7 innovative metro Atlanta businesses offering multiple services
When it comes to value propositions, there are several metro Atlanta businesses that definitely go above and beyond by offering multiple services in one. Due to the rise of online shopping, more and more bookstores have had to close their doors, but new restaurants, bars and cafes are opening up that allow easy access to books (and other media) of all types.
And for those who have ever debated whether to run an errand or have fun, both are now possible at combination eateries/bars. This list includes seven metro Atlanta businesses that bring creative originality to a whole new level.
The Anguished Barber
While the title of the Salvador Dali piece that this barbershop-bar takes its name from is called “Barber saddened by the persistence of good weather,” there is no reason to be sad when coming to the Anguished Barber. Services include haircuts, styling and shave, while the adjacent full-service bar offers local craft beers, fine wines and craft cocktails such as the “Barbershop Punch” and “Glamping in Midtown.” Eat complimentary snacks, such as chips and chocolate, while enjoying the homey 1930-style interior decor.
Location: Midtown - 1075 Peachtree St NE; Website: theanguishedbarber.com; Contact: 678-999-7597
Auto Spa Bistro
Gear up to get your car washed, waxed and buffed while enjoying a full menu at this car wash/bistro that gets our wheel of approval. Car wash services include full detail, window tinting, detailing, paint correction, hand wax and more, while menu items include the Volvo and Beamer omelets, Mini Cooper brunch and the Bugatti Burger. Car washes typically take 30-45 minutes, so invite your friends to join you and make it a dual errand/brunch outing.
Location: West Midtown - 348 14th St NW; Website: autospabistro.com; Contact: 678-974-8187
Lucian Books and Wine
This lavish restaurant/bookstore located in the Buckhead Village district is inspired by Lucian Freud, a British painter and son of Sigmund Freud. Everything is luxurious here, from the wine list presented in a beautiful soft-cover booklet; to the presentation of the food, from the omelet with caviar to the roast duck with peach and fennel; to the elegant coffee table books about travel, cooking and contemporary art adorning the expansive walnut shelves.
Location: Buckhead - 3005 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 300; Website: lucianbooksandwine.com; Contact: 404-549-2655
The Vibrary: Wine and Bookbar
Located in Stone Mountain Village, The Vibrary is all about good wines, good books and good vibes. Explore a new wine (or two or three) while enjoying a delightful book, and attend a book club to make new friends and discover new novels. 10% of the proceeds go to owner Candace Walker’s nonprofit organization, the Ann Key Memorial Foundation, which offers college scholarships to high-performing high school seniors in financial need within DeKalb County.
Location: Stone Mountain - 970 Main St Suite A; Website: thevibrary.co; Contact: 770-680-0672
The Earl
Take a seat and enjoy the beat at this restaurant/concert venue establishment in East Atlanta Village. The restaurant section located in the front has a gritty dive-bar feel to it, featuring typical pub fares such as house burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and nachos (as well as delicious shoestring fries). The concert venue is down the hall towards the back and features both local and national indie and rock acts.
Location: East Atlanta - 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE; Website: badearl.com; Contact: 404-522-3950
Read Shop by The Merchant
This cozy Vinings Jubilee spot is a picture-perfect hipster coffee lover’s dream, ideal for the ‘Gram or just your whimsical fantasies. The cafe serves Stumptown Coffee and offers a wide selection of books. Sip on a cappuccino and pastry on the outdoor patio while reveling in a new book on a lazy day.
Location: Vinings - 4300 Paces Ferry Rd SE; Website: readshopatl.com; Contact: 678-742-7853
My Parents’ Basement
Old-school nostalgia meets new-school libations at this taproom, comic book store and pinball arcade in Avondale Estates that puts your actual parents’ basement to shame. The selection of comic books and graphic novels is expansive and appeals to both comic aficionados and rookie readers. This establishment is also one of Atlanta’s top pinball venues, offering 20 pinball machines ranging from Star Wars to Stranger Things. And let’s not forget the food and drinks: pair classic pub food with a wide selection of draft beers, as well as cocktails and wine. Special events include pinball tournaments, comic book signings and trivia nights.
Location: Avondale Estates - 22 N Avondale Rd; Website: myparentsbasementcbcb.com; Contact: 404-292-4607