The Best Spots for Cocktails, Wine, and Beer in Athens

Eater

2 days ago

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Athens, Georgia may be known as a party town, but its drinking scene has far more range than vodka cranberries and Miller Lite. Just 90 minutes northwest of Atlanta, this spirited college town packs more than 80 bars into its one-square-mile historic downtown, catering to everyone from UGA students to the more than 93,000 fans who roll in on fall Saturdays. Fortunately, Athens' quirky charm and blossoming foodie scene mean there are plenty of spots (including some of the best local restaurants) serving creative cocktails, precise wine lists, and brews with serious style. Here are some of the best places to relax and enjoy drinks in Athens.
The bars are listed geographically from north to south. Read More
This trendy spot from James Beard-nominated chef Pete Amadhanirundr is a must-visit for those craving something a little different in Athens. Housed in the historic Southern Mill complex (with plenty of free parking), the space blends industrial-chic vibes with intrigue, featuring exposed brick, a glowing patio, and moody lighting. The drink menu from beverage manager Ally Smith leans creative with cocktails like the Pink Lotus (tequila, stone pine liqueur, pomelo, and sudachi) and the Floating Market (Japanese whisky, coconut, sake, and lime), plus a solid lineup of organic wines and zero-proof cocktails. The drinks beautifully complement Amadhanirundr's modern Thai bites, creating a holistic off-the-beaten-path bar experience. Closed on Sundays.
Tucked into a sleek, low-lit space on Tracy Street, Nighthawks offers a stylish snapshot of Americana that separates it from the typical college bar scene. The drinks are anything but ordinary, thanks to a playful menu designed by local sommelier and co-owner Krista Slater of Slater's Steakhouse. Look for signatures like the smoky-meets-herbal Burn the Witch with mezcal and Strega, or the Hillbilly Hymn, a bourbon-forward sipper with pawpaw liqueur and banana syrup. Even the bites are fun, with a menu of self-described 'grandpa snacks' (a Brasstown beef bologna sandwich and tinned fish) and local restaurant pop-ups from the likes of Flat Circle Pizza.
This Normaltown lounge is that effortlessly cool bar where you feel like a regular, even if it's your first visit. The retro diner vibe with its checkered floors, funky art, and cozy booths makes it perfect for lingering over drinks and vegan (or not) bites. The craft beer selection is the draw here, with 16 taps swapped out every two weeks or so for an ever-changing lineup. Sips range from a limoncello cider to a velvety stout, with just about anything in between, plus more than 40 canned and bottled varieties. Throw in a chill, unpretentious crowd and a handful of unique cocktails (try the Japanese Breakfast with fermented wisteria flowers and gin), and it's easy to see why Hi-Lo is a local favorite.
Tapped Athens Wine Tasting Market
This laid-back gem in the Bottleworks district is worth seeking out for wine lovers looking to sip without the snobbery. With 24 wines on self-serve taps, you can sample everything from bold reds to crisp whites in one, two and a half, or five-ounce pours, making it ideal for finding your new favorite without committing to a full glass. The cozy space also hosts live music, themed tastings, and even biscuit-and-mimosa mornings, making it a comfortable (even educational) standout among Athens' other, rowdier bars.
This newly opened Bottleworks restaurant is already drawing crowds for its eclectic, neon-tinged decor and daily happy hour specials. The modern menu draws inspiration from chef Kenny Nguyen's Vietnamese roots, and the cocktails follow suit, featuring Southeast Asian ingredients like pandan, matcha, and Sông Cái-spiced Roselle gin. The Pandan Colada is a must-try, though you really can't go wrong with any of the Instagram-worthy sips. A thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic drinks and a tight wine list round out the experience. Reservations are highly recommended at this popular spot, though you can also order the full menu at the first-come, first-served bar.
With its marble columns, mosaic-tiled floors, and stained glass windows, South Kitchen + Bar is a special occasion kind of place. Brunch is a highlight here, with cocktails as thoughtfully prepared as the scratch-made hollandaise. Sip on a Lavender Espresso Martini, topped with botanical cold foam or a refreshing Italian Ice, a combination of house-made lemonade and limoncello with a gin floater. Don't skip the seasonal cocktail menu, packed with South Kitchen originals like the pisco-based Scarlett Glow. You'll want to make a reservation if you plan to dine in or snag a spot at the bar, where you can still enjoy the full menu.
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Wonderbar on East Washington Street is your go-to for a night that's equal parts playful and boozy. Well-worn, like your favorite pair of acid-wash jeans, this cozy spot offers a taste of nostalgia with a collection of vintage arcade games, childhood-favorite board games, and an old-school Nintendo 64 projecting 16-bit Mario Kart onto a side wall. The games are free to play, so long as you keep ordering whimsical concoctions like the Princess Peach Tea and the Captain Falcon, and quirky bar snacks including corn dogs and boiled peanuts.
Born and bred in the Classic City, Creature Comforts is hands down one of the best spots in Athens for craft beer, and not just because everyone's obsessed with Tropicália. This juicy, citrusy IPA is a local legend, but the brewery's lineup goes far beyond that, with crisp lagers, creative sours, and bold seasonal releases always on tap. Housed in a converted tire shop, the space has a cool, industrial vibe that sets it apart from your average close-shouldered college bar. It's a go-to for beer lovers who want something a little more craft on gameday, or any day of the week.
This townie favorite is Athens' ultimate dive bar with a twist — think vintage charm meets cozy chaos. The red-lit interior is decked out with black-and-white photos, mismatched furniture, and just enough kitsch to keep things interesting. Drinks are strong, affordable, and delightfully offbeat. Try the house favorite: Maker's Mark with spicy Blenheim ginger ale, or go for an expertly made espresso martini. With free popcorn, a jukebox, and a porch perfect for people-watching, it's a beloved local hangout that feels like a well-kept secret in a town full of watering holes. Walker's Pub & Coffee / Blue Sky Bar
On any given Saturday night, Walker's feels like your typical dive bar. But by day, this wood-panelled institution is a haven for beer lovers and coffee drinkers alike. Raised booths are filled with students hunched over laptops, sipping espresso drinks, and the hidden back patio provides a private enclave for conversation and hot chocolate concoctions. The Salty Turtle (hot chocolate, Godiva chocolate liqueur, Stoli vanilla vodka, caramel drizzle, and sea salt) in particular has been the budding foodie's first legal drink of choice for well over a decade. When the sun starts to set, head to Blue Sky Bar through Walker's back door and up a flight of stairs. The hidden gem boasts over 250 craft and import beers, a full bar serving classic cocktails, and a breezy atmosphere complete with twinkling Italian lights and outdoor seating.
The Globe is the kind of place where professors, poets, and cocktail lovers all rub elbows. After a recent renovation, the space feels fresh while keeping the wood-paneled English pub charm that's made it a local favorite since 1989. As the first bar in Athens to serve Guinness, the Globe has an impressive roster of imported beers on tap and by the bottle, ranging from German pilsners to Russian imperial stouts. A small but creative cocktail selection leans classic with a twist — think a spiced pear old-fashioned and gin sippers kissed with scotch. A menu of hearty pub fare helps sop up those spirits, so you can keep on debating your thesis over a pint of Strongbow.
This upscale Five Points restaurant is on the short list for Athenians searching for a sophisticated drinking experience. With 180 bottles and nearly two dozen by-the-glass selections, the stacked wine list appeals to sippers of all levels. Beyond wine, the bar offers beautifully balanced cocktails and hosts regular events, like Third Wednesday Wine Tastings, featuring five wines paired with tapas and charcuterie for $20. There's even a wine club for folks who want to dive deeper into their vino game. Be sure to stop in on Sunday evenings for an extended happy hour until 9 p.m. with $15 wine bottles — grab a spot on the patio if the weather is agreeable. Closed on Mondays.
Inspired by Italian aperitivo hour, this Five Points bar offers a casual bistro-like ambiance complete with rattan chairs and a wine wall outfitted with twinkle lights. Outside, you'll find a handful of white-clothed tables shaded by Campari-hued umbrellas that are perfect for sipping silky espresso martinis or a selection from the dedicated spritz list. Can't decide what to try? Order a spritz flight, or tell the knowledgeable bartenders what you like, and they'll whip up something special. A massive espresso machine churns out coffee drinks and rich affogato for those who'd rather not imbibe. A menu of Italian bites, ranging from salted Marcona almonds to a porcetta sandwich, ensures you can linger a little longer over your next round of cocktails.
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This trendy spot from James Beard-nominated chef Pete Amadhanirundr is a must-visit for those craving something a little different in Athens. Housed in the historic Southern Mill complex (with plenty of free parking), the space blends industrial-chic vibes with intrigue, featuring exposed brick, a glowing patio, and moody lighting. The drink menu from beverage manager Ally Smith leans creative with cocktails like the Pink Lotus (tequila, stone pine liqueur, pomelo, and sudachi) and the Floating Market (Japanese whisky, coconut, sake, and lime), plus a solid lineup of organic wines and zero-proof cocktails. The drinks beautifully complement Amadhanirundr's modern Thai bites, creating a holistic off-the-beaten-path bar experience. Closed on Sundays. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
Tucked into a sleek, low-lit space on Tracy Street, Nighthawks offers a stylish snapshot of Americana that separates it from the typical college bar scene. The drinks are anything but ordinary, thanks to a playful menu designed by local sommelier and co-owner Krista Slater of Slater's Steakhouse. Look for signatures like the smoky-meets-herbal Burn the Witch with mezcal and Strega, or the Hillbilly Hymn, a bourbon-forward sipper with pawpaw liqueur and banana syrup. Even the bites are fun, with a menu of self-described 'grandpa snacks' (a Brasstown beef bologna sandwich and tinned fish) and local restaurant pop-ups from the likes of Flat Circle Pizza.
This Normaltown lounge is that effortlessly cool bar where you feel like a regular, even if it's your first visit. The retro diner vibe with its checkered floors, funky art, and cozy booths makes it perfect for lingering over drinks and vegan (or not) bites. The craft beer selection is the draw here, with 16 taps swapped out every two weeks or so for an ever-changing lineup. Sips range from a limoncello cider to a velvety stout, with just about anything in between, plus more than 40 canned and bottled varieties. Throw in a chill, unpretentious crowd and a handful of unique cocktails (try the Japanese Breakfast with fermented wisteria flowers and gin), and it's easy to see why Hi-Lo is a local favorite. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
This laid-back gem in the Bottleworks district is worth seeking out for wine lovers looking to sip without the snobbery. With 24 wines on self-serve taps, you can sample everything from bold reds to crisp whites in one, two and a half, or five-ounce pours, making it ideal for finding your new favorite without committing to a full glass. The cozy space also hosts live music, themed tastings, and even biscuit-and-mimosa mornings, making it a comfortable (even educational) standout among Athens' other, rowdier bars.
This newly opened Bottleworks restaurant is already drawing crowds for its eclectic, neon-tinged decor and daily happy hour specials. The modern menu draws inspiration from chef Kenny Nguyen's Vietnamese roots, and the cocktails follow suit, featuring Southeast Asian ingredients like pandan, matcha, and Sông Cái-spiced Roselle gin. The Pandan Colada is a must-try, though you really can't go wrong with any of the Instagram-worthy sips. A thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic drinks and a tight wine list round out the experience. Reservations are highly recommended at this popular spot, though you can also order the full menu at the first-come, first-served bar.
With its marble columns, mosaic-tiled floors, and stained glass windows, South Kitchen + Bar is a special occasion kind of place. Brunch is a highlight here, with cocktails as thoughtfully prepared as the scratch-made hollandaise. Sip on a Lavender Espresso Martini, topped with botanical cold foam or a refreshing Italian Ice, a combination of house-made lemonade and limoncello with a gin floater. Don't skip the seasonal cocktail menu, packed with South Kitchen originals like the pisco-based Scarlett Glow. You'll want to make a reservation if you plan to dine in or snag a spot at the bar, where you can still enjoy the full menu. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
Wonderbar on East Washington Street is your go-to for a night that's equal parts playful and boozy. Well-worn, like your favorite pair of acid-wash jeans, this cozy spot offers a taste of nostalgia with a collection of vintage arcade games, childhood-favorite board games, and an old-school Nintendo 64 projecting 16-bit Mario Kart onto a side wall. The games are free to play, so long as you keep ordering whimsical concoctions like the Princess Peach Tea and the Captain Falcon, and quirky bar snacks including corn dogs and boiled peanuts. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
Born and bred in the Classic City, Creature Comforts is hands down one of the best spots in Athens for craft beer, and not just because everyone's obsessed with Tropicália. This juicy, citrusy IPA is a local legend, but the brewery's lineup goes far beyond that, with crisp lagers, creative sours, and bold seasonal releases always on tap. Housed in a converted tire shop, the space has a cool, industrial vibe that sets it apart from your average close-shouldered college bar. It's a go-to for beer lovers who want something a little more craft on gameday, or any day of the week.
This townie favorite is Athens' ultimate dive bar with a twist — think vintage charm meets cozy chaos. The red-lit interior is decked out with black-and-white photos, mismatched furniture, and just enough kitsch to keep things interesting. Drinks are strong, affordable, and delightfully offbeat. Try the house favorite: Maker's Mark with spicy Blenheim ginger ale, or go for an expertly made espresso martini. With free popcorn, a jukebox, and a porch perfect for people-watching, it's a beloved local hangout that feels like a well-kept secret in a town full of watering holes. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
On any given Saturday night, Walker's feels like your typical dive bar. But by day, this wood-panelled institution is a haven for beer lovers and coffee drinkers alike. Raised booths are filled with students hunched over laptops, sipping espresso drinks, and the hidden back patio provides a private enclave for conversation and hot chocolate concoctions. The Salty Turtle (hot chocolate, Godiva chocolate liqueur, Stoli vanilla vodka, caramel drizzle, and sea salt) in particular has been the budding foodie's first legal drink of choice for well over a decade. When the sun starts to set, head to Blue Sky Bar through Walker's back door and up a flight of stairs. The hidden gem boasts over 250 craft and import beers, a full bar serving classic cocktails, and a breezy atmosphere complete with twinkling Italian lights and outdoor seating.
The Globe is the kind of place where professors, poets, and cocktail lovers all rub elbows. After a recent renovation, the space feels fresh while keeping the wood-paneled English pub charm that's made it a local favorite since 1989. As the first bar in Athens to serve Guinness, the Globe has an impressive roster of imported beers on tap and by the bottle, ranging from German pilsners to Russian imperial stouts. A small but creative cocktail selection leans classic with a twist — think a spiced pear old-fashioned and gin sippers kissed with scotch. A menu of hearty pub fare helps sop up those spirits, so you can keep on debating your thesis over a pint of Strongbow. Open in Google Maps
Foursquare
This upscale Five Points restaurant is on the short list for Athenians searching for a sophisticated drinking experience. With 180 bottles and nearly two dozen by-the-glass selections, the stacked wine list appeals to sippers of all levels. Beyond wine, the bar offers beautifully balanced cocktails and hosts regular events, like Third Wednesday Wine Tastings, featuring five wines paired with tapas and charcuterie for $20. There's even a wine club for folks who want to dive deeper into their vino game. Be sure to stop in on Sunday evenings for an extended happy hour until 9 p.m. with $15 wine bottles — grab a spot on the patio if the weather is agreeable. Closed on Mondays.
Inspired by Italian aperitivo hour, this Five Points bar offers a casual bistro-like ambiance complete with rattan chairs and a wine wall outfitted with twinkle lights. Outside, you'll find a handful of white-clothed tables shaded by Campari-hued umbrellas that are perfect for sipping silky espresso martinis or a selection from the dedicated spritz list. Can't decide what to try? Order a spritz flight, or tell the knowledgeable bartenders what you like, and they'll whip up something special. A massive espresso machine churns out coffee drinks and rich affogato for those who'd rather not imbibe. A menu of Italian bites, ranging from salted Marcona almonds to a porcetta sandwich, ensures you can linger a little longer over your next round of cocktails.