This week marks a new chapter for the former CNN Center, now rebranded as The CTR (pronounced “center”). It opens its doors on Thursday as a vibrant food hall, ready to delight food lovers.
When complete, the first floor promises an inviting space filled with diverse dining options. CBS News Atlanta recently took a sneak peek of the venue.
Exciting Food Options:
The CTR will feature 11 food vendors. Some will start operating this week, while the rest aim to launch ahead of the World Cup. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Southern Belle Chicken Co.: Run by Michelin-recognized chef Joey Ward, this place will serve Southern-style chicken.
- Flora d’Italia: This Italian kitchen focuses on house-made pasta, pizza, and classic dishes, led by Michelin-star chef Stephen Ferdinand.
- Dessert Box: A bakery specializing in handcrafted sweets and fresh-baked breads.
- The Sparrow Group: Authentic Szechuan cuisine with bold flavors.
- Morelli’s Ice Cream: Offers small-batch ice cream with unique flavors.
- La Tropical: A menu featuring Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Latin cuisine.
- Fuzzy’s: Fresh seafood, including lobster rolls, ceviches, and baked oysters.
- Patty and Frank’s: A burger and hot dog joint by chef Andrew Zimmern and Robert Montwaid.
- Mimi Taqueria: Tacos and other Mexican street food favorites.
- CTR Bar: The largest bar in Georgia, serving seasonal cocktails and a variety of drinks.
- An additional cheesesteak concept is yet to be revealed.
Aside from the wide array of food, The CTR will showcase a massive bar designed to be a social hub. Designers aim for an emotional experience that reflects Atlanta’s rich culture, arts, and food scenes.
Chris Eachus from CP Group expressed enthusiasm about the project. “We’re trying to create something that excites people,” he noted. The CTR aspires to be a family-friendly destination for shows, sports, and events, transforming the downtown area into a lively gathering space.
Visitors can also expect new developments, with plans for more retail, hotels, family housing, and office space in the future, enhancing the appeal of this landmark.
Amid these changes, the iconic “ATL” letters will replace the former CNN signage, welcoming a new era for the heart of downtown Atlanta.
In recent years, food halls have become increasingly popular. According to a report from Food Hall News, the number of food halls in the U.S. has grown significantly, with over 200 openings planned for 2023 alone. This trend reflects a shift in consumer preferences towards casual dining experiences that emphasize variety and community engagement.
For more insights on food trends and the evolving dining scene, check out reports from Restaurant Business Magazine and Food & Wine.
