By Maria Saporta

In an open letter to customers, Manuel’s Tavern owner – Brian Maloof – is letting folks know the iconic Atlanta gathering spot is reluctantly raising its prices.

Maloof said he tried to hold off raising prices as long as he could.

“Unfortunately, starting next month, we will have to implement an across-the-board percentage price increase…” Maloof said. “We will continue to monitor neighborhood prices to ensure we remain competitive while maintaining large portions, stiff drinks, free parking and free event space.”

In a text exchange Thursday evening, Maloof estimated the prices would rise between 4 percent and 6 percent. He shared the letter he would be posting Tuesday morning on Facebook about the upcoming change in Manuel’s pricing.

“This letter is to inform our regular customers of these changes and the reasons behind them,” Maloof said. “It is not about padding our pockets but ensuring our future survival.”

Manuel’s side view. (Photo by Kelly Jordan.)

Manuel’s, established in 1956, has been a popular hangout for politicians — especially Democratic ones — journalists, government workers, community leaders, clergy and police officers.

Manuel’s, at the corner of North Avenue and North Highland, has survived multiple challenges over the past several years.

In late 2015, Manuel’s closed for nine months (reopening on its 60th anniversary – Aug. 6, 2016) to undergo a needed renovation while a developer bought the property for an adjacent residential development.

Then in December 2020, Maloof let the community know the tavern was in danger of closing its doors because of declining sales during Covid combined with rising insurance and liquor license fees.

A “GoFundMe” effort launched by longtime customer Angelo Fuster raised more than $187,000 – significantly more than the initial $75,000 goal – allowing Manuel’s to stay open.

Although the Covid pandemic is behind us, Maloof said…