A historic foodie haven: Your city guide to Avondale Estates

Just east of Decatur, you might notice something strangely out of time: Tudor English buildings stand amidst a sea of strip malls and new development. You haven’t stepped into Shakespearean times, but rather into the enclave of Avondale Estates.

Established a century ago by George Francis Willis, the city was named in honor of Shakespeare’s birthplace and its main strip was built in the style of olden times. (Also stuck in the past were its founder’s exclusionary and controversial views on race). It was built as a model suburb close to the big city, with its unique commercial row, homes and large central park.

These days, Avondale Estates has sworn off its founder’s past to become the quieter, cozier cousin of neighboring Decatur. That same commercial row is home to multiple pubs, diverse cuisines to eat, and unique retailers. It’s a mile or so away from Agnes Scott College, and there’s a major MARTA station right in town. The one thing there isn’t? Live theatre. Pity the Bard.

What can I do for fun in Avondale Estates?

Rise and shine at the Waffle House Museum. Did you know that the very first Waffle House opened up right here in Avondale Estates? While the chain has since gone on to notoriety for its hash browns, cheap eats, and colorful late-night customer interactions, the daytime hours at the Waffle House Museum take you back to a simpler time. Explore the history of Waffle House’s first diner, its founders, and its unique environments every Wednesday. Private group tours must be booked online, but the museum is hosting two open houses: September 7 and December 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come nerd out in My Parent’s Basement. It’s not my parent’s actual basement, but this combination pub, arcade, and lounge harkens back to the cozy vibes of being a teenager. An Avondale staple for over nine years, this pub is a great place to grab a bite or a drink while you browse their extensive comic book collection. Bring friends to compete in one of their many pinball and arcade games lining the walls. (There are even tournaments for those with a competitive side!)

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Avondale Estates?

Rising Son

This brunch restaurant at the corner of Avondale’s faux Tudor strip has food as cozy as its surroundings. They may have a simple menu, but the flavors are complex and tasty. Start your day with their crispy breakfast dumplings, filled with pork, ginger, and a sweet maple glaze. Hop an ocean to try the chorizo tacos or their flatbread with eggs, olives, and peppers. Or if you want something classically Southern, the CBCB fried chicken biscuit will hit the comfort food spot.

Location: 124 N. Avondale Road; Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Website: risingsonavondale.com

Arepa Mia

Newly honored with a Michelin bib gourmand recommendation, this long-standing Venezuelan eatery churns out the freshest arepas around. They serve their namesake sandwiches with a wide variety of fillings from spicy chicken to red wine-soaked beef to fried tilapia, all stuffed between two halves of a crispy corn cake. Pair them with beans and rice, fried plantains, or crispy yuca fries for a full meal and enjoy it all on their relaxing patio.

Location: 10 N Clarendon Avenue; Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: arepamiaatlanta.com

Leftie Lee’s

Believe the hype about this colorful bakery in the new Olive + Pine development. Start your day with chef Vivian Lee’s fresh pastries (usually with a twist) and enjoy a hefty breakfast burrito or bacon egg and cheese sandwich topped with a crispy bun and kimchi mayo. Weekends bring a brunch stacked with fun twists like a Korean fried chicken biscuit baked with kimchi and smothered in gochujang butter and peppered gravy on top of their standard sandwich fare.

Location: 6 Olive Street, Suite 115B; Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Website: leftielees.com

Vietvana Pho Noodle House

As the weather turns cooler, sometimes a warm bowl of broth and noodles hits the spot. This Vietnamese restaurant has just the thing for you, whether for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. Grab a big bowl of pho with rich beef broth, thick noodles, and tender meat of your choosing. Just as filling are their banh mi sandwiches, with fresh crispy bread, veggies, and an array of meat choices like traditional pork or lemongrass beef. If you need a boost on the go, sip on their Vietnamese coffee or a fruit smoothie.

Location: 2831 E College Avenue; Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: vietvana.com

Wild Heaven Beer Garden

End your day relaxing on the expansive patio of this chill beer garden tucked away from the hustle and bustle. Choose from drinks brewed on-site, spanning European-style beers, seltzers, and more with creative names and flavorful twists. If you’re feeling peckish, order a savory burger or sandwich from Ginsberg’s Refresher, their dining partner stationed in an adjacent camper. Wild Heaven is also dog-friendly and nerd-friendly, hosting weekly trivia games on Tuesdays.

Location: 135B Maple Street; Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 3-9 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Website: wildheavenbeer.com/avondale