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The Best Restaurants/Bars In Atlanta For Live Music & Delicious Food

As the capitol of the south, Atlanta gets great musicians from all around the world. You can’t do better in the A than a boozy brunch afternoon or dinner & drinks while watching live music from skilled artists. With multiple acts coming through these venues and dishes worth highlighting at each location, we’re sharing a few of our favorite Jazz bars and other types of music venues with food around Atlanta.

A bartender makes a cocktail at Apache XL.
1. Apache XLR

393 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Apache XLR is a hidden gem in the heart of Atlanta, GA. It is a cozy, dimly-lit venue that serves as both a restaurant and a live music venue, making it the perfect spot for a night out. The menu offers a range of Southern and Caribbean-inspired dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Additionally, the venue hosts a variety of live music acts, including jazz, spoken word, and hip hop, among others. The intimate setting allows for a unique and immersive experience, with the opportunity to interact with the artists up close. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, Apache XLR provides a memorable and entertaining experience.

one of the bars at aye tea elle in college park
Aye Tea Elle – Bar

2. Aye Tea Elle

3755 College St, College Park, GA 30337

Aye Tea Elle is an upscale dinner lounge located right down the street from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving an evening of live entertainment, Aye Tea Elle is the place to be! The classy decor, dim lighting, and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a low-key night out. The menu features quite a variety, such as their steak, fried lobster tail and mac, fried green tomatoes, and some good ol’ wings. Additionally, Aye Tea Elle hosts a number of live entertainment events, including their Jazz nights, so get ready to unwind and let the jazzy rhythms take over. Indulge in Aye Tea Elle’s craft cocktails, and snack on some tapas, all while being serenaded by the smooth sounds of jazz. 

Blues/Rock trio Hughes Taylor in front of Blind Willies.
Blind Willies | Photo Credit: Instagram/thehughestaylor

3. Blind Willie’s

828 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306

Blind Willie’s is an iconic blues club located in the heart of Virginia-Highland in Atlanta, GA. It is known for its authentic blues music, featuring both local and international performers, as well as its delicious Southern cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and intimate setting make it the perfect place for a night out, whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a unique dining experience. The menu offers a variety of Southern staples such as fried catfish, gumbo, and jambalaya, along with a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. The live music is the main attraction at Blind Willie’s, with the club hosting some of the best blues acts in the city. From the talented musicians to the friendly staff, Blind Willie’s provides a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else in Atlanta.

Musicians play at open mic night at Kat's Cafe.
Kat’s Cafe | Photo Credit: Instagram/brentertainment

4. Kat’s Cafe

970 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Kat’s Cafe is a popular live music venue and restaurant located in the vibrant Midtown area of Atlanta, GA. The cozy and intimate setting provides the perfect ambiance for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The menu features a variety of classic Southern comfort food dishes such as shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and mac and cheese, along with a selection of specialty cocktails and craft beers. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which showcases some of the best local and national talent in a range of genres, including jazz, R&B, and soul. The talented musicians, combined with the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, make Kat’s Cafe a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and entertaining night out in Atlanta.

Musicians warm up before an act at Red Light Cafe.
Red Light Cafe | Photo Credit: Instagram/redlightcafe

5. Red Light Cafe

553-1 Amsterdam Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

Red Light Cafe is a popular live music venue and restaurant located in the bustling Virginia-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta, GA. The intimate setting, with its low lighting and exposed brick walls, provides the perfect ambiance for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The menu offers a variety of globally-inspired dishes such as quesadillas, falafel, and pad Thai, along with a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features a variety of genres including bluegrass, folk, and jazz. The talented musicians and friendly staff create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that makes Red Light Cafe a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

Crab legs from Suite Food Lounge.
Suite Food Lounge | Photo Credit: Instagram/suiteloungeatl

6. Suite Food Lounge

375 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Suite Food Lounge is a stylish and upscale restaurant and lounge located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, GA. The modern decor and trendy atmosphere create a chic setting for a night out with friends or a special occasion. The menu offers a variety of contemporary American cuisine, including steak, seafood, and sushi, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. In addition to its culinary offerings, Suite Food Lounge is also a popular live music venue, featuring local and national acts in a variety of genres, including R&B, hip hop, and jazz. The spacious layout, with its multiple levels and private VIP areas, provides a unique and immersive experience for music lovers. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a night of entertainment, Suite Food Lounge offers the best of both worlds in a sophisticated and stylish setting.

Musicians play on stage at St. James Live!
St. James Live | Photo Credit: Instagram/stjamesliveatl

7. St. James Live!

3220 Butner Rd #240, Atlanta, GA 30331

St. James Live! is a popular live music venue and restaurant in Atlanta, GA. The venue offers a unique and immersive experience, with its upscale decor and intimate setting. The menu offers a variety of classic Southern dishes, along with a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features a range of genres including jazz, R&B, and soul. The talented musicians, combined with the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, create an unforgettable experience that is sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner, St. James Live! provides the perfect blend of food, drinks, and entertainment in one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Diners before a show at Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint.
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint | Photo Credit: Instagram/sweetgeorgiasjukejoint

8. Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint

200 Peachtree St L05, Atlanta, GA 30303

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint is a lively restaurant and music venue located in the heart of Atlanta, GA. The venue offers a unique and immersive experience, with its decor reminiscent of a traditional Southern juke joint. The menu features a variety of classic Southern comfort food dishes, such as fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese, as well as a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features some of the best local and national blues, jazz, and soul musicians. The lively and energetic atmosphere, combined with the friendly staff, creates an unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time to the heyday of the juke joint scene. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a fun night out, Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint offers a unique and entertaining destination in Atlanta’s vibrant live music scene.

Tacos from The Earl in East Atlanta Village.
The Earl | Photo Credit: Instagram/badearl

9. The Earl

488 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316

The Earl is a beloved music venue and restaurant located in the trendy East Atlanta Village neighborhood of Atlanta, GA. The venue offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere, with its simple decor and cozy setting. The menu features a variety of pub-style food, such as burgers, fries, and sandwiches, as well as a selection of beers and cocktails. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features a diverse range of genres, including rock, indie, and punk. The Earl has been a favorite spot for music lovers for over two decades, attracting both local and national acts. The intimate setting and excellent sound quality make for an unforgettable experience that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or just looking for a laid-back night out, The Earl offers a unique and memorable destination in Atlanta’s thriving live music scene.

Steak frites from Velvet Note in Alpharetta, GA
Velvet Note | Photo Credit: Instagram/thevelvetnote

10. Velvet Note

4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005

Velvet Note is an intimate and upscale jazz club and restaurant located in the Atlanta suburb of Alpharetta, GA. The venue offers an elegant and refined setting, with its sleek decor and comfortable seating. The menu features a variety of global cuisine, including Italian, Mediterranean, and Asian-inspired dishes, as well as a curated selection of wines and craft cocktails. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features some of the best local and national jazz musicians. The venue’s state-of-the-art sound system and acoustics provide an unparalleled listening experience, and the intimate setting allows for a truly immersive and personal encounter with the music. The attentive and knowledgeable staff create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making Velvet Note a favorite spot for jazz lovers and foodies alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a refined and sophisticated night out, Velvet Note offers a unique and unforgettable destination in the Atlanta area.

Partygoers enjoy the live music at Whiskey Mistress.
Whiskey Mistress | Photo Credit: Instagram/whisky_mistress

11. Whiskey Mistress

3161 Maple Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30305

Whiskey Mistress is a popular live music venue and restaurant located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, GA. The venue offers a lively and energetic atmosphere, with its industrial-chic decor and spacious setting. The menu features a variety of Southern-inspired dishes, including fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and BBQ ribs, as well as a selection of craft cocktails and a wide range of whiskey. The main attraction, however, is the live music, which features a mix of rock, blues, and country acts. The venue’s large stage and excellent sound system create an unforgettable live music experience, while the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make for a fun and entertaining night out. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a lively and energetic night out with friends, Whiskey Mistress offers a unique and memorable destination in the heart of Buckhead.

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