Guestbook Atlanta Nov 2019 by Morris Media Network

Atlanta

Located in the heart of Atlanta’s Convention District, just steps away from all major hotels.

Seduce Your Senses

60 Andrew Young International Blvd NE • Atlanta, GA 30303 • 404-577-8788 www.truvaatlanta.com

Downtown’s after-hours conventioneer hot spot

KARAOKE

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

OPEN 24 HOURS Andrew Young International Boulevard & Peachtree Center Avenue metrocafediner.com • 404-577-1420

A Cut Above. CutsAtlanta.com

CUTS steakhouse

60 Andrew Young International Blvd NE â&#x20AC;¢ Atlanta, GA 30303 404-525-3399 | www.cutsatlanta.com

‘ PILIAINA

BE CONNECTED TO THIS LAND. BE IMMERSED IN THIS PARADISE. WHERE A LEGENDARY EXPERIENCE AWAITS YOUR ARRIVAL. WELCOME TO OUR LEGACY.

WHERE 110 RENOWNED RETAILERS & 30 DINING DESTINATIONS CREATE ONE TIMELESS PARADISE. THIS LAND IS

OUR LEGACY. THIS IS HELUMOA AT ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER.

Open Daily 10am–10pm | Kalākaua Avenue and Seaside, Waikīkī | 808.922.2299

FREE WIFI

EVERY VISIT IS A RUSH

CONTENTS 14

FIRST LOOK From sports legacies and cultural icons to the biggest attractions—get a glimpse of integral threads that make up the fabric of Atlanta.

UNCOMMON GROUND Picturesque Oakland Cemetery deftly balances its role as a memorial ground studded with tombstones grand and humble, and vibrant communal space. BY JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN

A DIFFERENT NARRATIVE ON DISPLAY Atlanta galleries are turning the spotlight on African American artists. BY MURIEL VEGA

SHOPPERS’ STOPS REIMAGINED When it comes to offering an unforgettable shopping experience, these destinations are right on target. BY JENNIFER MCKEE

FLAVORS ON THE FAST LANE The sheer number of eclectic food choices along Buford Highway can leave even repeat visitors befuddled. We share our favorite spots. BY LIA PICARD

ALL ABOUT TOWN A peek into the bustling communities that make Atlanta the colorful city it is.

PARTING SHOT An oasis in Midtown, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is also a hive of activity as robust as its displays.

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ON THE COVER: MOON JELLIES AT THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM. THESE TRANSLUCENT CREATURES CHANGE COLOR DEPENDING ON WHAT THEY’VE EATEN. COURTESY GEORGIA AQUARIUM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN; COURTESY ATLANTIC STATION; ©ALPHARETTA CVB

ATLANTA G UE S T B O OK

AN ATLANTA FAVORITEg 10 LOCATIONS Buckhead Kennesaw Grant Park Downtown Midtown Duluth Perimeter Mall of Georgia Emory Point East Cobb

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Margaret Martin MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer McKee GROUP EDITOR

Kalpana Ramgopal

ASSISTANT EDITORS Scott Rouch, Tyler Strong CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jennifer Keller Vaz

ART DIRECTOR Veronica Montesdeoca PHOTO EDITOR Vincent Hobbs ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Kiara Bouyea

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lia Picard, Muriel Vega CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Jon-Michael Sullivan

MVP I MANUFACTURING & PUBLICATION SERVICES DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton PUBLICATION SERVICES DIRECTOR Karen Fralick

Mickey Kibler Erik Lewis

PUBLICATION SERVICES MANAGER IMAGE & RETOUCH MANAGER

MVP I HOSPITALITY RELATIONS & DISTRIBUTION REGIONAL MANAGER - HOSPITALITY RELATIONS, DISTRIBUTION & EVENTS

Kristina Drew

E-MAILS FOR ALL MVP EMPLOYEES, EXCEPT CONTRIBUTORS: FIRSTNAME.LASTNAME@MORRIS.COM

MVP ATLANTA, SALES OFFICE 1820 Independence Square, Suite A Dunwoody, GA 30338 Phone: 678.259.9275 www.wheretraveler.com

Savor deeplY, , sip robustly & speak loudly as you re among friends...Salud!

TRADITIONAL & MODERN SPANISH CUISINE

3035 peachtree rd / atl / 30305 / 404 939 9840 / gypsykitchenatl.com

OPEN DAILY AT 4PM

SUNDAY BRUNCH 11AM

WhereTraveler® GuestBook® publishes editions for the following U.S. cities and regions: Arizona, Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas/Fort Worth, Florida Gold Coast (Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach), Fort Worth, Island of Hawai‘i, Houston, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Kansas City, Kaua‘i, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Northern Arizona, O‘ahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Reno/Lake Tahoe, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle/ The Eastside/Tacoma, Southwest Florida (Naples), Tampa Bay, Tucson, Washington D.C. ©2019 by Morris Visitor Publications. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement. Printed in the United States of America.

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ATLANTA G UE S T B O OK

ADVERTISING JAMES G. ELLIOTT CO., INC. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Pat O’Donnell GROUP PUBLISHER - SOUTHEAST REGION Mark Reid

407.650.2218, m.reid@jgeco.com MARKET MANAGER Kimberly G. Watkins

323.806.1551, k.watkins@jgeco.com MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT Donna W. Kessler CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Dennis Kelly VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS Angela E. Allen DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL OPERATIONS Jamie Turner

JudithBright.com

In the Heart of Virginia Highland 1030 North Highland Avenue NE | 404.803.0915

DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Scott Ferguson CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER - CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS Haines Wilkerson E-MAILS FOR ALL MVP EMPLOYEES: FIRSTNAME.LASTNAME@MORRIS.COM

Upscale, One-of -a-Kind, Vintage Handbags

Inside 14th Street Antiques and Modern Home 530 14th Street Atlanta, GA 30318

MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III PRESIDENT & CEO William S. Morris IV

WhereTraveler® GuestBook is produced by Morris Visitor Publications (MVP), a division of Morris Communications, Co., LLC. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901, morrismedianetwork.com. WhereTraveler® magazine and the WhereTraveler® logo are registered trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications. MVP publishes WhereTraveler® magazine, WhereTraveler® QuickGuide, IN New York, and IN London magazines, and a host of other maps, guides, and directories for business and leisure travelers, and is the publisher for the Hospitality Industry Association. In Atlanta, WhereTraveler® GuestBook is pleased to be a member of the following associations.

www.perseboutique.com persecontact@gmail.com

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MVP IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF LES CLEFS D’OR USA

CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer McKee

Shoppers’ Stops Reimagined, page 32 Jennifer McKee is the managing editor of Morris Visitor Publications, where she has worked since 2005. Growing up in small-town Michigan spurred a love of travel, and working for travel publications has only poured fuel on that passion—her list of must-visit destinations is longer now than ever before. So even as she looks to tick off another city from that list, she lives vicariously through the great team of WhereTraveler editors. She loves to explore Atlanta one neighborhood at a time, but in researching this shopping feature, she took the phrase “shop ‘til you drop” to a happy new extreme.

Lia Picard

Flavors on the Fast Lane, page 36 Lia Picard is a freelance journalist and writer living in Atlanta. She writes about food, travel, interior design and the interesting people she meets along the way. You can find her work in The Washington Post, Playboy, House Beautiful, and Atlanta Magazine. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring the Big Peach with her husband and infant.

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Muriel Vega

A Different Narrative on Display, page 28 Muriel Vega is an Atlanta-based journalist who writes mostly about tech and its intersection with food, arts and culture. She has contributed to The Guardian, Atlanta Magazine, The Washington Post, Apartment Therapy and Eater. She spends her time eating her way through Buford Highway, hanging out with her husband and dogs, and exploring Atlanta’s arts scene.

Jennifer McKee

Jon-Michael Sullivan Uncommon Ground, page 22

Jon-Michael Sullivan is an award-winning editorial and commercial photographer based in Atlanta. He is the owner and lead photographer of JM Sullivan Creative, which works with brands and publications to provide photography and videography that is captivating and memorable. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication (ABJ ‘10) and currently serves on the Grady Society Alumni Board.

Muriel Vega

Lia Picard

Jon-Michael Sullivan

FIRST LOOK

©SEAN PAVONE/DREAMSTIME.COM

Following a nod to the Olympics, our visual trip through Atlanta takes in sites brimming with history, cultural cachet and eye-opening experiences.

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Centennial Olympic Park

This 21-acre park is a permanent legacy to the 1996 Olympic games. A starting point for many visitors, it offers easy access to the Georgia Aquarium, CNN Center and SkyView Ferris wheel. It features several monuments dedicated to Olympic ideals and a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playground. In the summer, kids frolic in the Fountain of Rings, a safe, zero-depth pool; in the winter, the park is turned into a wonderland with an open-air ice skating rink. 265 Park Ave. W. NW, Downtown, 404.222.7275, www.centennialpark.com

FIRST LOOK

World of Coca-Cola

Georgia Aquarium

Impressive in scope and teeming with wonderful experiences, this Atlanta staple is a must-see. Current favorites among visitors are two rescued Southern sea otters—the species is on the endangered list. Gibson, pictured, was three weeks old when he was separated from his mother during a storm near the California coastline. When the response team’s efforts to unite the pup with his mom failed, euthanasia seemed the only option until they realized a crew from the Georgia Aquarium was in California preparing to take in Mara— another stranded pup. The two otters now call the Georgia Aquarium home sweet home. And with plans for a new gallery dedicated to the oft-misunderstood shark set to open in fall 2020, the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere continues to amaze. 225 Baker St. NW, 404.581.4000, www.georgiaaquarium.org 16

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FROM TOP: ©ANTHONY MASTERSON; COURTESY GEORGIA AQUARIUM

Immerse yourself in artifacts, works of art and interactive experiences that represent the timeless appeal of the world’s best-known soft drink. Hang out in the Pop Culture Gallery (right), rub elbows with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, visit a functioning bottling line and watch a 4-D movie. Then, take your taste buds on a trip around the globe with more than 100 samples (arranged geographically) in the tasting room. 121 Baker St. NW, Downtown, 404.676.5151, www.worldofcoca-cola.com

DID YOU KNOW THAT OVER 700 MOVIE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTIONS HAVE BEEN

THE HUNGER GAMES

FILMED IN DOUGLASVILLE AND DOUGLAS COUNTY, GA? VISIT FILMING SITES USED IN SOME OF

THE HAVES AND THE HAVE NOTS

YOUR FAVORITE TELEVISION AND MOVIE PRODUCTIONS, LIKE “STRANGER THINGS,” “THE HAVES AND HAVE NOTS,” “SCREAM,” “THE MULE,” “MACGYVER,”

MACGYVER

“HUNGER GAMES,” AND SO MANY MORE! D FROM DOWNTOWN DOUGLASVILLE TO SWEETWATER CREEK STATE PARK, AND

STRANGER THINGS

ALL THROUGHOUT DOUGLAS COUNTY, YOU’LL FIND SEVERAL OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED FILMING LOCATIONS THAT ARE PHYSICALLY MARKED WITH A “DC

THE MULE

FILM TRAIL” SIGN.

THE OFFICIAL

DOUGLAS COUNTY FILM TRAIL

SCREAM

FIRST LOOK

One look at the gargantuan helmet wall, made up of more than 770 college team helmets, puts into perspective the scope and legacy of college football in this country. And in the Southeast, that legacy borders on religion. Boasting an Indoor Playing Field where visitors can test their skills, virtual reality tours of stadiums and a display of the National Championship and Heisman Trophies, this place is pure college football nirvana. 250 Marietta St. NW, 404.880.4800, www.cfbhall.com

Center for Puppetry Arts

Since 1978, when Kermit the Frog and Jim Henson cut the ribbon, the Center for Puppetry Arts has been the premier organization dedicated to the art of puppet theater. Its mission to educate, enlighten and entertain children and adults about puppetry through performances, workshops and community programs has helped establish a reputation as a unique cultural jewel in Atlanta’s crown. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, 404.873.3089, www.puppet.org 18

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FROM TOP: ©THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME; PHOTO BY SARA HANNA PHOTOGRAPHY

College Football Hall of Fame

A 75-ACRE THRILL RIDE 2020 SPECIAL EXHIBITS

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience Feb. 8 - May 3

Survival of the Slowest

Nature’s Ninjas

June 6 – Sept. 6

Amazing Animals: Built to Survive Oct. 10 – Jan. 3

See Stegosaurus, Giganotosaurus, T. rex, Argentinosaurus and other dinosaurs, too.

A WORLD OF WOW Atlanta’s Science and Nature Experience FernbankMuseum.org | @FernbankMuseum

FIRST LOOK

Fernbank Museum

Center for Civil and Human Rights

Harnessing Atlanta’s legacy of civil rights history to strengthen the worldwide movement for human rights, this groundbreaking center serves as the ideal place to reflect on the past, transform the present and inspire the future. Established in 2007, the 42,000-square-foot facility is located adjacent to the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Explore rotating exhibits and leave empowered to join the crucial conversation in your own community. 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., Downtown, 678.999.8990, www.civilandhumanrights.org 20

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FROM TOP: COURTESY FERNBANK MUSEUM; ©YVONNE BYOD

Whether it’s dinosaurs inside or its unique outdoor experience, Fernbank Museum is a natural history wonderland. There are 75 acres of outdoor adventures, including Fernbank Forest, which at 65 acres is the largest old-growth Piedmont forest in a major U.S. city. Other attractions include an elevated boardwalk winding through the trees and over the terrain at WildWoods, a multi-sensory play area, a 3-D theater and exhibitions that connect you to culture and nature. 767 Clifton Road, NE, 404.929.6400, www.fernbankmuseum.org

a place of peace, tranquility, and harmony... www.BAPS.org/Atlanta The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was inaugurated in August of 2007 after only 17 months of construction time utilizing 1.3 million volunteer hours. The Mandir is comprised of 3 types of stone (Turkish limestone, Italian marble, and Indian pink sandstone). More than 34,000 individual pieces were carved by hand in India, shipped to the USA and assembled in Lilburn like a giant 3-D puzzle. Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Guruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir | 460 Rockbridge Road NW Lilburn, GA 30047

UNCOMMON GROUND The many faces of picturesque Oakland Cemetery PHOTOS BY JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN

This page: The Tombstone Trotters Run Club hits the stretch along Bell Tower Ridge at Oakland Cemetery. Opposite page: Morning light shines on the Jewish Flat, one of three Jewish burial areas in the cemetery.

A memorial site, a meeting place, a city landmark—storied Oakland Cemetery gracefully embraces those labels within the folds of its 48 acres. The city’s oldest public park is where notables such as author Margaret Mitchell, golfer Bobby Jones and mayor Maynard Jackson, the first African American to claim that title in Atlanta, among others, have been laid to rest. Ornate mausoleums stand alongside humble tombstones in this gorgeously landscaped terrain dotted with grand magnolias and oaks. Join us in a journey through a communal space frequented by runners and yoga enthusiasts, where recurring plant and holiday wreath sales, Sunday picnics, scavenger hunts and tours add vibrancy to a solemn setting. WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK

This page: Gothic Revival style Marsh Mausoleum is the final resting place of Atlanta businessman Edwin W. Marsh. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: The Neal family monument with its Victorian flourishes; Austell Mausoleum is the burial site of finance big wig Alfred Austell; the grave of Maynard Jackson, the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first AfricanAmerican mayor; members of The Tombstone Trotters Run Club enjoy a quiet stroll.

WHERET RAV EL ER ÂŽ GUEST BOOK

This page: Laura Barton and Leigh Anne Neal, of Nirvana Yoga, lead a yoga class. Opposite page: View from Bell Tower Ridge of the skyline and sunset over Oakland Cemetery.

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A DIFFERENT NARRATIVE ON DISPLAY Atlanta galleries are turning the spotlight on African American artists BY MURIEL VEGA

THIS PAGE: ©ROMARE BEARDEN FOUNDATION/VAGA AT ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK. PHOTO BY PAUL TAKEUCHI; OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY HIGH MUSEUM OF ART

As the hub for the Civil Rights Movement in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Atlanta carries a rich history of growth and perseverance, evidenced in its many streets and landmarks. The Hammonds House Museum is one of those landmarks, tucked away in Atlanta’s historic West End community. Recently revitalized by the Atlanta BeltLine, the predominantly African American neighborhood is quickly changing as investors continue to renovate the area. But the museum remains as majestic as ever. The house was previously the residence of arts patron Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds, who had amassed a collection of more than 250 artworks. After the museum changed hands a few times, it came into its current form in 1988 and now boasts a permanent collection of more than 350 works from African American and international artists. Museum executive director Leatrice Ellzy, who took over at Hammonds in 2017, has curated exhibitions and tapped into the community for guest curators. “I like the idea of mixing up

the voice of the museum,” she says. Voices and stories are what Atlanta artist Shanequa Gay’s “Lit Without Sherman: A Love Letter to the West End” is all about. On view until Dec. 22, 2019, the site-specific murals and video depict changes in the West End neighborhood by tying the past to the present and through the voices of community members. “We’re capturing people’s stories that live in the West End so that we can take this time in history and freeze it for a moment,” says Ellzy. “The conversation was inspired by the fact the Hammonds House didn’t burn during the Civil War as the West End was an outpost to Atlanta,” she says. Future exhibitions in 2020 at the museum will explore the “social complication of ‘blackness’ in America” (“Translocation & Transfiguration”), how Africans of the diaspora have changed (“Nu Africans”) and crunk music (“Art of Crunk”). Another space dedicated to providing a platform for black artists is ZuCot Gallery. One of the largest African American art galleries in the Southeast, Castleberry Hill’s ZuCot

This page: Romare Bearden (American, 1911–1988), “Profile/ Part I, The Twenties, Mecklenberg County, School Bell Time,” 1978, collage on board. Kingsborough Community College, The City University of New York. Opposite page: The High Museum of Art.

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Gallery specializes in original works by African American and black artists in Atlanta and from the African diaspora. “African American artists have been overlooked for so long, and they’re currently becoming major entrants in the art community,” says managing partner Onaje Henderson. ZuCot was established a decade ago with a humble idea—to encourage the African American community to collect art as a way to tell these artists’ stories. The team looks to the artist’s narrative and unique perspective when selecting works for the gallery. That vision is at the core of the gallery’s educational component. Once a month, ZuCot invites members of the community to the gallery to demystify the art of collecting. “It’s always seen as something that you have to be an expert at or it’s an intimidating process,” says Henderson. Arnika Dawkins, owner of the Arnika Dawkins Gallery that focuses on collecting images of and by African Americans, agrees. “My goal is to have these talented artists’ work seen by a wider audience and also to expose people to the joys of collecting art,” says Dawkins. The gallery took a plunge into the Black Lives Matter movement with “#InHonor: Monoliths,” an exhibition by Chicagoan Ervin A. Johnson that honors the lives lost to police brutality and racism. It’s on display until Feb. 7, 2020. “Fine arts photography has a conceptual idea that stops

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FROM LEFT: COURTESY ARNIKA DAWKINS GALLERY; ©PHOTO BY BRIAN CHRISTIAN

From left: A piece from Ervin A. Johnson’s ‘#InHonor: Monoliths’ at Arnika Dawkins Gallery. The Welcoming Committee mural by Atlanta artist Shanequa Gay is part of an exhibition at Hammonds House Museum titled ‘Lit Without Sherman: A Love Letter to the West End.’

us to think about what the artist intends for us to know, or maybe feel or experience,” says Dawkins. Upcoming exhibitions at Arnika Dawkins Gallery include “Black Girl Magic” and “Atlanta on My Mind,” and for the Atlanta Celebrates Photography Festival in October, the gallery will feature Jeanine Michna-Bales’ solo show “Standing Together: Inez Milholland Boissevain’s Final Campaign for Women’s Suffrage.” Henderson of ZuCot believes African American art is on the rise, with many museums and art collectors realizing that they’re missing a unique outlook on American life. “This is not just about black history; it’s not just about African Americans. It’s about the history of the United States in general, and we’re telling another piece of that story,” he says. At Spelman College Museum of Fine Art, telling a specific piece of that story includes highlighting women of the African diaspora. The museum is located inside Spelman College in the historic Atlanta University Center. “Works by and about women of the African diaspora have historically been under-exhibited, under-researched and undervalued,” says director Andrea Barnwell Brownlee, Ph.D. “The museum, with its unique mission, provides a platform to reverse these historical trends.” As Spelman College Museum of Fine Art gears up to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2021, Brownlee says its legacy is front and center. “Now, more than ever, the museum is focused on honoring its mission, committed to presenting important projects and passionate about stretching the boundaries of its practice,” she says. Brownlee has curated an exhibition (on display until Dec. 7, 2019) on American abstract artist Mildred Thompson, who spent a large chunk of her career (1986-2003) in Atlanta. After accepting an artist-in-residence at Spelman, she lived the remainder of her life in the city, and this is the first large-scale solo exhibition of her work in Atlanta. Following Thompson, the museum heralds renowned artist Theaster Gates’ “The Black Image Corporation,” a participatory exhibition that explores the legacy of the publishing house behind the magazines Ebony and Jet and how it influenced African American identity. Across the city, The High Museum of Art, which has a long-standing reputation as one of the top museums for

COURTESY ZUCOT GALLERY

African American art, has also been championing minority artists under the eye of modern and contemporary art curator Michael Rooks. “Atlanta is one of the most diverse cities I’ve ever lived in,” says Rooks, who has lived in the city for more than 10 years. “This fact has led me to find and to get to know artists that represent different communities, from African American to Korean, Jamaican, Vietnamese, Mexican and more.” Rooks leveraged those relationships as a curator and launched the “Of Origins” series to promote Atlanta artists, showcasing work relevant to today’s issues. The most recent series displayed work by six artists, including Jamaican-born Cosmo Whyte, who focused on his experience with immigration. The High Museum reunited more than 30 collages by legendary black artist Romare Bearden for the first time in nearly half a century in the exhibit “Something Over Something Else,” on display until February, 2020. It encompasses Bearden’s life, from childhood in North Carolina to his days as a young artist in Harlem. Prized collections at

The High include works from the Harlem Renaissance, the African diaspora and the Black Arts movement. The museum made acquiring African American art a priority in the 1970s, and Rooks has continued that commitment. APEX Museum, established in 1978 in the historic Sweet Auburn district, is one of the first black history museums in Atlanta. An exhibition on Women in STEM captured the hearts of young African American girls who visited. “It just becomes a mind-blowing experience for the kids with all of these things that were created by African Americans. Many of them go back more than a hundred years,” says CEO Dan Moore. With the exhibition “Sweet Auburn Street Pride,” APEX can lay claim to another first: A permanent exhibition on the history of Sweet Auburn Avenue and its connection to Martin Luther King Jr. It is through such connections—of the various layers of black and African American people’s experiences—that these spaces offer a fuller, richer picture of the city, culture and the American story.

Artworks at ZuCot Gallery, which focuses on works by African American and black artists in Atlanta and from the African diaspora.

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PHOTO CREDIT GOTHAM BOOK 5.5/9PT

Holiday ice skating is just one of the cool seasonal happenings that bring shoppers and the community together, making Avalon a top-notch entertainment destination.

SHOPPERS’ STOPS REIMAGINED Goodbye cookie cutters, hello choice selections. Here’s to the metro’s most dynamic destinations BY JENNIFER MCKEE

Today’s shopping centers have morphed from metropolises of big-box retail and chain restaurants to vibrant experiences that bring together a carefully curated selection of boutiques, chef-driven dining options and events that unite: everything from live music on the green to seasonal happenings, corn hole leagues and prosecco parties. No matter if you interact as a party of one, couple or group, you’ll find these shopping experiences unforgettable.

©ALPHARETTA CVB

DOWNTOWN ALPHARETTA A natural convergence point, Downtown Alpharetta’s rectangular City Center is home to quaint boutiques, locals-favorite food outlets and a community-centric farmers market. The Ballog is an artisanal shop that carries local, independent and socially conscious brands. Find a distinctly feminine aesthetic at Perched, where the one-of-a-kind pieces sell out shortly after they’re placed on the floor—so frequent visits are necessary. And it’s hard to resist a treat from Kilwins, home to premium confections and decadent ice cream choices. At Holmes, innovative small plates are served up inside an historic home from local favorite chef Taylor Neary. The centerpiece green space is home to a bustling farmers market, every Saturday from April through October. Much more than just fresh fruits and vegetables, makers sell every type of home goods imaginable, and musicians add to the lively atmosphere. Join in as the community comes alive in this social spot.

AVALON Also in Alpharetta, Avalon is an 86-acre planned space that merges the art of living with shopping and entertainment. A dedicated concierge staff will keep you connected to and abreast of all the happenings that take place daily. Take a WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK

Feel perfectly at ease while you walk the European-inspired The Forum on Peachtree Parkway. This posh open-air shopping center offers a diverse array of retailers such as A Nose For Clothes, with eclectic choices for ladies, and Crafted/Westside, which provides a brick-and-mortar space for a stable of local artisans and designers. Then there’s 18|8 Fine Men’s Salon, giving the guys a sophisticated grooming experience. But at the heart of it all, The Forum is a familyfriendly space with lots of events to engage and involve, such as horse and carriage rides, live music, trunk shows, fitness activities and holiday fun: Easter egg hunts, Halloween contests and cookies with Santa among them.

PONCE CITY MARKET Known as a shopper’s and diner’s paradise, Ponce City Market, located in Old Fourth Ward, is so much more. Venture up to The Roof for boardwalk-style games, rides, a mini golf course, movies, yoga and panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline. With plenty of seating and open spaces, it’s designed for social interaction. So grab a soft pretzel, taco, ice cream sandwich or beer (adults only!) and get ready for fun. Come December, Skate in the Sky is a delight on ice—rooftop skating and igloos, need we say more? Ponce’s spot on the Atlanta BeltLine allows for additional interactions, among cyclists, walkers, skaters and those with like-minded pursuits. Once home to a Sears, Roebuck & Co. distribution center, the 2.1 million-square-foot complex is arguably one of Atlanta’s can’t-miss destinations.

THE BATTERY A fun zone that surrounds the Atlanta Braves’ SunTrust Park, there’s much mirth at The Battery whether or not a baseball game is on the schedule. This 1.5 million-square-foot facility has drawn in some of Atlanta’s 34

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ATLANTIC STATION A vibrant hub on the edge of Midtown, exciting things are going on at Atlantic Station. This growing space is home to a diverse slate of retailers such as Dermalogica, It’Sugar, IKEA and the Southeast’s flagship H&M store, and offers many new dining options including Poké Bar, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, Pho 24 and NaanStop. There’s also an 18-screen Regal movie theater with an IMAX screen. Atlantic Station is also home to condominiums, work spaces and lofts, and residents mix with visitors at special events that include makers markets, yoga in the park, seasonal festivals and big-name performances. To keep up on it all, including developments, consult its dedicated concierge.

KROG STREET MARKET In the 1920s it was an Intown warehouse, but today, Krog Street Market has one of the best food halls in the U.S. It has been mentioned in the New York Times, and Sarah O’Brien of Little Tart Bakeshop was a 2018 James Beard semifinalist. While the majority of Krog’s stalls sell produce and prepared foods, there are a select number of restaurants and boutiques—some of the city’s best are at this 9-acre destination. And at the back of the market lies one of the best meet up spots, the Ticonderoga Club. Its Captain’s Table, available for two bookings nightly, is the perfect hangout for groups of 6-12 guests.

The Battery has drawn in some of Atlanta’s most celebrated chefs, renowned mixologists, unique boutiques, games and a rockin’ music venue.

THE FORUM ON PEACHTREE PARKWAY

most celebrated chefs, renowned mixologists, unique boutiques, games and a rockin’ music venue. The revered C. Ellet’s is known for its steak and a happy hour with craveables such as bacon caramel popcorn, country ham and peel ‘n’ eat shrimp. Terrapin Taproom fills you up on ‘que and Atlanta Brew Lab exclusive beer. No matter what time of year, you can sport a new look with gear from the Braves Clubhouse Store. Explore your vinyl options at Waterloo Sunset Records; those who adore stationery won’t want to miss Archer Paper Goods. The mixed-use development also has a full complement of great events, from wine chats and prosecco parties to corn hole leagues and movie nights. In summertime, cool down in The Battery’s splash pad. But every night gets a little hotter when bands take the stage at the Coca-Cola Roxy.

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jaunt through the 570,000 square feet of covetable retail— including the Chanel Fragrance and Beauté boutique, Madewell and Kendra Scott—stopping along the way for sustenance at one of the chef-driven restaurants before settling in at the Plaza for live music or a seasonal event such as the autumn pumpkin patch or holiday ice skating rink.

Clockwise from top: Hands-on fun at Alpharetta Arts Streetfest at City Center; Ponce City Market packs in fab dining, shopping and entertainment options; yoga at The Battery; live music at the Downtown Alpharetta farmers market; and Krog Street Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; one of the best food halls in the country.

FLAVORS ON THE FAST LANE Indulge your craving for global fare along Buford Highway

True food enthusiasts in Atlanta know that the city’s most craveable bites are found on Buford Highway. The thoroughfare spans three counties and is lined with a seemingly infinite number of international eateries. It seems that every nation from Malaysia to Cuba is represented on Buford Highway (BuHi) and that can make for some tough choices. Do you want Japanese ramen or Vietnamese pho? A Cuban sandwich or Mexican torta? The solution: spend the day on BuHi and eat around the world. So, work up an appetite and follow along as we cover breakfast to dinner and a few fun diversions in-between.

BREAKFAST Mornings are quiet on Buford Highway. Not so much the traffic, but most of the restaurants along the busy six-lane road are only open for lunch and dinner, so breakfast options are a bit scarce. Wander into Xela Pan Cafeteria, though, and find a bustling, homey restaurant packed with people munching on Guatemalan food. You can choose pastries from the bins in the front of the restaurant, or order a heartier meal off the menu. The 36

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huevos al gusto is composed of eggs, rice, beans, fried sweet plantains and tortillas. Or try the desayuno chapin: eggs scrambled with tomatoes and onions, sour cream, rice, beans and plantains. They also make a mean espresso—just the ticket to get your morning buzz going. For handheld breakfast treats, go to El Taco Veloz for the breakfast burrito. It comes stuffed with your choice of meat (the beef sausage or pork chorizo is especially flavorful), scrambled eggs, refried beans, salsa and onions. If a cafe setting is more your style, head to White Windmill Bakery. A Korean chain, the bakery is brimming with Asian and French pastries, breads and savory treats. Bring a book, curl up for a bit and sip on espresso beverages, coffee or tea, before continuing the food tour.

LUNCH Mamak in Doraville, just north of the city, is the place for a Malaysian lunchtime feast in a casual, bright and inviting setting. For the

BY LIA PICARD

This page: Mango Mojito rolled ice cream at I-CE-NY. Opposite page: Coffee at White Windmill Bakery.

uninitiated, Malaysian cuisine is an amalgam reflective of the different populations in Malaysia: Chinese, Indian and Malay. Mamak specializes in Malaysian street food. Bring a friend or two and plan on sharing a bunch of different dishes. The homemade curry puff pastry stuffed with potatoes, curry chicken and onions is a must-try appetizer. For noodle dishes, the mee fun is especially zesty, filled with pork, shrimp and squid fried in a wok with egg noodles and soy sauce. The Hainanese chicken is one of the most popular dishes, but you also can’t go wrong with the Mamak chicken deep fried in a sweet and spicy sauce with pineapple and peppers. 38

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Lee’s Bakery serves some delicious pho and banh mi. The baguettes are baked in-house and have the perfect crisp-to-chew ratio. La Mei Zi offers Taiwanese comfort food such as pork belly with leeks and eggplants in hot garlic sauce. Or try Snackboxe Bistro for a taste of Laos in a modern setting.

AFTERNOON PICK-ME-UP When that afternoon slump rolls around, head to D’Cuban Cafe in Norcross. Blue and red checked tablecloths, tins of Cafe Bustelo and colorful art make for a fun atmosphere. You can order an

COURTESY SNACKBOXE BISTRO

A zesty papaya salad at Snackboxe Bistro, which serves Laotian cuisine.

espresso beverage at the counter. One sip of a cafe con leche, espresso with steamed milk and brown sugar or a colada, espresso with brown sugar and a splash of milk, and you’ll be ready to go again. No one would blame you if you can’t resist trying a pastry from the case (the guava and cheese pastelito is particularly delicious).

DINNER For dinner, head further north up Buford

NY and try rolled ice cream. Getting rolled ice cream is an experience that makes ordering the traditional scooped ice cream seem a bit mundane. Here, an ice cream base is spread out on a freezing cold piece of metal while the flavor of your choice gets chopped and smashed in until the mixture is smoothed. Then it’s all rolled up and served with the toppings of your choice. It may seem like a gimmick, but the ice cream is actually creamy and delicious. And if customizing sounds too daunting, you can’t go wrong with options such as Want S’mores, Biscoff Cookie Butter or Banana Pudding. Another go-to spot is Mango Mango Dessert, where nearly everything features, you guessed it, mango. Try the Belgian waffles stuffed with mango ice cream and a drizzle of Nutella or the mango sticky rice.

IN-BETWEEN BITES Take in some unique stops along the way down BuHi. Atlanta Vintage Books is a used bookstore that’s been around for more than 30 years. It’s a treasure trove for those who like to get lost exploring curious finds across several categories. Buford Highway Farmers Market is always fun to visit. The mega grocery store has everything from international produce, an impressive seafood department and prepared food items like dumplings and gimbap, a Korean dish of rice and seaweed rolled with vegetables and meat. It’s practically impossible to miss the vibrant Plaza Fiesta while driving down BuHi. The Hispanic mall has more than 200 shops and three food courts, making it a must-visit destination.

From left: Sambal Okra at Mamak; White Windmill Bakery is the place for Asian and French pastries, bread and savory treats; dolsot bibimbap at Dish Korean Cuisine.

@KIARA BOUYEA (3)

Highway to visit the critically acclaimed Masterpiece. The Szechuan restaurant has been luring foodies up to Duluth for years. Chef Rui Liu came to America on an O-1 visa—given to individuals with extraordinary ability—and was a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2018. Masterpiece started out as an eight-table restaurant and is now double the size. This is a no-frills joint as far as decor goes, but the food packs plenty of oomph to make you disregard the interior design. Among the standouts is the dry-fried eggplant with chili powder and pepper ash. A crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, creamy eggplant on the inside. The Zhong dumplings are tantalizing in that spicy— but not too spicy—kind of way. When it comes to entrees, you can’t go wrong with the dong po pork, a brick of pork belly served in a sweet brown glaze. Or try the tea smoked duck, served sliced on a plate with a crispy fried skin. Dish Korean Cuisine in Chamblee, inside the perimeter, is a tasty alternative for dinner. Dish has a refined ambiance with wood accents and traditional Korean decor. The dishes are mostly traditional, with the seafood pancake, budae jjigae (sausage and spam stew), and stir-fried squid bokkeum being up there as dishes you just have to try.

DESSERT If you’re an ice cream fiend, check out I-CE-

WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK

ALL ABOUT TOWN These eclectic communities each add their own distinct threads to Atlanta’s colorful tapestry.

ATLANTA AIRPORT DISTRICT Just minutes from downtown Atlanta, this area comprises the cities of College Park, East Point, Hapeville and Union City. In addition to the world’s busiest airport, the area also covers Georgia’s second largest convention center, more than 8,000 hotel rooms and an eclectic mix of destinations, ranging from the thrilling Porsche Experience Center Atlanta to the laid-back Arches Brewing to the second steepest cycling track in the country, the Dick Lane Velodrome.

DOWNTOWN As the last stop on railroads ended in a city once aptly known as “Terminus,” Atlanta gained its reputation as the Gateway to the South. Today, Downtown is the largest hub for business, tourism, sports and conventions in the state. For a different perspective, go for a spin on SkyView Atlanta in Centennial Park, a 20-story-tall Ferris wheel with climate-controlled gondolas. Worldfamous Peachtree Street offers a wide array of hotels, restaurants and bars, worthy of a daytime stroll. 40

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town abounds with art, skyscrapers, nightlife and much more. Host of the largest pride festival and parade in the Southeast, diversity is celebrated here—in fact, the crosswalks at the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street are painted in rainbow colors. A day in Midtown could be spent at Georgia Institute of Technology’s campus or the apartment where Margaret Mitchell wrote “Gone With the Wind,” while a night could be spent dining at James Beard Awardwinning restaurants or bar hopping on vibrant Crescent Avenue.

BUCKHEAD If there’s one word to describe Buckhead, it’s luxury. Serious shoppers can find the crème de la crème at Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza and The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Likewise, this prominent neighborhood boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, from old-school steakhouses to sleek cocktail lounges. Buckhead is also the home of LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta, Atlanta History Center, the Governor’s Mansion and Chastain Park.

EAST ATLANTA VILLAGE Located south of Little Five Points and off of Interstate 20, live music lovers flock to “EAV,” as its known locally, for venues such as The Earl, Aisle 5, The Basement and 529

Neighborhoods

MIDTOWN This high-energy neighborhood just north of Down-

Bar. Despite its rough-around-the-edges exterior, all are welcome in this artistic hamlet filled with murals, independent shops, eclectic eateries and a gay bar. East Atlanta may be small in size, but it packs one heavyweight punch. Pull up a bar stool at Argosy and see for yourself.

DECATUR With a MARTA station located beneath the historic square, it’s easy to explore the mix of quirky shops, local watering holes and excellent eateries. For some of the best live music in the city, visit the listening room at Eddie’s Attic. Known for its distinct indie flair, the neighborhood hosts the Decatur Book Festival, the largest independent gathering for bibliophiles in the U.S. and borders Emory University and Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

OLD FOURTH WARD Historically, the main attractions in the “O4W” have been the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, Ebenezer Baptist Church and the Sweet Auburn Historic District. Today, Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail have created one trendy hub for locals and travelers alike.

From left: Bustling Midtown; Atlantic Station is a lively mix of event, work and residential spaces; Ponce City Market—a favorite with locals and visitors.

ROSWELL Directly north of Atlanta lies this not-so-average suburb along the Chattahoochee River. It boasts a storied history, antebellum homes and a charming restaurant scene on Canton Street. On hot summer days, “shoot the Hooch” on inflatable tubes or wade into the water by the remnants of the old Roswell Mill.

VIRGINIA-HIGHLAND Named for the intersection of Virginia and Highland Avenues, this walkable neighborhood (also known as “VaHi”) is lined with bungalow homes, buzzing restaurant patios, one-of-a-kind shops and bars that stay open late.

Roswell boasts a storied history, antebellum homes and a charming restaurant scene on Canton Street.

WESTSIDE This former industrial area has flourished around Atlantic Station and Howell Mill Road’s thoroughfare of top-notch restaurants, breweries and design shops. The area also includes the BeltLine’s Westside Trail, the shiny MercedesBenz Stadium and the Historic West End. WHERET RAV EL ER ® G UEST B OOK

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WELCOME TO BUCKHEAD

CITY OF BUCKHEAD Buckhead began long ago as a quiet, rural community, which changed rapidly after Lenox Square Mall opened in its center in 1959. The area’s first skyscraper was built in 1974, and now, Buckhead is home to nearly a third of Atlanta’s high-rise buildings. Today, the sprawling neighborhood encompasses some the city’s most lavish homes, an impressive diversity of retail options, and the city’s third-largest business district. Luxury, couture and gourmet reign supreme in Buckhead, long considered the “Beverly Hills of the East.” In September 2014, the six-block Buckhead Atlanta development opened, combining the walkable streets of Paris with the haute shops of Rodeo Drive. Adding to the neighborhood’s already vast selection of top-notch restaurants and highend shops, Buckhead Atlanta’s tenants include Hermès, Christian Louboutin, Etro, Theory, Le Bilboquet, Thirteen Pies, Shake Shack and many more. Buckhead is home to the Atlanta History Center’s 33-acre campus, which includes one of the largest Civil War exhibits in the U.S. Tucked away off Piedmont Road, Miami Circle is replete with interior-design stores, vintage shops and art galleries for design afficionados. Those looking for unique finds from smaller businesses, will find treasures at the many small or locally-owned boutiques speckled throughout Bulkhead. Foodies will be hard-pressed to find a neighborhood in Atlanta that offers the sheer number and variety of restaurants found in Buckhead. Not only are the eateries in this ‘hood widely diverse in cuisine, but they also range in price, ambiance and overall experience. buckhead.com

BOXWOODS A local Atlanta and visitors’ favorite for 25 years, Boxwoods Gardens & Gifts offers a vast selection of contemporary and vintage furnishings, decorative accessories, antique treasures, and a great variety of gifts, all complimented by an amazing interior and exterior plant department. Boxwoods Home, located right next door, features a superbly curated woman’s boutique and charming baby department along with an inspired selection of pillows, furniture, serving pieces, candles and deluxe soaps. Voted one of the top 50 retailers in the U.S. as well as Atlanta’s Best Home Accessory Shop, Best Holiday Décor Shop, and Best Garden Shop, Boxwoods is an original inductee in Atlanta Magazine’s “Best of” Hall of Fame and an American Express Member Favorite. Boxwoods, located in the heart of Buckhead, is truly a shop no visitor should miss. 100 E. Andrews Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, 404.233.3400, www.bowoodsonline.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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AGATHA’S MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE

For over 25 years, Agatha’s has been entertaining Atlanta with its unique, original and hilarious murder mysteries. We’ve been featured on various TV shows and our actors are some of the funniest and most talented in the Southeast. Great for an evening of fun with friends and family or for corporate team building! We serve a 5 course meal every night, with a choice of 5 entrees, soup, salad, appetizers and dessert! Dress is Dinner Casual and the evening lasts approximately 3 hours. We also offer a full bar, stocked with everyone’s favorites for specialty cocktails and mixed drinks. Agatha’s is also available for luncheons, private shows and offsite events. 161 Peachtree Center Ave (On the corner of Peachtree Center Ave & Andrew Young International Blvd) Atlanta, GA 30303

17 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30303

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Serenity in the City AN OASIS OF YEAR-LONG BEAUTY, ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN IS ALSO A HIVE OF ACTIVITY AS ROBUST AS ITS SEASONAL BLOOMS. A CONSERVATORY THAT CARES FOR RARE AND ENDANGERED AMPHIBIANS, CULINARY EVENTS AT THE EDIBLE GARDEN, HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND FANTASTIC PLANT DISPLAYS TRANSPORT VISITORS TO LANDS FAR FROM BUSTLING MIDTOWN. 48

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PARTING SHOT