Atlanta Bids Farewell to Beloved Restaurants Amid Culinary Changes

Hello, Atlanta! Some Sad Goodbyes to Local Faves

Atlanta is always buzzing with exciting culinary experiences, but this week, we’ve received some bittersweet news that may leave many of us feeling a bit blue. Some of our beloved restaurants have announced their closures, and it’s tough to say goodbye. Many of these spots have become neighborhood staples, drawing in crowds for their delicious food and warm atmospheres. Let’s dive into the details about the recent farewells.

Damsel Says Goodbye

First up is Damsel, the cabaret restaurant located at Chattahoochee Food Works. Owner Dave Green, who also runs The Select in Sandy Springs and another venue in Charleston, took to Instagram to announce the decision. Opened just this past March, Damsel quickly caught the hearts of diners with its unique concept of combining dinner with a show. Their enchanting lobster cones served in swan-themed vessels and glitzy performances—from tap dancing to soulful jazz—were all the rage. Unfortunately, as Green explained, “Despite our best efforts, we encountered many challenges, and unfortunately, the concept has proven unsustainable at this time.” It’s clear that he and the team poured their heart into this venture. Green expressed his gratitude to the performers and staff who helped realize this dream, but he will now focus his energy on The Select.

A Fond Farewell to The General Muir

Next on the list is another heartbreaker for food lovers: The General Muir in Sandy Springs. This popular deli is set to hold its last service on September 29. The owners shared that their second location, which opened just two years ago in 2021, fell victim to the lingering impacts of the pandemic. Although they built a loyal following, they just couldn’t reach the business levels needed to make it work. Thankfully, the original deli in Emory Point will remain open, so we can still enjoy those delicious bagels and sandwiches, but it’s a sad day for the Sandy Springs location.

Goodbye, Pho Cue

Another culinary gem that has recently closed is Pho Cue, a Vietnamese barbecue eatery in Glenwood Park. After making quite a stir since launching as a pop-up in 2020, the owners, Julian Wissman and Brian Holloway, decided to transition to a brick-and-mortar space. They were known for their unique blend of Vietnamese flavors with Texan barbecue flair. Though the exact reasons for the closure haven’t been disclosed, we may see them pop up again in future ventures. Let’s keep our fingers crossed!

The End of an Era at The Bookhouse Pub

Lastly, we have The Bookhouse Pub, a true Atlanta staple located on Ponce de Leon. The local favorite is expected to close its doors by the end of the year. The owners revealed that in 2023, they sold the pub but decided to keep it running for a bit longer. As we’ve seen substantial development and change in the Ponce area over the years, it’s clear this iconic bar has left a mark on the community. With Ponce City Market becoming a centerpiece back in 2014 and ongoing redevelopment plans, the pub’s closure resonates with many longtime patrons.

Reflecting on Changes

As we say goodbye to these beloved spots, we can only look back with fond memories of laughter, great food, and good times shared with friends and family. The culinary scene in Atlanta has always been vibrant, but it’s these special places we’ll miss dearly. They have shape-shifted the local dining landscape and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Let’s remember the good times and continue to support our favorite neighborhood joints as they navigate these challenging waters. Here’s to hoping for new beginnings and fresh experiences in the city we love!