After nearly a century of serving Southern comfort food to Atlantans and visitors alike, The Colonnade, a dining landmark and Atlanta's second-oldest restaurant, has been put up for sale. Established in 1927, The Colonnade has stood the test of time, originally situated at the corner of Lindbergh and Piedmont before moving to its present location on Cheshire Bridge Road in 1962. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the current listed price for this piece of Atlanta's gastronomic history is $975,000.
The family-run business, which moved once since its opening and boasted famous fried chicken among its classic Southern dishes, has seen several generations pass through its doors. According to Atlanta News First, the restaurant can accommodate nearly 300 patrons, and features a full bar and lounge along with private events space. Currently managed by the family of Paul Jones, who acquired the establishment in 1979, The Colonnade's day-to-day operations have remained in the care of his descendants.
However, despite the storied eatery’s longevity and famed menu items like pot roast and salmon croquettes, it faced significant adversity during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. "I could not conceivably think about being out of business, not only for ourselves, but also for the community and for Atlanta. I think that people depend on us to be there for them," owner Jodi Stallings stated in a prior moment of crisis, according to an interview with FOX 5 Atlanta. This sentiment resonated with the clientele, who rallied to raise over $124,000 to keep the establishment afloat.
Whoever takes the helm next will inherit a vast space dedicated to Southern hospitality, complete with a legacy that includes being patronized by prominent figures such as former Georgia governor and U.S. senator Zell Miller. The sale listing, as detailed by Atlanta News First, suggests that the incoming owners will have the option "keep or convert" allowing for either the continuation of The Colonnade's tradition or the creation of a new dining concept. At present, The Colonnade invites guests from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and 12 to 8 p.m. on Sunday.
