The Atlanta dining scene is buzzing with activity as several notable updates unfold, starting with the reopening of Mellow Mushroom in Decatur.
After its surprising closure in June due to financial challenges and increased local competition, the iconic pizza chain announced on Friday that the Decatur location will reopen this fall with significant renovations.
Although a specific date for the reopening has not been disclosed, the updates will include both interior and exterior enhancements as well as technological improvements.
Among the changes, a new takeout window is set to be added alongside refreshed bar and patio areas.
Mellow Mushroom also plans to introduce unique menu items that are being tested for a potential nationwide launch, adding to the excitement of the reopening.
Executive Vice President of Strategy at Mellow Mushroom, Ahsan Jiva, emphasized the importance of the Decatur location to the brand.
“Mellow Mushroom is Atlanta-founded and -based, and we’re committed to our presence in Decatur alongside the city’s vibrant community spirit,” he stated.
Jiva expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return with renewed energy and a commitment to delivering an outstanding experience to local guests.
In a related culinary venture, well-known Atlanta chef Shaun Doty is gearing up to launch a new dinner-only restaurant called Jules at Barnsley Resort, located in Adairsville, North Georgia.
This marks a return to the culinary scene for Doty, founder of Bantam + Biddy, who has also previously worked at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead.
Jules is inspired by Julia Barnsley, the daughter of the original estate owner, and aims to complement Barnsley Resort’s existing dining options, which include Woodlands and the recently constructed Biergarten.
With an investment of $16 million into renovations by the new owner, Davidson Resorts, the anticipation for Jules remains high.
Doty shared his vision for the restaurant, describing it as “seasonal, soulful, and intentional— a reflection of where I’ve been and where I want to go, told through the lens of this extraordinary place.”
In addition to these notable openings, various establishments around Atlanta are celebrating with special promotions.
Starting Saturday, Cinnabon Swirl in Kennesaw will be offering free ice cream sandwiches in honor of National Ice Cream Sandwich Day.
This unique collaboration combines Cinnabon baked goods with Carvel soft-serve ice cream and adds to the limited number of their locations nationwide.
On Monday, DoubleTree by Hilton hotels will join the celebration by offering free chocolate chip cookies to anyone who visits any of their nearly 400 locations.
The hospitality chain even provides an allergy-friendly cookie option for guests with dietary restrictions.
In the metro area, residents eager for a savory treat can look forward to August 8, when L&L Hawaiian Barbecue will be giving away Spam musubi from noon until 2 p.m.
This giveaway aligns with the fifth annual celebration of National Spam Musubi Day, a popular snack originating from Hawaii.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue operates two locations in the metro area, in Smyrna and Peachtree City.
Moreover, an exciting initiative has been announced by the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) in partnership with Chase.
The two organizations will distribute a total of $4 million in grant money to independent restaurants nationwide, including $1 million designated for innovative dining projects.
The first $3 million of the fund will assist with disaster relief efforts, while the grant awards will support 40 independent restaurants and bars that showcase environmental innovation and sustainability.
Each selected establishment will receive a grant of $25,000.
Applications for these grants opened on July 30 and are set to close on August 27.
Restaurant owners interested in applying can find additional information at ircinnovatorawards.chase.com.
Finally, in further restaurant news, Jinya Ramen Bar is set to open a new location in Roswell on Monday, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.
This establishment, located at 1013 Alpharetta St., will make it the eighth Jinya in the Atlanta area.
To celebrate the opening, the first 100 customers will receive a coupon for free ramen on their next visit, adding an extra incentive for ramen lovers.
As the culinary scene in Atlanta continues to evolve, both local diners and visitors will have plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks.
image source from：ajc
