Atlanta is a city that takes its drinks seriously. Whether you’re into classic cocktails, creative mocktails, local craft beer, or carefully roasted coffee, you can find a neighborhood spot that fits your style. This guide focuses on where to get the best drinks in Atlanta, how different areas of the city compare, and what to know before you go.
“Best” in Atlanta usually comes down to a few factors:
Below is a quick overview of where different types of drinks shine around the city.
| Drink Type | Best For | Typical Areas to Try First |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Cocktails | Date nights, birthdays, visitors | Midtown, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward |
| Mocktails | Alcohol-free nights, drivers | Midtown, Decatur, West Midtown |
| Craft Beer | Casual hangs, game days | West Midtown, BeltLine, Edgewood, Decatur |
| Wine | Relaxed evenings, small groups | Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, Buckhead |
| Coffee & Tea | Remote work, meetups, early starts | Grant Park, Old Fourth Ward, Decatur, Midtown |
| Late-Night Drinks | Post-show, night owls | Midtown, Edgewood, Downtown |
Atlanta’s cocktail bars lean into seasonal ingredients, Southern flavors, and creative spins on the classics.
These areas are packed with high-quality cocktail bars within walking distance of hotels, offices, and entertainment.
What to expect:
Tips:
If you prefer a neighborhood feel over a high-energy scene, these areas often deliver:
Good for:
Atlanta’s drink scene has become much more inclusive for people who don’t drink alcohol or want a lighter night.
Many cocktail-focused bars now offer house-designed zero-proof drinks, not just soda or juice. You’ll often find:
You’re most likely to see thoughtful mocktail menus in:
How to order:
Atlanta’s craft beer scene is spread across several neighborhoods, with breweries, taprooms, and beer-focused bars.
These areas have become a major brewery district with multiple taprooms and production facilities within a short drive. You’ll typically find:
These spots are popular for:
Along or near the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, you’ll find:
This is one of the easiest ways for a visitor to explore several bars in a single walk.
Decatur and Edgewood lean more relaxed, with:
Wine culture in Atlanta ranges from casual to refined but rarely feels stuffy.
Expect:
These areas are ideal for:
Buckhead often features:
If you’re staying in Buckhead hotels or visiting malls and shopping centers, it’s convenient to find a solid glass of wine nearby.
Not every “best drink” in Atlanta has to be alcoholic. The city’s coffee and tea scene is especially useful if you work remotely or like afternoon meetups.
Good areas to start:
What you’ll typically find:
Decatur is known for a calmer pace, making it good for:
Expect a mix of:
If you’re out after a show, a game, or a concert, your options will depend on the night of the week and the area.
Close to:
You can usually find:
If you’re coming from a game or concert, expect:
These areas tend to have:
If you want a higher-energy night with lots of bar options on the same street or within a few blocks, these neighborhoods are common go-tos.
You may want places that are:
Areas to prioritize:
To navigate:
You can think more in terms of:
Atlanta residents often:
Transportation:
Reservations vs. Walk-Ins:
Weather Considerations:
Dietary and Preference Needs:
If you’re looking for information related to alcohol laws, licensing, or permits in Atlanta (for example, if you’re planning an event or opening a business that serves drinks), some key contacts include:
City of Atlanta – Office of Revenue (Alcohol Licenses)
Georgia Department of Revenue – Alcohol & Tobacco Division
These agencies handle official matters; they do not recommend specific bars or restaurants but are useful if you need to understand regulations, permits, or serving rules.
Focusing on the type of drink, neighborhood vibe, and your transportation plans will help you quickly narrow down the best drinks in Atlanta for your night out, weekend plans, or daily routine.
