The Westside

One part grit, one part chic with a skyline view
Noteworthy for: The industrial renovations of Atlanta exemplify the city's best in sustainable architecture and design, with the Westside Provision District as the pinnacle.

Until a few years ago, the Westside was just an industrial and post-industrial wasteland. But everyone knows how chic a gritty, minimalist space can be - especially with a Midtown skyline - and now the galleries, sophisticated eateries, and upscale design shops have moved in.
The best spots are mostly centered around the Westside Provision District, which was once home to Atlanta's meatpacking industry. The 'district' was created in 2008 when a footbridge was built over rail tracks, linking Westside Urban Market - of Bacchanalia restaurant fame - and the White Provision building, with galleries, design store Room & Board, and a speakeasy bar, Ormsby's.

The other big cluster of food and retail is Midtown West; it's just a few blocks south on Howell Mill, but it's a traffic-ridden, shadeless walk, and no Atlantan will judge you if you drive. Try Octane Coffee, Five Seasons Brewery, and Bocado for a bite. Around Octane you'll find several fine but edgy art galleries.