News Summary

Summerhill, one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods, is undergoing a culinary renaissance. Once a food desert, the area is now bustling with new restaurants and businesses along Georgia Avenue, reviving its rich history of commerce and culture. With diverse dining options and community-friendly amenities, Summerhill is establishing itself as a vibrant dining destination that honors its past while welcoming a bright future.

Summerhill, Atlanta: A Culinary Renaissance in the Historic Neighborhood

Summerhill, one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods established in 1865, is experiencing a remarkable culinary revival. Once a thriving hub for African American commerce and culture, the area has transformed from a food desert into a vibrant dining destination, thanks to new restaurants and retailers that have recently opened their doors along Georgia Avenue.

The neighborhood’s history traces back to its original inhabitants, freed slaves and Jewish immigrants. From the 1920s to the 1950s, Summerhill was a prosperous African American community, with Georgia Avenue becoming a central commerce hub. However, the construction of the Downtown Connector (I-75/85) marked the beginning of a significant decline as residents began to leave the area in droves, leading to a stark transformation of the neighborhood.

By 1996, Summerhill had diminished to only a few thousand residents, a drop that coincided with the establishment of the Centennial Olympic Stadium in the area for the 1996 Olympic Games. The stadium later became home to Turner Field, the Atlanta Braves’ stadium for nearly two decades, until the team’s relocation to Cobb County left the area reduced to parking lots and barren landscape.

It wasn’t until 2023 that the first signs of revitalization appeared, as a Publix grocery store opened its doors, signaling a renewed interest in Summerhill. This momentum has continued to grow, attracting new restaurants and businesses eager to join the resurgence of the neighborhood.

Revitalized Dining Scene

Summerhill’s culinary landscape features an enticing array of dining options, appealing to diverse palates and preferences. Little Tart Bakery is a standout known for its exquisite pastries, including croissants that gained recognition from culinary influencer Anthony Bourdain. Another highlight is How Crispy Express, which specializes in mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches, boasting unique flavors such as Lemon Pepper Wet and Honey Boi.

For those seeking vibrant Southeast Asian flavors, Talat Market offers a selection of Thai dishes, including the much-praised crispy rice salad. Upscale Southern cuisine can be found at Southern National, which features menu items like the flavorful lamb burger helper. Additionally, Halfway Crooks delivers a brewery experience showcasing German and Czech-style beers accompanied by a menu of German-inspired small bites.

Furthermore, Redacted Basement Drink Parlor marks Summerhill’s first dedicated bar, where visitors can enjoy cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. These dining establishments, along with various cafes and shops, contribute to a burgeoning food scene that reflects the neighborhood’s ongoing evolution.

Access and Amenities

Located south of downtown Atlanta, Summerhill is easily accessible by car or via the MARTA public transit system. Plans are underway to introduce a new MARTA Rapid Summerhill Line, aiming to enhance connectivity in the area. The neighborhood’s welcoming atmosphere extends to its dining options, with many venues offering outdoor seating that accommodates pets.

As Summerhill continues to develop, new residents and business owners are relocating to the area, seeking to cultivate a lively dining and social atmosphere. This revitalization not only honors the neighborhood’s rich history but also positions Summerhill as one of Atlanta’s exciting culinary destinations.

As the community thrives, the culinary renaissance of Summerhill stands as a testament to resilience and transformation, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor the flavors of this historic neighborhood.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene Faces Heartbreak with Closures

Additional Resources

• The Infatuation: Best of Summerhill
• Wikipedia: Summerhill, Atlanta
• AJC: Psito in Summerhill
• Google Search: Summerhill Atlanta restaurants
• Rough Draft Atlanta: Redacted Basement Drink Parlor
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta
• What Now Atlanta: Maepole Restaurant in Summerhill
• Google News: Summerhill Atlanta dining
• What Now Atlanta: Long Awaited Bar in Summerhill