Beltline Legends: Celebrating 20 Businesses That Have Been Around as Long as Us

The Atlanta Beltline project has always been about more than just a trail.

It’s been about delivering transformative public infrastructure that enhances mobility, fosters culture, and improves connections to economic opportunity for generations to come.

Part of that economic development charge is to not only attract new businesses to the trail, but to also provide resources to longstanding businesses to ensure they can also benefit from the connectivity of the Beltline.

With that in mind, we’re celebrating our 20th anniversary by spotlighting 20 businesses within a ½ mile of the Beltline, known as the Beltline Planning Area, who have been around as long (or longer) than we have.

• Afro-Centric Network (Southwest Trail) - Opened in 1996: This Historic West End spot first opened as a way for the founder, Margaret Andega, to provide Atlantans with access to authentic African clothing and jewelry and fill a cultural void she noticed in the city. Since opening, Afro-Centric's offerings have expanded to include artwork, all-natural body oils, skincare products and more.

• Ansley Mall (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 1964: One of Atlanta’s oldest open-air shopping malls, Ansley Mall has been a staple in Piedmont Heights for decades. It’s currently home to several retail spaces and restaurants, including two spots on this list (Intaglia & Cook’s Warehouse). 

• Arden’s Garden (Northwest Trail, Eastside Trail) - Opened in 1995: Opened by Atlanta’s “First Lady of Fitness,” Arden’s Garden began as a fresh juice business ran out of the founder’s kitchen. It has since expanded into a health and wellness empire, with stores located around the city (including two near the Beltline) and countless retail partners carrying Arden’s beverages and snacks.  

• Conklin Metal Industries (Northwest Trail) - Opened in 1874: First opened over 100 years ago, Conklin Metal Industries is a one-stop-shop for all components used in the construction and installation of commercial and residential HVAC Duct systems. They’re a fourth-generation family-owned and operated business. 

• Eats (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 1993: If you’ve ever travelled down Ponce de Leon Avenue near the Eastside Trail, chances are you’ve noticed Eats before. This Atlanta mainstay is known for big portions of homestyle staples (like baked chicken, meatloaf, and chicken lasagna) at affordable prices. 

• Fred Martin Welding (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 1938: Located on Edgewood Avenue, Fred Martin Welding is a family-owned metalworking business that focuses on custom metal projects. That includes fences and rails, home decor, custom furniture and more. 

• Hotel Clermont (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 1924: This historic Atlanta Hotel has hosted a number of characters and events over the years. Now, it offers over 90 recently renovated and restored guest rooms, a Michelin Guide Recommended restaurant, two bars, a coffee cafe and more. 

• Intaglia Home Collection (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 1999: This locally owned, award-winning home store works to help customers create beautiful and unique living spaces. Their showroom is filled with pieces at all price points and styles and is located in historic Ansley Mall. 

• Intown Bicycles (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 1982: Whether you’re looking for a new bike or in need of bike repairs, this Midtown Atlanta staple is the place to go. In addition to offering several different types of bikes (from electric to dural-sport), they also sell accessories and car racks to make biking easier and more enjoyable. 

• Mellow Mushroom (Eastside Trail, Southside Trail) - Opened in 1974: Originally established near Georgia Tech’s campus, Mellow Mushroom has grown from a tiny 70’s-style pizza joint into a multi-state operation with over 160 locations. Their base is still in Atlanta, and you can find two spots located adjacent to the Beltline corridor. 

• MetroFresh (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 2005: When MetroFresh first opened in the Midtown Promenade just off the Eastside Trail, it was one of the only things in the area. Since then, the healthy food spot has expanded not just their menu but their space as well, growing their Midtown location and opening a second spot in Uptown Atlanta. 

• Mr. Everything Cafe (Westside Trail) - Opened in 1993: This well-known Atlanta staple has been serving up a homestyle menu for over 20 years. In addition to its Beltline-adjacent location, the cafe also has spots in Fairburn, Fayetteville, and Southwest Atlanta. 

• Park Tavern (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 1999: A unique blend of a brewpub, sports bar, and restaurant, Park Tavern is the perfect spot to cap off a day of Beltline and Piedmont Park exploring. They also offer an event space that hosts over 250 weddings each year. 

• Sig Samuels Dry Cleaners (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 1962: This family-owned and operated dry cleaner has been a staple in Midtown for locals and celebrities alike, having served legendary names like CeeLo Green and André 3000. It’s known for having a friendly, welcoming staff. 

• Soul Vegetarian (Westside Trail) - Opened in 1979: Soul Vegetarian was one of the city’s first vegan restaurants and is still a fan-favorite of many looking for fresh, delicious vegan cuisine. The shop has two locations, one just off the Westside Trail and one on North Highland Avenue. 

• Standard Press (Northwest Trail) - Opened in 1932: This Atlanta printshop has been serving the city’s print, direct mail, and digital marketing needs for decades. They put sustainability and customer service at the forefront of everything they do, which has helped them grow and thrive in the space. 

• The Cook’s Warehouse (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 1995: First opened in Midtown on Amsterdam Avenue (and later relocated to Ansley Mall), this shop has grown over the years to include a full retail selection and a cooking school where over 700 classes are taught each year. The award-winning shop also offers online retail. 

• The Drunken Unicorn (Eastside Trail) - Opened in 2004: This live music and events venue has been providing Atlantans with great times and lasting memories for over 20 years. Now, the space is home to everything from concerts to dance nights. 

• The Local (Eastside Trail): The Local has been a hub of activity and good times on Ponce de Leon Avenue for decades. The neighborhood bar offers great food, entertainment, and an extensive beverage menu. 

• Urban Body Fitness (Northeast Trail) - Opened in 2002: A neighborhood fitness center, Urban Body Fitness boasts a 14,000 square foot gym with weights, cardio equipment, and more. They also offer several group fitness classes, including a neighborhood-favorite spin class. 

These 20 businesses are just a sampling of the countless spots around the corridor that have been staples in the Atlanta community far longer than the corridor.  

As we head into the next 20 years of the Beltline, we look forward to welcoming new businesses to the loop and continuing to celebrate countless anniversaries with our longstanding businesses. 

PS: Are you an Atlanta business owner who has been in operation for 30 years or more? Our friends at Invest Atlanta, along with Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta City Council, and Councilman Jason Dozier have launched a new grant program you may be eligible for. To learn more, click here.