Story by: Sammy Approved
@SammyApproved
Many things are transitioning as we enter 2020, one of them being a neighborhood bar and restaurant nestled in the heart of East Atlanta Village -- Graveyard Tavern. The bar is reportedly set to close its doors on February 22. Several employees reported that they received less than three weeks notice of the bar’s closing.
A staple in Atlanta, Graveyard Tavern will certainly be missed by the city's creative community of DJ's, hosts, curators and party-goers, who immediately stormed to social media with memories of their times at the space. Some hosted their first party series', met their East Atlanta love, or partied the night away at The Graveyard. I displayed some of my best Megan knees while hosting on the stage alongside some of Atlanta’s most talented DJ's.
It’s frustrating to see such staple businesses like Graveyard Tavern leaving the community. Last year, we watched as the historic Apache Cafe (home to many Atlanta artists first open mics) was demolished, and will surely soon be replaced by new condominiums or another high rise.
I'm not sure what the future plans are for Graveyard Tavern, but rest assured that the event space downstairs, The Basement, will still be sticking around.
Current owner, Dustin Saboorian, recently opened a fast-casual health food restaurant in Colony Square called Freshii. One can be curious to know why the owner decided to close the doors on what appeared to be a thriving bar. Once upon a time patrons rushed on a Friday or Saturday night to enjoy the variety of wings, and a 40 ounce straight out the glass bottle.
The community has lost another safe haven for dance and debauchery. I'm deeply saddened by our loss but hopeful that new event spaces are opening, and Atlanta’s party and event scene will soon thrive again. Let’s all agree to party one last night before the bar officially closes its doors February 22.