Welcome to Best of Athens — the Athens Chronicle’s exclusive showcase of everything that makes Athens, Georgia exceptional. This is more than a list; it’s a living celebration of the energy, excellence, and unique spirit that pulse through our streets, neighborhoods, and businesses.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a proud Bulldog, or a newcomer exploring what makes this place so special, the Best of Athens is your curated go-to guide for discovering local greatness.

🌟 What Best of Athens Means

In every corner of this community, excellence is happening — and we’re here to spotlight it. The Best of Athens page is where recognition meets reputation. It’s where hard-working business owners, passionate artists, outstanding service providers, and community champions get the attention they’ve earned.

We don't just name winners — we tell their stories, share what sets them apart, and give you, the reader, a chance to connect with the people and places that define the best of our city.

What You’ll Discover

🏪 Best Local Businesses
From family-owned bakeries to trusted electricians, boutique retailers to innovative start-ups — these are the businesses Athens locals count on every day. We highlight quality, consistency, and a genuine commitment to community.

🍔 Best Eats & Drinks
Athens is a foodie’s dream, and we’re dishing out the best of the best — from legendary burgers to vegan delights, craft brews to bold BBQ. These are the flavors that keep Athens full and coming back for seconds.

🛍️ Best Products Made in Athens
Explore homegrown innovation and craftsmanship — whether it’s hand-poured candles, artisan foods, custom furniture, or fine art. Athens creators are shaping trends and building a reputation that extends far beyond Georgia.

🎭 Best in Culture, Events & Entertainment
This city’s soul lives in its music, art, and creative expression. Discover can’t-miss festivals, rising bands, theater performances, and the venues that give Athens its world-famous cultural heartbeat.

🏆 Best People of Athens
Teachers, nurses, nonprofit founders, city workers, young leaders, and local legends — these are the neighbors whose stories deserve to be told. Every city has people worth celebrating. Athens has an entire community.

💬 Why It Matters

Every feature in Best of Athens is chosen with intention — based on community feedback, reputation, proven excellence, and a genuine connection to the people they serve. We don’t accept payment for placement. If it’s on this page, it earned its spot.

Supporting the best means strengthening the community. When you shop local, attend local, and celebrate local, you're helping Athens thrive — and you're part of what makes this city great.

This is Athens Chronicle’s salute to the doers, the makers, the builders, the flavors, the sounds, and the stories that make Athens a city unlike any other.

This is Best of Athens — and it just keeps getting better.