East meets best: Your neighborhood guide to East Atlanta

Nestled just over the county line in DeKalb County and right below Interstate 20, lies the funky and growing neighborhood of East Atlanta. Whether you enjoy quality food, concerts, late-night dancing, or vibrant murals, East Atlanta’s winding roads are in the middle of it all.

Its location off a major route is nothing new, as what is today Flat Shoals Avenue has been a trade route for the Creek natives and a major intersection for farm trade en route to Stone Mountain. Following the Battle of Atlanta (fought here at the intersection of Glenwood and Flat Shoals) during the Civil War, this sleepy suburb started to grow as streetcars reached further and further out of Atlanta proper. It added several stores and residences, and by 1909, East Atlanta was formally incorporated.

The neighborhood was also a hotbed during the Civil Rights Movement in the mid-20th century. Civil rights groups targeted the area for integration, and middle-class black families began moving to the area. Next, the interstate plowed through the north end of East Atlanta, but throughout the decades, East Atlanta peacefully maintained its blend of demographics. Nowadays, East Atlanta welcomes young families of all stripes and serves as a unique local hangout for all Atlantans.

What can I do for fun in East Atlanta?

Dance the night away, above and below ground. Lying beneath a fancy renovated food hall, the grungy dance hall The Basement refuses to change unless that change is their many music genres. They have the jams you need — from weekly retro music nights to karaoke, to themed dance parties honoring everyone from Outkast to Chappell Roan. Celebrating Pride this October? Head to Mary’s, the well-known gay club around the corner. Weekly dance parties, lively hangouts, and a bevy of drinks await.

Get up close and personal with musicians at The Earl. This cozy concert venue in the back of the beloved pub The Earl gets you close to the action. There’s no stadium seating here, just a small stage and a hundred of our fellow music fans. You can see a small band before they hit it big, or a major comedian like John Early. And if you’re a little early, be sure to grab a delicious sandwich or burger up front. Check out the lineup at badearl.com. 21 and up only.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in East Atlanta?

Joe’s Coffee Shop

Start your day off with a cozy cup of joe at this long-running East Atlanta coffee shop. They’ve got all sorts of caffeine to fuel you — from espresso to cold brew to teas. Their spacious interior is filled with funky local art and has a variety of seating options, whether you want to sip on cozy couches or work from a table.

Location: 510 Flat Shoals Ave SE; Hours: Every day, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Website: instagram.com/joescoffeeeav

Argosy

This cavernous gastropub is one of the neighborhood’s prime hangout spots. Their long, central bar has rows of rotating taps featuring mostly local Georgia brews. If you’d like a more relaxed time, grab a table at one of their multi-tiered spots and dig into one of their fresh wood-fired pizzas. Argosy also serves wings, chunky sandwiches, and gooey appetizers like four-cheese mac or poutine. Their nautical-themed back room is a great place to lounge, play games, or see a live act.

Location: 470 Flat Shoals Ave SE; Hours: Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. to midnight; Website: argosy-east.com

Gaja Korean Bar

Hidden off the side of a parking lot lies a tiny bar with big flavor. Grab a seat at the bar or a table in this industrial diner and get ready to enjoy an array of Korean classics. Whether you want small appetizers like kimchi or stir fry or dumplings, or something bigger, Gaja has you covered. Standout dishes include their glass noodles with bone marrow and peppers, and the spicy gochujang fried chicken.

Location: 491 Flat Shoals Ave SE A; Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Website: gajaeav.com

Southern Feed Store

Every neighborhood these days wants to open a food hall, but only a few are worth their real estate. This small food hall has risen from the dead in the former Graveyard Tavern spot and features a welcome array of cuisines. There’s local cheesesteak favorite Woody’s, a Southern staple in Waffle Bar (Belgian waffles, chicken, and more), Brazilian-inspired pizza at Brasiliana, and more. The venue also hosts live music and other neighborhood events.

Location: 1245 Glenwood Ave SE; Hours: Hours vary, see website for details; Website: sfseav.com

Banshee

Lest you think East Atlanta only has casual dining options, Banshee is here to wow your palette. Their award-winning New American fare is cooked with local ingredients and has been recognized by local outlets and Michelin alike. Take a seat in the moody dining hall and start your dinner with a crisp wine and some equally crisp fry bread, topped with pepperoni and seasoning. Then move on to the entrees, with a rotating selection of beautifully plated steaks, pasta, and fish dishes.

Too fancy for you? Stay late. The bar is open after dinner service on weekends and currently transitions to their Screamin’ Weenies hot dog menu alongside live music acts.

Location: 1271 Glenwood Ave SE; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Website: banshee-atl.com