independence. As one of the most prominent and highly compensated Black voices in sports and increasingly in politics, Smith’s clashes with figures and institutions that share aspects of his identity continue to generate intense debate.
Whether the “Thumbs Down” prompts reflection, escalation, or both remains to be seen—but the Atlanta convention made clear that NABJ was willing to call out even a longtime associate when it believed its core principles were at stake.
A new destination for energetic, shareable Indian flavors is set to open in Midtown Atlanta this weekend. Pataaka, the creation of Atlanta-based Chef Anish Nair, will debut on Saturday, August 22, at the base of Spring Quarter, the mixed-use district developed by Portman that occupies a full city block with more than 40,000 square feet of retail and dining, office space, and residences.
Named for the Hindi word for “firecracker,” the restaurant channels energy, warmth, and celebration.
Pataaka Brings Bold, Modern Indian Small Plates to Midtown Atlanta
Its modern, small-plates approach draws on regional Indian recipes from across the country, filtered through Nair’s training in New American cuisine and modern French technique.
“With Pataaka, we’re looking forward to creating a destination for the neighborhood that celebrates the breadth of recipes and culinary traditions across India,” said Executive Chef & Partner Anish Nair. “I’ve dreamed of opening this restaurant for a decade and can’t wait to finally share an experience with our guests that’s full of energy, warm service and bold flavors.”
The kitchen employs a range of techniques—sous vide, infusions, smoking, tandoor roasting, and slow-braising—to reimagine familiar flavors through Nair’s global lens.
Designed for sharing, the menu features standout small plates such as Chulbule Jhinga Tart (buttery tart shell filled with spiced tiger prawns, avocado mousse, pickled onions, tamarind glaze, and micro herbs), Oysters Rockefeller with spinach, paneer, and fennel, and Lamb Empanadas filled with spiced minced lamb seasoned with garam masala.
Heartier options include Slow-Braised Lamb Shank finished with reduced spiced jus, Old Delhi Butter Chicken made with char-grilled airline chicken thigh in a tomato-butter-fenugreek sauce, and Shrimp Malvani with jumbo shrimp in a rich coconut curry brightened by curry leaves and roasted spices.
Soups and salads round out the lighter side of the menu, among them She Crab Soup, Watermelon Thecha Salad, and Carrot Soup. Sides include Dal Makhni (black lentils with roasted garlic, cream, fenugreek, and tomato), while house-made naans and chutneys accompany the meal. Desserts lean inventive, with offerings such as Gulab Jamun Pie and Cardamom Crème Brûlée.
The beverage program, led by Beverage Director Prrateek Chaudhary, complements the food with approachable, heritage-inspired drinks. Chaudhary brings 15 years of luxury hospitality experience from properties including The Leela Palace, Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Shangri-La New Delhi, and Kiran’s in Houston.
The list is organized into three sections: Somras (signature cocktails), Aamras (non-alcoholic beverages), and Mukhwas (dessert cocktails). Many drinks feature house infusions, such as saffron vodka or curry-leaf rum. Each cocktail draws from a chapter of Chaudhary’s life across different Indian cities and states. Highlights include Whiskey Thandai (Indian single malt infused with saffron, dry fruits, and pepper, inspired by Holi), Rajni (curry leaves, infused rum, and coconut, dedicated to actor Rajinikanth), and Puchka (street-chaat flavors with tequila).
The 114-seat space, designed by local firm Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry, includes an outdoor patio and a mezzanine private dining room. The open, two-story dining room glows with warm terracotta and amber tones, decorative ceiling details, cozy banquettes, and natural light from oversized arched windows. A striking central bar anchors a mix of intimate and communal seating that reinforces the restaurant’s celebratory spirit.
Nair, who was born in Chennai and studied at IHM Chennai, has more than 25 years of culinary experience. After early work as a pastry chef in India, he moved to the United States in 2002, worked in South Carolina kitchens including Sea Pines Resort, and opened his first restaurant, Fusion, in Hilton Head in 2011. In Atlanta since 2013, he served as corporate chef for Savi Provisions, then as executive chef of Jai Ho Indian Kitchen, later helping launch its spin-off at Krog Street Market.
Pataaka joins a growing restaurant lineup at Spring Quarter that already includes ISHIN by Ito, Celestia, Sozou, and Habaneros. The campus is anchored by the historic Patterson House, which is being reimagined as a dining destination by Hal’s The Steakhouse.
Pataaka is located at 1020 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. Reservations are available through OpenTable.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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