Nestled in the heart of Athens, Georgia, the vibrant Five Points neighborhood attracts food enthusiasts with its eclectic culinary scene and charming atmosphere. Locals and visitors find themselves drawn to the cozy cafes, upscale restaurants, and casual lunch spots in this neighborhood. Join us on a food lover's journey through Five Points, where every corner reveals a new culinary delight. This weekend food guide is your passport to discovering the diverse and delectable flavors of Five Points!
Friday Night
Drinks and Chips at El Barrio
Start your foodie weekend right with chips, queso, and a tasty margarita from El Barrio. Though this may seem odd for a Mexican restaurant, be sure to try El Barrio's french fries too! If the weather permits, sit outside on the restaurant's cute and trendy front lawn and enjoy the view of the bustling streets of Five Points. Explore El Barrio's counter service menu here.
Upscale Dinner at The Expat
After a quick appetizer, head over to 1680 S Lumpkin St. to try The Expat. The Expat is a neighborhood bistro with an Italian focus. Step into the charming 1930s cottage and enjoy the best of what local growers have to offer. This restaurant's menu ranges from various meat and cheese boards to hearty entrees and Italian classics like Red Wine Cacio e Pepe. Enjoy the finer foods in life and indulge at this Five Points staple.
Ice cream at Jeni's
Top off your delicious dinner with a cup or cone at Jeni's Ice Cream! New to Athens this year, this ice cream shop is the perfect spot for all sweet treat lovers. At Jeni’s, you’ll find flavors inspired by curiosities—art, history, pop culture, and beyond—that simply don’t exist anywhere else. Be sure to try their signature flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle. You can't go wrong with these choices!
Saturday
Coffee (and chocolate) at Condor
You can't take a trip to Five Points and not go to Condor Chocolates! Condor is a bean-to-bar Ecuadorian chocolate shop & cafe owned by Peter and Nick Dale. They use cacao from Ecuador, their mother's native country, and will incorporate local products in their chocolates. These exquisite chocolates paired with a hot cup of joe are the perfect way to continue a great morning. Be sure to buy some extra chocolates for a treat when you get home!
Lunch at Baddies Burgers
Keep lunch simple and walk over to Baddies Burgers for their signature smash burger and fries. Don't let the name deceive you though, Baddies is known for much more than their burgers. The real star of the show is the fluffy banana pudding. Grab a container and keep those leftovers!
Happy Hour at Five & Ten
After your lunch has settled and you're ready to get off your feet and relax, go to Five & Ten for happy hour from 5-6 p.m. Sit at the spacious bar or on the outdoor patio and enjoy some signature cocktails. Their happy hour drink menu consists of a Rosemary-Ginger Gimlet, an Old Fashioned, a Spiced Paloma, and a Wild Heaven Emergency Drinking Beer.
Tapas at The Pine
After a day full of culinary delights, enjoy tapas, wood-fired oysters, and cheese & charcuterie at The Pine. Eat inside or outside on the patio and be sure to check out the excellent wine list. Order as much or as little as you want, and take in the peaceful ambiance of this trendy dinner spot.
Sunday
Coffee and Pastries at Independent Baking Company
There's no better way to start a peaceful Sunday morning than with a pastry and coffee from the Independent Baking Company. This local bakery specializes in healthful loaves of bread and delicious pastries. You can't miss this quant white brick building with blue accents. So take a stop inside, grab a homemade treat and a warm cup of coffee!
Seafood Lunch at Marker 7 Coastal Grill
Marker 7 Coastal Grill is a seafood and oyster bar located in a historic home in the Five Points area of Athens. If you venture to the restaurant on a Sunday, you could opt for brunch or lunch. Their brunch menu consists of unique seafood variations on brunch classics like the Crab Cake Benedict and the Salmon Bruschetta Omelette. Of course, if you are not in the mood for brunch food, take a look at the lunch menu. Marker 7 offers a wide range of options, from the Fresh Catch of the Day to tacos, salads, and seafood entrees.
Early Dinner at Cali N Tito's
Before you hit the road after this amazing culinary weekend, enjoy an early dinner on the outside patio at Cali N Tito's. This restaurant has an authentic Latin American fare, with delicious Cuban sandwiches, quesadillas, tacos, and more! Service is quick and the staff is very friendly. Stop by and relax in the calming atmosphere at Cali N Titos.
Now that the weekend is over, you’re probably realizing that if just one neighborhood of Athens holds all of these fantastic experiences, there’s no telling what else you can find if you explore a bit more. Maybe it’s time to check out Normaltown or downtown. We’ll see you next time!
