Athens, Georgia is known for its vibrant and diverse food scene and 2025 is expected to be an exciting year for local foodies. From City Food Hall, opening at The Mark, to Foxtail Coffee Co., the Classic City will be welcoming new flavors and dining experiences. Whether you are a long-time Athens resident or simply visiting the city, here are some of the new restaurants coming to the area.
City Food Hall
Expected to open in fall 2025, City Food Hall aims to bring together different food vendors to one space, serving as a food court for the area. This restaurant concept promotes “the exploration of shareable dishes in beautiful, inviting, and communal spaces through diverse and memorable dining experiences.” City Food Hall will be opening its Athens location at The Mark Athens apartment complex, located at 130 Hickory St, Athens, GA 30601.
Ghavi’s – The Steak Place
Ghavi’s The Steak Place is an upcoming steakhouse coming to Athens, expected to be the largest restaurant in Athens. Located at the historic former Synovus Bank site, at 2365 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606, the restaurant will be between 14,000 to 15,000 square feet. The current timeline includes opening an upstairs dining area by fall 2025, with the lower level being completed later in the year. Founded by Yorz2Taste, the restaurant aims to bring a premier dining experience to the city, featuring private dining rooms and a large meeting room.
Sully’s Steamers
Initially from Greenville, South Carolina, Sully’s Steamers is bringing its famous steamed bagel sandwiches to Athens. This fast-casual restaurant is known for its warm, soft bagels with a variety of menu options to make for many sandwich combinations, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or late-night craving. The restaurant will be opening downtown this spring at 255 E. Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601.
Three Buddies
Three Buddies is a casual restaurant specializing in halal meats, offering a diverse menu and catering to various appetites. The menu ranges from fried rice and tacos to wings and burgers, all with culinary creativity in mind. Originally founded in Chamblee, GA, Three Buddies is expanding to Athens, opening a new location at 529 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30605.
Foxtail Coffee Co.
Foxtail Coffee Co., originally from Florida, is expanding its ethically sourced, craft coffee to Athens. This new spot will be opening on the first floor of the Hancock House, located at 359 W Hancock Ave, Athens, GA 30601. While the official opening date has yet to be announced, guests can anticipate a welcoming atmosphere accompanied by Foxtail’s signature beverages and pastries.
Panda Express
Panda Express, known for its fast-casual Chinese food, will be opening its second Athens location at 940 US 29 Hwy N, Athens, GA. While an official opening date has not been set yet, this restaurant will feature a drive-thru window, offering added convenience for customers. Unlike the existing location at the Tate Student Center on UGA’s campus, the new spot will be more accessible to the general public, eliminating the need to visit campus.