Indigo Road Hospitality Group (IRHG) announces the addition of Oak Steakhouse Athens to its celebrated collection of restaurants. Slated for an early Fall 2026 opening, the restaurant will introduce Oak Steakhouse’s signature take on the classic American steakhouse to Athens.

The restaurant will occupy the ground floor of the tallest building in Athens, historically known as the “Holman Hotel.” The building, built by William S. Holman, opened as an office building in 1913. The site was the Emmanuel Episcopal Church until 1892. In the 1920s, Holman reimagined his building as the “Holman Hotel.” But in the 1960s, Citizens & Southern Nation Bank acquired the building, returning it to offices. C&S Bank later became NationsBank, which ultimately became Bank of America. Now, over a century later, Indigo Road and THOREAU CAPITAL. have restored the building’s hospitality roots. 

“Athens’ vibrant culture and rich history make it a perfect match for Oak Steakhouse,” said Steve Palmer, founder of Indigo Road. “We have loved being a part of the community with Osteria Olio and are thrilled to expand our involvement in the town.”

Oak Steakhouse, known for blending timeless steakhouse traditions with a modern approach and authentic hospitality, will bring its celebrated menu of Certified Angus Beef® brand Prime cuts, fresh seafood, and seasonally inspired dishes. The Athens restaurant will pay homage to its historic surroundings while delivering a modern take on the classic American steakhouse. Guests can expect thoughtfully sourced ingredients, including locally inspired menu offerings, an extensive wine list, and impeccable service that sets Oak Steakhouse apart.

“This is the ritual that Downtown Athens has needed: a steak dinner in a timeless setting,” said Brennan M. Cox, founder and president of THOREAU., which capitalized the project. “Indigo Road, alongside their trusted architect and interior designer, David Thompson Studio, will deliver both. It helped to have so much patina throughout the space, whether it’s the original chandeliers or the wood cubicles that now double as private dining rooms. The ‘Holman Hotel’ already had a story, and we’re lucky enough to share it with Athens."

Cox also serves as chairman of 1892, a members-only supper club located one floor above Oak Steakhouse Athens. The Club— co-founded by Cox, Brent S. Gilfedder, Palmer, Ryan A. Scates, Charles B. Thompson, and James B. Whitley—takes its name from the year when Georgia played its first football game.

Indigo Road continues to expand its celebrated collection with a commitment to crafting unique, memorable dining experiences. The addition of Oak Steakhouse Athens underscores the dedication to creating destination-worthy restaurants in cities known for their dynamic culinary and cultural scenes.

Oak Steakhouse Athens will be located at 110 E. Clayton St., Athens, Ga. 30601. For more information about Oak Steakhouse, visit oaksteakhouserestaurant.com. To learn more about the supper club, 1892, visit 1892club.com.

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The Indigo Road Hospitality Group 

Founded in 2009 by Steve Palmer and celebrating 15 years in 2024, The Indigo Road Hospitality Group (IRHG) owns, operates, and manages restaurants and boutique hotels throughout the country. Based in the Southeast, IRHG is founded upon the core principle of serving with love and creating memorable experiences for all. In 2019, IRHG marked its tenth anniversary by being named a Forbes Small Giant and appearing on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list, and in 2020 announced its new venture into lodging with a focus on food & beverage-driven boutique hotels. The Indigo Road’s dedication to excellence in food & beverage was recognized in multiple years (’18,’19,’20, and ‘24) by Palmer being named a semifinalist by the James Beard Foundation’s award for Outstanding Restaurateur. For more information on the portfolio, team, core values and services, visit theindigoroad.com.