Your Must-Do Guide to Virginia Highland During Porchfest Weekend!
Whether you’re a first-timer or a local ATL explorer, Virginia Highland’s Porchfest weekend is the ultimate neighborhood vibe check. Think charming Queen Anne homes, live music echoing down tree-lined streets, oh & the kind of local shops that make you feel like you stumbled into a movie scene. Yes, it’s that picturesque!
Local Gems (I love)
Dark Horse (basement into 10 High)
A neighborhood staple since 1990, it’s legendary & known for its atmosphere + live band karaoke nights. Def a must-do.
Virginia Highland Books
An independent bookstore offering a curated selection of reads. As an English major, I really LOVE this unique spot & the painted steps with notable authors.
Paolo’s Gelato
Scooping authentic Italian gelato since 1999, it’s a sweet spot to cool down during your stroll.
Coffee & Treats
Little coffee runs & yummy treats to start your day!
ASH Coffee
A quirky spot offering unique lattes & pastries. The ube latte is a must! They also partner with local bakers & artists. So you can sip, snack, & shop at this spot. PRO TIP: It’s the same team behind L5P shop Junkman’s Daughter
San Francisco Coffee Roasting Company
A local fave for over 30 years. Fresh beans, chill vibes, & that authentic neighborhood feel we all love.
Alon’s Bakery & Market (Morningside on North Highland Ave)
A Euro-style bakery with pastries that actually slap. As someone who lived in Europe, I can confirm—this is the real deal.
Academy Coffee
Hidden gem alert. Tiny but mighty espresso counter tucked inside one of the best butcher shops in ATL.
Press & Grind
Where to Eat & Sip
Atkins Park
Atlanta’s oldest tavern + brunch I crave. Cozy, classic, & always hits.
Dad’s (formerly Diesel)
Ocean Wave (formerly Harry & Sons)
Sushi + Thai fusion = yes, please. Grab a patio table if you can.
Surin of Thailand
Mali
Fontaine’s Oyster Bar
Casual seafood with a stellar oyster lineup. Laid-back & always poppin’.
Highland Tap
A moody underground steakhouse with martinis that don’t mess around.
Farm Burger
Morningside (North Highland Ave)
Whisky Bird
Family Dog
Lives up to its name (yes, they love your pup).
Doc Chey’s Noodles
Date Night Fun
Yakitori Kona
Low-key one of the BEST spots for cocktails + bites.
Rosa, Ela, La Tavola
For pasta, romance, & candlelit convo—you can’t go wrong with any of these!
Nightlight & Bars
Blind Willie’s
A legendary stage. It’s the vibe if you love live music.
Neighbors, Moe’s & Joe’s, George’s
Solid bar hangs with big patios & even bigger personality.
The Arts
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Stunning architecture, rotating exhibits, & creative classes inside a historic mansion. Go for the vibes, stay for the inspiration.
Markets & Shops
Kinship Butcher
Not just a butcher shop, but also a place to grab tasty sandwiches and more.
Savi Provisions
A friendly neighborhood market
Highland Diamond
Atlanta Pro Bike
Highland Pet Supply
Ace Intown Hardware
Highland Woodworking
Other Stops
John Howell Park
Highland Yoga
RIP but never forgotten:
The OG Taco Mac, a casual wing + sports bar that was a city staple. You were chaos in a booth & we loved you for it.
Bookhouse Pub
NOTES:
Poncey-Highlands coming soon!