In this edition of the Constant Epicurean’s Atlanta travel guide we explore the back alleys and speakeasies of Atlanta’s nightlife. From seedy bars to late night laughs. Say it ain’t so is not for the faint of heart. So hire a babysitter, tuck the kids in and come along for a wild Atlanta night you’ll never forget.
The Clermont Lounge
If your going to talk about wild nights in Atlanta it has to start with the Clermont Lounge. Atlanta’s first and longest continually operating adult entertainment club. Opened in 1965 in the basement of the Clermont Hotel at 789 Ponce De Leon Avenue, the Clermont is known for unconventional dancers and everything served in disposables. You may feel that you should have brought the purel after entering her doors, but that’s part of what makes the Clermont an experience you’ll never forget. Ask Blondie to crush a few beer cans between her breasts or recite some of her infamous poetry. The Clermont has managed to survive several attempts to shut her doors, including a shutdown of the Hotel by the health department in 2009. The Hotel has since been rehabilitated and amidst the controversy the Clermont Lounge has maintained itself as a cultural icon in Atlanta. With famous patrons including Anthony Bourdain, Kid Rock, Ashton Kutcher and Lady Gaga, you never know who might grace her doors while you’re enjoying a cold PBR.
Northside Tavern
Located at 1058 Howell Mill Rd, Northside is a must have on any late night list. The unofficial home of the blues in Atlanta, Northside Tavern offers live music 7 nights a week. The definition of dive bar and often touted as one of the best in the nation, Northside Tavern has been quenching thirst and entertaining guests since 1972. With countless awards and accolades Northside is the place to go if you want cheap drinks and a wild fun filled night. On weekends the $10 cover charge starts at 8:30 and it can get a little crowded so plan to arrive a early if you’re on a budget. On weeknights it’s less crowded with mostly locals and workers from the nearby restaurants. We often ended our days after a hard night in the kitchen on the benches in the back alley of Northside. A true Atlanta original, grab a bar stool and a cold beer and enjoy the music.
10 High Club
Located in the basement of darkhorse tavern in Virginia Highlands, the 10 high has made many a one hit wonders for years. Originally beginning as Metalsome Monday some 16 years ago, this live band rock n’ roll Karaoke has been blowing the roof off every since. Morphing into 6 nights of live band variations from acoustic to soul, If you can hold a note, it’s a place you can be a star. At least for the night. When your on the stage and the band is cranking out the tunes it really is an experience you’ll get no where else. Spaces are limited and the list fills up quickly so if you want to belt out your favorite toons then arrive early. Doors open at 9pm and karaoke starts at 10:30, so freshen up on your lyrics, exercise your vocal chords and get ready for an unbelievable night.
The Punch Line
Opened in Sandy Springs in 1982, relocated a few times, now the punchline calls the landmark diner at the corner of Piedmont and Roswell home. Hosting over 3,000 acts in its history it is acclaimed as the most prolific comedy club in the country. Hosting such legends as Jerry Seinfeld, Eddie Murphy and Robin Williams, check out the calendar to see if your favorite comedian is coming to town. Hosting comedians 5 days a week, reservations are required and you must be 21 with a valid I.D. to enter. With an impressive menu offering everything from breakfast and pasta to lobster and steak. Bring an empty stomach a thirsty mouth and be prepared to laugh into the night.
Red Phone Booth
Located between Hsu’s and Hooters on Andrew Young International Blvd, look for the red phone booth tucked away and you better have the code. One of the more eccentric spots on the list, the Red Phone Booth harkens to the old days of prohibition in early 20th century America. The dress code is strictly enforced no shorts or open toed shoes and collared shirts and sport coats are a must. It is well worth it as the Red Phone Booth has hand made cocktails made entirely with fresh squeezed juices and some of the rarest whiskeys and scotches around. With some of the best ice around, believe me it matters, and dozens of tinctures and mixers the Red Phone Booth is sure to impress. Ask around for the secret code to access the door, It’s only given to members and disseminated by word of mouth, and step into one of the most exclusive and unique places for cocktails and small plates in Atlanta.
