Night Owl Alert: Atlanta’s Best Late-Night Bars

By Beth Clark

Published March 14, 2017
Last Updated September 16, 2020

If you happen to be a night owl who doesn’t even leave the house by the time most restaurants and bars are closing, then this list of a few late night spots in Atlanta may strike your fancy. You might even find yourself singing these bars’ praises.

1. Octopus Bar: Basically the after-party for So Ba (the restaurant next door), Octopus Bar doesn’t even open until 10:30 p.m., so you know the crowd it caters to. Get great late-night food in a punk atmosphere. East Atlanta. 
2. The EARL: A favorite among visitors and locals, this is the place you come to for music, food and booze. The EARL features a steady stream of local and national musical acts. East Atlanta.
3. Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium: You don’t often hear the words “naughty” and “church” in the same sentence, yet they both describe this eclectic late bar, whose racy art, generous drinks and regular ping-pong tournaments have earned this place a cult following. Old Fourth Ward.
4. Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar: The Atlanta location of the Chicago-based restaurant that’s been going since the 1950s is quickly staking claim to Atlanta’s late night food and drink scene. Old Fourth Ward.
5. El Bar: This place keeps a low profile – literally, by being underground. If you’re looking for a high-energy late night dance party in a hole in the wall, look no further. Poncey-Highland.
6. Star Community Bar: Open almost daily til 3 a.m., Star Bar oscillates between comedy, karaoke, dance parties and live music every night. Little Five.
7. Ormsby’s: This two-level tavern is tucked away with only an “O” on the door to mark the location. The tasty menu, full bar and games like bocce, shuffleboard, darts and pool tables will hook you, and its cool vibe will keep you coming back. West Midtown.
8. Cypress Street Pint & Plate: Looking for hearty American grub in a relaxed atmosphere, plus a nice selection of beers? You got it. The patio is a definite plus. Midtown.
9. 97 Estoria: Check out this fan favorite for late night grub, drink specials and trivia nights. Cabbagetown.
10. R. Thomas Deluxe Grill: Not a bar, but here’s a 24-hour classic to visit after the bar, featuring organic and vegetarian fare amid a tropical and lush patio. Be sure to toast the late Richard Thomas while you’re there. Brookwood.
11. J.R. Crickets: Sometimes you need a hoppin’ bar and some good wings, and J.R. Crickets is your go-to with locations around the city. (The original is in Midtown.)

Beth Clark is a writer and foodie who loves to roam around Atlanta, uncovering the city’s quirky, glam, upscale and down-home character. Curiosity is her compass, and you’ll find her writing on www.thecitydweller.me.