A Downtown Love Affair
This time, last year, I was dating a guy who lived in downtown Atlanta. Like, near the Hooters on Peachtree downtown. After living in Atlanta for over 10 years, it is officially my home, but one place that I have ALWAYS steered clear of is downtown. Because, traffic. And tourists. And parking is $$$. But one day, we had a date where we walked from his place, deeper into downtown, and just roamed around. As we walked, block after block, I started to feel like an out-of-towner in my own city. I realized that I didn’t know a THING about downtown. And in fact, I kind of liked it.
This post is not really about the boy, but more about my true LOVE for downtown Atlanta. Most people go crazy over Buckhead, East Atlanta and the ever popular West Midtown. But whether you are looking for a unique date idea or you just want to venture around solo, don’t sleep on downtown Atlanta - it’s a great place to visit, hidden right under our noses.
FOR Lunch - The pantry and provisions
I pride myself on finding hidden gems - places that seems so normal, but in reality, are spectacular. And The Pantry is exactly that - half bodega, half sandwich shop, and the easiest, most delicious lunch decision you can make while wandering around downtown.
The Cuban
If you catch this sandwich on the menu, ORDER IT. Don’t think twice - this is the best cuban sandwich I have had in a while. Ok, maybe it isn’t technically a Cuban because of the corned beef. And turkey. But honestly, I don’t want to eat it any other way. As long as it has Cuban, soft bread and homemade pickles, it feels legit to me.
Besides making a near-perfect sandwich, Pantry and Provisions is a bodega-style market, carrying everything from $1 ramen to fresh-squeezed green juice and a rare collection of hot sauces. This place has the coolest vibe, hip-hop on the stereo and Topo Chico on ice - if you ever want to bring someone to a cool, quick downtown lunch, this is your spot!
No Signal
After leaving The Pantry, I wandered a few streets over and dropped into a store called No Signal. If you are a fan of rare, high-end, brand-name goods, you need to give this place a visit. I was surprised at how affordable their selection was - it was like walking into an art gallery where all of the art was replaced with the wardrobe from a 90’s music video set.
My favorite item is this see-through briefcase by Helmut Lang. It was a cool $300, and I was tempted, but didn’t bite - maybe it was made for one of you! You will certainly be THE COOLEST at your next meeting:
the candler hotel + drinks at By George
As I continued to walk, I hit a dead end at the most BEAUTIFUL building. The sign said CANDLER HOTEL and the solid gold doors at the entrance convinced me to step in.
Have you all seen this hotel? Because…it is the most oppulent hotel that I have seen downtown. Right past the gold doors is a carved, marble staircase. I can only imagine that the guestrooms would match the beautifully crafted foyer - the next time I need a staycation, I know exactly where to go!
By George
I wasn’t quite ready for dinner, but I was dying of thirst, so I stopped in the hotel’s restaurant By George. Equally as stunning as the hotel, I was surprised the bar wasn’t yet packed. I sat down and asked the bartender to surprise me, and she brought this:
The inside kick
Cognac. Cranberry. Maple. Lemon. Ginger. Cardamom.
I was in the middle of my downtown adventures, and loving them more and more. And then, COVID-19. Observing social distancing and staying home means adventures are on pause, but not at all canceled. I look forward to picking up my downtown exploration after this is all over, and when I do, I’ll share it with you. Stay well friends!