There is something comforting about a restaurant that has been around forever, complete with a warm ambience and a sense of home, even if you don’t live in the area. If you’re looking to experience that feeling in Atlanta, travelers should make a point to visit Atkins Park Restaurant and Bar. Nestled within the charming and walkable Atlanta neighborhood of Virginia-Highland, it’s Atlanta’s oldest continuously-licensed tavern, according to its website. In fact, the restaurant’s location has stood as a food establishment since 1922.
Atkins Park started as a humble deli in 1922. It eventually received its beer and wine license right after Prohibition (which ended in 1933), and in 1980, it received its liquor license (per Atlanta Eats). In addition to the drink menu, which features French and Italian wine, local and regional craft beer, and sought-after German imports, Atkins Park Restaurant and Bar serves upscale comfort food. In fact, one reviewer on Yelp says of the spot, “Gem of Atlanta. Genuine masterclass. Only complaint is that this absolute piece of art is not on every street in the country.” They also praise the penne as life-changing.
The current history of Atkins Park Restaurant and Bar
After the eatery’s humble beginnings, it really became a neighborhood staple when it was taken over by the late Warren Bruno in 1983. Bruno helped establish the Virginia-Highland festival, Summerfest, which began as a block party in 1984 and now features live music, food stands, and a 5K race every year, per Atlanta Magazine. He also started a restaurant group that includes Atkins Park’s historic original building, its second location in the Georgia town of Smyrna, and Ormsby’s in Atlanta.
This beloved destination, now run by Bruno’s wife Sandra Spoon and friend Kevin Drawe, was supported during the pandemic by the neighborhood when it had to shut down, eventually opening outside tables for diners. Atkins Park is part of the community in other ways as well, like offering tickets to take people to Atlanta Braves games on a bus. It’s also a home for events like parties and weddings…