Virginia Highland

Food, fun and fashion take center stage in this neighborhood

Virginia Highland has, for decades, been known as a cool neighborhood, Tables line the sidewalks of local restaurants, and clothing racks stand on the street in front of boutiques. On a nice day, the area hustles and bustles as visitors and locals take to the streets and patios for brunch, cocktails and shopping. By night, Virginia Highland is home to some of the best bars in Atlanta with vibes you won’t find anywhere else.

The name comes from the neighborhood’s location at the intersection of Virginia and North Highland avenues. 

Developed in the early 1900s, Virginia Highland is known for its walkable blocks of bungalow homes. The variety of goodies that you can find along the length of North Highland Avenue ranges from quirky home décor to artisan paper, hard-to-find books, outdoor apparel, antiques and trendy salons. And that’s not even mentioning the options for food. Prep your tummy for gelatos, Irish pub fare, fusion styles, seafood and plenty more.

Want to go?

• Location: Approximately two miles north from Peachtree Street in Downtown Atlanta
• Getting there: Located on the Eastside, there is plenty of street parking if driving to the area. Or if you’re walking along the Eastside Beltline Trail, you can veer off and walk through residential areas to get to the neighborhood. The closest MARTA station is Midtown, about 1.5-miles away. You can use rideshare to get to the area from there or hop on a scooter for a fun adventure passing by Piedmont Park on your way.

Did you know…

• Virginia Highland has a tree museum called an arboretum, thanks to a partnership with local non-profit Trees Atlanta.
• Nearby attractions include Piedmont Park, the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum and Callanwolde Fine Arts Center.
• Check out the farmer’s market at the Virginia-Highland Elementary School on Sundays throughout the spring and fall seasons. It’s open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Restaurants to enjoy

Highland Tap

It feels like an underground hideaway as you walk into Highland Tap and then immediately down the steps. Enjoy deals on prime rib on Monday nights or come for Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Moe’s and Joe’s

PBR lovers – this bar is for you. Moe’s and Joe’s has been voted the No.1 PBR seller in the country for three years in a row, and the signs around the iconic bar proudly proclaim that accolade. The dive bar atmosphere makes this a great spot to watch a sporting event or just hang out with friends. The patio is right on North Highland Avenue so you can sit outside and enjoy the street scene. 

Ela

This restaurant draws inspiration from Greece, Turkey and Morocco to bring Mediterranean fusion items to the menu. Ela’s hummus, lamb kofta burger and mushroom shawarma char-grilled skewers are some of the authentic dishes on the menu.  Ela has a happy hour menu available Monday through Friday from 4 until 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 3 until 5 p.m. Enjoy a meal on the covered patio.

Atkins Park

Serving classic bar food, Atkins Park is Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern. Enjoy upscale comfort such as a Guinness dipped pretzel, fried chicken sliders or Atkins Park nachos, paired with a wide selection of beer and wine. Make this your hangout for the big games.

Pielands Sub and Slice

Serving New York-style pizza, Pielands invites you to enjoy it by the slice or with a whole 16-inch round pie, with slices designed to be folded when eaten. The square pizzas include flavors like cacio e pepe topped with a variety of cheeses, The Noni is the No. 1 selling pizza made just the way “Noni”made  it. The Piedmont Pep comes with spicy diavolo sauce, pepperoni and hot pepper oil.

Bar.bacoa

In the mood to share some tapas? This restaurant can be your new go-to for classics such as Mexican street corn and chips and salsa or favorites including Barbacoa nachos and carne asada. The wide variety of margaritas and house cocktails pair perfectly with the tapas.

Bars with great vibes

Dark Horse Tavern

While you can hang out here inside or on the covered patio, the real secret is the karaoke scene. A  live band plays with each karaoke performance. The spots fill up quickly so if you’re brave enough to get on stage, make sure to get there early to pick your song.

Blind Willie’s

Come here for the live music, stay for the atmosphere. Enjoy live blues Wednesday through Sunday. The lineups are released monthly and include the cover charge that ranges from $5 to $10.

Dad’s

This place has the cool vibes that you think of when you think of  Virginia Highland. Cocktails include an appletini, French 75 and Romeo’s chocolate negroni, which make it easy to stay for hours. The atmosphere has that nostalgic energy accentuated by Dad’s very own leg lamp inspired by the movie “A Christmas Story.” In the winter, Dad’s has a heated patio and a holiday themed pop-up bar with themed drinks.

Neighbor’s Pub

If you’re coming here, you’ll want to spend some time on the extra large patio complete with TVs. Bonus: the patio is dog-friendly. You can’t go wrong with the burgers and wings. The chicken Caesar salad should be on your list to try while there. Also, enjoy trivia on Thursday nights.

Time for shopping

Virginia Highland Books

This two-story bookstore stocks classic reads, new releases and a variety of genres. You can find puzzles, games and journals here, as well. After picking up your next read, head to a coffee shop or sit outside and enjoy your latest book. Make sure to head downstairs to see the cute design on the staircase.

Dakota J’s

This clothing store offers a variety of clothes and accessories. Whether you need a date night outfit or a girls getaway outfit, you can find it here. Their shop’s Instagram often shows off current items and gives suggestions on how to style them.

Ora by Alisa

Reveal your crafty side by making your own candles here. The candles are made from coconut apricot wax for a non-toxic option. The workshops give you the chance to personalize your candle while also learning about the process. Ora by Alisa also sells candles. There is a luxury collection plus seasonal scents and a world traveler collection.

Kinship Butcher

This locally owned butcher shop offers local produce, pantry staples, natural wine and sandwiches. Grab some fresh meat ahead of a major holiday or for a family BBQ. Stop by for breakfast or lunch sandwiches such as the grilled cheese and gator belt (a ground beef patty melt, Angry Cukes cheddar cheese and grilled red onions).

Moosh

This modern nostalgic fashion boutique stocks cute styles for any occasion. If you’re in need of a date night outfit or just some staple pieces, this is the place to go. Follow Moosh on Instagram for outfit ideas from head to toe, complete with accessory pairings.

Murphy’s Wine Shop

Wine connoisseurs can find their perfect bottle here from popular brands to hidden gems. Even if you aren’t a wine expert, the staff can provide insight into what flavors you might like. It is more than just a wine shop, it also is a wine bar with weekly tastings, winemaker dinners and private events.

Bakeries and Coffee Shops

Alon’s Bakery

A staple in the community for 33 years, Alon’s sells artisan baked goods and cuisine in an atmosphere reminiscent of a European market. Try a sandwich or pastry. Choose cookies, banana bread or brownies.

PERC Coffee

Spend a work-from-home day at one of the most colorful coffee shops in the city. Some of the popular menu items include the Bananagram latte and the crunchwrap. There is plenty of street parking nearby. 

Find other PERC locations in East Lake, Grant Park, Tucker and Chastain.

Press and Grind

This quaint coffee shop is another choice for a work-from-home day, for homework or for relaxing on a Sunday morning. While Press and Grind specializes in coffee, you can also enjoy chai lattes, matcha lattes and hot chocolate. Pair your choice with a morning pastry or a sandwich for lunch.

This walkable neighborhood makes it easy to explore all these places or discover more hot spots and hidden gems along the way.