Whoever said “everything in moderation” neglected to mention Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday is the time to celebrate all things excessive – Cajun cuisine, high-class cocktails and music inspired by The Big Easy.
Whether you're inside the perimeter or on the outskirts of Metro Atlanta, grab your friends, send for an Uber and hit the pavement with these pub crawl options.
North Highlands/Little Five Points
Begin in Va-Hi, and lead your carnival caravan down North Highland Avenue to Little Five Points. It's a mile-and-a-half of boozy enjoyment for a Fat Tuesday fit for a king.
1. Highland Tap
Highland Tap serves slow roasted prime rib, and mouth-watering steaks, but this holiday you'll want to pull up a seat at the bar. Southern Comfort Hurricanes are $4, and a can of Abita beer will set you back two bucks.
2. Blind Willies
Walk through the doors of Blind Willies for a taste of classic New Orlean's blues. Mardi Gras celebrations here feature live music from Mudcat and The Atlanta Horns. Try the Cajun wings, Jambalaya or other NOLA fare with a brew. The acoustics are better than the beer selection, but Blind Willies can't be skipped.
3. Folk Art Restaurant
Order the Smoked Honey Bourbon Sour at Folk Art, complete with smoked honey bitters. While you're at it, add a sweet potato beignet. It is Fat Tuesday, after all.
4. Vortex Bar & Grill
Meander your way down Colquitt Avenue, over to L5P. You're heading to Vortex Bar & Grill, where motorcycles, skeletons and street signs hang from the ceiling. A step over the threshold puts you in a Mardi Gras atmosphere, regardless of the day of the week. Grab a craft beer and a Ragin' Cajun burger.
5. Front Page News
Your final stop of the evening is Front Page News, where Atlanta meets the French Quarter. Celebrations include a Fat Tuesday Party with a live band and New Orlean's inspired cocktails.
Avalon in Alpharetta
Those celebrating Mardi Gras outside the perimeter will enjoy a host of exciting events at Avalon in Alpharetta. Pick up a pub crawl map from the concierge or follow our suggestions below.
1. Goldbergs
Goldbergs boasts New York-style bagels, coffee and juices. The Avalon location adds a full bar, gluten-free offerings and dinner specials. Begin the evening here, with complimentary beads and $6 Hurricanes.
2. Bantu
Add Asian inspiration to your carnival celebration at Bantu. If you're feeling hungry, try the homemade noodles, with locally sourced veggies. Just want to celebrate? The house sake and Sapporo draft are discounted for your delight.
3. The El Felix
The El Felix is Tex-Mex like you've never experienced. It's swanky, and it's getting rave reviews all around town. The General Manager, Bradley Wyatt, knows his way with bourbon, and he's offering a special Bourbon Street Punch for your pub crawl pleasure.
4. Kendra Scott
Kendra Scott is not a restaurant. It's not even a bar. It's a women's jewelry and accessory boutique that's hopped aboard the Mardi Gras party train. While your window shopping, drop in for a complimentary Abita beer and king cake.
5. Marlow's Tavern
Enjoy special Mardi Gras inspired libations at Avalon's neighborhood pub, Marlow's Tavern, along with menu items inspired by bourbon and the bayou. End your evening with live music inside, or rest easy by the fountain on their outdoor patio.
