Virginia-Highland

SECO 2026 Fun & Food Tour: Virginia-Highland

Virginia-Highland, affectionately known as "VaHi," stands as one of Atlanta's most beloved neighborhoods—a charming early 20th-century streetcar suburb that has evolved into a culinary and cultural destination. Named after the intersection of Virginia Avenue and North Highland Avenue, this walkable neighborhood showcases Atlanta's bungalow architecture, tree-lined streets, and an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and nightlife that captures the city's distinctive blend of historic charm and contemporary energy.

Neighborhood Highlights:

Virginia-Highland's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity of dining options, from century-old taverns to contemporary Mediterranean fusion, all within an easily walkable area. The neighborhood hosts vibrant annual events including the Summerfest festival and Tour of Homes. What makes VaHi special isn't just individual venues, but the entire atmosphere—sidewalk tables spilling onto the streets, boutique shops with outdoor racks, live music venues with intimate vibes, and a strong sense of community that welcomes both locals and visitors.

Featured Dining Destinations:

Atkins Park Restaurant & Bar (1922) holds the distinction of being Atlanta's oldest continuously licensed tavern, having opened in 1922 and receiving what is now the city's oldest liquor license in 1927. This century-old establishment serves elevated bar food including duck fat-fried wings with sweet chili sauce, Guinness-dipped pretzels, fried chicken sliders, and substantial burgers. The muted lighting and slightly-elevated booths create the perfect neighborhood gathering spot.

La Tavola Trattoria brings authentic Italian hospitality to VaHi with house-made pastas, thoughtfully curated wines, and seasonal specialties. Their basil-speckled spaghetti, veal meatballs, black pepper-rubbed roasted chicken, and tiramisu pack traditional Italian flavors. The rear balcony provides spacious dining, and "Molto Monday" offers three pasta dishes for just $10—making exceptional Italian cuisine remarkably accessible.

Ela Mezze + Spirits takes diners on a Mediterranean journey spanning Morocco to Greece, Turkey, and Israel. This VaHi restaurant features charcoal-grilled meats, fresh seafood, and shareable small plates including standout hummus, lamb kofta burgers, and mushroom shawarma skewers. The covered patio and happy hour (Monday-Friday 4-6 PM, weekends 3-5 PM) make it ideal for group dining.

Bar.bacoa delivers authentic Mexican street food with an eclectic-chic Spanish vibe. Their tacos, tapas, and namesake barbacoa come with mixologist cocktails crafted from fresh, premium ingredients rather than artificial mixes. The covered patio and live band karaoke nights (get there early to secure your song) add entertainment to the exceptional food.

Murphy's has been a VaHi fixture for over 40 years, serving as the neighborhood spot where families celebrate and friends gather. The charming staff and varied menu make it the answer when groups can't decide where to eat—there's truly something for everyone.

Highland Tap embodies steakhouse sophistication since 1989, featuring wood-fired steaks including the impressive 32-ounce Tomahawk bone-in ribeye, house-cut ribeye, slow-roasted prime rib, and Highland Tap filet mignon. Lighter lunch options include spinach salad, pearl-glazed chicken salad, and customizable Caesar salads. Seafood offerings like pecan-crusted Georgia trout, grilled mahi mahi, and wood-fired salmon round out the menu.

Fontaine's has been the neighborhood's seafood fixture for over two decades—a dive bar serving respectable seafood in an uber-casual environment with low lighting and dark wood paneling. Their lobster mac, oysters, crab cakes, and blackened salmon satisf