Category: Development

Atlanta’s first bus rapid transit (BRT) line, now officially branded as the MARTA Rapid A-Line, is poised to reshape connectivity in South Atlanta, linking Downtown to the vibrant neighborhoods of Summerhill, Peoplestown, and the Atlanta BeltLine’s Southside Trail.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the MARTA Rapid A-Line, including the timeline on when it will be done.

What Is the MARTA Rapid A-Line?

The MARTA Rapid A-Line, formerly known as the Summerhill BRT, is a transit project that spans a 5-mile roundtrip route starting at Downtown’s Five Points station and ending at the Carver station near the BeltLine’s Southside Trail.

With 14 stops, 85% dedicated bus lanes, and 60-foot articulated electric buses operating every 12 to 15 minutes, the line promises rail-like speed and efficiency.

Key connections to MARTA’s heavy rail system at Five Points, Georgia State, and Garnett stations will enhance accessibility to major institutions, employment centers, and emerging residential hubs. The project also includes upgraded traffic signals, transit signal priority, level boarding stations, and real-time arrival information, ensuring a seamless rider experience.

Here is the project map, according to MARTA:

When Will the MARTA Rapid A-Line Be Completed?

However, recent updates indicate that the highly anticipated project, initially slated for a summer 2025 opening, has encountered significant hurdles, pushing full completion to fall 2026.

Despite these setbacks, the $123 million initiative remains a cornerstone of Atlanta’s transit-oriented future, with a partial opening planned for April 2026 to accommodate the FIFA World Cup.

Why the Delays?

Construction, which began in fall 2023, has faced unexpected challenges, inflating costs from an initial $58 million to $123 million. Unforeseen discoveries, including shallow utility lines and an abandoned underground parking garage in Downtown, have disrupted progress.

Notably, work at the South Downtown station (Mitchell Street at Forsyth Street) was paused after crews unearthed shallow water lines and a forgotten parking lot, while trolley tracks found on Hank Aaron Drive added further complexity. MARTA is coordinating with utility agencies and the City of Atlanta to address these issues, with utility relocation and roadwork improvements ongoing.

Periodic lane closures, traffic detours, and sidewalk disruptions are expected, particularly along MLK Jr. Drive, Mitchell Street, and Hank Aaron Drive, with construction hours from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Despite delays, the Rapid A-Line is a critical piece of Atlanta’s transit expansion, funded by a USDOT TIGER grant and the More MARTA 2040 Program, a half-penny sales tax initiative approved by voters in 2016.

The project aims to bridge neighborhoods historically divided by highway construction, fostering equitable access to jobs, affordable housing, and amenities. Local leaders, including Carter president and CEO Scott Taylor, highlight its role in sustaining Summerhill’s growth, where over $850 million in development, including a new Publix, has already taken root. “A key component of a thriving neighborhood is accessible transportation,” Taylor noted, emphasizing the BRT’s potential to drive continued investment.

Community impacts are significant, with MARTA ensuring homeowners and businesses maintain property access during construction. Residents along affected routes, particularly on Hank Aaron Drive between Ormond Street and Ridge Avenue, will receive 72-hour notices for any water service disruptions.

The agency is also engaging the public through newsletters, social media, and community meetings to keep stakeholders informed.

While the revised timeline has sparked some frustration, MARTA remains committed to delivering a transformative transit line.

Final Word

A partial opening in April 2026 will ensure service for the FIFA World Cup, with full operations expected by fall 2026. As Atlanta continues to grow, the Rapid A-Line stands to redefine mobility in South Atlanta, spurring transit-oriented development and connecting communities like never before.

The Cascade Road corridor has become a popular place to grab a meal, thanks to a bevy of hot restaurants along the way. There are some great places to eat off Cascade, Fairburn Road and the like.

Spanning Atlanta and College Park, Cascade Road is the latest street packed with restaurants. In this article, we’ll show you where to eat along Cascade.

The Best Cascade Road Restaurants

Let’s explore, shall we?

Baltimore Crab & Seafood

 1075 Fairburn Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 505-2900

Here’s what one customer says about Baltimore Crab & Seafood. “Baltimore Crab & Seafood in Atlanta is a must-visit! The vibe is lively, the service was excellent, and the food absolutely delivered. We started with the crab legs appetizer—fresh and flavorful—then had the fried chicken and lobster tail, which were both perfectly cooked. The sides were just as impressive, especially the greens with smoked turkey and the standout fried rice loaded with shrimp and lobster meat. Everything was seasoned to perfection. Highly recommend if you’re in the area and craving a memorable seafood and soul food experience!”

The Beautiful Restaurant

2260 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311

A beloved spot for soul food, known for dishes like fried fish, chicken wings, and banana pudding, offering a cozy atmosphere with attentive service.

Here’s what one customer says about The Beautiful: “I ate mac and cheese with dressing and chicken drums delicious and… Really Good.”

Oreatha’s At The Point

2287 Cascade Rd SW Unit C, Atlanta, GA 30311

This restaurant offers a refined take on American cuisine with a focus on soulful flavors, making it a standout for special occasions or casual dining.

“Find this Treasure, Worth the Effort, Another Gem from Award Winning Chef VanTrece,” says one reviewer.

Gocha’s Breakfast Bar

3695 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331

A vibrant spot for breakfast and brunch, known for its Southern-inspired dishes and lively atmosphere, perfect for starting your day.

Here’s what one customer says about Gocha’s: “Good stout coffee (just like Nawlins). The fried green tomatoes we had for an… Brunching.”

Spice House Cascade

2247 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311

This Caribbean and Jamaican restaurant is celebrated for its flavorful dishes like rasta pasta and refreshing drinks, offering a taste of the islands.

Here’s what one diner says about Spice House Cascade: “I love their salmon and lobster rasta pasta, rum punch, and great appetizers.”

Big Daddy’s Cafe

2284 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311

A long-standing favorite for soul food, serving hearty American dishes with a focus on Southern comfort in a welcoming environment.

Here’s what one eater says about Big Daddy’s Cafe. “I’m a Georgia native and had this place for the first time in 30 years of living. My goodness. Real soul food. They season it enough where it’s not too salty. I would add pepper to my Mac and cheese and a little pepper to my greens but that’s it!! I was cussing myself out eating at the same time it was so good!”

Final Word

Cascade isn’t the only place to get something to eat. Off in the cut around Atlanta, you’ll find some hidden gems here and there with great food, don’t sleep on East Point either.

If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.

More Food Coverage:

Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

• Best Restaurants On The Atlanta Beltline Right Now
• Best Restaurants To Try In East Point
• Where To Eat In Atlanta

I was at the grocery store the other day and it seems as if the prices are higher than ever. It got me to thinking about how expensive Atlanta has become in general. I mean, you get hit in so many ways, from the parking to the Uber rides to the property taxes — it’s like it never ends!

What do you think? Has Atlanta gotten more costly over the past few years?

Is Atlanta Expensive?

Believe it or not, Atlanta’s cost of living is slightly below or around the national average, depending on the source, and higher than the Georgia state average.

In this article, we’ll show you how expensive Atlanta is compared to the rest of the nation —- and other parts of Georgia.

Here are key metrics from recent estimates:

• The cost of living in Atlanta is 17.6% less expensive than Seattle (excluding rent), with rent 30.4% lower than Seattle. Estimated monthly costs are $4,792.7 for a family of four (excluding rent) and $1,329.9 for a single person (excluding rent).
• Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, internet, and phone services, range from $130 to $350.
• Atlanta’s food costs are slightly above the national average.
• Transportation costs are close to the national average, with options for public transit, driving, or taxis.

Housing

Housing is the largest expense for most households in Atlanta. If you’re considering moving to Atlanta, you should know that costs vary significantly by neighborhood and whether you rent or buy.

Rent

• Average Rent (2025):
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: $1,806.54 to $2,262 (furnished 45m² studio). Average: ~$1,900–$2,000/month.
  • 1-bedroom outside city center: $1,503.80 to $1,515 (furnished 45m² studio). Average: ~$1,500/month.
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $3,070.23. Average: ~$3,000/month.
  • 3-bedroom outside city center: $2,210 to $2,031 (85m² furnished). Average: ~$2,100/month.
  • General average rent: $1,636/month for an apartment (0.2% below national average).

Looking for a new lease? Read our guide on easy ways to lower your rent.

Mortgage

The average value of an Atlanta home is on the decline. For a median-priced home (~$395,000), monthly payments are approximately $3,162, requiring an annual household income of $126,487 to keep payments at 30% of income.

• Price per square foot: $270.10 in city center, $199.34 outside center.
• Property taxes vary by county. Fulton County: 1.09%, Gwinnett County: 1.30%, Cobb County: 0.84%.

Housing costs are rising, potentially slowing population growth. Service workers may find it hard to live in the city due to high rents and limited public transit efficiency.

Average Monthly Expenses for an Atlanta Family

Monthly Expenses Table for a Three-Person Household in Atlanta:

Category	Excluding Rent	Including Rent	Notes
Housing (Rent)	$0	$1,850	Average 2-bedroom apartment outside city center ($1,800–$1,900, Numbeo/Expatistan).
Utilities	$210	$210	Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage (~$171–$241, scaled for 3 people). Internet: $55, Phone: $100 (2 lines).
Groceries	$525	$525	~75% of family-of-four cost ($700, Apartments.com). Includes staples like milk ($3.84/gallon), eggs ($4.19/dozen), chicken ($6.62/lb).
Dining Out	$150	$150	2 inexpensive restaurant meals ($23.50 each) + 2 fast food meals ($12 each) per month.
Transportation	$350	$350	Mix of public transit (MARTA monthly pass: $95) and car use (gas: $3.10/gallon, maintenance: ~$255). Scaled from $393 (Apartments.com).
Healthcare	$135	$135	Doctor visits ($128), dentist ($142), scaled for 3 people (87% of family-of-four cost, $155). Excludes insurance premiums.
Childcare	$1,000	$1,000	Private preschool for 1 child ($1,128, Numbeo, adjusted for moderate option).
Clothing	$90	$90	Scaled from $104.80 (Numbeo, single person). Jeans: $49.38, shoes: $90–$102.
Entertainment/Leisure	$200	$200	Fitness club ($44), 2 movie tickets ($15.50 each), occasional outings. Scaled from $226.41 (Numbeo).
Goods/Services	$900	$900	Toiletries, household items, dry cleaning, etc. (~88% of $1,025, Apartments.com).
Total	$3,560	$5,410	Excludes taxes and insurance. Income needed: $64,320/year (excluding rent) to $97,380/year (including rent), pre-tax.

Final Word

Atlanta’s cost of living is ~4% below the national average but 7%–19.9% above Georgia’s average. Housing is 13% cheaper than the U.S. average, but healthcare and groceries are slightly higher.

When it comes to housing, you should know the Atlanta rental market before you lease anything.

As you might imagine, costs in affluent neighborhoods are higher while they are lower in suburbs (e.g., Decatur, McDonough: ~$1,500–$1,700 for 2-bedroom) and higher in upscale areas (e.g., Midtown: $2,500+).

The key? Look for ways to save money.

Costs can be reduced by using public transit exclusively ($95/month), shopping at discount stores, or choosing cheaper childcare options.

Want to save money on groceries and cut your bill in half? Of course, you do.

More Articles From AtlantaFi:

• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
• All The Wonderful Things To Do In Midtown Atlanta
• Best Apartments For The Price In Atlanta

Lenox Square Mall in Atlanta’s Buckhead district is expanding in a large way, adding 18 new and expanded retailers and restaurants in 2025, following a similar number of openings in 2024.

This wave of additions includes a mix of luxury brands, mass-market stores, and dining options, some of which are new to the Atlanta market or expanding their presence at the mall.

Lenox Square Is Expanding With Retailers, Restaurants

These efforts are part of a broader strategy by Simon Property Group, the mall’s owner, to keep Lenox Square relevant by catering to evolving customer demographics, particularly Gen Z and millennial shoppers.

Below are the full details based on available information.

The following businesses are confirmed to be opening or expanding at Lenox Square in 2025, with some making their Atlanta market debut:

1. Panerai (Luxury Watch Brand)
   • A high-end Swiss watchmaker, Panerai will open a new store at Lenox Square, bringing its luxury timepieces to the Atlanta market for the first time.
2. AllSaints (British Fashion Company)
   • This contemporary fashion brand has opened in the former Ted Baker space with a light remodel, offering edgy, modern apparel targeted at younger shoppers.
3. Mejuri (Jewelry Brand)
   • A luxury jewelry maker known for its minimalist, modern designs, Mejuri will open a new store at Lenox Square, appealing to fashion-forward shoppers.
4. Kelly’s Cajun Grill (Restaurant Chain)
   • This chain, offering Cajun-inspired cuisine, will open a new location at Lenox Square, adding to the mall’s diverse dining options.
5. Good American (Apparel Brand)
   • Co-founded by Khloé Kardashian, Good American focuses on inclusive sizing and contemporary fashion, opening a new store exclusive to the Atlanta market at Lenox.
6. Cole Haan (Footwear and Accessories)
   • Known for its classic American style, Cole Haan will open a new store at Lenox Square, adding to its regional presence.
7. Claire’s (Accessories and Jewelry)
   • A popular retailer for trendy accessories and jewelry, Claire’s will open a new location, targeting younger shoppers.

Expanded or Relocated Stores

In addition to new openings, several existing retailers at Lenox Square are expanding or relocating within the mall in 2025:

8. Rolex
   • Status: Expansion/Relocation
   • The luxury Swiss watch brand has upgraded its storefront, enhancing its presence in the mall’s luxury wing.
9. Burberry
   • Status: Expansion/Relocation
   • The British luxury fashion brand is expanding its store, offering a refined and renewed shopping experience near Neiman Marcus.
10. Ferragamo
    • Status: Expansion/Relocation
    • The Italian luxury brand, known for its footwear and accessories, is opening an expanded store in the luxury wing next to Neiman Marcus.

What’s Next for Lenox Square

David Vinehout, Vice President of Leasing at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, emphasized that the new mix of businesses is designed to “elevate its diverse lineup of retailers and restaurants” and create a destination for shopping, dining, and memory-making.

The focus is on attracting Gen Z and millennial shoppers with trendy, inclusive, and luxury offerings.

The 2025 additions follow a strong 2024, which saw 17 new or remodeled stores, including luxury brands like The Webster, Maje, Grand Seiko, TYR, Sandro, Cotton On, and Moncler, as well as expansions or relocations for Steve Madden, Gucci, Banana Republic, Rolex, TUMI, J.Crew, and Mayors. Some of these, like Sandro and Maje, were reintroductions to the Atlanta market after previous stints at Bloomingdale’s.

Lenox Square: A History

Opened in 1959, Lenox Square is one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeast, with over 1.5 million square feet and nearly 250 stores

It is anchored by Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Macy’s and features high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co., alongside casual retailers like Apple and Zara. The mall also offers dining options such as The Cheesecake Factory, North Italia, and True Food Kitchen.

Final Word

Simon Property Group is focusing on keeping Lenox Square relevant by introducing first-to-market concepts and expanding existing stores. This aligns with efforts to adapt to changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics.

The mall’s high sales per square foot make it one of the most profitable retail centers in the U.S., attracting top-shelf tenants despite broader retail challenges.

While new stores are opening, some retailers, including luxury brands like Fendi, Ferrari, Dolce & Gabbana, and Guess, have closed at Lenox Square in 2025. These closures reflect shifts in the retail mix, with spaces being repurposed for new tenants like Garage (replacing Guess) and SUKOSHI MART (an Asian beauty and lifestyle retailer opening in a 2,300-square-foot space).

The Atlanta area is a big city, but it’s also close enough to the countryside that you can enjoy the mountains by driving for less than an hour.

But that’s not all: Georgia has some beautiful state parks you can check out along the way. Here’s a guide.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• The Best Parks in Atlanta
• Where To Go for Outdoors Adventure in Atlanta
• Top Mountain Views Close To Atlanta

Celebrity restaurants have become quite a thing in Atlanta, Georgia. The city’s restaurant scene has plenty of room for these high-profile restaurateurs, who have increased in number in recent years.

In this article, we’re going to show you which Atlanta restaurants are owned by famous people.

What Celebrities Own Restaurants In Atlanta?

You never know who owns your favorite Atlanta restaurant. These people have made their living in movies, TV, music and other forms of entertainment, but they’ve all decided to give it a go in the kitchen, food service and hospitality industry.

There are celebrities that own restaurants in Atlanta, and there are celebrity chefs. These are celebs who have bought eateries in the city.

Nobu

3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 | (470) 945-8800

Nobu is owned by Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa, a Japanese celebrity chef and restaurateur. His eatery at Phipps Plaza in Buckhead is largely known for its bold take on traditional Japanese cuisine with Peruvian ingredients.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Nobu: “Amazing place if you’re looking for a luxury experience. The atmosphere inside the restaurant is excellent, and the service is great. Knowledgeable and attentive staff. Parking is shared with the mall, so finding a convenient spot can be a bit tricky, but there is ample parking if you’re willing to walk some, and there is valet parking. The food in the restaurant is amazing but be prepared to spend. We went for both dinner and breakfast, and I loved all the options for both. The mixed drinks are unique and delicious, and the tea and coffee is wonderful too.”

Red Room Bistro

255 Trinity Ave. SW Atlanta, Ga 30303

Love & Hip-Hop star Karlie Redd is opening Red Room Bistro, a Caribbean fusion spot in late September. Red Room Bistro marks Redd’s second restaurant venture in the Atlanta area.

Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles

3725 Main Street, College Park, GA 30337

Atlanta celebrities Ne-Yo and wife, Chef Crystal Smith, along with reality TV star Karlie Redd have teamed up to open a new restaurant in College Park: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles. The eatery opened its doors in December 2020, AtlantaFi.com has learned.

See what’s on the menu at Johny’s Chicken and Waffles.

Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles

• 1500 GA-20 #130, McDonough, GA 30253
• 5600 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342

If you like a little “tea” with your tea, celebrity chef and Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) Season 16 cast member Kelli Ferrell has two locations of her Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles, which have some good waffles as well.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Nana’s. “Ate here with my family and the food was AMAZING! Nothing fancy about the establishment & the service is ok but the food makes up for all of it! We had a variety of things the best were the fried green tomatoes, beignets, chicken sausage, creole seafood omelet, the potatoes and the chicken & red velvet w/ pecans waffle. The chicken was the best! The other items were so so the two egg sausage breakfast, the Cajun grits & strawberry waffle. We definitely will be back soon.”

V12

610 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, Ga. 30308 |  (404) 808-2067

Atlanta rapper and businessman Quavo of Migos is a partner behind the V12, a restaurant adjacent to a BP gas station.

Here’s what one customers says about V12. “I had a good experience at V12 on a Saturday evening. We were a party of 7 and they accommodated us all very efficiently. Our waitress was friendly and attentive. Our food was Brussels sprouts, Philly cheesesteak egg rolls and honey cornbread and all of it was delicious. The other guests enjoyed their speciality drinks and their food with one saying the lamb chops were under seasoned. I would advise to park in the parking garage behind the restaurant, it was $14 for 4 hours, it’s a small walk back to the restaurant. However they do offer valet. Overall I enjoyed my experience, the 4 stars are based on parking situation only.”

Trap City Cafe

660 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 901-5272

Here’s what one reviewer says about Trap City Cafe: “Before you step foot out your vehicle. $20 to park! These businesses will definitely nickel and dime you. Food was good. I think they may take the trap theme too far because eating with plastic utensils in a restaurant is crazy. Couldn’t even eat my pasta. Then they give you baby sippy cups for your non alcoholic for 4.00 which is filled with ice so more like a shot of sprite. Gone in one gulp! I didn’t even get a refill due to lack of service coming over. Also, it took 20 minutes for a server to even come over. Mind you they weren’t busy, it was pretty empty. Wings were smaller than those baby wings from American Deli lol.”

Good As Burgers

2903 RN Martin St, East Point, GA 30344

T-Boz of TLC fame is the celebrity co-owner of Good As Burgers, which is currently located at Atlanta Utility Works, 2903 RN Martin St, East Point, GA 30344, serves vegan burgers made with Beyond Meat, featuring the OG burger with GAB sauce and crispy shoestring fries.

Big Oomph Studio Kitchen

510 Fairburn Road, Suite 400, Atlanta | (404) 228-1216

Photo credit: Sylvia McAfee, City of Atlanta, Office of the Mayor

In 1996, Korey “Big Oomp” Roberson co-founded Big Oomp Records along with DJ Jelly and MC Assault. Roberson is the president and co-founder of the label. Now, he’s building a food empire after opening Big Oomph Studio Kitchen in southwest Atlanta.

The eatery has a variety of smashburgers, including the AUC Burger, SWATs Burger and Cascade burger.

Ryan Cameron’s Dough Boy Pizza Atlanta

The Gallery at South DeKalb at 2801 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30034

Renown Atlanta radio personality Ryan Cameron recently opened Dough Boy Pizza in Atlanta, Georgia.  The fast-casual restaurant concept, founded by Chef Erica Barrett, first opened in Birmingham, Alabama. Cameron’s new pizza place opened on Saturday, Feb. 12, 2023.

Read more about Dough Boy Pizza in Atlanta.

Wine And Tapas Lounge

8180 Mall Parkway, Ste. 820, Lithonia, Ga. 30038

R&B singer Jacquees recently opened a new restaurant in South DeKalb County, Georgia just outside Atlanta. The Wine and Tapas Lounge held its grand opening ceremony on January 4, 2023, in the Stonecrest Mall area. Read more about the Wine and Tapas Lounge.Read more about the Wine and Tapas Lounge.

Smokey Stallion BBQ

309 Nelson St., NE Atlanta Ga, 30313 | 404-254-1012

Smokey Stallion opened in late June 2022 in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood just south of downtown Atlanta. if you love smoked meats, this is the place. Check it out.

Chicken+Beer

Concourse D, Gate D5, Atlanta, GA 30337

Serving Options: Dine-In and Takeout

Travelers at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport love them some Chicken+Beer. Co-owned by Jackmont Hospitality and rapper, actor and businessman Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Chicken+Beer is helmed by Executive Chef Josh Lee with help from Culinary Director Chef Todd Richards.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Chicken + Beer. “So I finally got a flight during hours of operation to stop by here and all I can say is I’m mad that there are no locations outside of the airport! On my departing flight I stopped in and got hotlanta style chicken sandwich, This is by far my favorite chicken sandwich now! Creamy coleslaw that is not too sweet, pickles and the hotlanta sauce is everything.!! Sloppy but oh so good.”

Esco Restaurant & Tapas

327 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 404-941-7907

Serving Options: Dine-In, Takeout & Delivery

Escobar Restaurant & Tapas Bar is owned by rapper and entrepreneur 2 Chainz. The 3,000-square foot space situated in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood near downtown Atlanta is helmed by Executive Chef DePhon Robinson. Decadent dishes such like lobster and jumbo shrimp dot the menu.

Pizza Verdura Sincera

377 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 343-2132

Here’s what one customer says about Pizza Verdura Sincera, which is co-owned by entrepreneur Paul Jones, 2 Chainz and David Smith (El Super Pan, SmoQ’n Hot Grill, and Dos Burros, and chief investment officer at Trowbridge Partners).

Here’s what one customer says about Pizza Verdura Sincera: “My first vegan pizzeria experience. Staff was awesome and friendly. Very good quality ingredients/toppings. The cheese takes some getting used to…texture is different. The dough is good, has a nice chew, good crisp on edges, a bit dry, but overall solid. Isn’t made fresh on-site but from a good quality source. It’s really all about the vegan toppings – unique plant based options. A good change up if you’re looking for something different or have food allergies.”

Fuku

Star restaurateur and podcaster David Chang’s Momofuku restaurant group launched Fuku in Atlanta in August 2021. Fuku Chicken, which offers all varieties of fried chicken and is run out of a digital kitchen backed by Reef Technologies, allows you to order your food online. 

Fellaship

110 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. Suite 102-104, Atlanta, GA 30313 |  (404) 254-4970

NFL quarterback Cam Newton, an Atlanta native, along with brother CJ opened Fellaship back in early 2019 when the Super Bowl came to town. Now, the upscale cigar bar and restaurant serves gourmet dishes and offers a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere.

The Castleberry Hill eatery has a hearty menu that serves such favorites as Toot’s Seafood Pasta, Grilled Lobster Tail and “Ponzu” Glazed Scottish Salmon.

Frost Bistro

281 Peters St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 963-5495

Serving Options: Dine-In & Takeout

“Love and Hip Hop Atlanta” stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost opened their namesake restaurant in the Castleberry Hill area of Atlanta in 2019.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Frost Bistro. “Exceeded my expectations. I’ve ran across places like this (celebrity style restaurants) and usually not pleased. I can honestly say, everything was great. So the big guy at the door…very respectful. Explained waiting, getting your ID out and staying warm by heater while checking bags. Making it a smooth entrance even down to watch your step. Very much appreciated. Due to Covid, of course all staff was masked up and they take your temperature upon entrance. The waitresses are cute and polite. Aaliyah, our server was very sweet and helpful. The drinks were awesome and the food was bombbb. They actually cooked my lamb to medium temp as I requested. Obviously somebody’s grandma back there making that macaroni and cheese. The servings are plentiful.”

Gocha’s Breakfast Bar

Atlanta Locations:

• 834 Glynn St S suite 248, Fayetteville, GA 30214 | (770) 629-7443
• 695 Cascade Rd SW STE 440 Atlanta, GA 30331| (678) 927-9166

Serving Options: Dine-In, Takeout, Delivery & Curbside Pickup

Leave it to a celebrity hairstylist to serve up exactly what the masses need. Gocha Hawkins, known for styling the coifs of mega-personalities like Beyonce, Nicki Minaj and other stars, opened Gocha’s Breakfast Bar in January 2019 in the Cascade area of Atlanta.

She opened a second location in mid-January 2021 in Fayetteville, Georgia. See the address above and stop by!

Gocha’s Breakfast Bar’s operating hours are Monday – Friday  7 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday  7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Menu faves are Gocha’s Impossible Burger With Parmesan Truffle Fries. There’s also Gocha’s Krunch-Tastic French Toast, and “Better Than Yo Momma” Buttermilk Pancakes.

Old Lady Gang Southern Cuisine

Atlanta Locations:

• 177 Peters St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 748-9689 (closed)
• 3650 Marketplace Blvd Suite 950, East Point, GA 30344

With two standalone locations and a third inside Mercedes Benz Stadium, Old Lady Gang Southern Cuisine is Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker’s original foray into the restaurant business.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Old Lady Gang. “Atmosphere is very warming w/guest greeting. Server was very polite an made sure we had the best experience. Southern Food was good. Definitely will visit again!”

Dancin Crepe

Entrepreneurs Yandy and Mendeecees Harris, best known for their stints on the VH1 franchise Love and Hip-Hop, opened Dancin Crepe in May  2022 in downtown Atlanta.

Bankhead Seafood

 1651 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 3031 | (404) 254-1047

Atlanta rappers and entrepreneurs Killer Mike and T.I. have teamed up to buy the legendary southeast Atlanta restaurant Bankhead Seafood.

The eatery, which opened in 2024 in Grove Park, has one again become a neighborhood favorite.

Where Do Celebrities Eat In Atlanta?

Celebrities eat at their own restaurants, but you’ll also find them at some of the same establishments you enjoy for one reason or another.

Atlanta has a rich and diverse restaurant scene that emphasizes atmosphere, fun and large portions. And you never know, a celebrity just might be eating next to you.

Eateries like Old Lady Gang and Escobar make up just some of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.

How You Can Support Atlanta’s Restaurants

Atlanta has long been a celebrity playground where famous people would come to try new food businesses. Anyone remember Diddy’s Justin’s on Peachtree?

Support Atlanta’s restaurants by doing what you do best: eat, drink and be many!

The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s  food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.

Atlanta, Georgia’s restaurant scene is growing more inclusive. It seems a new celebrity is opening a local restaurant every other month. When the establishment opens, we’ll let you know!

Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.