Claire Currie
Atlanta, Georgia
Poor Hendrix
Named after the owners’ rescue pitbull (who’s painting you can’t miss the second you walk in the front door), Poor Hendrix is an approachable, friendly, beautiful spot where you could eat every night of the week and still have something new to try. Their menu is constantly changing, but one thing will always stay the same: the shareable snacks they offer are insanely cravable, and you have to try at least a couple whenever you visit. Don’t miss out on their skewers, salmon tartare (served with Zapp’s chips), and brown-butter rice krispies.
Big Softie
Nestled in the beautiful Summerhill neighborhood, this soft serve spot is the perfect place to cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth. On the menu, you’ll find classic flavors, as well as vegan oat vanilla (my personal fav) and seasonal flavors that rotate regularly (think matcha, peach, and chai). Top off your soft serve with glittery sprinkles, chocolate pearls, streusel, or one of their hardshells. Enjoy on the back patio or take a walk around the neighborhood—there’s a new spot opening up practically every week.
Ticonderoga Club
When it comes to the friendly bartenders who remember your name and the moody, nostalgic decor, this quaint bar tucked in the back of Krog Street Market is the definition of cozy and feels like an escape from the hectic Beltline outside. The bartenders are always creating new cocktails, but my favorite is the passion fruit-forward Felt Cute. They also have an outstanding food menu—if they have ceviche on the menu when you’re there, you must try it. And if you’re a branding nerd like me, don’t leave without checking out their pens and matchboxes—they’re always switching up the designs.
Chrome Yellow
Whether you’re in the mood to meet up with a friend, get some work done, or curl up with a book solo, Chrome Yellow is a must-visit. You’ll find all of your espresso favorites here (including a seasonal latte and an unreal oat vanilla bourbon cold brew on draft), but if I could be any drink in the world, I’d be their London Fog—it’s like a comforting, warm blanket in drink form. While you’re waiting for your drink, check out their beautiful store offering everything from vintage clothing to Drift magazine and Real Fun, Wow! art prints.
I grew up in Atlanta, went to college here, and then moved away. When I moved back, I could see the city through a brand new lens. I find I really appreciate the simple, cozy things this city offers that you can’t find everywhere—the lush greenery covering the entire city, the bustling-but-still-somehow-calm pace, the comforting, familiar feeling you get when you bump into neighbors and friends, the unique personalities of all the neighborhoods, the refreshing spirit of local business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives. Atlanta is a magical place filled with hidden gems and an abundance of soul, and I’m proud to call it home.
Claire Currie works in partner marketing at Mailchimp, focusing on agencies and freelancers who use Mailchimp with their clients and helping them grow their businesses. She also runs the Atlanta dog Instagram account, @pupsofthebeltline, photographing dogs all over the city. A music lover, Claire has volunteered as an artist liaison with Sofar Sounds, helping to run live shows in intimate settings. You can most likely find her practicing yoga, planning her next trip, eating a breakfast burrito, or cuddling with her dog, Winnie.