Global Influence
Upper Westside Atlanta’s newest food hall CHATTAHOOCHEE FOOD WORKS offers authentic flavors from around the world
Atlanta’s most anticipated new food hall, Chattahoochee Food Works, is taking the upper westside by storm. Located in the Makers Building, the 22,000-square-foot space with extensive outdoor patio will be home to 31 food and artisanal goods stalls, meaning Atlantans don’t have to travel far for an authentic worldly experience.
“This space feels naturally energetic and welcoming,” says owner and curator Robert Montwaid. “With so much outdoor space as well, it’s the perfect destination for both friends and families.”
Indeed, guests will feel a buzz from the bustle. Knives fillet fish like a piece of art at Japanese sushi stall Flying Fish, and Baked Kitchen gives South African street food—like chicken peri-peri skewers and a selection of decked out hot dogs—a playful American twist. Down the hall, Taqueria La Luz packs a punch with Mexican street fare that has no shortage of flavor.
“We both saw the opportunity to go back to the simple and tasty flavors we grew up with in our home country,” says Luis Martinez-Obregon, who co-owns Taqueria La Luz and Midtown’s Zocalo with his sister, Lucero. “Tacos, gorditas, huaraches—as simple as they look, they act as culinary tools and help introduce different regional flavors from all around Mexico to our guests.”
In addition to diverse taste offerings, Chattahoochee Food Works has incorporated special activations like chef-driven demonstrations and artisanal market shops, such as Japanese gift shop Sakura Gift and floral shop Summer Breeze. With so many concepts under one roof, it’s easy to assume there would be a competitive air, but James Semanisin, co-owner of Italian eatery and marketplace Pomodoro Bella, says there’s nothing but support from each stall.
“It’s been an incredible learning experience,” says Semanisin. “The community here has become tight. We have even teamed up with our neighbors Baked Kitchen to make Peri-Peri Pizza! It’s comforting to have other small-business owners as a resource.”
On your way out, satisfy your sweet tooth with a handcrafted gourmet cookie from Monster Cravings, or stop by The Baker Dude’s stall for a generous selection of both savory and sweet treats. Owner Orran Booher wants customers to leave with more than just satisfied cravings, but also to share the love and happiness he brings to the hall and pours into his creations.
“I feel honored, blessed and excited every single day,” says Booher. “It’s a really special place.”