Top 10 Atlanta Spots for Afternoon Drinks You Can Trust

Atlantas vibrant urban landscape is home to a dynamic mix of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique flavor when it comes to afternoon libations. From historic districts steeped in Southern charm to modern high-rises buzzing with creative energy, the city has cultivated a culture where quality, ambiance, and authenticity matter. But with so many optionsfrom rooftop bars to hidden speakeasies and neighborhood cafsits easy to feel overwhelmed. How do you know which spots truly deliver on taste, service, and consistency? This guide cuts through the noise. Weve curated the Top 10 Atlanta spots for afternoon drinks you can trust, based on years of local insight, consistent customer feedback, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether youre a long-time resident or a visitor seeking a genuine Atlanta experience, these venues offer more than just a drinkthey offer a moment of calm, connection, and craftsmanship.

Why Trust Matters

In a city where new bars and lounges open every month, trust becomes the rarest commodity. A great afternoon drink isnt just about the ingredientsits about reliability. Its knowing that the espresso martini you loved last week will taste just as perfect next time. Its about the barista who remembers your name and your usual order. Its about a patio thats always clean, the ice thats always fresh, and the staff who never rush you, even during peak hours. Trust is built over time, through consistency, transparency, and care.

Many establishments prioritize trends over traditionflashy lighting, viral cocktails, or Instagrammable dcorbut these rarely sustain long-term loyalty. The venues on this list have endured because they prioritize substance over spectacle. They source local ingredients. They train their staff rigorously. They listen to their patrons. They dont chase fads; they set standards.

Afternoon drinks serve a unique purpose. Unlike evening cocktails meant for celebration or late-night drinks for escapism, afternoon beverages are about pause. Theyre for catching up with a friend, finishing a work project with a reset, or simply enjoying the golden hour before the city shifts into night. You need a place that understands this rhythmone that doesnt force you to wait 20 minutes for a drink or serve you something lukewarm because theyre too busy.

Thats why weve excluded venues with inconsistent reviews, erratic service, or questionable hygiene standards. Weve focused on places where the bar team is present, the drinks are made with intention, and the atmosphere invites lingeringnot rushing. These are the spots where locals return week after week, where visitors are recommended by word of mouth, and where the drink is never an afterthoughtits the centerpiece.

Top 10 Atlanta Spots for Afternoon Drinks

1. The Flatiron Lounge

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, The Flatiron Lounge has been a cornerstone of Atlantas afternoon drinking scene since 2011. Housed in a beautifully restored early 20th-century building, the space blends industrial chic with warm wood finishes and soft, ambient lighting. The menu is intentionally curated for the afternoonno heavy, overly sweet cocktails here. Instead, youll find expertly balanced spritzes, vermouth-based aperitifs, and house-made shrubs paired with sparkling water. Their signature Midtown Mule (gin, ginger, lime, and a hint of rosemary) is a local favorite, served over perfectly cracked ice in a chilled copper mug.

What sets The Flatiron apart is its commitment to tea-infused spirits and non-alcoholic options. Their Herbal Refresher (chamomile-infused gin, lemon verbena, and honey syrup) is so popular, its often ordered by patrons who dont drink alcohol. The staff are trained in sensory tasting and can guide you based on your moodwhether you want something bright and citrusy or earthy and calming. With outdoor seating that overlooks a quiet tree-lined street, its the ideal spot to slow down, read a book, or have a thoughtful conversation.

2. The Coffee & The Gin

Dont let the name fool youThe Coffee & The Gin is not a caf that dabbles in cocktails. Its a meticulously designed hybrid space where coffee culture meets cocktail craftsmanship. Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., its one of the few venues in Atlanta that seamlessly transitions from morning espresso to afternoon gin & tonic without missing a beat. The baristas and mixologists share the same workspace, and the menu is designed so that each drink complements the next.

Try their Afternoon Affogato Martinia chilled espresso shot poured over a scoop of vanilla bean gelato and finished with a splash of gin and a twist of orange peel. Its rich, refreshing, and perfectly suited for a post-lunch lull. Their gin selection is sourced from small-batch distilleries across the Southeast, and they rotate seasonal infusions weeklythink peach-basil, blackberry-thyme, or smoked rosemary. The space is airy, with high ceilings and large windows, making it ideal for natural light and people-watching. Regulars often come for the 3 p.m. Ritual: a single pour of their house gin, a side of chilled sparkling water, and a small plate of artisanal cheese.

3. The Porch at Ponce City Market

Perched on the upper level of Ponce City Market, The Porch offers one of the most scenic afternoon views in Atlanta. Overlooking the historic BeltLine and the city skyline, this open-air patio is shaded by retractable canopies and lined with potted fig trees and hanging lanterns. The drink menu is a love letter to Southern ingredients: peach bourbon lemonade, sweet tea gin fizz, and a locally brewed hibiscus sparkling wine spritz.

What makes The Porch trustworthy is its consistency. Whether its a rainy Tuesday or a sunny Saturday, the drinks are always prepared with precision. The bartenders use house-preserved peaches, real cane sugar, and freshly squeezed citrusnot concentrate. They also offer a Build Your Own Spritz station, where you can choose your base (vermouth, ros, or non-alcoholic sparkling), add a botanical infusion (lavender, elderflower, or ginger), and top it with soda. Its interactive without being gimmicky. The staff are knowledgeable but never pushy, and the space is always kept clean and well-lit. Its a favorite among freelancers, creatives, and families looking for a relaxed, elevated afternoon experience.

4. The Varsity Bar & Grill

Yes, you read that rightthe legendary Varsity, Atlantas iconic drive-in restaurant, has a hidden bar tucked behind its famous chili dogs and onion rings. The Varsity Bar & Grill opened its afternoon cocktail program in 2020 and has since become a cult favorite among locals who appreciate the juxtaposition of nostalgia and sophistication. The bar is small, intimate, and lit by vintage neon signs. The menu is a playful nod to Southern classics reimagined: Chili Dog Old Fashioned (bourbon, smoked maple syrup, bitters, and a dash of chili oil), Peach Tea Sour, and Fried Green Tomato Margarita.

What earns The Varsity Bar & Grill a spot on this list is its authenticity. They dont try to be something theyre not. The drinks are bold, unapologetically Southern, and made with care. The bartender, a 25-year Varsity veteran, knows every regular by name and remembers their order before they sit down. The atmosphere is warm, unpretentious, and full of character. Its the kind of place where you can order a drink and a side of fries, sit by the window, and feel like youve come home. For those seeking comfort with a twist, this is it.

5. The Library at The Kimpton Hotel

Located inside the boutique Kimpton Hotel in the Buckhead neighborhood, The Library is a quiet oasis designed to feel like a private study in a grand estate. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, leather armchairs, and low, warm lighting create an atmosphere of refined calm. The drink menu is centered around tea, vermouth, and small-batch spirits, with a focus on herbal and botanical profiles.

Try their Earl Grey Negroni, made with house-infused Earl Grey tea gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, stirred and served with a dehydrated orange twist. Or opt for the Botanical Tisane, a non-alcoholic blend of hibiscus, chamomile, and lemongrass, steeped for 12 minutes and served with a honeycomb stirrer. The staff are trained in tea sommelier techniques and can guide you through flavor profiles with the same expertise as a wine expert. They never rush guests, and the space is intentionally kept quietno loud music, no phone calls. Its the perfect place to unwind after a long meeting or to enjoy a quiet afternoon with a novel. The Library is not flashy, but its deeply trustworthy.

6. The Peachtree Terrace

On the 12th floor of a historic building in the heart of Buckhead, The Peachtree Terrace offers panoramic views of the citys skyline and the lush greenery of the surrounding neighborhoods. The space is modern but warm, with large windows, linen drapes, and a central bar made of reclaimed oak. The afternoon menu is designed around seasonal fruit and regional spirits.

Standouts include the Peach & Thyme Gin Fizz, made with Georgia-grown peaches, fresh thyme, and a touch of lavender honey, and the Sweet Potato Bourbon Sour, a surprising but delicious twist on the classic, using roasted sweet potato syrup. They also offer a rotating Afternoon Flight of three small pourseach curated around a theme like Citrus & Spice or Herbal Earth. The bartenders are passionate about local sourcing and can tell you the origin of every ingredient. The terrace is partially covered, so its usable even during light rain, and the seating is arranged for both privacy and conversation. Its a favorite among professionals who want to escape the office without leaving the city.

7. The Greenhouse at The High Museum

Located within the grounds of the High Museum of Art, The Greenhouse is an unexpected gem. Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., its a glass-enclosed conservatory filled with tropical plants, running water features, and natural sunlight. The drink program is as botanical as the space itselfeach cocktail is inspired by a different exhibit or artist. On any given afternoon, you might find a Georgia Clay cocktail (made with local clay-filtered water, white rum, and hibiscus) or a Monets Water Lilies (gin, blue pea flower, lemon, and edible petals).

What makes The Greenhouse trustworthy is its dedication to art and nature. The drinks are seasonal, artistically presented, and made with organic, pesticide-free botanicals. The staff are often art students or local creatives who are passionate about both the museum and the craft of mixology. Theres no pressure to buy food, and seating is abundant. Many visitors come just for the drink and the quietsipping slowly while watching the light shift through the glass ceiling. Its a rare blend of culture, calm, and craftsmanship.

8. The Back Porch at The Earl

Tucked behind the beloved East Atlanta music venue The Earl, The Back Porch is an unassuming but deeply beloved spot for afternoon drinks. Its not a fancy barits a converted garage with string lights, mismatched chairs, and a small wooden counter. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in heart. The drink menu is short but thoughtful: local craft beers on tap, natural wines by the glass, and a rotating selection of house-made kombucha and shrubs.

Try their Shakerag Shruba tart, refreshing blend of blackberry, apple cider vinegar, and ginger, served over ice with a splash of soda. Its the kind of drink that makes you pause and appreciate the simplicity of good ingredients. The owner, a former jazz musician, still plays acoustic sets on weekend afternoons. The vibe is laid-back, inclusive, and community-driven. Regulars bring their dogs, their books, and their stories. Its the kind of place where youll leave with a new friend and a new favorite drink. No pretense. No noise. Just good drinks and good people.

9. The Terrace at The Atlanta History Center

Set among the gardens and historic homes of the Atlanta History Center, The Terrace is a tranquil retreat for those seeking a refined yet relaxed afternoon. The space is surrounded by azaleas, oaks, and a small koi pond, with shaded tables and vintage wicker furniture. The drink menu focuses on heritage cocktails and regional spirits, with an emphasis on pre-Prohibition recipes.

Dont miss the Atlanta Soura 19th-century recipe made with rye whiskey, lemon, orange bitters, and a touch of peach syrup. Or try the Sweet Tea & Sage non-alcoholic option, brewed with loose-leaf tea from a local farm and infused with fresh sage. The staff wear linen aprons and serve drinks on ceramic trays, adding to the old-world charm. Theyre happy to explain the history behind each recipe, and many of the ingredients are sourced from the Centers own gardens. Its a place where time slows down, and every sip feels intentional. Perfect for history buffs, book lovers, or anyone who wants to escape the rush of the city.

10. The Attic at The Waverly

Perched above a quiet residential street in Inman Park, The Attic is a hidden rooftop lounge that feels like a secret shared among friends. Accessed via a narrow staircase behind a bookshelf, the space is intimate, cozy, and filled with vintage books, Persian rugs, and low, cushioned seating. The drink menu is small but exceptionaleach cocktail is named after a Georgia writer or poet.

Try the Flannery OConnor (bourbon, black walnut liqueur, smoked orange, and a dash of absinthe) or the Maya Angelou (elderflower gin, hibiscus, rosewater, and a touch of honey). The ingredients are meticulously sourced, and the bartenders take pride in their slow, deliberate technique. No loud music. No flashing lights. Just the sound of ice clinking and soft jazz playing in the background. The Attic is open only from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and reservations are recommendedbut not required. Its a sanctuary for those who value quiet luxury and the art of the slow pour.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes an afternoon drink spot trustworthy in Atlanta?

A trustworthy afternoon drink spot in Atlanta prioritizes consistency, quality ingredients, and a calm atmosphere. Its not about the trendiest cocktail or the most Instagrammable dcorits about whether the drink tastes the same every time, whether the staff remembers your name, and whether the space feels welcoming without being crowded or rushed. Trust is earned through reliability over time.

Are these spots good for non-drinkers?

Yes. Every venue on this list offers thoughtful, well-crafted non-alcoholic optionsfrom herbal infusions and house-made shrubs to artisanal teas and botanical sodas. These arent afterthoughts; theyre designed with the same care as the alcoholic offerings.

Do I need to make reservations?

Most of these spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during weekday afternoons. However, The Attic at The Waverly and The Peachtree Terrace recommend reservations during weekends or peak seasons. Its always a good idea to check their websites or social media for real-time updates.

Are these places family-friendly?

Several areespecially The Porch at Ponce City Market, The Back Porch at The Earl, and The Terrace at The Atlanta History Center. They welcome children and offer kid-friendly beverages. Others, like The Library and The Attic, are better suited for adults seeking quiet. Always check the vibe before bringing young guests.

Whats the average price for a drink?

Prices range from $8 to $16, depending on the venue and ingredients. Most fall between $10$13 for a craft cocktail or non-alcoholic specialty. Youre paying for quality, sourcing, and craftsmanshipnot just alcohol content.

Can I work remotely at these places?

Absolutely. The Flatiron Lounge, The Coffee & The Gin, The Library, and The Porch are all popular with remote workers. They offer ample seating, good lighting, and reliable Wi-Fi. Just be respectful of space and avoid taking up tables for hours during busy times.

Do any of these spots serve food?

Yes. The Porch, The Varsity Bar & Grill, and The Terrace offer light bitescheese boards, sandwiches, and Southern snacks. The others focus on drinks, but youre welcome to bring in food from nearby restaurants. Many locals pair their drinks with a meal from Ponce City Market or the East Atlanta Village.

Are these spots open on holidays?

Most remain open on major holidays, though hours may be adjusted. The Library and The Attic tend to close earlier on holidays, while The Porch and The Varsity often extend hours. Check individual websites for holiday schedules.

Conclusion

Atlantas afternoon drinking scene is more than a collection of barsits a reflection of the citys soul. These Top 10 spots have earned their place not through marketing, but through memory. Theyre where you go when you need to reset. Where you return because the drink tastes like home. Where the ice is always cold, the citrus is always fresh, and the people always make you feel seen.

Trust isnt built overnight. Its built in the quiet momentsthe way the bartender nods when you walk in, the way the sun hits your table just right at 4 p.m., the way the drink arrives exactly as you remembered. These are the places that understand that an afternoon drink isnt a luxuryits a ritual.

So next time youre looking for a pause in your day, skip the noise. Skip the hype. Choose one of these ten. Sit back. Sip slowly. Let the city breathe around you. And remember: the best drinks arent the ones that make the headlinestheyre the ones that make you want to come back.