Northside Tavern in Atlanta, Georgia: A Local’s Guide to This Iconic Westside Dive

If you ask longtime Atlantans about classic bars in the city, Northside Tavern in Atlanta, Georgia almost always comes up. It’s one of those places that feels frozen in time: a true dive bar, a live blues landmark, and a late-night hangout for musicians, industry workers, and neighborhood regulars.

This guide walks you through what to expect, how to get there, nearby options, and tips for making the most of a night at Northside Tavern as an Atlanta local or visitor.

What Is Northside Tavern?

Northside Tavern is a small, old-school bar and live music venue located in Atlanta’s Westside (often called West Midtown). It’s known for:

• Nightly live blues and roots music
• A no-frills, dive bar atmosphere
• A mix of locals, students, and visitors
• Late hours and a casual, unpretentious vibe

People don’t come here for craft cocktails or polished décor. They come for:

• Cold beer
• Strong, simple mixed drinks
• A packed stage with musicians only a few feet away
• An Atlanta institution that still feels authentically local

Location, Directions, and Contact Info

Address:
Northside Tavern
1058 Howell Mill Rd NW
Atlanta, GA 30318

This puts the bar in the West Midtown / Westside area, just north of the intersection of Howell Mill Road and 14th Street. It’s close to:

• Georgia Tech (a short drive or rideshare)
• The Westside Provisions District
• Several newer bars and restaurants along Howell Mill

For the most up-to-date hours, cover charges, and music schedules, it’s best to call the bar directly or check a current local listing, as things can shift based on events and holidays.

What the Atmosphere Is Like

If you’re used to polished Midtown rooftops or BeltLine patios, Northside Tavern will feel very different.

Inside the Bar

Expect:

• Low lighting and neon beer signs
• A small stage area near the front
• Well-worn bar stools, basic tables, and a narrow layout
• Posters, stickers, and memorabilia covering the walls

The space is compact, and when the band starts, it can get loud and crowded. You’ll often find people dancing in front of the stage or squeezing around the bar to order drinks.

The Crowd

The crowd varies night to night, but you’ll typically see:

• Longtime Atlanta locals who’ve been coming for years
• Musicians and music lovers
• Service industry workers heading in after shifts
• Students and visitors who heard about the bar from word of mouth

Dress is casual. Jeans, T‑shirts, boots, and sneakers are the norm. No need to dress up unless you want to.

Live Music: The Heart of Northside Tavern

The biggest draw at Northside Tavern is the live music, especially blues.

What Kind of Music You’ll Hear

You’ll generally find:

• Electric blues and classic blues standards
• R&B, soul, and roots rock depending on the band
• Occasional jams that blend blues with funk or rock

The room is small, so the music is front and center. It’s less like background noise and more like a small concert every night.

When Bands Play

Music schedules can change, but you can usually expect:

• Evening shows, often starting later than typical dinner hours
• Weekends that run deep into the night
• Rotating local bands and regulars who know the room well

Many Atlantans recommend arriving a bit earlier than the showtime if you want a decent seat or spot near the stage.

Drinks, Cover Charges, and What to Expect at the Bar

Drinks

Northside Tavern is a classic bar, not a cocktail lounge. Expect:

• Basic beer selection (bottles and cans, sometimes draft)
• Standard well drinks and straightforward mixed drinks
• Simple, no-nonsense pours rather than elaborate recipes

If you’re looking for fancy craft cocktails, you might want to grab a drink at another nearby Westside bar first, then head to Northside for the music.

Cover Charges

Many nights include a cover charge at the door, commonly used to support the band. This can vary depending on:

• The night of the week
• The performing artist or band
• Special events or holidays

✅ Tip: Bring cash for cover and tips. Some nights may accept cards, but cash is often faster and more reliable at the door and bar.

Getting to Northside Tavern from Around Atlanta

By Car

From common Atlanta areas:

• Downtown Atlanta:
  Head north toward 14th Street, then west toward Howell Mill Rd NW.
• Midtown Atlanta:
  Take 10th or 14th Street west until you hit Howell Mill, then go north.
• Buckhead:
  Head south via Peachtree or Northside Dr, then cut over to Howell Mill.

Parking in the immediate area can be limited, especially on busy nights. You may find:

• Small lots or street parking nearby
• Paid or shared lots used by surrounding businesses

Give yourself extra time if you’re driving on a weekend night.

By Rideshare or Taxi

Most locals and visitors use rideshare (Uber, Lyft) to get to and from Northside Tavern, especially if they plan to drink.

• Drop-off is usually straightforward along Howell Mill Rd NW.
• Pick-up after closing can be busy, so expect some wait time on weekends.

By MARTA

Northside Tavern is not directly on a MARTA rail line but you can combine train and bus:

• Take MARTA to a Midtown or Arts Center station
• Use a MARTA bus or rideshare west to Howell Mill Rd NW

Because late-night bus frequency can vary, many people use MARTA for part of the trip and rideshare for the last stretch, especially when leaving late.

Nearby Spots: Making a Night of It on the Westside

If you’re planning a full night out in West Midtown, you can easily pair a visit to Northside Tavern with:

• Restaurants on Howell Mill Rd NW – casual and upscale options for dinner before the music starts
• Bars around Westside Provisions District – good if you want a drink somewhere quieter or more modern before heading to the dive bar

A common Atlanta pattern is:

1. Dinner somewhere along Howell Mill or at Westside Provisions
2. A drink or dessert nearby
3. Finish the night at Northside Tavern for live blues

Practical Tips for Visiting Northside Tavern

Use these quick pointers to make your visit smoother:

What to Bring (and Not Bring)

• ✅ Cash for cover, tips, and quick drink orders
• ✅ Valid ID – expect to be carded regardless of age appearance
• ✅ Ear protection if you’re sensitive to loud music
• ❌ Avoid bringing large bags; the bar is small and can get packed

When to Go

• Weeknights: More low-key, easier to find a spot to sit or stand
• Weekends: Busier, louder, and more energetic, often with a crowd that stays late

If you prefer a less crowded experience but still want the full vibe, early evening on a weeknight can be a good choice.

Safety and Awareness

• Use rideshare or a designated driver if you plan on drinking heavily.
• Stay aware of your surroundings when walking to and from your car or rideshare pickup, as you would anywhere in Atlanta at night.
• Keep your belongings close; the room is crowded and fast-paced.

Quick Snapshot: Northside Tavern at a Glance

Is Northside Tavern Right for You?

Northside Tavern is likely a good fit if you:

• Want to experience a classic Atlanta dive bar
• Love live blues and up-close performances
• Prefer authentic, no-frills spots over trendy concepts
• Don’t mind loud music, crowds, and a gritty environment

It may not be the best choice if you’re seeking:

• Quiet conversation
• Upscale cocktails or food
• A polished, modern atmosphere

For many Atlantans, though, Northside Tavern is a must-visit at least once, especially if you’re interested in the city’s nightlife and music scene. Whether you’re an Atlanta local looking for a laid-back late-night spot or a visitor hoping to see a side of the city that hasn’t been overly polished, this Westside staple offers a deep-in-the-bones slice of Atlanta’s live music culture.