After eight weeks of paper and online balloting, the readers of Southern Voice determined which people, places and things top the list of what makes gay life in Atlanta so worthwhile.
From artists to activists and politics to partying, you told us your picks in more than 50 categories. Southern Voice editors also weighed in with our choices for what earns Atlanta its reputation as the gay mecca of the South.
Look for old favorites on the list this year, as well as some new names that prove the city — and its gay residents — are always changing. As gay men and lesbians spread out to all corners of Atlanta, SoVo’s “Best” list shows that our readers have a hand in almost every aspect of the larger community.
The votes are in, the scores are tallied, and inside you’ll find a comprehensive roster of winners and runners-up to guide you through the Best of Gay Atlanta
Readers’ Choice: Einstein’s
Editors’ Choice, Overall: Roaster’s
Editors’ Choice, Brunch: Cafe 458
The waiting lists prove just how popular Einstein’s is with chic Midtown diners. Take a stretch out to the curbside patio, where your well-appointed meal and attractive company will attract envious stares from the traffic.
For Best Overall, the Colonnade scored second place, and Cowtippers roped in third. For Best Brunch, Radial Café took second place, and voters served Red Chair a third place finish.
Readers’ Choice: King & I
Editors’ Choice: Casa Grande
When it comes to ethnic food, gay Atlanta overwhelmingly prefers to Thai one on. It might not be the prettiest, but King & I is doing something right. Customers have enjoyed the convenient Ansley Square location near popular gay retailers and bars for years, relying on the friendly service and prompt take-out.
Little Bangkok came in second, and Top Spice came in third.
Readers’ Choice: Café Sunflower
Editors’ Choice: Café Sunflower
Café Sunflower’s Buckhead location makes it popular and trendy, but what attracts most of the patrons is the healthy food, including sesame “chicken” made of soy. Tellingly, a whopping 80 percent of the people who eat here and return are non-vegetarian, management asserts.
Runner-ups are Green Sprout and R. Thomas.
Readers’ Choice: Eats
Editors’ Choice: Pot & Pan
It’s hard to argue about good bargains, but if you could, Eats would win with SoVo readers. The no frills attitude and good country/Cajun cooking is an Atlanta mainstay with a diverse clientele from hungry college students to lunching professionals. For quick service on a budget, don’t miss this bare-bones deliciousness.
Roasters nabbed second, and Pot & Pan came in third.
Readers’ Choice: Matty Cakes
Editors’ Choice: Apres Diem
Matt Lewis’s Midtown bakery Matty Cakes is a menagerie of decadence that sends the even the sweetest tooth running for the hills. If the coconut cream doesn’t send you over the edge, perhaps the dolce de leche cheesecake will. Whatever your pleasure, Matty Cakes is the frosting on our readers’ list of dessert hotspots.
Café Intermezzo came in second and Metrotainment Bakery took third.
Readers’ choice: Ecco
Editors’ choice: Piebar
Executive Chef Micah Willix brings European dining to Midtown at the spacious and super-swanky Ecco. From wood-fired pizza to eclectic grilled squid, there’s not an item on the menu that won’t take your taste buds on an exotic journey — and for a surprisingly affordable price.
Piebar finished a close second, followed by 2 Urban Licks.
Readers’ Choice: The Majestic
Editors’ Choice: Landmark on Cheshire
Convenient to both Midtown and Virginia Highlands, it’s no surprise that The Majestic is a favorite gay spot for late-night comfort food. The retro eatery serves up midnight grub the way it should be: greasy, delicious and quick.
Readers voted Waffle House second place, and gave third-place to Joe’s on Juniper.
Readers’ Choice: Joe’s on Juniper
Editors’ Choice, Patio: Roxx
Editors’ Choice, Tried & True: American Roadhouse
Who hasn’t shared laughs and good times over sandwiches and suds at Joe’s ? Check out fellow diners as you strut the runway, er, patio toward tasty food, cool jukebox tunes, and an adorable wait-staff.
Joe’s bros, Einstein’s and Cowtippers, follow for Best Outdoor/Patio. Cheshire Bridge faves Colonnade and Roxx also scored for Tried & True.
Readers’ Choice: Apres Diem
Editors’ Choice: Benedetti’s
With its candle-lit atmosphere both inside and outside, Apres Diem is the perfect place for a first date or an anniversary meal, with a nice assortment of appetizers, entrees, wines and scrumptious desserts, the place is most notable for its eclectic mixed crowd.
Your next favorites are Midtown Kitchen and The Food Studio.
Readers’ Choice: P.A.L.S.
Editors’ Choice: YouthPride
Like a good friend or family member, the non-profit Pets Are Loving Support continues its 16-year mission to care for the four-legged or feathered friends of critically ill or disabled people.
Atlanta Freedom Bands took second place, and AID Atlanta made third.
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Best Gay Event: Atlanta Pride (Photo by Bo Shell) |
Readers’ Choice: Atlanta Pride
Editors’ Choice: Atlanta Pride
Many agree that June is the most wonderful gay time of the year. Locals count down the days, and others travel miles to experience Atlanta Pride, its vendors and the festive Pride Parade. It’s definitely Pride in the name of love.
Second place went to Toy Party and Joining Hearts won third.
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Best Bookstore and Best Business Person: Phillip Rafshoon at Outwrite Bookstore & Coffeehouse |
Readers’ Choice: Outwrite
Editors’ Choice: Outwrite
When does a bookstore become something more? When in 13 years it establishes itself as a local gay Mecca. Want to hear excerpts from a gay-themed or authored book? Socialize with friends? Outwrite Bookstore & Coffehouse has you covered.
Charis Books & More took second, and Brushstrokes won third.
Readers’ Choice: Atlanta Bucks
Editors’ Choice: Hotlanta Softball Association
After three years on the rugby pitch, the Atlanta Bucks “scrummed” their way into readers’ hearts as gay Atlanta’s best sports team. Sixty members strong, the Bucks are also a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the Atlanta community while building fraternity among its committed players on and off the field.
Hotlanta Volleyball came in second and Woof’s Wackers came in third.
Readers’ Choice: New Covenant Church
Editors’ Choice: Congregation Bet Haverim
New Covenant’s “Saved and Gay” campaign, which includes a pink sanctuary, shows that gay people can be Christian, too.
Second place goes to St. Mark’s United Methodist, and First Metropolitan Community Church of Atlanta won third.
Readers’ Choice: Fox Theatre
Editors’ Choice: Actors’ Express
The majestic, 77-year old Fox Theatre is tops with readers. In the past year, the Midtown venue was home to the touring musicals “Wicked” and “Chicago,” among a variety of other events. It is deservedly considered one of the premiere venues of its kind in the country.
Actor’s Express and 14th Street Playhouse are the runner-ups.
Readers’ Choice: Starbucks Ansley
Editors’ Choice: Outwrite
With a friendly staff and a remarkably gay clientele, Starbucks at Ansley Mall is cozy and comfortable. The seating — both inside and outside — is copious, and the hours satisfy early birds and late nighters.
Second place is Caribou on 10th Street, and third place is Outwrite Bookstore & Coffeehouse.
Readers’ Choice: LA Fitness Ansley
Editors’ Choice: LA Fitness Toco Hills
Gyms are a dime a dozen in the ATL, but the place SoVo readers are most like to sweat (publicly) is LA Fitness at Ansley Mall. The club offers a convenient location as well as ample time to work out day and night. Beside a sauna and all sorts of classes, it’s a place where gay men and women can feel very much at home.
The gay-owned gym Urban Body Fitness and Fitness Factory took second and third place, respectively.
Readers’ Choice: Boy Next Door
Editors’ Choice: Urban Outfitters
When it comes to menswear, Boy Next Door reigns supreme for the third year in a row. Don’t let the tight space or unassuming building fool you, this retailer packs a popular punch with top brands any gay man can covet.
Universal Gear came in second and Bloomingdale’s took third.
Readers’ Choice: Filene’s Basement
Editors’ Choice: Target
Lesbian fashionistas can’t stay away from the hidden treasures at Filene’s Basement, where name-brand clothing can be bought at rock-bottom prices — if you’re lucky enough to find them. And for those who choose to buck Georgia law and marry their best girl, the store’s “Running of the Brides” bridal gown sales are legendary.
Second place went to French Kiss. Chico’s placed third.
Readers’ Choice: Brushstrokes
Editors’ Choice: Tower Records
Who doesn’t like a little porn when they’re checking out the latest Madonna disc? Brushstrokes, Atlanta’s largest gay and lesbian variety store, is perfect for shoppers whose lists call for CDs as well as a rainbow flag, flavored lube, greeting cards, t-shirts, gifts and a serious documentary about gay elves.
The corporate Tower Records, and quirky Decatur CD won second and third place honors.
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Best First Date: Piedmont Park |
Readers’ Choice: Piedmont Park
Editors’ Choice: Atlanta Braves game
Yeah, we know it now closes at 11 p.m. but there’s still time to enjoy Piedmont Park with that special someone. Have a picnic, play sports, walk your dog or attend the endless events bound to take place on any given nice weekend.
Second place winner is Apres Diem, and third place is Martini’s & IMAX.
Readers’ Choice: Lowe Gallery
Editors’ Choice: Tew Galleries
With a slew of artists on tap, its gay owner’s own indelible sensibility and some kick-ass opening nights, Lowe Gallery is the place readers most like to look at visual art. Alive and kicking for 17 years, Lowe is also the home of regular fundraisers, including for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Your next favorites are the High Museum of Art and the gay-owned Trinity Gallery.
Readers’ Choice: Piedmont Bark
Editors’ Choice: Briarcliff Animal Clinic
With its devoted care for the little ones, Piedmont Bark is again your favorite here. Gay owned, Piedmont Bark offers a high level of commitment to its customers as well as its canine charges, including the increasingly popular Doggie Day Care and year-round open door events for pets and their owners.
Pets are People, Too and Wag-A-Lot round out the top three.
Readers’ Choice: Blue MedSpa
Editors’ Choice: Key Lime Pie
Blue MedSpa caught on quickly with medical-based services in a truly luxurious environment. Beautiful décor aside, unique services such as Botox, Lipodissolve and non-surgical skin-tightening make this Midtown spa standout.
JOQ Dayspa for Men and Spa Sydell are your second and third place picks.
Readers’ Choice: Simply Sun
Editors’ Choice: Simply Sun
When gay Atlanta looks to bronze their physiques, the place they prefer is Simply Sun. Its nifty location and free parking are pluses, as are the gay-owned facility’s state of the art beds, affordable rates, cleanliness and pleasant staff.
Placing second and third are Ansley Beach and Circuit Tan.
Readers’ Choice: Karla Drenner
Editors’ Choice: Goldy Criscuolo
State Rep. Karla Drenner (D-Avondale Estates), the only openly gay state lawmaker, has tirelessly stood for gay rights in the General Assembly despite tough opposition from her conservative colleagues.
Second place went to Melissa Carter of Q100 and third place went to Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin.
Local Male Hero: Allen Thornell (Photo by Bo Shell) |
Readers’ Choice: Allen Thornell
Editors’ Choice: Larry Pellegrini
So what if he didn’t win his bid for the state House? Gay Atlanta still loves hardworking activist Allen Thornell — as shown by his brimming campaign coffers of more than $100,000 in contributions.
Toy-Party organizer Alex Wan took second, former Georgia Equality Executive Director Chuck Bowen shares third place with two fishers of men, Pastor Paul Graetz and Rev. Paul Turner.
Best Politician/Best Straight Ally: Shirley Franklin |
Readers’ Choice: Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin
Editors’ Choice, Politician: State Rep. Karla Drenner
Editors’ Choice, Straight Ally: State Rep. Vincent Fort
Atlanta’s gay and lesbian voters are loyal, once again giving props to Mayor Shirley Franklin as the best local politician and best straight ally.
For politician, gay state Rep. Karla Drenner was voted second, edging out state Rep. Nan Orrock who took third. Orrock and Atlanta City Council President Lisa Borders rounded out the top three straight allies.
Readers’ Choice: Bubba D. Licious
Editors’ Choice: Gigi Monroe
Rarely is a Bingo game or drag show as lively as when Bubba D. Licious is calling the balls and cracking the jokes. Our readers continue to appreciate Ms. D. Licious’s commitment to helping people living with HIV and are glad to call Bubba their PAL.
Fellow philanthropic camp drag queen Mary Edith Pitts finished second, followed by local legend Charlie Brown.
Readers’ Choice: Philip Rafshoon
Editors’ Choice: Sara Look, Amanda Hill, Angela Gabriel — new ownership team of Charis Books & More
The consummate host and community activist, Philip Rafshoon’s bookstore is a second living room to many gay and lesbian locals. Few places capture the essence of gay Atlanta as consistently as Rafshoon’s Outwrite, and few activists or business owners can match his community involvement and partnerships with local non-profits.
Readers picked Simply Sun tanning salon’s Troy Koch for second place, and Brad Williams of Jungle and Red Chair came in third.
Readers’ Choice: DJ Coqui
Editors’ Choice: Kim Crawford
SoVo readers say no one keeps the dance floor hotter than Atlanta Eagle’s DJ/Producer Coqui. Friday and Saturday nights at the Atlanta hotspot wouldn’t be the same without Coqui’s heaving-hitting sets of pop and classics. Also heard at this year’s Impulse at Compound reunion, Coqui rises to the challenge and takes the top spot.
David Knapp came in second, and Jason Edwards came in third.
Readers’ Choice: Vaughn at Amsterdam
Editors’ Choice: Brent at Bulldog’s
Amsterdam, one of Atlanta’s newest nightlife locales, quickly became known for its eclectic crowd and inexpensive, well-mixed drinks. Thanks to bartender Vaughn, the drinks come quick and they come good.
Michael at Blakes came in second, and longtime jack-of-all bars Bart Clennon came in third.
Readers’ Choice: Elton John
Editors’ Choice: Richard Bicknell
He’s been making pop music hits since 1970, and he likes Atlanta enough to spend at least part of his little downtime here. There’s a reason why Elton John is Elton John — nobody does it better.
Local lads Lucas Mire at second and Mike Rickard at third round out readers’ choices.
Readers’ Choice: Jennifer Nettles
Editors’ Choice: Indigo Girls
Now enjoying mainstream success as one-half of the country music award-winning Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles still has a special place in the hearts of gay fans who remember her solo career and picked her as their favorite musician.
Second place went to Doria Roberts and third place went to Diana Durrett.
Readers’ Choice: Rick Westbrook – Pets Are Loving Support
Editors’ Choice: Brandon Bragg
With years of experience as a do-gooder, Rick Westbrook’s win as “Up and Coming Activist” is mildly questionable. Beginning his most noted service through the East Point Possums drag show and eventually parlaying into operations manager at PALS, Westbrook says his fight against HIV/AIDS has only just begun. “Thanks for the support, and let’s keep going,” he says. “We’ve got to take care of our own.”
Second place went to Alex Wan of For the Kid in All of Us, and Kyle Bailey of the Atlanta Stonewall Democrats came in third.
Transgender Activist: Monica Helms |
Readers’ Choice: Monica Helms
Editors’ Choice: DeeDee Chamblee
When it comes to making sure transgender Georgians have a place at the table, readers know Monica Helms will be leading the charge. The former executive director of Trans=Active is committed to forging partnerships with other disenfranchised groups, and she is a champion for equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender veterans.
Shelly Emerson and Sir Jesse of Decatur finished second and third.
Readers’ Choice: Jungle
Editors’ Choice: Wetbar
The club that rose above the ashes of Backstreet’s demise remains readers’ top choice for writhing boys in search of non-stop beats. Jungle routinely scores huge buzz by luring in national DJs and singers.
WETbar came in a close second, followed by Amsterdam.
Readers’ Choice: My Sisters’ Room
Editors’ Choice: Red Chair on Saturday
My Sisters’ Room continues to reign as the top lesbian spot to meet lovely, hot women in Atlanta. Where else can you hang out and make out with Miss Right, or Miss Right Now, in a laid-back garden environment filled with funky yard art?
Second place from our readers went to Hoedown’s and Red Chair took third.
Readers’ Choice: Blake’s On the Park
Editors’ Choice: Burkhart’s
Right near the corner of Atlanta’s gay ground zero, Blake’s on the Park is the first and often final stop for tourists and locals seeking friendly chat, drinks and fun. Check out the interactive drag routines, games and pretty faces any night of the week.
Second for Neighborhood Pub goes to Mary’s, and Woof’s growls up third place. Woof’s also took second place for Best Place to meet men, followed by Amsterdam.
Readers’ Choice: Amsterdam
Editors’ Choice: Amsterdam
Amsterdam measures up with what must be the longest bar in Atlanta. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drink specials served up by extra-friendly bartenders as well as the well appointed decor, a variety of men and kick-ass flat-screen video monitors.
Blake’s scored second for Best Happy Hour, and Oscar’s took third. WETbar splashed its way to second for Best New Bar/Club.
Readers’ Choice: The Armorettes
Editors’ Choice: Sunday night at Blake’s
No song or music star is safe from being parodied by the Armorettes, but this camp drag troupe isn’t all laughs; the Armorettes are intimately connected with several HIV/AIDS charities.
Second place went to Charlie Brown’s Cabaret, followed by the weekly line-up at Blake’s.
Readers’ Choice: Hoedown’s
Editors’ Choice: Red Chair on Saturday
Two-stepping your way into a woman’s heart is tops with our readers who picked Hoedown’s as the best place to meet lesbians who like to strut their stuff on and off the dance floor.
Second place went to My Sister’s Room and Red Chair placed third.
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Best Special Event: Joining Hearts (Photo by Sher Pruitt) |
Readers’ Choice: Joining Hearts
Editors’ Choice: ALHI Garden Party
The annual Joining Hearts party was the favorite of our readers, after the blowout dance event returned to Piedmont Park this past summer. Joining hearts benefits AID Atlanta and Jerusalem House, and is a must-do on the party list every year.
The Christmastime Toy Party was voted second place, and the grand opening of Amsterdam took third.
Reader’s Choice: Stage Door
Editors’ Choice: LeBuzz
If you ever find yourself outside I-285 in need of a drink and some friendly faces, stop in the Stage Door, which takes this category for the second year. With drag shows, themed events, trivia and a surprisingly equal mix of gay men and lesbians, this Tucker joint has everything you need to keep the parting going.
Second place went to LeBuzz.
