Parlor Cocktail Den in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go
If you enjoy intimate cocktail bars more than loud clubs, Parlor Cocktail Den in Atlanta is the kind of spot that tends to stay on your favorites list. This guide walks through what to expect, how it fits into Atlanta’s broader bar scene, and practical tips for planning a visit.
Where Parlor Cocktail Den Fits in Atlanta’s Bar Scene
Atlanta has no shortage of places to grab a drink, but Parlor Cocktail Den is best understood as:
- A cocktail-focused bar rather than a full restaurant
- More of a lounge / speakeasy-style den than a sports bar
- A good choice for date nights, small groups, and pre- or post-dinner drinks
Compared with many Midtown or Buckhead spots, Parlor typically leans toward:
- Dim lighting and cozy seating
- Thoughtfully made cocktails instead of oversized or novelty drinks
- Conversation-friendly volume (depending on the night and crowd)
If you’re looking for bottle service or dancing, this likely won’t be your scene. If you want a well-made cocktail in a relaxed, slightly upscale environment, it’s more aligned with what people in Atlanta look for in neighborhood cocktail lounges.
Atmosphere and Vibe
Most guests experience Parlor Cocktail Den as:
- Intimate – often built around bar seating, banquettes, and low tables
- Stylish but not overly formal – smart-casual dress fits right in
- Low-key – a place you can talk without shouting
Good occasions for Parlor Cocktail Den
- 📍 Pre-dinner cocktails before a meal elsewhere in the neighborhood
- 💬 Catch-up drinks with friends or coworkers
- ❤️ Date nights where you want a comfortable but slightly elevated setting
- 🍸 Solo visits if you enjoy chatting with bartenders and exploring the menu
If you live in Atlanta, Parlor can make sense as a “regular spot” when you want a nicer drink but don’t want to trek across town or deal with big crowds. If you’re visiting Atlanta, it’s the kind of bar that shows off the city’s growing craft cocktail culture without feeling pretentious.
Drinks: What to Expect from the Cocktail Menu
Specific cocktails change over time, but in Atlanta bars like Parlor Cocktail Den, you’ll usually see:
- House cocktails – signature drinks built around seasonal flavors, infusions, or house syrups
- Twists on classics – riffed versions of old fashioneds, martinis, daiquiris, Negronis, and sours
- Classic standards – if you ask for a Manhattan or gin & tonic, they should be able to make it properly
- Spirit-forward options – good for people who enjoy bourbon, rye, gin, or agave spirits
- Lighter, refreshing options – often with citrus, herbs, or bubbles
Most Atlanta cocktail dens will also have:
- A small but focused wine list
- A couple of beer options (bottles or cans, sometimes a local brewery feature)
- Non-alcoholic options – spirit-free cocktails, sodas, or tonics for those not drinking
How to order if you’re unsure
If you don’t know what to choose, Atlanta bartenders at this level are usually comfortable guiding you. You can say something like:
- “I usually like tequila and citrusy drinks—what would you recommend?”
- “Nothing too sweet, maybe bourbon-based?”
That kind of simple description often leads to a better match than just picking randomly from the menu.
Food: Should You Plan to Eat Here?
Parlor Cocktail Den is best treated as a drinks-first destination. As with many Atlanta cocktail bars and lounges:
- You may find light bites or snacks (nuts, small plates, or bar snacks)
- You should not expect a large or full dinner menu
Because of that, many locals use it in one of two ways:
- Start here: Have a round or two of cocktails, then walk or rideshare to a nearby restaurant for dinner.
- End here: Eat elsewhere first, then move to Parlor for a relaxed nightcap.
If you’re visiting from out of town and staying in central Atlanta, it’s easy to build an evening around dinner + Parlor + another bar or dessert spot nearby.
Typical Price Range and Budgeting
In Atlanta cocktail dens, you’ll usually see:
- Cocktails: commonly in the mid to upper-teens per drink, depending on ingredients and style
- Beer and wine: generally lower than cocktails, with wine by the glass somewhere in the moderate range
- Snacks / small bites: usually priced similarly to other urban cocktail lounges
For planning purposes:
- Expect to pay more than a neighborhood dive bar, but less than a fine-dining restaurant with a cocktail pairing.
- Factor in tax and tip, especially if you’re exploring multi-spirit cocktails or specialty options.
If you’re out with a group, a common Atlanta strategy is:
- Start with one signature or “house” cocktail, then
- Switch to a simpler drink (like a highball, beer, or glass of wine) if you’re watching your budget.
Reservations, Wait Times, and When to Go
Policies can change, but Atlanta bars similar to Parlor Cocktail Den typically:
- May accept limited reservations (especially for larger groups or peak nights)
- Allow walk-ins until they hit capacity
- Fill up most on Friday and Saturday evenings, usually after dinner hours
When locals tend to go
- Weeknights (Mon–Thu): Better for a quieter experience and easier seating
- Early evening (5–8 p.m.): Good if you want a relaxed drink before going elsewhere
- Later evening (9 p.m. onward): Can be busier, especially on weekends
If you’re coordinating with friends or planning a date night, it’s helpful to:
- Call ahead or check for the most current info on wait times, reservations, and group policies
- Aim for off-peak hours if you prefer a more low-key setting
Dress Code and What to Wear
Atlanta’s cocktail bars generally favor smart casual:
- ✅ Good fits: jeans with a nice top or button-down, casual dresses, flats, boots, or low heels
- ❌ Often discouraged: gym clothes, overly ripped clothing, extremely casual beachwear
You typically don’t need a jacket or formal dress, but most Atlantans treat places like Parlor Cocktail Den as a chance to step up one notch from everyday casual.
Getting There and Getting Home Safely
Exact location and transit options will depend on where Parlor Cocktail Den sits within Atlanta, but some general guidance applies citywide.
Transportation options commonly used in Atlanta for bars and lounges
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – most common choice for nights out, especially if you plan to drink
- MARTA – useful if the bar is near a rail station or bus line
- Driving + parking – depends heavily on the neighborhood; you may find street parking, lots, or paid decks
If you’re unfamiliar with Atlanta’s layout:
- Central areas like Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, and parts of Buckhead are popular for bar-hopping.
- Walkability varies by neighborhood, so many people still rely on rideshare even for short distances at night.
Safety and responsible drinking
As in any major city:
- Plan your ride home in advance if you expect to drink.
- Keep an eye on belongings and bar tabs.
- If someone in your group isn’t drinking, Atlanta police and local organizations regularly remind drivers to stay within legal limits to avoid DUI issues.
If you need official information on Georgia alcohol laws or driving limits, you can refer to:
- Georgia Department of Driver Services
2206 East View Parkway
Conyers, GA 30013
Phone: (678) 413-8400
Group Visits, Special Occasions, and Private Use
For Atlantans planning birthdays, small celebrations, or work outings, places like Parlor Cocktail Den typically:
- Work well for small groups (2–6 people) sitting together at tables or near the bar
- May be able to accommodate slightly larger groups with advance notice
- Sometimes offer partial or full buyouts for private events, depending on size and budget
If you’re considering Parlor for:
- A birthday,
- A pre-wedding gathering, or
- A client or team outing,
it’s helpful to:
- Call ahead during off-peak hours.
- Ask about capacity, minimum spend (if any), and time limits for larger groups.
- Confirm any decor, cake, or outside food policies if that matters for your event.
Comparing Parlor Cocktail Den to Other Atlanta Spots
Atlanta offers a mix of bar styles, and Parlor Cocktail Den generally fits into the craft cocktail lounge lane. To decide if it’s right for you, consider how it compares to common alternatives:
| If you want… | Parlor Cocktail Den–type bar | Other Atlanta options you might consider |
|---|---|---|
| Crafted cocktails in a calm setting | ✅ Strong match | Other cocktail lounges or hotel bars |
| Big sports screens and loud crowds | ❌ Not ideal | Sports bars and taprooms |
| Live music or dancing | ❌ Often limited / unlikely | Music venues, clubs, or larger bars |
| Cheap pitchers and shots | ❌ Typically not the focus | College bars, dive bars |
| Date-night, “grown-up” feel | ✅ Often a good choice | Wine bars, upscale restaurants |
This can help you decide whether to make Parlor the main event of your night or one stop in a longer Atlanta evening.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
To get the best experience at Parlor Cocktail Den in the context of Atlanta’s nightlife:
- ✅ Check hours and any reservation options before heading out.
- ✅ Plan dinner elsewhere if you want a full meal and treat Parlor mainly as a cocktail stop.
- ✅ Talk to the bartender about your preferences; Atlanta’s cocktail scene is built around personalization.
- ✅ Use rideshare or a designated driver if you’ll be drinking.
- ✅ Time your visit (early evening or weeknights) if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
For both locals and visitors, Parlor Cocktail Den fits well into an Atlanta night where the focus is on well-made drinks, conversation, and a relaxed, grown-up environment rather than noise and crowds.
