Heading to Chihuly in the Garden? Hit up one of these 5 patios before/after [Fave Five]

(c) Jason Getz

There are two wonderful ways to enjoy spending time outside in Atlanta (before it gets unbearably hot): Dining patios (obvi) and the botanical gardens. 

The latter is especially perfect right now because it is currently running the Chihuly in the Garden exhibition, which features 19 impressive glass installations throughout the park grounds. 

(c) Jason Getz

Words don’t really do the legendary artist Dale Chihuly’s work justice, so I’ll let you scroll through the photos below to get an idea of how beautiful the exhibition is. One pro tip: Be sure to check it out at night! Some of the installations include neon colors and glow that much better in the dark, including this 30-foot tall Saffron Tower. 

(c) Garden & Gun

(c) Jason Getz

(c) Jason Getz

And if you want to combine your trip to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens with cocktails on a beautiful patio, here are five nearby options to consider: 

Linton’s in the Garden: 

No need to leave the garden! Linton Hopkins’ (Holeman & Finch, Restaurant Eugene) latest eatery is located right in the middle of ABG and is perfect for a plant-to-plate meal, whether it’s lunch, an early dinner before touring the Chihuly exhibition, or a late-night drink post-garden stroll. And it boasts the most charming rooftop patio!

Empire State South: 

As you enter the restaurant, you’re greeted with a large bocce ball court surrounded by lawn chairs. Perfect for indulging in a some cocktails and a little competition before or after heading to the garden. It’s a little further away than Linton’s, but still within walking distance (#makeAtlantaawalkingcity). 

The Nook: 

If you’re looking for a more casual option, this place is across from Piedmont Park and is known for its fishbowl cocktails and Totchos: Nachos made with tater tots! I highly recommend this for post-garden day-drinking or Sunday brunching. 

Green Sprout: 

This place is strictly vegetarian, but even the most carnivorous will enjoy its Asian dishes made with soy “chicken,” “pork,” “beef” and “seafood.” It’s a little different and located in a strip mall, but one bite of spicy cabbage with soy ginger chicken, and you’ll understand why it’s worth a visit. 

Orpheus Brewing: 

While it doesn’t serve food, this brewery makes some pretty perfect sour beers, so if you’re a fan, this place is a must either before or after your trip to the botanical gardens. And it’s located right behind it, so it’s a fantastic place to grab a refreshing brew.