Iconic Metro Atlanta Eatery Reopens After Storm Damage

MIDTOWN, GA — "Atlanta's Dining Room" is now completely operational after the full reopening of Mary Mac's Tea Room, which sustained roof damage nearly a year ago during a bout with Georgia storms.

Company representatives announced the news this week that Mary Mac's on Saturday officially reopened its Skyline Room and Ms. Ellen's Room. The legendary Atlanta staple briefly closed after its roof partially collapsed during heavy storms in March 2024.

“The Skyline Room and Ms. Ellen’s Room are essential parts of Mary Mac’s, as much as our delicious menu of authentic meatloaf, fried chicken, seafood and other Southern favorites,” Mary Mac's Director of Operations Chad Reynolds said in a news release.

“Just about every day, someone asks us when we will be open and shares memories of special occasions spent here, whether it’s wedding anniversaries, graduation dinners or one of their favorite spots with out-of-town guests.”

The Ponce de Leon Avenue eatery has upgraded its decor and is re-centered on Southern hospitality, representatives said.

Menu items include pot likker, fried chicken livers, pan fried cube steak, baked chicken, meatloaf, broccoli souffle, cornbread dressing, grits, collard greens and homemade cinnamon rolls.

Founder Mary MacKenzie opened the made-from-scratch restaurant in 1945, according to the company website.

President Jimmy Carter, former U.S. First Lady Hillary Clinton, the late Congressman John Lewis, Dalai Lama and Beyonce are among some of the public figures that have dined at Mary Mac's, the company said.

“Mary Mac’s is all about Southern food, family tradition and hospitality,” Mary Mac's owner Harold Martin said in the release, “and Ms. Ellen’s Room is meaningful to me, as it is named after the team member who welcomed me to Mary Mac’s as a customer nearly 30 years ago. We’re thrilled to welcome Atlanta residents and visitors back to the restaurant for many more years of fantastic meals and memories.”

The restaurant, located at 224 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, said it is celebrating its reopening by offering guests complimentary Georgia peach cobbler from Monday-Sunday, Feb. 23.

Reservations for the Skyline Room can be made via Mary Mac's or by calling (404) 876-1800.