It feels like a lifetime ago the world shut down, but I’ll never forget sitting in the Atlanta airport learning that March Madness would be canceled after spending the prior day going through social strategy. To say the return to the Peach State was long overdue would be an understatement, but equally it was filled with wonder on what it would be like to walk around in a post pandemic era.
Fear not, sandwiched between a few days of conference set up and takedown, there was time for some walks along The Beltline (just as lovely as I remembered) and plenty of delicious food.
Sleep
Needing to be downtown, the hotel of choice for this trip was Hotel Ellis. While in need of some updating, the rooms were quiet, staff was kind and location was perfect if you need to be in the area.
Eat
- Botiwalla @ Ponce City Market – Get the smashed potatoes, then order the spices so you can make it at home. The chicken kebab was also delish.
- Ladybird – A favorite from 2020 and the perfect place to sit outside. The adult juice pouches are great, however if you’re solo like me, just get a cocktail so you don’t have to ditch half the drink.
- BeetleCat – I hear the oysters are delish, but so was the crudo & salad I got and service was fantastic.
- a mano – Went for a late dinner with a coworker, the cacio e pepe was fantastic, the chicken parm looked delish and the location couldn’t be cuter tucked into a neighborhood.
- New Realm Brewing – Another lovely spot along the Beltline, perfect for a snack, drink or to just watch the day go by with a book. Blackberry Cider was a 10/10.
- TWO urban licks – Had the salmon chips here in 2017 & happy to report they’re still just as good. Complemented with a peach salad and some wine for the perfect last meal of the trip.
Wander
- Beltline – Stretches a decent strip, but the section from Ponce City Market to Krog Street is my favorite. Plenty of art, great restaurants & you can scooter or walk.
- Olympic Park – Worth a walk through if you have yet to see the rings, like me, and plenty of nice green areas to sit when the weather is nice.
- Truist Park – Head to a Braves game and explore the area around
