The best bars & nightlife in Marietta

“Whether you’re catching up after work or plotting a low-key weekend hang, Ignite Hookah Lounge keeps it simple with smooth hookah, comfortable lounge vibes, and the kind of unhurried pace that makes conversations last. It’s an easy go-to when you want to stay close to Kennesaw.”

From the Kennesaw newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Between the historic setting and the Georgia-grown grains, Lazy Guy Distillery turns small-batch into something you actually want to linger over. Drop by downtown Kennesaw to taste their award-winning whiskey, poke around events and classes, or daydream about a private label while you soak up the laid-back vibe.”

From the Kennesaw newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Right in Downtown Kennesaw's entertainment district, Horned Owl Brewing pours crowd-pleasing craft beer in a roomy taproom that actually invites lingering. Keep an eye on their What's on Tap and Events pages, and snag their space when you need an easy win for private parties.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 8, 2026

“KB’s Grill & Pub is that low-key, smoke-friendly pool hall with 20 solid tables, dartboards, Golden Tee, and a kitchen cranking out wings, burgers, and the infamous Fat Kid Fries & Tots. Locals love it for league nights, big games on TV, and reliably chill vibes since 1991.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 2, 2026

“When you want a low-key night with food that overachieves, Bernie's Social Bar leans into creative updates while still honoring the hits. Wagyu burgers, ahi tuna nachos, Thai basil curry salmon, weekend brunch, and proper cocktails make it a reliable go-to when Kennesaw cravings strike.”

“Cigar Gallery Club & Lounge keeps a laid back vibe with vintage decor, a huge boutique cigar selection they say is among Georgia’s largest, and regular events worth RSVPing for. If you’re serious about your sticks, the private lockers and their exclusive Gargolas line are a nice flex.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 4, 2026

“SOHO Atlanta Restaurant keeps Smyrna regulars coming back with an upscale-casual global menu, two distinct dining rooms, and a lively bar, perfect for weeknights or a low-key celebration. Bookmark it for private dining or special events when you want something polished without feeling stuffy.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Taps @ Ph'East is pouring 40 ever-changing taps of craft beer alongside cocktails, wine and sake, all picked by an in-house Certified Cicerone, from the Truck & Tap folks, with small-batch gems you rarely see outside breweries. Hit The Battery Atlanta and let PH'EAST's global eats do the pairing.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Over in Vinings, Crispina Ristorante & Pizzeria is the neighborhood go-to for Southern Italian plates, naturally leavened, wood-fired pies, and fresh housemade pastas. Pair it with an Italian wine or a spritz and call it an easy win for dinner this week.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Meehan's Public House @ Vinings keeps things properly Irish with classic dishes leveled up to gourmet, local beers, and signature cocktails that go down easy. Pop in to catch the Premier League, fill up on elevated pub fare, and remember why neighborhood spots make weeknights better.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Blue Moon Brewery & Grill keeps Braves Country fueled with rotating craft brews and tangy, homegrown Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q. Swing by before or after a game, grab juicy burgers or fresh salads, and settle into a happy hour vibe that turns random Tuesdays into small victories.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, August 26, 2026

“CRÚ Wine Bar and Bistro brings a relaxed Napa-style vibe close to home, with thoughtful New American plates, stone-fired pizzas, and shareable cheese boards that pair beautifully with your pour. Easygoing for catch-ups, polished enough for date night, perfect when you just want to linger.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 4, 2026

“If you’re craving a crisp Pilsner or a malty Märzen, Gordon Biersch pours beer brewed to the 500-year-old Reinheitsgebot with just malted barley, hops, yeast, and water, naturally carbonated for that fine fizz since 1988. Add easygoing American fare and you’ve got a no-fuss local hang that reliably hits the spot.”

From the South Fulton newsletter, September 6, 2026

“When you want a taplist worth the quick drive, Fire Maker Brewery & Bar delivers with creative beers alongside cocktails, wine, ciders, seltzers and food. Ranked #2 Best New Brewery in America by USA Today in 2021, they keep stacking Atlanta Best Brewery honors for good reason.”

From the Gainesville newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Postino Buckhead pours a playful lineup of wines in an industrial-chic space that used to be a 90s Blockbuster, so the nostalgia hits almost as hard as the bruschetta boards, paninis, and other snacky things. Solid pick for date nights, friend meetups, or a low-fuss group hang.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Make this week taste better with skyline views and 78 taps at StillFire Brewing - Smyrna. From housemade beer, cocktails, and even wine to Beto’s Tacos when hunger hits, the Jonquil Beer Garden and patios keep the vibe easy for post-work hangs or low-key weekend plans.”

From the Marietta newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Café Belli, Coffee & Cocktail Bar in Hapeville nails the day-to-night thing with thoughtful espresso and flaky pastries, then an elevated, European-style cocktail bar serving handcrafted cocktails. Consider it your low-key escape when you need a little reset without crossing town.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Need a midweek win that tastes like a hug and a party? Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Atlanta comes through with crispy fried chicken and waffles, oozy mac and cheese, and sippable showpieces from the bar, an easy, delicious reset after yet another I-285 surprise.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Propaganda Smyrna is your close-to-home cocktail hang with good vibes and live DJ energy that actually makes you want to stay for one more round. When you want a lively night without trekking into the city, gather the crew, sip solid cocktails, and let the music do the rest.”

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Casual craft brewery featuring a spacious, high-ceilinged tasting room & regular tours.”

“Round Trip Brewing – East Cobb is pouring typical and üntypical German-style goodness, from Spezial Helles and Dunkel Platz to crisp Pilsner and Hefeweizen, plus one-off pilot brews. Pair it with elevated hot dogs, bratwursts, Bavarian pretzels and beer cheese... make it your easy weeknight win this week, Roswell.”

From the Roswell newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Whether you lean fruity, roasty, or classic wheat, Mandatory Fun Beer Works keeps Smyrna sipping. The tap list swings from Blackberry Barrage, a milkshake IPA with berry vibes, to Buzz Light Beer honey hefeweizen, plus Velvet Hammer chocolate milk stout...”

From the Smyrna newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Round Trip Brewing Company pours fresh, house-made beer in a laid-back West Midtown taproom with a second spot in East Cobb. Locals love it for easy meetups, regular events, and bookable event space when your group chat finally commits to hanging out.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 7, 2026

“If you’re hopping out of East Point and want a real meal before takeoff, One Flew South delivers an elegant pause in Concourse E with fresh sushi, Southern-inspired plates, and an impeccable wine and spirits list, plus bragging rights from two James Beard nominations.”

From the East Point newsletter, September 12, 2026

“A wine school's bottle-lined bar offers pours from self-serve machines, snacks & shared plates.”

“Local bar & grill chain offering a classic setting for American pub fare & sports on TV.”

“East Cobb’s Stem Wine Bar is the neighborhood spot for thoughtfully curated flights and pours from an Advanced Sommelier, plus European-inspired small plates like burrata flatbread, shrimp al ajillo and housemade meatballs.”

From the North Fulton newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Round up the crew this week and let Flight Club Atlanta handle the entertainment. Their Social Darts setup tracks every throw with instant scoring, while the bar keeps things lively with craft cocktails and shareable bites, making it the rare spot where your competitive streak and cravings actually agree.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Beer Barrel nails the laid-back hangout vibe, with cold beer, easygoing cocktails, and bar games that turn quick catch-ups into accidental tournaments. When you want neighborhood casual that still feels like a night out, this spot keeps the chatter lively and the scoreboards friendly.”

“Marietta Proper nails that 1920s speakeasy vibe with curated wines, craft cocktails, and globally inspired small plates you actually want to share. Brunch is first come, first served, the Hidden Vine Club keeps wine nerds happy, and their Mixology Night Vodka Lab is a fun midweek flex.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Casual tapas-style Spanish restaurant offering a menu of sangria and craft cocktails — plus a private dining room.”

“Sidebar is a 3-in-1 bar, restaurant, and lounge serving freshly made-to-order plates alongside classic cocktails and hookah, with DJs, live bands, and weekly special events keeping the energy up. Grab your crew and pick your mood across three floors and three bars, then settle in for a proper vibe this week.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 13, 2026

“The Third Door delivers award-winning cocktails, classic and signature sips, and even original mocktails, all built with fresh house-made ingredients, inside a restored 1930s filling station just off Marietta Square. Nightly entertainment keeps it lively, and they throw a mean private party if you need one.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Festive pub offering myriad beer options, wine & TVs tuned to sports, plus live music.”

“From the team behind The Dead Rabbit Irish Pub, The Irish Exit Atlanta brings modern Irish drinks, hearty bites, and matchday energy to downtown ATL. Worth the quick hop from Peachtree City when you want a proper pour, sports on, and that warm, talk-to-strangers hospitality that just feels right.”

From the Stonecrest newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Backstage Atlanta is that Southside staple where dinner turns into dancing and karaoke somehow feels like a family reunion. Expect live bands, DJs, themed parties, comedy, and a soulful Sunday brunch with signature line dances... a fun, mature vibe when you want energy without the chaos.”

“If your group spans cocktail lovers and cider diehards, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Atlanta Distillery nails both with crisp, award-winning pours, cider flights, and small-batch apple spirits, plus a lively taproom scene with trivia and live music that keeps Marietta locals coming back.”

From the Marietta newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Dark Horse Tavern has kept Virginia Highlands buzzing since 1990 with five bars, patio hangouts, and the 10 High Club’s legendary live band karaoke since 2003. Grab a crew this week, order something strong, then channel your inner rock star on stage or let the jukebox do the talking.”

From the Stonecrest newsletter, August 22, 2026

“When wings need saucing and cravings want surprises, Monkey Barrel comes through with Southwest Eggrolls, Firecracker Shrimp, fried deviled eggs, stacked burgers plus an Impossible Burger, and a legit Sunday brunch lineup. Text the group, this is your easy win this week.”

From the Marietta newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Wild Leap Atlanta pours a rotating lineup of approachable blonde ales, sours, stouts and double IPAs alongside cocktails and their own vodka, with Midnyt Burger slinging smashburgers daily. Big multi-level hangout perfect for pregame meetups or low-key nights, and yes, it’s family friendly.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Neighborhood bar featuring cocktails and flatbreads in a relaxed, comfortable space.”

“Craving something cozy and a little rowdy? Johnnie MacCracken's Celtic Firehouse Pub cooks up beer battered fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and housemade corned beef and cabbage, keeps the taps flowing, hosts live local music on weekend nights, and even runs whiskey tastings with dinner for your crew.”

From the Marietta newsletter, August 19, 2026

“If your week needs a soundtrack, Kat's Cafe is a live music bar and restaurant with a cozy vibe and a weekly lineup that keeps the energy just right. Slide in for a set, pair it with something tasty from the menu, and call it a night well spent.”

From the Rome newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Rusty Barrel keeps the week lively with karaoke, open mic and live tunes, plus bar bites like cheeseburgers, Philly cheesesteaks, quesadillas and big soft pretzels. Grab a friend, pick a song, and make Wednesday feel like Friday.”

From the Marietta newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Intimate 74-seat stand-up-comedy club hosting hip acts in the back of the Vortex restaurant.”

“Craving an unapologetically extra night out? Sugar Factory is all about showy Smokin’ Goblets, over-the-top milkshakes, and a candy shop that turns adults into kids again, all under a massive gummy bear chandelier. Treat yourself this week, no special occasion required.”

From the Gainesville newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Spanish shareable plates & a long wine list served in a rustic wood setting with a wraparound patio.”

“Cozy wine bar serving charcuterie boards, panini, and sandwiches, plus a self-serve tasting area.”

“Madeira Park is a proper wine bar in Poncey-Highland, pouring interesting wines alongside spirits and beer, with a high-energy, casual vibe and exceptional food to match. This week, when you want an easy night out that still feels special, this spot delivers without fuss.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 17, 2026

“South Fulton folks, Sandtown Pub serves crispy wings in your favorite sauce, half‑pound burgers stacked high, golden fried fish, and Texas toast club sandwiches, all seasoned with soul. Perfect for catching the game or feeding the crew when you want comfort food that actually tastes like something.”

From the South Fulton newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Rally the crew at Mazzy's Sports Bar & Grill (Marietta) for bartender-crafted cocktails, local favorites on tap, and that big-game energy only a true sports bar delivers. When you want a reliable neighborhood hang with plenty to sip and cheer about, this is it.”

From the Marietta newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Casual, laid-back bar serving wings, beer and cocktails alongside a photo booth.”

“Hosting biweekly tastings, this store with exposed-brick walls offers over 500 wines & beers.”

“Settle into the Sandtown Crossing scene at Gocha's Tapas Bar, where brunch energy, shareable plates, and a breezy patio make it too easy to linger. Think lamb chops, shrimp ceviche, fried green tomatoes with crab salad, and cocktails that actually pull their weight... perfect for happy hour or date night.”

From the Douglasville newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Side Saddle Wine Saloon & Bar calls itself Atlanta’s natural wine saloon, with shelves of thoughtfully selected bottles and a vibe that’s part cozy hangout, part modern western hideaway. Great for curious drinkers and spirited conversations, whether you’re discovering a funky new favorite or just unwinding.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Ranger Station nails the cozy speakeasy thing with a park-ranger-meets-attic hideaway, all timber, twinkle, and creative cocktails that don’t take themselves too seriously. It’s the kind of spot where locals swap tall tales, try something surprising, then quietly declare it their new go-to.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Intimate comedy club featuring a full bar, casual eats & regular stand-up performances.”

“Make a night of it this week at Jagger Suite, a rooftop lounge where golden hour slides into late-night beats. Expect skyline views, shareable small plates, trend-driven cocktails, and an espresso martini program that keeps the energy high. Come for sunset, stay for the DJs, leave with a story.”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Craving a big-ass burger, a boozy cocktail, and a local brew this week?”

From the Atlanta newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Family-friendly spot serving a variety of flatbreads, meats, cheese boards, and other tapas alongside wine.”

“When you want wall-to-wall sports, good vibes, and bites that actually hit the spot, 309 Social brings the energy with every play and signature drinks to match. Call the crew, claim a table, and let Downtown’s game-day atmosphere do the heavy lifting.”

From the Stonecrest newsletter, August 14, 2026

“When you want a night out close to home, Vanity Restaurant keeps the vibe polished and the drinks front and center, perfect for date nights or a low-key celebration. Slide into a comfy seat, try a well-made cocktail, and let the atmosphere do the flexing.”

From the Newnan newsletter, September 2, 2026

“El Viñedo Local nails that laid-back Midtown hang, pairing empanadas, ceviche, and sandwiches with South American wines and 100% organic, fair-trade coffee. Grab a seat with friends at the communal table, catch vinyl or Spanish guitar nights, or book the Chef's Table on September 30.”

“High-end steakhouse serving a menu of aged steaks, plus seafood dishes & classic sides.”

“Spanish small plates served in industrial surrounds with a large patio & an extensive wine list.”

“If your week needs some soul, St. James Live! brings intimate, seriously good live sets with South City Jazz on Thursdays, R&B Friday Fire, Soulful Saturday, and a mellow Sunday Jazz Lounge, plus handcrafted cocktails and exceptional food that keeps the vibe going long after the last note.”

From the South Fulton newsletter, September 19, 2026