For the Foodies, Hopheads & Mixologists 

By Isabella Salazar on Sep. 10, 2024

Five & Ten  

This local fine dining staple is the flagship restaurant for James Beard Award-winning chef and cookbook author Hugh Acheson, known for his presence on ‘Top Chef” and “Top Chef Presence.” Five & Ten put Athens on the culinary map in 2002 and paved the way for acclaimed restaurants since. It has recently been passed down to Peter Dale. Peter began as an apprentice at 5&10 under Chef Acheson. As the new owner, he is excited to continue classic 5&10 dishes such as Frogmore stew and watermelon-feta salads while also bringing new flare to the menu and atmosphere. Next year 5&10 will be celebrating 25 years of excellence in contemporary southern cuisine. 

Condor Chocolates

Family and locally owned, this bean-to-bar chocolate store is a fairytale for chocoholics and anyone with a sweet tooth. From bars and truffles to sipping chocolate and chocolate coffee drinks, Condor knows every way to satisfy your taste buds. You can enjoy Condor Chocolates at two locations, one in the charming Five Points neighborhood and also in the heart of Downtown Athens. 

Athens Beer Trail Tour 

It's important to travel through Athens with a passport, a beer passport that is! The Athens Beer Trail travels through local craft breweries to sample all the hops of Athens. Collect stamps at each of the locations and turn in your fully stamped Trail Guide to receive a keepsake to cherish your trip forever. And no need to worry about a designated driver, we've got you covered! New this year, the Athens Beer Trail Trolley will be happy to take you around town! Book your trolley today.

Oak House Distillery 

Oak House is proud to be the first legal distillery in Athens since the 1860s. They have tastefully refurbished the old Henry Bishop house to include a tasting room, cocktail lounge and additional outdoor patio. Invite a few friends and come indulge in their array of delicious cocktails including The Best Gin & Tonic I Ever Had. Munch on a tasty charcuterie board and soak up the cozy atmosphere of Oak House Distillery. 

Puma Yu's

Named one of the best restaurants in Athens by Southern Living, Puma Yu's is a hidden gem tucked into the historic Southern Mill complex. In early 2024, Chef Pete Amadhanirundr was named a James Beard Semifinalist. Pete and co-owner Ally Smith have created an atmosphere that is almost as captivating as the food. Grab a cocktail, or equally delicious mocktail, and enjoy the art and outdoor patio. Sip on a martini featuring calamansi, makrut lime, lemongrass, and Thai tea or share a cumin lamb noodle bowl. Puma Yu's is always at the forefront of innovative food and drink. Creativity permeates throughout their drinks, dishes, and decor. It's a can't miss on any foodie's trip to Athens.

On the Horizon:

Athentic Brewing Company

Athentic Brewing Company is excited to partner with the brand new Drayton Distillery to add craft spirits to their taproom! Craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence are at the heart of this partnership. They plan to kick off their drink menu with white rum, agave spirit, and vodka cocktails but look forward to expanding to many other spirits. Production will start this fall and a full launch will take place later in the year.

Creature Comforts

Your favorite local tap room is expanding! That's right, Creature Comforts, Georgia's second-largest craft brewery is also adding a distillery! We'll keep you updated as information is released regarding their timeline and drink offerings.