Antiquing and Drinking

Where We Shopped

Athens Antique & Vintage was our first stop of the day and was a surprising find outside of town. There’s a good mix of furniture and home decor. I loved the glassware and we picked up our first Tobys and I got a lovely sweater clip!

Lexington Vintage is bigger than it looks, spread across what looks like a former home. There was a great diversity of items including newer gifts. A 20-minute drive away, be prepared to dig at Reed’s Odds and Ends, but you never know what you might find.

Where to Drink

Over the years, we’ve visited a number of craft breweries in Athens, but this time we tried to check out some new ones. First up was Akademia Brewing Company, a brewpub with some tasty IPAs and plenty of outdoor space.

Athentic Company was another that was new to us, close to the stores we visited. Other favorites from past trips are Terrapin and Creature Comforts.

If you’re looking for a craft cocktail, Manhattan Cafe is a longtime favorite. And if you need a caffeine boost, 1000 Faces Coffee is a local roaster and cafe we love.

Where to Eat Nearby

Despite its size, Athens has one of the country’s best food scenes. Seabear Oyster Bar is great for its fresh seafood and Negroni slushies (but drink them slowly!).

Sidecar is a new supper club-type restaurant with only a handful of seats but incredible shared plates. We went to brunch at Puma Yu’s, with its Asian-inspired menu and cocktails in vintage glassware.

If it’s bar food you want, don’t miss the hand-cut fries and chicken and waffle sandwich from The World Famous.

Other Places to Shop

If you’re looking for midcentury furnishings, The Starlite Showroom is the best spot, set in a former auto shop. Indie South sells locally made goods, including jewelry and vintage clothing.

Avid Bookshop sells titles from national and independent artists. Visit Wuxtry Records for new and used records from Georgia’s best musicians, including The B-52s and REM.

And if you still haven’t had enough, Pendergrass Flea Market (aka “La Vaquita”) is a sprawling space with internationally made items.