An insider’s guide to Buckhead – Atlanta’s posh neighborhood

Buckhead is an Atlanta neighborhood with a national reputation. It’s become nearly synonymous with the city of Atlanta, and this part of town is home to some of the most high-end housing, shopping and dining in the whole state.

Buckhead’s history dates back to the 1800s when a farmer purchased a little more than 200 acres of land in the area. He then opened a tavern and general store at what is now the intersection of three prominent roads – Peachtree, Roswell and West Paces Ferry. A story behind Buckhead’s name says that the farmer displayed the head of a large male deer (aka buck) that he killed outside the tavern.

Its location is strategic within Atlanta’s city limits, and it comprises a large chunk of the north central area running between two major interstates – I-75 and I-85. Since 1952, the area once considered a rural suburb of Atlanta has been an official part of the city and is considered the uptown of Atlanta. It is home to a large part of the city’s residential, commercial and financial interests. With so many different neighborhoods, stores and restaurants, having an insider’s guide to Buckhead, Atlanta can help you make the most of your visit. Here’s a rundown of what to look for when visiting Buckhead.

Shopping

Buckhead is well-known as a high-end shopping hub. There are two prominent malls in the area, and each is filled with popular (and designer) retailers and fun things to do. Here’s an overview of Buckhead’s primary shopping locales.

Lenox Square Mall

This mall has served Atlanta for more than 60 years. It’s a staple of the city’s shopping scene. Shoppers flock to Lenox throughout the year, as it is popularly known for its massive variety of stores – 250 specialty stores to be exact – including 7 for All Mankind, FENDI, Louis Vuitton and Burberry to name a few. Also at Lenox are Neiman Marcus and Macy’s for your high-end department store needs.

Phipps Plaza

Of course there are more than just malls for shopping in Buckhead. A separate shopping area just across from Lenox Square Mall known as the Shops Around Lenox features a handful of other retailers, and there are also plenty of additional stores scattered throughout the area. Other retailers outside the mall include Target, Men’s Wearhouse and Sephora. Buckhead Village is another outdoor shopping space in the area that features Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin and Christian Dior, to name a few of the many designer options.

Within just a couple of blocks of Lenox Square lies Buckhead’s other premiere mall, Phipps Plaza. This mall features a 14-screen AMC movie theater and a LEGOLAND, so it’s a popular choice for families looking to do more than just shop. There are more than 100 stores in Phipps Plaza including Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Nordstrom.

Miscellaneous Retailers

Of course there are more than just malls for shopping in Buckhead. A separate shopping area just across from Lenox Square Mall known as the Shops Around Lenox features a handful of other retailers, and there are also plenty of additional stores scattered throughout the area. Other retailers outside the mall include Target, Men’s Wearhouse and Sephora. Buckhead Village is another outdoor shopping space in the area that features Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin and Christian Dior, to name a few of the many designer options.

Dining

There are a myriad dining choices throughout Buckhead, so here’s a small glimpse into some of the best and most popular choices in the neighborhood.

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill

As its name suggests, The Big Ketch is a seafood spot that brings southern coastal fare and handcrafted cocktails to the heart of the city.

The Garden Room

The Garden Room is an upscale dining experience that has transformed a space connected to The Saint Regis Hotel into a garden wonderland with unique tapas-style dishes and incredible, detailed cocktails.

True Food Kitchen

One of the best vegan or vegetarian options in the city is True Food Kitchen. They offer a frequently rotating menu of fresh, healthy and locally-sourced eats.

St. Cecilia

From the mind of chef-restaurateur Ford Fry, comes St. Cecilia. This is one of Chef Fry’s upscale gems serving coastal-European dishes for seafood and pasta lovers. All of Ford Fry’s restaurants across the city are prime destinations for incredible taste and quality. St. Cecilia is well known for their brunch menu as well, so you can get a gourmet start on your shopping day.

Chops Lobster Bar

Chops has been an Atlanta favorite for more than 30 years. It’s part of the renowned Buckhead Life Restaurant Group which includes other Buckhead staples. The restaurant is known for exceptional service, quality, and most importantly great steak and lobster.

Culture

If you are looking for more than just eating and shopping, then Buckhead has you covered there too. There are some excellent cultural attractions within this premiere part of Atlanta.

Atlanta History Center

To learn more about Atlanta, look no further than the Atlanta History Center which contains historic homes, gardens and museum-style exhibitions exploring the history of the city over 33 acres.

Buckhead Theatre

For excellent concerts, comedy shows, and events, the Buckhead Theatre is the place to be. It was originally opened in 1930 and features classic Spanish baroque architecture.

Chastain Park Amphitheatre

If it’s an outdoor concert that you’re looking for, then Chastain Park Amphitheatre is a popular place to take in a show while enjoying some fresh air. This venue has served Buckhead since the 1940s and holds an audience of 6,900. It’s located at the edge of Buckhead’s expansive Chastain Park.

Nightlife

You can’t talk about Buckhead without mentioning its fun and active nightlife scene, which has managed to stay afloat even amid the pandemic. Here are a few of Atlanta’s favorite spots.

The Ivy

In the heart of Buckhead, this unique bar is a favorite for nightlife and located in a converted mansion with plenty of space indoors and out.

Dive Bar

Located in the middle of a popular nightlife strip, Dive Bar is in a prime location for bar hopping during a night on the town. This bar also has a lot of outdoor space and offers live music and DJ’s every weekend.

Johnny’s Hideaway

If you love to dance and want to feel like you’re stepping back in time a bit, then Johnny’s Hideaway is the choice for you. It’s a place known for its late night dance parties and long line on the weekends.

Buckhead is anything but boring. There are so many things to do here – from top notch restaurants and bars to prime, high-end shopping and chances to take in a show –  and you can truly spend a week here without seeing it all. Make sure to plan a visit to the iconic Atlanta neighborhood of Buckhead to see what all the fuss is about.

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