Take a tour of Atlanta’s dynamic creative scene via these incredible options
No matter if you’re into art history, contemporary art or classic films, find something to love in ATL’s ever-expanding arts and culture ecosystem.
Naya Clark
November 10, 2023
As Atlanta’s cultural influence continues to grow, it’s no longer a city that gets overlooked—especially when it comes to the arts. With prominent institutions like The High Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia and the The Museum of Design Atlanta, it’s easy to get cultured in the city that’s “got something to say” in every art form from visual art, film, design, fashion and more.
Yet peek a little further and in every corner of the city, you’ll find ways to engage with new creators, big ideas and emerging centers of art and culture that are putting ATL on the map in a whole new way. Here are a few ways to enjoy your city through a new lens.
Sample new frontiers in the visual arts
Atlanta Contemporary
Aiming to “change the way we all see art,” the Atlanta Contemporary hosts programs, exhibitions and project spaces for emerging artists in an intimate open gallery. They also offer community-engaging events like Contemporary Talks, the organization’s annual Art Party and Open Studios, where visitors can meet and greet artists working in their onsite studios. Although Atlanta Contemporary’s gallery is always free, donations are always appreciated and help the space thrive. (535 Means Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318)
The Bakery Atlanta
Are you craving an artistic experience, where you can engage with your community in unique ways? The Bakery Atlanta is a collective of artists, curators and artistically minded people who help coordinate and host experiences like gallery exhibitions, events, workshops and more. Every month, you can create yourself with engaging events like collage nights and figure drawing sessions, perfect for gathering friends for a night of creation. (92 Peachtree St SW Atlanta, GA 30303)
Experience the fusion between art, music, entertainment and new media
eyedrum
Featuring artists at every stage of their careers and spanning multiple mediums, eyedrum is an artistic space featuring local and international music, film, literature, contemporary art and more. Its focus is on experimentation, and that goes for its visitors, too. Its monthly Atlanta Monthly Players Session every first Tuesday includes a house band and an open session for “talented players to join in on the fun.” (515 Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard Southwest Atlanta, GA, 30312)
Mom Said It’s Fine
Located in Underground Atlanta, which is becoming a hotbed for the new wave of Atlanta’s DIY creative scene, Mom Said It’s Fine is a venue hosting performances, parties and musicians spanning a wide array of genres and styles — it’s a perfect outing for people who are into the gritty underground scene.
The Met Atlanta Complex (Mint Gallery)
Capitalizing on the kinetic buzz of Atlanta’s innovative energy, this space cultivates a variety of creators, from restaurants to retail to production. The space is also home to galleries like Mint Gallery, founded by undergraduate art students in Atlanta, and features paintings, sculpture, film, photography and performance in traditional and alternative media.
Bring the past and the future together
Hammonds House Museum
Hammonds House Museum, located in Atlanta’s historic West End, features a permanent collection showcasing the extensive collection of Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds, an Atlanta physician who amassed hundreds of artistic works during his lifetime. Hammonds House carries on that tradition through rotating exhibitions featuring new and emerging artists, helping to advance the organization’s mission to “to preserve, exhibit, interpret and increase public awareness about the contributions that visual artists of African descent have made to world culture.”
Wren’s Nest
Also located in Southwest Atlanta, the Wren’s Nest is Atlanta’s oldest house museum, with a focus on preserving storytelling traditions and developing the next generations of readers, writers and listeners through their programming and events. They feature live performances by professional storytellers followed by house tours every Saturday, and offer tours by appointment.
Take a trip with the right story
Plaza Theatre
Reigning as Atlanta’s oldest independent cinema, Plaza Theatre, offers cult classic and new release films. It also hosts many of the annual Atlanta Film Festival screenings. Visit Plaza Theatre to support a local theater for a matinee, indie film screenings and blockbusters alike.
Videodrome
Can’t get enough screen time? Just up the street from Plaza Theatre is Videodrome; Atlanta’s last standing video store. In a digital age, stores like this are a relic and a rare experience. Explore their collection of small, niche and cult-classic films from a wide array of categories, and watch something you might not watch from your regular streaming platforms.
For Keeps Books
If you’re more of a reader, For Keeps Books, located on the historic Auburn Avenue in Downtown Atlanta, contains an archive of rare and classic books. Check out their collection to get a unique experience of literature, art and history.
Whether you’re into the classic big museums, catching a live show or seeing art from everyday locals, there’s no doubt the culture in Atlanta has a strong artistic pulse. So, get out there, and let your curiosity drive you to explore.
Want to explore more parts of your city with guides from locals and insiders? Subscribe to the Localite newsletter.
Share this article
Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
6 local Thanksgiving meals that are affordable and delicious
Because sometimes you don’t feel like cooking.
The holiday season is imminent, which means it’s time to get the most important aspect nailed down: the food. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving, family gathering or holiday date, keep reading for some solid local choices (for dine-in and to-go) that speak to every dining style. Since we’re all looking for a deal, we made sure to offer Thanksgiving packages with the most bang for your buck, bringing you a considerable amount of delicious food for a price that won’t bite. (Plus, one splurge option, because … ‘tis the season.)
The Metropolitan Café
2032 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
Guess what, Dallas? This funky downtown joint is back in action after closing in 2021. The Metropolitan Café debuted this fall with a new owner, a chic new design and a menu that practically screams Thanksgiving joy.
The feast: Your meal for two includes two meats, three sides and not one but two desserts. (Because, let’s face it, it’s not a complete Thanksgiving feast without pie.) Options include stuffed Cornish game hen, smoked gouda mac and cheese, brioche stuffing, garlic-whipped potatoes and cumin-glazed carrots. And to top it all off, indulge in some sugary desserts like chocolate pecan pie and apple pie. This is a good deal at $65 (serves two). Have more than two hungry mouths to feed? Easy. Order more.
Mark your calendar: The clock is ticking! Place your order between Nov. 6 and Nov. 15, then pick it up on Nov. 21 or 22. Call 214-741-2233 and let the holiday feasting begin.
Dive Coastal Cuisine
3404 Rankin St, Dallas, TX 75205
Want to avoid diving into cooking this Thanksgiving? (See what we did there?) No problem, this seafood restaurant has you covered. Dive Coastal Cuisine offers a festive Thanksgiving pick-up menu that will impress your guests.
The feast: Mini potato latkes, bruschetta ciabatta crostinis, charcuterie boards, herbed/brined chicken, shrimp cocktail skewers, roasted salmon dip, seasoned and seared beef tenderloin and stuffed sweet potatoes. For dessert, you can pick between key lime pie (untraditional, but delicious) and pumpkin spice (traditional and delicious). Prices vary, but we consider this a good deal. Turkey breast for five people is $50, mini crab cakes for six to 12 people are $42, and bruschetta ciabatta crostinis for six to 12 people are $25. Plus, you didn’t have to go to the grocery store during the holidays. Pretty sure that’s priceless.
Mark your calendar: Place your order 24 hours in advance for pickup on Nov. 22. Head to the website or call 214-891-1700 order.
La Parisienne
6740 Winning Dr Suite 1000, Frisco, TX 75034
Bonjour, Thanksgiving! La Parisienne French Bistro at the Frisco Star is putting a Parisian twist on your holiday shindigs. The restaurant serves its regular dinner menu for dine-in or to-go from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving, but they also offer a prix fixe menu with a festive flair.
The feast: Choose from options like lobster bisque or butternut squash soup, Caesar salad or wedge salad, and turkey breast with cranberry port wine sauce or prime rib (with a $15 upcharge) served with bearnaise sauce or au poivre sauce. Don’t forget the sweetest part: an apple pecan caramel tart or sweet potato pie. Consider this a Thanksgiving bargain at just $45 per person or $60 if you choose the prime rib.
Mark your calendar: All to-go orders must be placed by Nov. 21. Call 469-200-5411 for more information.
Central Market
Multiple locations
The feast: Before you scoff at the $369 price tag, do the math. This to-go Thanksgiving smorgasbord from Central Market feeds 12-14 people. That’s roughly $28 per person. The meal has so much food that we’re putting it in list form.
You get:
- Hickory-smoked, spiral-sliced, bone-in ham with apricot-ginger glaze
- All-natural oven-roasted turkey
- Mixed greens, roasted carrots and feta salad
- Macaroni and cheese
- Cheesy potato casserole
- Whipped Yukon mashed potatoes
- Green beans with toasted almonds
- Oven-roasted vegetables
- Savory cornbread dressing
- Turkey gravy
- Cranberry sauce
Plus:
- Roasting pan for turkey
- Roasting turkey bag
- Oven pan for ham
Mark your calendar: If you reserve your chef-made Thanksgiving meal by Nov. 8, 2023, you’ll receive a coupon for $15 off your next $75 in-store purchase. Otherwise, head to the website to order.
Andrew’s American Pizza Kitchen
1401 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75093
Turkey’s not your thing? (Not everybody likes traditional Thanksgiving food, and that’s OK.) Andrew’s American Pizza Kitchen is open on Thanksgiving Day for dine-in from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and they’re offering catering for those who prefer pizza and pasta over poultry.
The feast: Savor their signature Dallas-style pizza, Chicago-style pizza, Detroit-style pizza and more. Plus, indulge in holiday delights: pumpkin pie tarts, caramel tarts and pecan pie tarts, each a steal at $9.
Mark your calendar: The deadline to order is Nov. 22, with pickup on Nov. 23. Call 469-825-6500 to lock in your unconventional Thanksgiving feast.
BONUS OPTION:
Quarter Acre
2023 Greenville Ave #110, Dallas, TX 75206
If you do want to splurge this Thanksgiving, Quarter Acre has just the package for you.
The feast: Choose between smoked turkey breast with confit turkey legs or slow-cooked leg of New Zealand lamb. Both options serve four and come with two scrumptious sauces, three sides including and delicious extras like sourdough bread, New Zealand butter and Tajin popcorn. Prices are $295 for turkey breast and $325 for the leg of New Zealand lamb.
Mark your calendar: Reserve your order by Nov. 15 for pickup on Nov. 22 between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. To treat yourself to this lavish experience, call them at 214-647-1616.
Want to eat better in Dallas? Sign up to receive the Localite newsletter.
Share this article
Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
The best Thanksgiving packages for your buck
Skip the long hours in the kitchen and enjoy a delicious meal that takes the standard Thanksgiving fare up several notches.
The holiday season is nearly upon us, and it’s that time to start making plans for everyone’s favorite part: the meals. If the thought of spending your Thanksgiving break prepping and cooking an elaborate meal fills you with dread, never fear. Atlanta has plenty of Thanksgiving packages to remove holiday stress and add some panache to your gathering, whether your tastes run traditional or outside-the-box. Keep reading to find the perfect meal for friends, family or your special someone.
Tio Lucho’s
Peruvian restaurant Tio Lucho’s, helmed by chef Arnaldo Castillo, will serve up its Dia de Gracias Turkey Feast. The package feeds up to eight guests for $250 ($30/person!) for zero effort and all the flavors. The 16-pound pan-roasted Thanksgiving turkey comes with an aji panca marinade, a mild red pepper common in Peruvian cuisine. The tamales verdes, frijoles de casa, jasmine rice and pumpkin bread pudding will make your Thanksgiving different—but might be your new go-to for holidays to come.
Pre-order on their website, pick up on Wednesday, Nov. 22, between 11 am-4 pm.
Kinship Butcher & Sundry
This choice covers any size crowd with multiple meat options and your favorite “fixins.” Kinship’s Thanksgiving pre-order allows you to choose from a half-turkey, turkey wings or a 10-14-pound turkey from Joyce Farms. If you’re not feeling like turkey this year, you can also put down a deposit on a ham, prime rib roast or tenderloin. Chef Stella Dillard of Dandelion Food & Goods is cooking up all the sides, and you can select the ones you’d like, including her old family recipe for mac and cheese.
Pre-order on their website, order before Nov. 10 and pick up from Nov. 18, Nov. 19 or Nov. 22.
Sweet Auburn Barbecue
Sweet Auburn Barbecue’s Thanksgiving package lets you skip the prep with its Sliced Turkey Package. For $140, you can get 2.25 pounds of sliced smoked turkey with two sides, cornbread dressing, biscuits, cranberry sauce and turkey gravy. Add their southern creamed corn to your lineup for about $20 bucks per quart (which feeds up to six people). You will not regret this meal kit delivery.
Pre-order on their website, pick up on Nov. 21 and Nov. 22.
JenChan’s
Cabbagetown favorite JenChan’s offers many options—but all of them are executed impeccably. While the restaurant will offer a classic Thanksgiving dinner with a large turkey and sides, stop by if you’re flying solo and pick up one of their individual turkey dinners for $28. Plus, it’s available with turkey or a plant-based, vegan option.
If you’re looking for something different, JenChan’s also offers its Very Dim Sum Thanksgiving meal. You can build your perfect dim sum feast and choose from a three-day Hoisin duck, sesame-roasted Brussels sprouts, glass noodles, pork and shrimp dumplings, and more.
Pre-order on their site for pickup on Wednesday, Nov. 22.
Little Rey
If you’re not feeling like turkey, head to Little Rey and pick their whole pollo al carbon—part of their regular menu but also an excellent pick for a special holiday feast. It’s truly a deal that cannot be missed. For $36, you can feed three to four people with a whole bird, salsa and chips, and pints of rice and beans. Don’t forget to grab extra tortillas! If you have a few friends coming over, pick up the $64 meal that feeds six to eight people.
Order ahead of time the week of Thanksgiving for easy window pick up.
Casa Nuova
If you’re in the suburbs, Alpharetta’s Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant scraps the turkey altogether and offers to-go take-and-bake specials. With two tray size options, choose from lasagna, chicken Francese, eggplant parmigiana or meatballs for your bake. It all comes with a house salad and garlic bread—just grab a bottle of wine and you’ll be all set. The half tray special feeds four to six people for $75, and the full tray feeds eight to 12 people for $150.
Pick up hot or cold on Wednesday, Nov. 22. Call them at 770-475-9100 to place your order.
For more information on what’s best, next and new in food and food specials in Atlanta, subscribe to the Localite newsletter.
Share this article
