Cafe Intermezzo in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

Cafe Intermezzo is one of Atlanta’s most recognizable European-style coffeehouses, known for its long menu, late-night hours, and dessert cases that look like something out of a Viennese café. If you live in Atlanta, are visiting the city, or are planning a meet-up here, this guide walks you through what to expect at Cafe Intermezzo, how each location differs, and how to make the most of your visit.

Where You’ll Find Cafe Intermezzo in Atlanta

Cafe Intermezzo has been part of the Atlanta coffee and dessert scene for decades. While exact locations can change over time, Atlantans most commonly encounter these spots:

• Midtown / Peachtree area – A popular choice for people who live or work in Midtown or are staying at nearby hotels.
• Dunwoody / Perimeter area – Convenient if you’re in the northern suburbs or using the Perimeter Mall area as a meetup point.
• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport – A welcome stop for travelers who want more than just grab-and-go coffee.

For the latest addresses, opening hours, and phone numbers, many locals check:

• The official Cafe Intermezzo website
• Map apps (search for “Cafe Intermezzo Atlanta”)
• Phone directories or listing services that are updated regularly

Because hours and services (like brunch or late-night menus) can change, it’s a good idea to confirm details the same day you plan to go—especially on holidays, during big events, or late at night.

What Type of Place Is Cafe Intermezzo?

Cafe Intermezzo is best understood as a European-inspired coffeehouse and café rather than a quick-service coffee shop. It blends elements of:

• Coffee shop – Full espresso bar, specialty coffees, tea, and non-coffee drinks
• Dessert café – Large selection of cakes, tortes, and pastries
• Restaurant – A sit-down menu with breakfast, brunch, and light meals (like salads, sandwiches, and pastas)
• Lounge-style hangout – Dimmer lighting, wine and cocktails, and a slower pace that invites conversation

This makes it versatile for Atlanta locals:

• A place to work or study during off-peak hours
• A first-date spot or low-key celebration venue
• A late-night dessert stop after dinner or a show

Atmosphere: What It Feels Like Inside

A European-Inspired “Pause” in the City

The name “Intermezzo” hints at an in-between moment—a pause in your day. Inside, you can typically expect:

• Warm lighting and dark wood for a cozy, slightly romantic vibe
• Glass dessert cases prominently displayed, often near the entrance
• Table service more like a restaurant than a fast coffee bar
• Background music at a moderate level, usually suitable for conversation

In Atlanta, this feels different from many minimalist or industrial-style coffee shops. Cafe Intermezzo leans more classic and decorative, which many people use as a backdrop for:

• Birthday desserts
• Low-key celebrations
• Coffee meetings where you want something a little more “special” than a standard chain café

How Atmosphere Varies by Location

• Midtown tends to feel a bit busier and more urban, given its proximity to offices, condos, and nightlife.
• Perimeter/Dunwoody often draws more suburban families, shoppers, and business lunches.
• Airport locations are generally faster-paced with more travelers and luggage, and they may have a slightly simplified menu.

If atmosphere matters to you—quiet corner vs. bustling crowd—it can help to go at off-peak times or call ahead to ask when the lull usually is.

The Menu: Coffee, Desserts, and More

Coffee and Drinks

Cafe Intermezzo is known for a long, detailed coffee menu. While options can vary, here’s what many Atlantans look for:

• Espresso drinks – Cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, mochas
• Specialty coffee drinks – Often served with flavored syrups, whipped cream, or liqueur (for those who drink alcohol)
• Drip or brewed coffee – For a simpler option
• Hot chocolate and chai – Popular for non-coffee drinkers
• Teas – Black, green, herbal, and sometimes specialty tea blends
• Iced and blended beverages – Depending on season and location

Tips for ordering in Atlanta:

• During busy weekend nights, servers may appreciate if you have a general idea of what you want before asking them to list many options.
• If you prefer non-dairy milk, ask about what’s currently available (such as almond, oat, or soy), as it can vary.

Desserts

The dessert case is often the main attraction. You’ll typically see:

• Cakes and tortes – Chocolate, fruit, mousse, and layered varieties
• Cheesecakes – Flavors can range from classic to seasonal
• Pastries – Such as croissants, tarts, and other European-style treats
• Seasonal specialties – Depending on time of year (e.g., pumpkin flavors in fall)

In many Atlanta locations, servers will invite you to:

1. Walk up to the dessert case
2. Look at the available options
3. Decide what you want and then return to your table to place the order

Because selections can change daily, don’t rely on an online menu alone if you have your heart set on a specific cake. If it’s really important, you can call ahead and ask if that item is generally available.

Food Menu: More Than Just Sweets

Cafe Intermezzo also serves savory food, making it useful if one person wants a full meal and another just wants coffee:

• Breakfast items – Such as omelets, crepes, or simple egg dishes
• Brunch options – Vary by location and time, but often include items that pair well with coffee or mimosas
• Salads and soups – Lighter, sit-down choices for lunch or dinner
• Sandwiches and panini – Often served with sides like salad or chips
• Pastas or small plates – Depending on the location

For Atlantans, this can make Cafe Intermezzo a convenient compromise when meeting someone with uncertain plans—you can treat it as a full meal, a snack, or just coffee and dessert.

Price Range and Budget Tips

Cafe Intermezzo is generally mid-range for Atlanta:

• Coffee drinks usually cost more than a standard drip coffee from a basic chain but are comparable to other specialty coffee drinks in the city.
• Dessert slices are often priced similar to what you’d find at dedicated dessert bars or bakeries in popular neighborhoods.
• Savory dishes are usually in line with casual sit-down restaurants in Midtown or the Perimeter area.

To keep costs in check:

• Share a large dessert slice between two people.
• Opt for a classic coffee rather than elaborate specialty drinks if you’re visiting frequently.
• Visit during daytime if you want a quieter experience without adding cocktails or late-night extras.

When to Go: Timing Your Visit in Atlanta

Typical Busy Times

While exact patterns can shift, many Atlantans notice that Cafe Intermezzo is busiest:

• Friday and Saturday nights – Often filled with dates, groups, and late-night dessert runs.
• Weekend brunch hours – Especially at locations near shopping or high-density residential areas.
• Evenings before or after events – Midtown, in particular, can fill up when there are shows, concerts, or conventions nearby.

If you want a quieter experience:

• Try weekday mornings or early afternoons.
• Avoid the typical Friday/Saturday 7 p.m.–10 p.m. window if you’re not in the mood for crowds or wait times.

Late-Night Option

One reason Cafe Intermezzo has a strong presence in Atlanta’s social life is that many locations have later hours than most bakeries or standard coffee shops. That said, closing times can change, so:

• Verify current hours online the day you go.
• Keep in mind that kitchens and dessert availability may taper off toward closing, especially on weeknights.

How Cafe Intermezzo Fits into Atlanta’s Neighborhoods

Midtown & Intown Visitors

If you’re staying or living near Midtown:

• Cafe Intermezzo can be a go-to spot before or after Fox Theatre shows, art events, or nights out on Peachtree Street.
• It’s a natural choice if you want a sit-down alternative to standing in line at busier chain coffee shops.

Parking can be limited or paid in Midtown, so consider:

• MARTA to nearby stations
• Rideshare if you’re visiting for a night out

Dunwoody / Perimeter Residents

For those in North Atlanta or the suburbs:

• The Perimeter-area Cafe Intermezzo often serves as a central meetup point for families and friends who live on different sides of the metro.
• Being close to shopping areas, it’s useful for post-shopping coffee or dessert after a meal elsewhere.

Here, you’re more likely to find:

• Easier access to surface parking or shared lots
• A mix of families, professionals, and out-of-town visitors staying at nearby hotels

Airport Travelers

At Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Cafe Intermezzo provides:

• A more sit-down, relaxed feel compared to many quick-serve airport options
• Espresso drinks and pastries that can be a step up from standard terminal fare
• A way to experience a “taste of Atlanta” even if you’re only in the city for a layover

If you’re catching a flight:

• Allow enough time, since made-to-order drinks and food can take a bit longer during peak travel times.
• Check which concourse the location is in so you don’t risk missing your flight.

Service Style and What to Expect

Cafe Intermezzo operates more like a sit-down restaurant than a fast counter-service café:

1. You’re typically seated by a host (except at certain airport setups).
2. A server takes your order for drinks, food, and dessert.
3. For desserts, you may be invited to view the case and then return to your table.

Because Atlanta locations can get busy, it can help to:

• Plan ahead if you’re catching a movie, show, or flight afterward.
• Let your server know if you’re in a hurry, which may help them recommend quicker items.
• Be prepared for a more leisurely pace on busy nights, especially if you’re ordering multiple courses.

Dietary and Preference Considerations

Many Atlantans have specific food needs or preferences. While offerings vary by location and change over time, you can usually:

• Ask about vegetarian-friendly options on the main menu.
• Request non-dairy milk alternatives for many coffee drinks, if available.
• Inquire which desserts are nut-free, gluten-conscious, or less sweet, based on the current case selection.

Since exact recipes and ingredients can change:

• The safest approach is to ask your server directly about your particular concern (for example, nut content, cross-contact risks, or dairy ingredients).
• If you have serious allergies, consider calling ahead earlier in the day to ask what kind of accommodations are realistically available at that location.

Making Cafe Intermezzo Work for Your Plans in Atlanta

Here are some common use cases and how Atlantans tend to approach them:

For a Date Night

• Aim for evening hours if you like a lively atmosphere with a bit of buzz.
• Consider sharing a dessert and specialty coffee rather than a full meal if you’re coming from dinner elsewhere.
• Be ready for wait times at peak hours in busy neighborhoods like Midtown.

For Study or Remote Work

• Choose a weekday morning or afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Bring headphones, since background conversation and music can get louder than in typical “study cafés.”
• If you plan to stay a while, it’s courteous to order more than one item over time.

For Groups or Celebrations

• If you’re bringing a larger group, calling ahead can help you understand if they can seat your party at the time you want.
• Check whether they allow outside cakes or prefer you to use their desserts—policies can differ by location.
• Plan around parking and traffic, especially near busy areas like Perimeter shopping districts or Midtown.

Practical Next Steps for Atlanta Visitors and Locals

To plan a visit to Cafe Intermezzo in Atlanta:

1. Pick your area

   • Midtown / Intown
   • Perimeter / Dunwoody
   • Airport (if you’re traveling)

2. Look up current details

   • Address and phone number
   • Hours of operation
   • Whether reservations, call-ahead seating, or waitlist tools are used (if any)

3. Decide your goal

   • Full meal
   • Coffee and dessert only
   • Quick stop vs. long catch-up

4. Plan for timing and transit

   • Factor in Atlanta traffic patterns (especially weekday rush hours and event nights).
   • Consider MARTA or rideshare for Midtown to avoid parking challenges.

5. Prepare basic questions

   • Ask about wait times if you’re on a schedule.
   • Confirm any dietary needs (allergies, vegetarian options, etc.).

Quick Snapshot: Cafe Intermezzo in Atlanta

With this overview, you can decide how Cafe Intermezzo fits into your own Atlanta plans—whether you’re looking for a quick espresso at the airport, a cozy date spot in Midtown, or a relaxed dessert meetup near Perimeter.