A hole in one: Your neighborhood guide to East Lake

Out on the eastern edge of Atlanta lies the expansive greenery of the East Lake neighborhood. A longtime development going back to the late 1800s, East Lake may be most famous for its golf courses, but it’s also been a magnet for families and good food in recent decades.

Founded in 1892, this former plantation land was divided up into residential lots by the East Lake Land Company and got its own streetcar route. Following this, Coca-Cola magnate Asa Candler helped to establish the Atlanta Athletic Club, which opened the East Lake Golf Club in 1908 — a club that is known for training Bobby Jones and one that still stands to this day.

East Lake continued as a thriving suburb until 1970, when a public-housing project and the general trend of white flight sent East Lake into a period of neglect. It wasn’t until the early 1990s that neighborhood groups and local developers revitalized East Lake into a growing suburb for all. More than just a haughty community for golf lovers, East Lake has successfully fostered charter schools, farmers markets, hip restaurants, and more for community members of all walks of life.

What can I do for fun in East Lake?

See the pros at the East Lake Golf Club. Atlanta’s oldest golf club is usually a member-only affair. For all other golf fans, there is the PGA Tour Championship each August that is open to the public. Marvel at the expansive intown landscapes as you cheer on the best golfers in the country. Tickets for the PGA Championship are available online.

Embrace your HGTV fan with the East Lake Tour of Homes. Each summer, the neighborhood puts on a tour of local residences, much like many other neighborhoods across Atlanta. Stroll through a curated selection of modern monoliths, plus get some decoration inspiration for your own home!

Where are the best places to eat and drink in East Lake?

My Coffee Shop

Start your morning at this cozy black-owned café on Memorial by the golf courses. My Coffee Shop offers its titular beverages in your choice of mug, as well as glasses of refreshing basil lemonades to drink. Hungry? Sit down and enjoy a range of offerings including traditional Southern biscuit sandwiches, breakfast platters with pancakes or French toast, and seasoned fried fish and grits.

Location: 2462 Memorial Drive SE; Hours: Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Website: mycoffeeshopelake.com

Gene’s

A newer entry onto the smoked meat scene, Gene’s puts the “bar” in “barbecue”. Their eclectic dining room has loads of decor and personality, with the flavor to back it up. Get a beer or a cocktail and split some wings and oysters with friends. Grab a seat on the patio next to a giant smoker as your pork plate is prepared and served with punchy sides like a BBQ-dusted mac and cheese or a spicy, crunchy bacon salad.

Location: 2371 Hosea Williams Drive SE; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Website: genesgenesgenes.com

Mix’D Up Burgers

This former food truck now has a full-service diner in East Lake. Known for their chunky, half-pound burgers with creative flavors, Mix’D up is made for meat lovers. Whether you want a traditional Angus beef cheeseburger, a black bean patty with Southwestern zest, or a lamb burger with Mediterranean toppings, you’ll find it here. Mix up your sides with loaded jalapeño queso fries, tempura-fried veggies, or a simple salad if you want to stay healthy.

Location: 2371 Hosea Williams Drive SE; Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday, noon to 8 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, noon to 9 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.; Website: mixdupfoods.com

Poor Hendrix

A fixture at Hosea and 2nd, this neighborhood bar is a great place to relax with friends after dinner and socialize over a drink. Led by award-winning restaurateurs, their cocktails are fresh, flavorful, and often seasonal. If you’re feeling more traditional, they offer a wide variety of beers, ciders, and wines by the glass or bottle. Small plates and snacks are also available for noshing.

Location: 2371 Hosea Williams Drive SE; Hours: Sunday, Monday, and Thursday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Website: poorhendrix.com