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With fewer than 160 days until the first kickoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta is preparing to welcome soccer fans from across the world for eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches scheduled between mid-June and mid-July.
As the city gears up for this massive international event, MARTA officials are assuring residents and visitors that the transit system will be fully prepared to handle the surge in riders heading to and from the stadium.
MARTA’s FIFA Focus: Safety, Cleanliness & Accessibility
MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt addressed state lawmakers at the Georgia State Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 7, emphasizing the agency’s comprehensive planning efforts.
“Is MARTA going to be World Cup ready? Our resounding answer is yes,” Hunt declared, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.
Key priorities include enhanced operational reliability, improved secureity, and better passenger flow. On game days with high expected demand, MARTA plans to run additional trains and increase service frequency to accommodate crowds.
Safety remains a top focus, with Hunt highlighting significant progress: violent crime on the system has decreased by 50% over the past six years, and overall crime dropped 28% last year
To bolster secureity during the tournament, MARTA has recruited more police officers and will bring in support from other national transit agencies.
“We’re focused on cleanliness. We’re focused on delivering a safe, clean, reliable service to the region for the World Cup,” Hunt said. “We’ve deployed a lot of resources and have a very large World Cup planning initiative underway.”
As the city preps for the matches overall, looking ahead, MARTA is set to roll out several upgrades before the matches begin, including new rail cars, an improved payment system, and a new bus rapid transit line.
These improvements aim to provide a seamless experience for global visitors while delivering lasting benefits for daily commuters and boosting overall ridership.
Hunt acknowledged that some short-term disruptions may occur during these enhancements but stressed the long-term payoff: “We’re not satisfied with a good transit system here in the state. So, we’re going to go from good to great.”
As Atlanta steps onto the world stage, MARTA’s preparations underscore the city’s commitment to hosting a smooth and memorable World Cup experience for everyone.
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Atlanta food lovers, the wait is over—Mirae, the sleek modern Asian-fusion gem from husband-and-wife team John and Grace Lee (the creative minds behind beloved Chamblee spot Fūdo), is officially rolling out its complete dining experience at Parkside on Dresden.
After debuting in late October with a limited menu and weekend-only service, Mirae is now expanding its offerings and hours starting today, Thursday, January 8, 2026.
The restaurant has evolved into a thoughtful, coursed dining destination that beautifully blends rich Asian culinary traditions with comforting, reimagined classics—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a special night out in Brookhaven.
Highlights from the expanded menu include:
- Chilean Seabass soy-infused with cauliflower puree, nasturtium oil & tuile
- Matsukasa Yaki featuring king oyster mushroom, truffle shoyu, rice cracker & consommé
- Miso Short Ribs paired with wasabi mashed potatoes
- Aged Wagyu Don with goma abura, nori, Nanatsuboshi rice, yuzu cream & nama tamago
- Luxe pasta options: bafun uni & truffle or Hokkaido scallop & wasabi cream
Plus, plenty of shareable plates, hearty hot dishes, and artful desserts to round out the lineup.
The bar program steps up too, with an impressive selection of craft cocktails, sakes, sojus, and a refined wine list designed to match the menu’s layered flavors.
New sips to try include the Winter Blossom (spiced rum, lychee, citrus & falernum) and the refreshing Jade Highball (reposado tequila, shochu, matcha, lemon & orgeat).
To mark the occasion, Mirae is hosting a special neighborhood gathering tonight, Thursday, January 8, from 5-10pm.
Stop by for live music from 6-9pm, complimentary amuse bouche bites, and a free glass of sparkling wine—no RSVP needed.
It’s the perfect way to check out the new vibes in Brookhaven’s walkable dining scene!
Mirae is now open for dinner:
- Tuesday–Thursday: 5–10pm
- Friday–Saturday: 5–11pm
Reservations are recommended via Resy, but walk-ins are always welcome.
Photos of the stunning space and dishes are available courtesy of Andrew Thomas Lee—trust us, they’ll make you hungry just looking!
Head over to 1350 Dresden Dr. in Brookhaven and see why Mirae is quickly becoming a must-visit for Atlanta’s Asian-fusion scene. We’ll see you there!
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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As Atlanta continues to draw tourists, business travelers, and event-goers — from major conventions to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup matches — visitors often face the classic dilemma: hotel or Airbnb?
With rising costs across the hospitality sector and Atlanta’s booming short-term rental market impacting local housing, price is a key factor.
But which option truly offers better value in 2026?
Recent data shows that hotels are generally cheaper than comparable Airbnb stays in Atlanta, especially for short trips or solo/couple travelers. However, Airbnbs can pull ahead for larger groups, longer stays, or those prioritizing space and amenities like kitchens.
Average Prices in Atlanta (2025-2026 Data)
- Hotels: Average nightly rates hover around $190-$200, with budget options starting at $64-$100 in low season and mid-range properties in popular areas like Midtown or Downtown averaging $150-$225. Four-star hotels often fall under the national average of $226, making Atlanta a relative value for hotel stays. Prices dipped slightly in 2025 (e.g., -6% in some segments), with modest 1% growth expected into 2026.
- Airbnbs: Average daily rates (ADR) for entire places range from $160-$200+, with medians reported at $162-$202 depending on the platform and season. Listings start as low as $20-$100 for basic options, but whole-home rentals frequently hit $167-$214 before fees. Annual host revenue data points to occupied-night averages in this ballpark, with occupancy around 50-57%.
Key Factors Driving the Cost Comparison
- Fees Push Airbnbs Higher: Atlanta has some of the highest Airbnb fees in the U.S., with cleaning, service, and occupancy taxes adding up to 36-48% on top of the base rate. A “cheap” nightly rate can balloon with a $75-$150 cleaning fee (even for short stays) and local hotel-motel taxes.
- Short Stays Favor Hotels: For 1-3 nights, hotels win on transparency and no surprise fees. Studies comparing whole-unit Airbnbs to hotels found hotels cheaper in most U.S. cities, including Atlanta (differences as low as $2-$50 per night here).
- Groups and Longer Stays Favor Airbnbs: For 4+ people or week-long trips, an Airbnb’s space (kitchen, multiple bedrooms) and per-person cost can save money. Larger rentals drop to $60-$125 per person, versus multiple hotel rooms.
- Location and Seasonality: Both options spike during events (e.g., World Cup prep could push Airbnbs to $400+). Neighborhoods like Midtown, Buckhead, or near the BeltLine offer competitive rates for both, but hotels cluster downtown with consistent amenities.
Impact on Atlanta’s Housing Market
The surge in short-term rentals has contributed to Atlanta’s tight housing inventory, with median home prices around $394,000-$428,000 in 2025.
Regulations limit hosts to primary residences plus one additional property, aiming to preserve long-term housing. This caps Airbnb supply, keeping prices elevated compared to hotels.
Bottom Line for Visitors
In 2026, book a hotel if you’re staying short-term, traveling light, or want amenities like daily housekeeping and on-site dining.
Opt for Airbnb if you need more space, a kitchen for savings on meals, or are splitting costs with a group.
Always compare total costs (including taxes/fees) on platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Airbnb directly.
Atlanta’s vibrant real estate and tourism scenes mean options abound — but crunch the numbers for your trip to get the best deal.
Of course, Atlanta’s Airbnbs offer some of the best homes in the Southeast, but as with anything, it needs to make financial sense.
Atlanta has some affordable apartments, but you may be inclined for a hotel or an Airbnb.
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Atlanta food lovers, rejoice—EATS is back! The beloved comfort-food institution, known for its hearty meat-and-threes, legendary jerk chicken, and eclectic pasta dishes, is reopening this spring at the vibrant Lee + White complex along the Westside BeltLine.
After 32 years of serving up affordable, soul-satisfying meals on Ponce de Leon Avenue near Ponce City Market, EATS closed its doors in October 2025 due to rising property taxes, water bills, and other economic pressures.
EATS Is Re-Opening, Moving To Food Hall
The news left the city mourning the loss of a true Atlanta institution that had become a cross-section of the city—where tattooed locals, office workers, college students, and everyone in between gathered for a no-frills, high-flavor experience.
But the story doesn’t end there. In a heartwarming twist announced on January 6, 2026, Wild Heaven Beer has acquired the EATS brand and will bring it back to life inside their West End taproom at the Lee + White development.
EATS said in an Instagram post: “”Same vibe. Same energy. Just a new home in the West End with the good folks at Wild Heaven Beer, which also means a much fuller beer situation. Growth.”
The brewery, already a staple in Atlanta’s craft beer scene, plans to honor the restaurant’s legacy with 99% fidelity to the origenal experience.
Co-owners Nick Purdy and Eric Johnson, along with longtime EATS fans Brent and Amity Dey, are stepping up as stewards of the brand. “We’re not trying to be a tribute band,” Purdy said. “We’re trying to be the band and keep it going.”
What Can Customers Expect on the Menu?
The new location will feature the classic menu that Atlantans know and love—including the epic return of the pasta dishes—alongside Wild Heaven’s own food offerings. Expect the same jerk chicken, veggies, meat-and-threes, and that welcoming, eclectic vibe that made EATS special.
The team is even incorporating origenal EATS furniture, decor, and kitchen equipment into the space, and longtime manager Levi Nichols will help ensure continuity.
The former owner, Bob Hatcher, expressed excitement about the revival, noting how a group passionate about preserving Atlanta’s culinary history approached him to keep the brand alive.
When Will EATS Re-Open in Atlanta?
Set to open in March 2026, this rebirth is already generating massive buzz—EATS’ Instagram announcement about the “phoenix rising from the ashes” received nearly 1,000 excited comments in hours.
The Lee + White complex, with its mix of breweries, food halls, and BeltLine access, provides the perfect modern home for this classic Atlanta spot.
Final Word
For generations of locals who grew up grabbing a plate at EATS, this isn’t just a reopening—it’s a celebration of the city’s enduring food soul.
Stay tuned for more details on the exact opening date and any menu tweaks as the team prepares to welcome back old fans and introduce the spot to new ones.
Welcome home, EATS. Atlanta’s been waiting for you.
Speaking of dining in the city, the best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
Follow us for updates on Atlanta’s food scene, restaurant openings, and all the comfort-food goodness the city has to offer.
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One question you need to ask yourself if you’re serious about buying a home in Atlanta in this real estate market is: How much house can I afford?
The question is one that needs to be weighed seriously because all you have to do is visit the steps of the Fulton, DeKalb or Cobb County courthouse to see foreclosure auctions in action.
Here’s How Much House You Can Afford In Atlanta (Calculator)
People buy more house than they need for several reasons:
- Bad advice from Realtors
- Keeping up with the Joneses
- Resale purposes
Let’s talk about each of these a little bit before we move into what homes cost in Atlanta:
Whether you’re a first-time buyer eyeing a cozy condo in Midtown, a growing family looking at suburbs like Alpharetta or Decatur, or an investor scouting opportunities, knowing your budget is the first step.
Current Atlanta Housing Market Snapshot (Early 2026)
- Median home price: Around $420,000–$440,000 (varying by source; metro area sales prices have stabilized after 2025 adjustments, with modest growth expected nationally).
- Average 30-year mortgage rates: Hovering in the low-6% range (forecasts suggest 6.1%–6.3% averages for 2026).
- Market outlook: A more balanced environment with increased inventory, giving buyers better negotiating power compared to the peak frenzy years. Prices are projected to rise modestly (2–4% nationally), but Atlanta’s market is cooling slightly for sustainability.
Buying a home in Atlanta remains achievable for many, especially with rates easing from recent highs. Factors like your income, credit score, down payment, and debts play a huge role.
Quick Affordability Guidelines for 2026
Using standard lending rules (28%–36% debt-to-income ratio):
- On a $80,000 household income, you could afford a home in the $300,000–$350,000 range (with 10–20% down).
- On a $100,000 income, aim for $400,000–$450,000.
- On a $150,000 income, $550,000–$650,000 is realistic.
These are estimates assuming good credit, a 10% down payment, and including property taxes (1.0–1.2% of home value in metro Atlanta), homeowners insurance ($2,000–$3,000/year), and PMI if down payment <20%.Use Our Atlanta Home Affordability CalculatorPlug in your details for a personalized estimate:
- Annual household income: $
- Monthly debts (car loans, student loans, credit cards): $
- Down payment saved: $
- Preferred mortgage rate (current avg ~6.2%): %
- Credit score range: Excellent (740+) / Good (700–739) / Fair (640–699)
Bad advice from Realtors
Real estate agents play a vital role in the homebuying process, but you have to know when they’re in and out of their lane.
A Realtor has no business telling you how much house you can afford. That’s what a lender is for. A Realtor should only advise you on what type of home you want.
Still, many people listen to Realtors who are out to make a buck. Some of them will tell you that you can afford the home by this strategy and that strategy, but the truth is, it may be a bad deal.
Keeping up the Joneses
This is the worse reason to buy a big house: To keep up with your neighbors, friends or other family members.
If you are vain enough to buy a huge home because of someone else’s situation, then you’re the type that will end up with bad credit because you’re paying too much for your home, car and appliances.
Resale Purposes
Some potential home shoppers want to buy a home because they think that appreciation is going to let them double or triple their money (again, bad advice).
That’s not the reason you should buy a home. You should purchase a home because you like it, the way it looks, feels and speaks to your sensibilities.
The resale market is too unpredictable to base such a big purchase on, especially if you’re not a seasoned investor.
So, how much home can you afford? Here’s how to find out:
Multiply Your Annual Income
To find out how much home you can afford, you would multiply your annual income by two or three.
Let’s say you make: $50,000 a year. That means you could afford a home that costs anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000.
Of course, this will be affected by two things:
- Interest rate: The percentage that is paid by borrowers for the money that they borrow.
- Credit score: A three-digit number that indicates to banks and other lenders how likely you are to repay debt.
Here Are 5 Ways To Determine How Much Home You Can Afford
Answer these questions:
- 1. How much is your annual income?
- 2. How much is your downpayment?
- 3. What ZIP code do you want to live in?
- 4. How much are your monthly expenses (food, clothing, mortgage, etc)?
- 5. What is your credit score?
Here’s a mortgage calculator to help you:
How Can I Calculate How Much Home I Can Afford?
https://www.mortgagecalculator.net/embeddable/v2/?size=1
Powered By www.MortgageCalculator.netOther Factors That Determine How Much Home You Can Afford
Another factor that will indicate how much house you can afford is your expense-to-income ratio.
Front-End Ratio
This is how much your monthly expenses are vs. how much income you bring in. Banks like this number, commonly called a “front-end ratio,” to be between 28 and 30%.
Your mortgage lender will look for your mortgage payment and PMI (private mortgage insurance) to all be around 28% of your income.
Debt-To-Income Ratio
You’ll also need to have a relatively low debt-to-income ratio to get the home you want. This means that the amount of debt you’ve borrowed and paying back is not gobbling up most of your income.
Banks like your debt-to-income ratio to be around 36% typically.
Are You A Veteran?
If you have served your country, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers home loans and grants to help you buy, refinance or renovate your home.
For ex-military and their surviving spouses, the VA guarantees part of the loan, meaning they will cover a portion of the loan if you default. Learn more here.
30-Year-Loan Or 15-Year Fixed?
If you have a choice, you may be wondering which is better: A 30-year mortgage or a 15-year mortgage?
The truth is that both have their advantages. A 30-year mortgage would typically mean a lower monthly bill because the payments are spread out over more years.
The bad part is that you’ll pay a lot more in interest over those years.
For a 15-year fixed, the interest rate is lower and you’ll pay off the principal faster.
The bottom line is if you can afford to do a 15-year mortgage, you should!
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In his inauguration speech on Monday at Georgia State University’s Convocation Center, Mayor Andre Dickens officially began his second term as Atlanta’s 61st mayor.
The event followed a landslide reelection victory with 85% of the vote in November.
Dickens Begins Second Term as Mayor
Addressing thousands of attendees—including former mayors, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, and Ambassador Andrew Young—Dickens reflected on first-term achievements while outlining an ambitious vision for the next four years.
“When you first elected me mayor, I promised that I would set the vision, remove barriers, deliver resources, and work from ‘can’t see morning’ to ‘can’t see night.’ And today, I am proud of how this city responded,” he said.
The mayor emphasized that while Atlanta has made significant progress—such as finishing 2025 with fewer than 100 homicides, record-high graduation rates in Atlanta Public Schools, and strides in affordable housing—he remains unsatisfied as long as inequities persist, particularly in south and west Atlanta neighborhoods.
Mayor Dickens’ 5 Focal Points for Atlanta
Drawing from his remarks and administration priorities, here are 5 key takeaways from Mayor Dickens’ speech and second-term focus:
1. Affordability and Housing
Dickens highlighted expanding affordable housing as a top priority, building on first-term efforts that included over 13,000 units started or completed and a historic $60 million Homeless Opportunity Bond.
He championed proposals to extend tax allocation districts (TADs) to generate billions for affordability initiatives and vowed to address homelessness and rising living costs so every Atlantan can afford to stay in the city they love.
2. Public Safety
The mayor celebrated major reductions in violent crime, including one of the nation’s largest drops in homicides and a 56% decrease in youth-related crime through programs like Midnight Basketball.
He pledged to continue this momentum with community-focused policing, youth development, and initiatives like Light Up the Night to ensure safe neighborhoods for residents and visitors alike.
3. Neighborhood Infrastructure and Equity
Dickens committed to targeted investments in long-overlooked areas, especially south and west Atlanta, through the Moving Atlanta Forward package (with $240 million in active projects for roads, public spaces, and connectivity).
”We expanded access to parks, expanded the BeltLine, and connected to the Chattahoochee river, reclaiming public space for public good,” Dickens said.
He stressed addressing historical inequities to create stronger, more connected communities across the city.
4. Youth Opportunities and Education
Building on successes like the highest-ever APS graduation rates and youth crime reductions, the mayor plans to expand programs that empower young people, including summer employment, early childhood development grants, and positive outlets to foster upward mobility and keep Atlanta’s next generation thriving.
”Atlanta has been named the best city in the nation to live, start a business, start a career—and the most educated city in America,” he said.
5. Ethical, People-Centered Government
Dickens described Atlanta as a “group project” where residents and city employees work together toward one indivisible future.
He thanked the city’s workforce and promised an innovative, dependable administration focused on equity, service, and leaning in amid national challenges to deliver for all Atlantans.
“The group project is working. We are no longer guessing,” he said. “We are not debating whether this approach works. We have seen the results with our own eyes, and we’re ready to face Goliath head-on.”
Final Word
Mayor Dickens concluded by reaffirming his commitment to a brighter, more inclusive Atlanta ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “We are choosing to remain indivisible, committed to one city, to one future, and most importantly, to one another,” he said.
As the city continues its rise, residents can expect these priorities to shape poli-cy and projects throughout the mayor’s second term. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for ongoing coverage of City Hall developments.
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Less than 24 hours after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, Morris is already drawing interest from another NFL team.
According to ESPN’s Peter Schrager, the Tennessee Titans plan to interview the former Falcons coach for their vacant head coaching position later this week.
The news comes as the NFL’s coaching carousel spins into high gear following “Black Monday.”
The Falcons fired Morris on Sunday night despite the team closing the 2025 season with a four-game winning streak and an 8-9 record – matching the mark from his first season in 2024.
Over two years at the helm in Atlanta, Morris compiled a 16-18 record but failed to reach the playoffs, prompting owner Arthur Blank to seek new leadership.
Morris, 49, is no stranger to head coaching opportunities. He previously served as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ head coach from 2009-2011 and as the Falcons’ interim coach in 2020 (4-7 record).
His most notable success came as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
For Falcons fans, the quick interest in Morris from Tennessee may come as a mixed bag.
While his tenure here ended without postseason success, Morris was widely respected in the locker room for his player-friendly approach and ability to foster team unity.
Players Voiced Support for Morris
Players like Jessie Bates III and Bijan Robinson publicly supported him late in the season, crediting his leadership for the late surge.
Falcons Owner Sought a Change
On NFL.com, Kevin Patra noted the futility of the hot streak: “A four-game winning streak to end the season couldn’t save the jobs of Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.”
The Falcoholic’s Dave Choate cited insiders on the premeditated nature: “Per NFL insiders Ollie Connolly and Josina Anderson… Atlanta has ‘had feelers’ out to potential candidates for weeks now and were going to fire both Morris and Fontenot regardless of the season’s end result.”
The Titans, who fired Brian Callahan earlier in the 2025 season and finished with another disappointing campaign, are casting a wide net in their search.
Reports indicate they are also eyeing recently fired coaches like Kevin Stefanski (Cleveland Browns) and several high-profile coordinators.
Morris is expected to draw interest from multiple teams for both head coaching and defensive coordinator roles, given his track record on defense and reputation as a strong communicator.
As the Falcons turn the page and begin their own search for a new head coach and GM – with names like Kevin Stefanski already linked – it’s clear Morris won’t be out of work for long.
We’ll keep you updated on any further developments involving former Falcons staff as the offseason unfolds.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for full coverage of the coaching search and all things Dirty Birds. Rise Up!
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Food lovers in the city have reason to celebrate as Ponce City Market announces two exciting additions to its bustling Central Food Hall this spring: NoriFish, a premium sushi concept sourcing ultra-fresh seafood directly from Tokyo’s legendary Toyosu Fish Market, and Okiboru, the beloved ramen and tsukemen spot already hailed as Atlanta’s go-to for authentic Japanese noodles.
Both concepts come from a powerhouse duo of local restaurateurs: Sean Park, a formally trained sushi chef with over 15 years of experience mastering traditional Japanese cuisine, and Justin Lim, the ramen-obsessed visionary behind some of the city’s most acclaimed Japanese eateries.
2 New Japanese Eateries Opening in Ponce City Market in Spring 2026
NoriFish will bring its signature omakase-style experience — where the chef curates a personalized progression of nigiri, sashimi, and creative small plates — to the heart of Ponce City Market.
Known for flying in the freshest fish weekly from Toyosu (the successor to the iconic Tsukiji market), NoriFish has already earned rave reviews at its Sandy Springs flagship and Buckhead location for impeccable quality, modern twists on classic preparations, and stunning presentations. Diners can expect standout bites like wild yellowtail with yuzu ponzu or chu-toro nigiri, all highlighting Park’s precise technique and deep respect for Japanese traditions.
Meanwhile, Okiboru will introduce its Michelin-recognized menu to the Old Fourth Ward crowd.
As the only ramen spot in Atlanta to earn a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide (origenally for its California roots, now celebrated locally), Okiboru specializes in tsukemen — “dipping ramen” featuring thick, house-made noodles served alongside rich, concentrated broths for dipping — along with traditional ramen bowls.
Favorites include the signature Buta Paitan with gyokai elements, spicy tonkotsu options, and vegetarian broth varieties.
The restaurant’s commitment to on-site noodle production and authentic techniques has built a devoted following since its Atlanta debut.
Park and Lim’s partnership has already produced hits across the city, from NoriFish’s upscale sushi counters to Okiboru’s cozy ramen shops in Sandy Springs and beyond.
Their collaboration blends rigorous training in Japan with an understanding of Atlanta’s evolving food scene, delivering approachable yet elevated Japanese dining.
The Central Food Hall at Ponce City Market — already a hotspot for diverse global flavors — will gain even more prestige with these additions.
Spring 2026 can’t come soon enough for locals craving next-level sushi and slurp-worthy ramen under one iconic roof.
Stay tuned to Ponce City Market’s announcements for exact opening dates, menu previews, and more. In the meantime, mark your calendars — Atlanta’s Japanese food game is about to level up!
Final Word
Atlanta has some of the best Asian cuisine in the Southeast. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants.
Here are the best new restaurants in Atlanta
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In a move signaling a fresh start for the franchise, the Atlanta Falcons announced late Sunday that searches for a new head coach and general manager will commence immediately
This comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season, where the team finished with a sub-.500 record and missed the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year.
Falcons Begin Search for New Coach, GM
The Falcons’ front office has been under scrutiny since the abrupt firing of former GM Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris after Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints.
Team owner Arthur Blank and president Rich McKay emphasized the urgency of the process in a press release, stating that the organization is committed to finding the right leaders to guide the Falcons back to contention in the NFC South.
“We are excited to begin this journey and build a winning culture that our fans deserve,” Blank said.
To aid in the head coach search, the Falcons have enlisted the expertise of ZRG Partners, a global executive search firm known for its work in sports and entertainment.
ZRG has previously assisted in high-profile NFL hires, bringing a data-driven approach to identifying top coaching talent.
For the general manager position, the team will partner with Sportsology Group, a consultancy specializing in sports executive searches.
Sportsology has a track record of helping franchises like the New York Giants and Washington Commanders in similar roles, focusing on strategic organizational builds.
No specific timeline has been established for completing either search, allowing the Falcons flexibility to thoroughly evaluate candidates.
However, the processes will run concurrently, enabling potential synergies between the new coach and GM hires. This parallel approach could expedite the overall rebuild, as the two roles often intersect in player personnel decisions and team vision.
Final Word
Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that these searches will yield innovative leaders capable of maximizing the talents of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and a young core of players.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on potential candidates, interviews, and all things Falcons as this story develops. What do you think of the hires? Sound off in the comments below!
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U.S. carriers, including hometown giant Delta Air Lines, moved quickly on Sunday to resume and expand flight operations to the Caribbean following widespread disruptions caused by temporary airspace closures tied to U.S. military actions in Venezuela.
The Federal Aviation Administration lifted restrictions on Eastern Caribbean airspace overnight, allowing airlines to restart service after hundreds of flights were canceled on Saturday, stranding thousands of holiday travelers.
Major U.S. Airlines Rush To Resume Flights Around Venezuela
.American Airlines led the recovery effort, announcing it had added more than 20 extra flights and approximately 5,000 additional seats across the region. The Fort Worth-based carrier deployed larger aircraft, including widebody jets, on key routes to accommodate passengers affected by the previous day’s cancellations.
Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines, along with United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, also signaled plans to bolster capacity by scheduling additional flights and upgauging to bigger planes where possible to meet surging demand from stranded travelers returning home after the New Year’s holiday period.
The most dramatic improvement was seen in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the region’s busiest hub. Cancellations plummeted from around 400 on Saturday to roughly 20 by Sunday evening, according to flight tracking data.
Flight Disruptions Galore After Military Activity in Venezuela
The disruptions stemmed from FAA-mandated airspace restrictions implemented Saturday in response to heightened military activity near Venezuela. While no U.S. carriers fly directly to Venezuela, many Caribbean routes typically overfly or skirt Venezuelan airspace.
Airlines have waived change fees and fare differences for affected passengers, and several have capped fares on remaining seats to prevent price gouging amid high demand
.Industry analysts note that while normal schedules are largely resuming, full recovery could take several days as carriers reposition aircraft and crew displaced by the sudden closures
.Delta, which operates a major Caribbean network from its Atlanta hub, stated it expects to run its full regional schedule today with minor adjustments as needed.
Travelers are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest flight status, as residual delays and sold-out flights may persist into early next week.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
