225 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. peachtreecenter.com.
The Courtland Grand Hotel (formerly the Sheraton) and the Market at Courtland: Badge pick-up central also doubles as a foodie spot. Out front, you’ll find a rotating lineup of food trucks serving tacos, barbecue and handhelds.
On the hotel’s third floor, the Market at Courtland offers to-go food, drinks and coffee.
165 Courtland St. NE, Atlanta. 404-659-6500, courtlandgrandhotel.com.
The Varsity: A short rideshare away, this Atlanta institution delivers chili dogs, onion rings and frosted orange shakes. It’s worth the trip.
61 North Ave. NW, Atlanta. 404-881-1706, thevarsity.com.
CVS: Not a restaurant, but a clutch stop for stocking up on snacks, bottled water, and energy drinks.
235 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. 404-577-4054, cvs.com.
M Store at the Marriott Marquis: Don’t sleep on the food from the M Store. They have a kitchen with plenty of snacks and beverages, including made-to-order hot breakfast and lunches.
265 Peachtree Center Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-521-0000, marriott.com.
Sit-down restaurants
Max Lager’s Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery: Across from the Hyatt, Max Lager’s serves house-brewed beer, burgers and pizzas in a lively, Con-friendly atmosphere. Great for groups who want a casual sit-down meal.
320 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. 404-525-4400, maxlagers.com.
Ted’s Montana Grill: Known for its bison burgers and hearty American classics, Ted’s is a reliable spot for a filling dinner if you want to escape the food court crowds.
133 Luckie St. NW, Atlanta. 404-521-9796, tedsmontanagrill.com.
Cuts Steakhouse: Looking for something more upscale? Cuts delivers high-quality steaks, seafood and wine — a splurge-worthy option if you’re celebrating during the Con.
60 Andrew Young International Blvd. NE, Atlanta. 404-525-3399, cutsatlanta.com.
Amalfi Cucina + Mercato: When the craving hits, Amalfi serves up Neapolitan-style pies in a warm, rustic setting. A solid pick for a sit-down pizza fix.
17 Andrew Young International Blvd. NE, Atlanta. 404-882-1740, amalfiatl.com.
Explore17 restaurants, bars to try in downtown Atlanta near Mercedes-Benz StadiumWhere to keep the party going
Joystick Gamebar: Open inside Peachtree Center Mall (in the former Benihana space), Joystick’s pop-up bar is a Dragon Con favorite for vintage arcade games, pinball machines and fun cocktails.
229 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. dragoncon.org.
Trader Vic’s: Hidden inside the Hilton, this tiki escape is famous for inventing the Mai Tai and serving up Polynesian vibes. It’s a longtime Dragon Con tradition.
255 Courtland St. NE, Atlanta. 404-221-6339, tradervicsatl.com.
Metro Diner and Bar: An all-day diner serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays, it’s a convenient late-night option with karaoke and a light-up dance floor.
229 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-577-1420, metrodineratl.com.
SkyLounge at the Glenn Hotel: For skyline views and a polished vibe, this rooftop bar offers a scenic escape from the Con chaos.
110 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta. 404-521-2250, glennsskylounge.com.
Meehan’s Public House: An Irish pub near Centennial Park, pouring a strong Guinness in a cozy, casual setting.
200 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-214-9821, meehanspublichouse.com.
Pro tipsPlan around crowds: Food courts and nearby spots are slammed during peak hours. Eat early or late when possible.Stay hydrated: Between the August heat and long Con days, balance cocktails with water.Mix it up: Rotate between quick bites (food courts, food trucks) and sit-down meals to keep your budget and energy in check.
Dining and Cooking