Adonay Deglel, better known as Bob Costanza, doesn’t consider himself a bicyclist. But he grew up in Eritrea during a time when cycling exploded in popularity, and he’s long enjoyed watching the throngs of cyclists bike down Edgewood Avenue on their daily commutes or organized rides.
He became enough of a fan that when the space at 476 Edgewood Ave., became available, he jumped on it to create the Handlebar, a bicycle-themed bar and restaurant. Open since mid-September, it is located down the street from Edgewood Pizza, which Costanza owns with his brother, Henok Deglel.
A grand opening celebration is planned for Oct. 9. Festivities will begin at 11 a.m. and include a DJ and food and drink specials.
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The interior of Handlebar, designed by Horace “H.I.” Imhotep of Blood Sweat and Tears, is an homage to cycling, from the space just inside the door for guests to park their bikes to a wall adorned with a large photo mural of Major Taylor, the first Black cycling world champion.
Other touches include a custom-made red handlebar that serves as a home for beer taps; cycling jerseys that Costanza picked up from visits to San Francisco; bike-themed posters; portraits of famous cyclists hanging in the bar’s bathroom, including one of Daniel Teklehaimanot, a professional rider from Eritrea; vintage cycling memorabilia; and a TV that will air cycling and other sporting events.
Seating options include several seats at the bar, low and high bar tables and bench seating.
The eye-catching decor isn’t limited to the walls. One of the design elements Costanza is most proud of is the glittery gold epoxy floor in the main bar area, and the Tour de France logo incorporated into tilework on bathroom floors.
Costanza said he wanted to “keep it simple” with the food menu, which includes tacos, quesadillas, nachos and paella. Guests can also bring in pizza from Edgewood Pizza.
Drink offerings include about a dozen beers, most of them from local breweries including SweetWater and Wild Heaven, as well as a full bar that will eventually feature a cocktail list.
Handlebar is open from 3 p.m.-midnight Sundays and 3 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays.
476 Edgewood Ave. SE, Atlanta. instagram.com/thehandlebaratl/
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