Atlanta food lovers, rejoice—EATS is back! The beloved comfort-food institution, known for its hearty meat-and-threes, legendary jerk chicken, and eclectic pasta dishes, is reopening this spring at the vibrant Lee + White complex along the Westside BeltLine.
After 32 years of serving up affordable, soul-satisfying meals on Ponce de Leon Avenue near Ponce City Market, EATS closed its doors in October 2025 due to rising property taxes, water bills, and other economic pressures.
EATS Is Re-Opening, Moving To Food Hall
The news left the city mourning the loss of a true Atlanta institution that had become a cross-section of the city—where tattooed locals, office workers, college students, and everyone in between gathered for a no-frills, high-flavor experience.
But the story doesn’t end there. In a heartwarming twist announced on January 6, 2026, Wild Heaven Beer has acquired the EATS brand and will bring it back to life inside their West End taproom at the Lee + White development.
EATS said in an Instagram post: “”Same vibe. Same energy. Just a new home in the West End with the good folks at Wild Heaven Beer, which also means a much fuller beer situation. Growth.”
The brewery, already a staple in Atlanta’s craft beer scene, plans to honor the restaurant’s legacy with 99% fidelity to the original experience.
Co-owners Nick Purdy and Eric Johnson, along with longtime EATS fans Brent and Amity Dey, are stepping up as stewards of the brand. “We’re not trying to be a tribute band,” Purdy said. “We’re trying to be the band and keep it going.”
What Can Customers Expect on the Menu?
The new location will feature the classic menu that Atlantans know and love—including the epic return of the pasta dishes—alongside Wild Heaven’s own food offerings. Expect the same jerk chicken, veggies, meat-and-threes, and that welcoming, eclectic vibe that made EATS special.
The team is even incorporating original EATS furniture, decor, and kitchen equipment into the space, and longtime manager Levi Nichols will help ensure continuity.
The former owner, Bob Hatcher, expressed excitement about the revival, noting how a group passionate about preserving Atlanta’s culinary history approached him to keep the brand alive.
When Will EATS Re-Open in Atlanta?
Set to open in March 2026, this rebirth is already generating massive buzz—EATS’ Instagram announcement about the “phoenix rising from the ashes” received nearly 1,000 excited comments in hours.
The Lee + White complex, with its mix of breweries, food halls, and BeltLine access, provides the perfect modern home for this classic Atlanta spot.
Final Word
For generations of locals who grew up grabbing a plate at EATS, this isn’t just a reopening—it’s a celebration of the city’s enduring food soul.
Stay tuned for more details on the exact opening date and any menu tweaks as the team prepares to welcome back old fans and introduce the spot to new ones.
Welcome home, EATS. Atlanta’s been waiting for you.
Speaking of dining in the city, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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