Besides the University of Georgia, Athens is perhaps best known for its bar scene, hosting over 80 bars in just one square mile. From Thursday night to early Sunday morning (think 3 a.m.), downtown becomes full of rowdy student crowds. After their freshman and sophomore years, many upperclassmen and locals find themselves looking for a more elevated place to spend their weekends. Want to know something cool about Athens? Their food and beverages are to die for. Not only will you find beautifully-crafted cocktails if you move away from the crowded student bars, but you may also be surprised at the eclectic and vibrant atmospheres that these bars and restaurants are able to create.
If you’re a UGA student (that’s 21+), keep reading for the 10 best cocktails in local bars that you NEED to try:
1. Blueberry Buck from Blue Sky Bar
Blue Sky Bar, aka the hidden gem just barely tucked away from the crowded college student scene. The rooftop bar situated in the heart of downtown features over 50 draft beer selections, as well as various cocktails! It’s perfect for scenic views and beating the summer heat with a refreshing beverage. The Blueberry Buck remains their most iconic cocktail. It includes muddled blueberries with freshly squeezed lemon juice, ginger ale, and blueberry vodka served with a lemon wedge for freshness and to bring all of the flavors together.
“It feels a little elevated. The blueberries make it just a little more crafted and mature compared to a vodka cranberry you could get just anywhere. As for the vibe of Blue Sky, it is a bit of an older crowd. You see some townies if you get there early enough. The atmosphere is perfect for conversing or playing cards with your friends in a booth. Together with the drink and the atmosphere, a blueberry buck is the way to go,” University of Georgia graduate Emily Theisen said.
Looking for a night out with friends that feels a little bit more sophisticated than getting cheap vodka spilled all over your cute top? Then Blue Sky might be the place for you. With their wide variety of alcohol and their incredible views and atmosphere, Blue Sky should be considered one of the most underrated spots in Athens. Overall, don’t let the Athens locals gatekeep this spot. Go grab a Blueberry Buck and watch the city view (if you won’t be too rowdy and disturb the locals’ peace).
2. Manmosa from Pauley’s Crepe Bar
Crêpe spot by day, bar by night. Pauley’s Crêpe Bar houses some of the trendiest cocktails in Athens. Featuring a variety of beverages from a Key Lime Pie Martini to a Spicy Skinny Margarita to local Creature Comforts draft beer options, there is something for everyone here. My family and friends love coming here for a Sunday brunch and sipping on some delicious cocktails. Want to grab their most popular drink? The Manmosa’s a spin on a traditional mimosa that includes vodka, champagne, and orange juice and to top it all off, an orange slice and a cherry.
“The manmosa is everything you like about a mimosa with more firepower. One of my friends got absolutely blacked out on Easter off a few of those. Pauley’s also does a deal on manmosas every Sunday for $4, so you can have a delicious and powerful beverage,” UGA graduate Breckon Chastain said.
Pauley’s has a menu featuring both sweet and savory crêpes, as well as sandwiches and salads. I love to go with a friend and each order a different type of crepe so then we can both split them. My favorites are the Chicken Club, a crepe of grilled chicken, bacon, swiss, cheddar, romaine, tomato and honey mustard and the Strawberry Nutella Crepe that has fresh strawberries, nutella, powdered sugar, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. If you go for some drinks at night and get hungry, their kitchen is open until 2 am, serving appetizers like hummus and deviled eggs. The large, open windows also make it a great spot for people watching so you can have dinner, drinks, and a show!
3. Espresso Martini from Walker’s Pub and Coffee
Another bar that Athens locals and townies try to gatekeep. Walker’s, an elevated coffee shop by day and bar by night. It’s situated right in the heart of downtown in college square surrounded by other restaurants and local businesses. Its location makes it hard to miss, and it’s not a place you should skip out on if you’re in town. The wide variety of liquor, beer, tea, and coffee makes it a place that has something for everyone. One of their most popular beverages would be the espresso martini.
“Out of all of the espresso martinis I’ve tried in Athens, the one at Walker’s Pub is genuinely the best I’ve ever had. It is the perfect mix of sweet and bitter,” UGA graduate Anna Womack said.
Walker’s not only has the best Espresso Martini in town, but they have amazing coffee and tea in the daytime. The dark and slightly moody atmosphere also makes it the perfect study spot to fulfill your dark academia study fantasies during the day. You can claim a booth if you get there early enough, and you’re guaranteed to find many students working on papers and projects. Some students even go to Walker’s after or between classes to enjoy a draft beer! My favorite part about Walker’s would probably be getting recommendations from the bartenders since they always give me a fun new drink to try.
4. Pompatus of Love from The World Famous
One of my personal favorite spots in Athens has got to be The World Famous. It might not be one of the fanciest places in town, but it’s arguably one of the best. With great entrees and appetizers and even better cocktails, the vibe that centers around music and art makes it an enticing spot to hang out. One of their signature cocktails, The Pompatus of Love contains Tito’s vodka, pomegranate, lemon, ginger beer, and lime. It’s beloved by Priya Desai, who also loves the vibes of the bar:
“The atmosphere of the world famous is still so cool to me. Especially so when I was a senior in college and finally feeling the first moments of ‘adult’ life and I went there to catch up with a friend and we both ordered actual cocktails instead of the garbage we had been putting into our bodies for four years. Still felt a little like playing dress up, like who were we to act like we had refined our palates, but I feel like that restaurant is a place you enjoy the most if you’re comfortable in yourself and I was when I was there,” University of Georgia graduate Priya Desai said.
Although it’s located downtown, being situated further away from the crowds attracts more local residents. The establishment also hosts concerts and musicians on their stage, making it the perfect place to sip on a drink and enjoy the Athens music scene. Their food is also incredible — after my graduation, I got a burger and fries and paired it with a Tom Collins and it was genuinely one of the best meals of my life. They also have amazing appetizers, such as pretzel bites and pork buns! Even if you’re not in the mood for an alcoholic beverage, they also have house-made sodas. If you’re a tea drinker, you should definitely try the Earl Grey Soda!
5. Spicy Margarita from el Barrio
Moving away from the downtown scene, el Barrio tacos & tequila would be the spot for a quick and delicious game day lunch and pregame spot. In the fall, UGA students and ticket-holders flock to the city to watch the beloved Bulldogs play in Sanford Stadium. My friends and I have gone to el Barrio multiple times before games. The perfect walking distance and cool margaritas on a hot day guarantee a perfect pregame. Their spicy margaritas are some of the best.
“The kick from the jalapeños really complements the citrus flavor of the cocktail. The combination of sweet, spicy, and salty pairs well with the birria tacos and makes an enjoyable meal,” UGA graduate Meghan Hawley said.
At el Barrio, you can sit inside or on their patio if the weather is nice, making it the perfect place to enjoy a margarita pitcher. From their yard, you can also see the Five Points neighborhood. It’s not only the perfect foodie neighborhood, but also the perfect spot for shopping at local businesses, such as Avid Bookshop. For dessert, you can stop by Condor Chocolates, another local business that features Ecuadorian chocolates that make for a perfect gift. They also have a cafe so you can get a delicious after dinner treat.
6. Mojitos at Marker Seven
Another Five Points staple, Marker Seven is an upscale seafood restaurant. This coastal grill offers fresh oysters and shrimp, and they constantly have new specials that will leave you wowed. Their oysters come straight from the Gulf of Mexico and their shrimp are from the coast of Georgia, so you can try local flavors, too. In addition to their cocktails, they also have an impressive selection of wines and beers that pair well with the seafood dishes. Students would probably not visit this restaurant unless their parents are in town, but I think they should capitalize on that opportunity if they are!
“The mojitos at Marker Seven are great! I love that you can choose between different seasonal fruits or stick with a traditional one. Also the bar has a nice atmosphere and the patio is nice to drink during the summer since it’s so refreshing,” Berry College graudate Taylor Burton said.
Not only does the restaurant feature fresh seafood, but they have a variety of options for pickier eaters. From filet mignon sandwiches to crisp salads and sandwiches, there’s something filling and delicious for everyone. They are also child friendly, so families don’t have to worry about getting a sitter for their night out. The historic home that the restaurant resides in gives it the perfect cozy and lived in feel. Check out Marker Seven for the perfect summer cocktail and seafood spot!
7. Hugo from Bar Bruno
The newest addition to the Five Points neighborhood, Bar Bruno is a small-plates bar known for their Italian spritz varieties and cocktails. Some of their phenomenal dishes include meatballs, stuffed medjool dates, and prosciutto with melon. While they do not have entrees, these small Italian-style plates are rich, filling, and full of flavor. The tapas pair perfectly with their wines, spirits, and cocktails. Anna Womack couldn’t give me enough recommendations for cocktails in Athens, and one of them was the Hugo Spritz from Bar Bruno. The floral Italian cocktail features elderflower syrup, prosecco, and soda water.
“I find the Hugo both fruity and floral. Refreshing, but not too sweet,” UGA graduate Anna Womack said.
Bar Bruno has a patio that will instantly transport you to an Italian summer so that you can live your European fantasy of drinking an Aperol Spritz on a dreamy and romantic patio. The red umbrellas with fringe and the rattan chairs make for an inviting and aesthetic atmosphere to sit outside, sip on a beverage and catch up with a friend. The charming and elegant vibe comes from the dark green interior and gold accents, making it feel as though it has been established longer than it really has. They also have a large variety of wines, so that you and your friends can spend an evening celebrating the European style!
8. Old Pal Cocktail from The Old Pal
The Old Pal offers signature and unique cocktails. They have a rotating menu, curating a variety of interesting flavors for each season. Their spring menu features delicious and refreshing beverages with bright flavors that will prepare you for the summer. With a vintage and moody vibe, its the perfect place for an elevated girls night out. One of their drinks that remains on the menu despite the rotation, the Old Pal Cocktail. This contains Rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and campari stirred up and topped with a fresh lemon peel. The tried-and-true beverage remains unique and holds its own.
“I love a bitter aromatic floral cocktail so this is one of my absolute favorites,” UGA graduate Eugenia Bouchelion said.
Old Pal calls Normaltown its home. The unique neighborhood’s charm comes from its location, situated right behind downtown. There are so many interesting restaurants and bars with atmospheres that transport you away from the college town. The art and murals in the neighborhood also make it the perfect place to walk around and stop in for a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. My favorite part about Normaltown has got to be all of the houses with colorful exteriors and yards. They are so charming and beautiful to look at!
9. Oracle from Seabear Oyster Bar
Looking for a more upscale dining experience with beautiful and interesting cocktails? Seabear has got to be the the place for you! While they are mainly known for their oysters, their crafted drinks are enticing for any foodie and beverage connoisseur or casual enjoyer. The Oracle is made with Smith and Cross Jamaica Rum, Hoodoo Chicory liquor, thai tea syrup and lime. I went to Seabear when I was not yet old enough to drink, but I will soon be returning to try this beverage!
Another Normaltown favorite, Seabears perhaps the best fresh oyster spot in Athens. The warm and inviting atmosphere in tandem with the delicious seafood and unique cocktails make it the perfect date night spot. Despite the small size of the interior, the restaurant does not feel cramped. Instead, the dining room or patio makes for an intimate experience that combines incredible, fresh flavors and moments sharing them with loved ones.
10. Pimms Cup from The Royal Peasant
An English pub known for their British and Indian dishes and beer, The Royal Peasant may be an unusual place for a cocktail. When most people think of a pub, their mind immediately goes to beer. No need to worry, because the restaurant has an incredible selection of UK and craft beers. However, this Athens favorite also crafts traditional English Cocktails such as the Pimms Cup. This cocktail contains Pimm’s No. 1 gin, lime juice, soda water, mint, and fruit, making it the perfect summer beverage.
“My favorite drink in the UK was a Pimm’s Cup and The Royal Peasant is the only place I’ve found that makes them right,” UGA graduate Erin Little said.
The casual atmosphere and spot-on flavors of The Royal Peasant will transport you straight to England. Some of their most popular dishes range from lamb curry to traditional fish and chips. They also have weekly specials: on Mondays they serve Corned Beef and Cabbage, on Tuesdays a Shepherd’s Pie, and on Wednesdays the special is Poutine. The gorgeous patio that overlooks the street would be perfect for enjoying the warm weather and hanging out with friends. Foodies can also try a variety of food and tap beers. They also feature soccer games on TV, so you can feel like an American student studying abroad again!
College Magazine does not promote underage drinking. Please drink responsibly.
