Photo by Madi Bolton
Not everyone wants to spend evenings hanging out at a bar, and restaurants need to turn tables, often preventing diners from lingering. So, what happens to those who want to be social in a tranquil, welcoming environment? Local cafe owners are taking note of the need and expanding their hours and menus to create a serene space for Atlantans to chat, sip, and savor—no reservations necessary. Here are a few:
Photo by Madi Bolton
Photo by Madi Bolton
Little Tart After Dark
437 Memorial Drive, Atlanta
Saturdays and Sundays 5 p.m.-9 p.m.
It was summer 2023. Little Tart Bakeshop founder Sarah O’Brien was exploring Paris with her director of operations Amy Gregg and some other “Tarts” as her employees lovingly refer to themselves. “We were sitting at these tiny cafes where we’d have nuts and a nice glass of wine,” Gregg explains. “It was a relaxed atmosphere that was very approachable. We realized we could do this!”
When they returned to Atlanta, Gregg began implementing her vision: candles, flowers, printed menus on tables—all cues intended to signal a change in mood. “In the mornings, people are half asleep or rushed to get to work,” she says. “Little Tart After Dark offers a more intimate setting for people to interact, linger, and have conversations.” The weekend-evenings-only event began three months ago, offering small plates like olives and nuts, pastries such as cookies, Big Softie (ice cream) sandwiches, crème brulee, and hazelnut cake. Guests order at the counter and can enjoy Halfway Crooks beer on tap, nitro drip coffee, and wine by the glass and the bottle. Cocktails include kir, Old Fashioneds, Sazeracs, and a frozen passion fruit margarita.
Open to all ages, Little Tart After Dark has refined offerings in a casual atmosphere. “For me, it was really important to have a place…
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