New Retail and Restaurants Open at Uptown Atlanta

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

Uptown Atlanta, the 47-acre mixed-use destination being redeveloped by Rubenstein Partners, L.P. (together with its affiliates, “Rubenstein”), is celebrating the openings of three new concepts. El Gordo, the authentic and classic taqueria, will host its grand opening this Saturday. Roundhouse Kickboxing, the Atlanta-based dynamic fitness studio, has already started hosting classes and will celebrate its official opening on August 17. Bene Korean, the upscale Korean barbeque experience, will also host a grand opening this month. 

El Gordo, a new concept from the owners behind the Birria El Gordo in Marietta, blends the authenticity of a classic taqueria with a modern, lively setting. In addition to a variety of popular dishes from the original location, including Guadalajara-based family’s signature recipe for birria, guests can expect a vibrant menu of street tacos, tostadas, specialty tacos and more. El Gordo’s patio space fronting Main Street is expected to be activated with live mariachi bands and DJs. 

“We are excited to welcome Atlanta into our family's kitchen this summer,” said Nestor Pineda, with El Gordo. “Every taco we serve tells a story about tradition, crafted with love from our cherished recipes to bring you a taste of home.”

Roundhouse Kickboxing was founded by Atlanta natives Jordan McCray and Mario Richards in 2021 through a shared love of fitness and kickboxing. Offering dynamic, 50-minute classes that incorporate high-intensity interval training and kickboxing circuits, the custom workout packages are designed for any age or fitness level. The Uptown location introduces upgraded locker rooms and shower facilities, as well as features several murals from local artists. 

Led by renowned local Chef Vincent Jung, Bene Korean’s upscale Korean barbeque dining experience will feature traditional Korean recipes and a menu of premium proteins, including Wagyu, filet mignon, New York strip, spicy prawns and scallops. Its menu will include appetizers such as kimchi and seafood pancakes, Korean fried chicken wings and bulgogi cheese fries, as well as a full bar with a variety of Korean spirits. 

“From a globally inspired dining district to an exciting fitness concept, we are proud to welcome an incredible group of Atlanta-born restaurants and retailers to Uptown, each bringing their own unique and authentic flair,” said Mahesh Mani, senior vice president of asset management for Rubenstein. “With these openings, our vision to create a new center of gravity connecting Buckhead and Midtown at Uptown is beginning to take shape.”

This year, Uptown expects to open retro barber shop The Commodore, popular Korean bakery White Windmill and Latin coastal concept Madre Selva. The new restaurant and retail experiences join 26 Thai Kitchen and Bar and Chow À La Carte at Uptown Test Kitchen, a novel culinary experience designed to bring the community and local chefs from around the world together.

Anchored by the Lindbergh MARTA Station, Uptown encompasses nearly one million square feet of office space, 120,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and a variety of community gathering spaces. The transit-oriented community features connectivity to the city’s major pedestrian trails, such as the Atlanta BeltLine, PATH400 and the South Fork Trail. As part of the redevelopment plan, Rubenstein modernized the 35,000-square-foot office atrium; elevated building facades; created a true, pedestrian-friendly Main Street; debuted Hambidge Center’s Cross Pollination Art Lab; and transformed The Lawn into a highly programmed community gathering space.

For the latest news, project updates and events schedule, follow Uptown on Facebook and Instagram at @uptownatlanta, or visit uptownatlanta.com.