As a small business, we frequently work from our home offices. However, as all remote employees know, an occasional change of scenery is necessary. Whether meeting up with co-workers, clients, partners, or just taking a mental break with a friend, there are endless options around town for stepping out of your home office and meeting over a cup of coffee or some lunch. Coffee houses have become the norm for meetings, however some days it can be hard to find a place to sit in some of the more popular coffee spots! We have fallen into our favorite spots around town. Here are a few we love and the reasons why.
Ponce City Market – I mean, what ATLien doesn’t love PCM? It has a cool, trendy vibe, a great variety of restaurants, coffee, and even cocktails for late afternoon meetings. The only downside of PCM is the parking fees and it can sometimes get very busy. But, if you time it right and don’t log too many minutes on the parking meter, you really can’t beat the energy and selection of eating spots.
Emory Village – We originally started meeting at places near the Emory campus, out of convenience. It is centrally located and easy to get to. Then we discovered the plethora of great spots to eat or have coffee! A few of our favorites: Panera, Dragon Bowl, Zoe’s, and Ali’s Cookies. The downside to Emory Village is the sheer crowds of students during exam time. We learned the hard way, but best to stay away during exam times and let the students have their space!
Krog Street Market – This is another great in-town spot with lots of energy and a huge selection of stalls that offer food, snacks, and drinks. The long bench tables provide great space for pulling out our laptops, or they also have a nice outdoor seating space when the weather is nice.
Goldberg’s Bagels – We love our bagels! A great menu, friendly staff, and bagel specials on Wednesdays make this one of our regular spots.
Whole Foods – As a transplant from Austin, TX, I am a sucker for Whole Foods (they are based in Austin). We love having lunch at the Sandy Springs Whole Foods on Roswell Road anytime we are in that part of town. They have a huge selection of delicious food, an impressive salad bar, and plenty of eating spaces.
Coffee spots: This category is obvious but some of our favorites are Taproom Coffee in Kirkwood, Highland Bakery in Decatur, Press and Grind in Virginia Highland, Panera in Ansley Mall, Dancing Goats at PCM, eBrik in Decatur, and San Francisco Coffee in Candler Park.
We know there are more gems we have yet to discover. What are some of your favorite places to meet in Atlanta? Any secret non-traditional meeting places you’re willing to share?
I think that going to meet at coffee shops and other places is a great idea. I also love the suggestions you gave me. Thanks!