[ATLmangum]

My turn!

I've been there twice for drinks and it looks to me like someplace that should be packed with mall-banged girls (not a compliment, BTW). All the black and white banquettes, the amber colored "inverted-glass calla lily" light fixtures, gaudy crystal chandeliers and the fireplace video is a little too 'Jersey' for my taste.
The speciality drinks (at $12!!!) are suprisingly small, taste a lot like fruit juice and are served by an overly-plucked bartender with major attitude.

The sofas along the front windows, while attractive, are an awkward size...way too deep. You either slouch over at the front of the sofa or, if you slide all the way back, your legs stick straight out...not something that I, at 6'1" encounter too often and I felt like I was back in primary school.

The food I saw delivered to the tables looked great and if I have enough hairspray left, I may return.


Sounds like it should be in Buckhead.

[sprtsluvr8]

That would be my suggestion.

Personally, I really dont care about the zoo whatso ever. I just think zoos are just lame, unless they are done right, such as NO or SD, etc. If so they can be awesome, but Zoo ATL? Rather drive on suburban interstates on a friday afternoon to tell you the truth.

It sounds like someone hasn't visited ZooAtlanta in quite a while. The animals live in large habitats and are well cared for by trained professionals. Our zoo IS done right in the small space they have, and the move would allow them to do it even better.

Zoos are not just for entertaining the public like they once were. From what I understand, they are very involved in research that is aimed at saving endangered species.

[metrofan]

I was taken to Dolce for my birthday and was impressed. Good looking space with a good crowd. The food was excellent and we had a great waiter. All in all, expensive but well worth it. The only issue we had was having a reservation, but being told upon arrival that we may have to wait 30 minutes. We were actually seated within 10 minutes. The rest of the experience made up for this minor inconvenience.

I don't think people mind paying more for good food AND good service. Two major components B.E.D. seemed to have missed.

[jason21atl]

I was taken to Dolce for my birthday and was impressed. Good looking space with a good crowd. The food was excellent and we had a great waiter. All in all, expensive but well worth it. The only issue we had was having a reservation, but being told upon arrival that we may have to wait 30 minutes. We were actually seated within 10 minutes. The rest of the experience made up for this minor inconvenience.

I don't think people mind paying more for good food AND good service. Two major components B.E.D. seemed to have missed.

We had a similar problem when we went......we had a reservation and then ended up waiting about 20 minutes for a table. At one point, about 10 minutes in, we were actually seated and then taken back to the bar area because they didn't really mean to sit us there. We just chalked it up to opening weekend jitters.

[Andrea]

Sounds like it should be in Buckhead.

Yet I have heard a couple of folks observe that the restaurant scene in Midtown is more pretentious than Buckhead these days. I don't get out much so I am certainly no authority, but I will have to say that to me Buckhead has more of a laid back, "down home" feel to it. It's very subjective but you don't get the sense that people are out to prove anything there.

[austin356]

It sounds like someone hasn't visited ZooAtlanta in quite a while. The animals live in large habitats and are well cared for by trained professionals. Our zoo IS done right in the small space they have, and the move would allow them to do it even better.

Zoos are not just for entertaining the public like they once were. From what I understand, they are very involved in research that is aimed at saving endangered species.



Well thats good to here that they are doing better than my perceptions. Also thanks for reminding about the research component, that is the one key area of zoos that I think is most benefital, but do think that could somehow be done more efficiently.

[austin356]

Yet I have heard a couple of folks observe that the restaurant scene in Midtown is more pretentious than Buckhead these days. I don't get out much so I am certainly no authority, but I will have to say that to me Buckhead has more of a laid back, "down home" feel to it. It's very subjective but you don't get the sense that people are out to prove anything there.



Thats why I like Atlanta's people relative to other cities. Not that Atlantians always fit the stereotype but they do seem to have a sense of it more so than other cities of similar size. I would like to see out how things play out in 3-4 years when this current building boom plays out, and people get settled in..... how are all these new people moving to highrise condos doing to be (on a social level)?

[sprtsluvr8]

Well thats good to here that they are doing better than my perceptions. Also thanks for reminding about the research component, that is the one key area of zoos that I think is most benefital, but do think that could somehow be done more efficiently.

No problem...my work here is done.:notacrook:

[MidtownMile]

Thats why I like Atlanta's people relative to other cities. Not that Atlantians always fit the stereotype but they do seem to have a sense of it more so than other cities of similar size. I would like to see out how things play out in 3-4 years when this current building boom plays out, and people get settled in..... how are all these new people moving to highrise condos doing to be (on a social level)?

I think there is some truth to that, but I think it is starting to downplay a bit. There are a LOT of pretentious places come to Midtown in that they are pretention by design, concept, and expectation. However, the people that live in Atlanta tend not to go for that as much as some other places. I think Steel will be a nice test. The one in Texas is VERY pretentious. But, I think it may end up more like Nan Thai and Silk in attitude here in ATL. Bottom line, the attitude is on the rise between North and 17th, but it's not too far gone.

[ATLmangum]

http://novaregroup.com/resources/Novare_07_Winter.pdf

Here is Novare's winter newsletter, which talks about it opening a Starbucks in 12 AS.

[L.ARCH]

This idea is purely fantasy but I was contemplating the idea of extending MARTA into Atlantic Station... What if Portman built a line from his proposed "Uptown Station" along/beside the Amtrack line to a newly constructed Station next to Target? Imagine how many people living there would actually use it to access the rest of the city as well as provide a link to a future Beltline Station etc. etc. I think someone should pitch the idea to him. I think it would be the most profitable route MARTA would operate.

[BardSeed]

I think it's Dewberry, not Portman, who wants the Uptown station.

I do like transit fantasy, and yours is a pretty good one. As long as we're talking fantasy, I'd suggest that your line be extended south to 10th (or 14th) and Northside, GaTech, Marietta St, Castleberry Hill, Turner Field, Grant Park, East Atlanta, and finally South Dekalb Mall along I-20, with maybe an infill stop here and there.

[jobe]

http://novaregroup.com/resources/Novare_07_Winter.pdf

Here is Novare's winter newsletter, which talks about it opening a Starbucks in 12 AS.

The Starbucks in Twelve actually opened today. I'm drinking a grande latte from there as I type this.

[Buck]

GREAT. It will be nice to have a choice between PJs and Starbucks when I'm down there. A local coffee shop would be great too but for now it's nice to at least have an option of two.

[gt9228a]

Great news on the starbucks - Is it usual Starbucks hours?

Ten Pin Alley says Now Open on the AS website. Is that true? Anyone been there yet?

Also, any idea on the opening date for the LA Fitness?

[cokezero]

GREAT. It will be nice to have a choice between PJs and Starbucks when I'm down there. A local coffee shop would be great too but for now it's nice to at least have an option of two.

If it makes you feel any better, the new AS Starbucks is actually a licensed store that is owned and operated by Atlanta-based Novare Group. So in theory, being owned by an Atlanta-based company makes it local, doesn't it?? :koko:

[SteveD]

If it makes you feel any better, the new AS Starbucks is actually a licensed store that is owned and operated by Atlanta-based Novare Group. So in theory, being owned by an Atlanta-based company makes it local, doesn't it?? :koko:

I don't think it's possible for anything to ever make me feel better about Starbucks :yuck:

[john3eblover]

I don't think it's possible for anything to ever make me feel better about Starbucks :yuck:

seriously...its like a necessary evil. often the only option

[SteveD]

seriously...its like a necessary evil. often the only option


Alas...sad but true. One of the worst examples of category killers around, and burned, stale, overpriced coffee. Dunkin' Donuts has better coffee.

[Toxostoma Rufum]

I think it's Dewberry, not Portman, who wants the Uptown station.

I do like transit fantasy, and yours is a pretty good one. As long as we're talking fantasy, I'd suggest that your line be extended south to 10th (or 14th) and Northside, GaTech, Marietta St, Castleberry Hill, Turner Field, Grant Park, East Atlanta, and finally South Dekalb Mall along I-20, with maybe an infill stop here and there.

Here's a transit fantasy: Let's pin the future of Atlanta Mass Transit on an orbital light rail route more than three miles from the heart of the city (not touching any of those above mentioned destinations). It might get done in twenty years if we're lucky, too.

[dirtybird]

Ten Pin Alley says Now Open on the AS website. Is that true? Anyone been there yet?

I went there this past Saturday. It's definitely a nice addition to the city. They're still in the process of building a kitchen and it won't be ready for another 3-4 weeks before they can serve food.

[Sedaded]

Alas...sad but true. One of the worst examples of category killers around, and burned, stale, overpriced coffee. Dunkin' Donuts has better coffee.

I don't get my this is such a pervasive opinion. Sometimes I think that once a company reaches a certain size or market share, it automatically becomes viewed as evil and of poor quality. The fact is that Starbucks could never have grown as fast and as large as it did without having a good product. The American people are not stupid (at least when it comes to consumer products; politics is another story). If Starbucks was chock full of "burnt, overpriced" coffee, not as many people would patronize the establishments.

Even the argument that they were first movers in an untapped market doesn't hold much weight on this front. To that point, competitors such as Dunkin Donuts, Caribou, and PJs have barely even made a blip on the radar in terms of market share. A firm with a substandard product would have been culled from the industry by now. Also, while I do understand the reasoning behind the complaint that "it kills local businesses" or it is a "category killer," I still don't buy it. Again, if those local stores or other coffee shops had the superior product, people would go there instead of Starbucks.

Yes, giant corporate entities can lose touch with their customer base and become faceless players in the industry, but that doesn't make them evil or worthy of everyone's scorn. Starbucks, as a corporation, does a lot in terms of social responsibility, which is nice to see in this day in age. Finally, I am not a Starbucks (specifically) apologist, but I just think that some opinions about large companies are based on specious reasoning instead of personal experience.

[SteveD]

I don't get my this is such a pervasive opinion. Sometimes I think that once a company reaches a certain size or market share, it automatically becomes viewed as evil and of poor quality. The fact is that Starbucks could never have grown as fast and as large as it did without having a good product. The American people are not stupid (at least when it comes to consumer products; politics is another story). If Starbucks was chock full of "burnt, overpriced" coffee, not as many people would patronize the establishments.

Even the argument that they were first movers in an untapped market doesn't hold much weight on this front. To that point, competitors such as Dunkin Donuts, Caribou, and PJs have barely even made a blip on the radar in terms of market share. A firm with a substandard product would have been culled from the industry by now. Also, while I do understand the reasoning behind the complaint that "it kills local businesses" or it is a "category killer," I still don't buy it. Again, if those local stores or other coffee shops had the superior product, people would go there instead of Starbucks.

Yes, giant corporate entities can lose touch with their customer base and become faceless players in the industry, but that doesn't make them evil or worthy of everyone's scorn. Starbucks, as a corporation, does a lot in terms of social responsibility, which is nice to see in this day in age. Finally, I am not a Starbucks (specifically) apologist, but I just think that some opinions about large companies are based on specious reasoning instead of personal experience.

Well, that's certainly an incorrect assumption with respect to me. I was a co-owner and operator of a small gourmet coffee ROASTING shop. I don't say that Starbucks coffee is (mostly) burned and (mostly) stale out of ignorance or specious reasoning. The competitors I'm talking about are not the other large chains you mentioned, but the mom and pop shops, many of which actually roasted coffee on-site, in small batches, thus ensuring a VASTLY superior product, and which are finding it difficult to remain in business across the country. Yes, the American public is largely ignorant about what constitutes "good" coffee. Most folks patronizing Starbucks aren't really going there for the coffee. I don't make blanket statements about big equals bad or evil. I say most Starbucks coffee is burned, stale, and overpriced, because it is. Starbucks has had an immensely adverse affect on the mom and pop gourmet coffee roasters of the country because they introduced a different experience and atmosphere which appealed to people and was about much more than simply coffee. Any on-site small batch roaster will produce a superior product to any large chain which obtains coffee from a central location roasted some time ago. At least Dunkin' Donuts usually stops roasting their coffee before the outer casing begins to burn. Off my soap box now....let's get back to Atlantic Station talk!

[catlike]

If Starbucks was chock full of "burnt, overpriced" coffee, not as many people would patronize the establishments.


Except that people aren't drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee." They're drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee diluted with cream, filled with sugar, topped with gobs of whipped cream and dessert syrup." The coffee part is incidental by this point. When is the last time you saw hordes of customers sipping black coffee at Starbucks?

[SteveD]

Except that people aren't drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee." They're drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee diluted with cream, filled with sugar, topped with gobs of whipped cream and dessert syrup." The coffee part is incidental by this point. When is the last time you saw hordes of customers sipping black coffee at Starbucks?
:previous: That's dead-on, Catlike. That's absolutely correct.

[Curious Atlantan]

Except that people aren't drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee." They're drinking the "burnt, overpriced coffee diluted with cream, filled with sugar, topped with gobs of whipped cream and dessert syrup." The coffee part is incidental by this point. When is the last time you saw hordes of customers sipping black coffee at Starbucks?

I am one of those that sip Starbucks black coffee: I always have double espressos from Starbucks and I think they are great. I don't like big chain stores either but I think Starbucks is one of the few ones that are focused on quality. Their coffee may not be the greatest bar none but it is most certainly pretty good, certainly not burned or stalled. I wished more people would actually enjoy the coffee and not the 2000 calories lattes, but what can you do...

[ATLmangum]

Its coffee people. How long must we talk about this???

[RobMidtowner]

I know, this argument has been brewing for a while now ;)

[MarketsWork]

Its coffee people. How long must we talk about this???

Until there's a new major announcement. Or Joe Steed posts more of his stunning photos. Or Randy Sandford comes to town and does the same. Or Andrea gets arrested for vandalizing the Downtown Connector with a jackhammer. Until then, we're just nitpicking!

[SteveD]

I know, this argument has been brewing for a while now ;)
:previous: it does seem to keep percolating to the surface... :jester:

[(four 0 four)]

Some of these comments should be considered grounds for dismissal!:)

[thoraudio]

this isn't punny at all.

[STrek777]

this isn't punny at all.

I’m a Caribou Coffee person myself. :tup:

[Dragonheart8588]

I never liked Starbucks because of the taste. Their fraps taste bitter even though it is suppose to be sweet. There was a coffee shop called Jatema in Gwinnett but it went out of business. They made some of the best fraps and the whip creams are made fresh everyday unlike Starbucks that come out of can. The only time I drink Starbucks is when it is free. I sometimes drink Caribou coffee at work. They are okay but I heard that they rip the idea from Starbucks.

[Behind_Phips]

Knock Starbucks all you want, but they are good for the community. Not only do they provide Grade A quality products, but they are good for the communities they serve. Just like the local pub is the local meeting place to a neighborhood in England, the same is true to our Starbucks. I can not tell you how many times I walk into a Starbucks and see kids in there teens setting around actually talking or doing homework. Personally, I have business meetings at Starbucks. This is the community center of our generation. More importantly, they are one of a few large established retail companies that give healthcare insurance to anyone who works over 20 hours. Very unique in our profit driven economy. So buy that $3.00 Grande coffee with a smile on your face because you are doing more than just putting profits in another company!!!

[jobe]

I didn't mean to brew up any controversy. I was merely letting everyone know that Starbucks was open in Atlantic Station.

[Behind_Phips]

Jobe, I appreciate you brewing up a discussion. People need to know fact from fiction. I agree that in most cases it is better to buy local because it serves the community better. However with Starbucks, that is not the case. This forum is not just about buildings, hopefully it helps to better the community and citizens!!!

[SteveD]

Jobe, I appreciate you brewing up a discussion. People need to know fact from fiction. I agree that in most cases it is better to buy local because it serves the community better. However with Starbucks, that is not the case. This forum is not just about buildings, hopefully it helps to better the community and citizens!!!

You sort of were bolstering my point though, in that Starbucks is really about other things than the coffee. My posts were about the coffee, which is, in my opinion, decidely not a "Grade A product", and how the chain has adversely affected mom and pop coffee roasting businesses across the U.S., who were in fact serving up a superior coffee product, but got steamrolled by the Starbucks onslaught.

[Tombstoner]

:previous:
I see your point, but I wonder how many "mom-and-pop" places came into being because Starbucks created a market where none (or a very small one) existed (that's not a rhetorical question--I really don't know). Thinking back to the year 1 BS (before Starbucks), I honestly don't recall seeing any mom-and-pop coffee roasters/shops in the medium-sized cities and towns in which I lived. I'm sure large cities had a handful, but I suspect that the coffeeshop got reintroduced to Mainstreet, USA largely as a result of Starbucks.

PS. I want to go on record as being philosophically opposed to Behind Phips' suggestion that fact can be separated from fiction. ;)

[SteveD]

:previous:
I see your point, but I wonder how many "mom-and-pop" places came into being because Starbucks created a market where none (or a very small one) existed (that's not a rhetorical question--I really don't know). Thinking back to the year 1 BS (before Starbucks), I honestly don't recall seeing any mom-and-pop coffee roasters/shops in the medium-sized cities and towns in which I lived. I'm sure large cities had a handful, but I suspect that the coffeeshop got reintroduced to Mainstreet, USA largely as a result of Starbucks.

PS. I want to go on record as being philosophically opposed to Behind Phips' suggestion that fact can be separated from fiction. ;)
:previous: that's a good and interesting point, Tombstoner. I think that a lot of the "new" mom and pop independents are trying to copy the Starbucks mold and are also serving up coffee roasted in enormous batches elsewhere by who knows who, and who knows how long ago. It's the original small batch independent roasters, who preceeded the Starbucks craze, that took the hit.

[Behind_Phips]

Steve, you are entitled to you opinion. Also, I do not want to go on a tangent discussing coffee considering this is a forum concerning Atlantic Station. However, there are grades of coffee. Typically, but not always, a higher grade is bitter. Go to Europe, South America this is how the rest of the world drinks coffee. When they started Starbucks, this is what they wanted to bring US consumers. High quality coffee in an environment that was not typical American fast-food style. I agree with you 99.9% of the time, mom and pop stores are where we should spend our money. My point was to simply state what the benefits Starbucks brings to our community. Granted it is at the cost of mom and pop stores, but I still believe as a whole they bring more good than bad. I did a 20 mile search on their website from my zipcode (30342). Their are 125 stores. Now consider each store has at least 10 employees. Probably 5 of those 10 people opt to get their health benefits. These are single moms and college students. Would they be offered health insurance at a local mom and pop? No chance, small mom and pop stores can not afford these benefits. To sum up my point, I just wanted to state fact from fiction and not to discuss coffee quality, but to respond to your comment that you would rather go to a mom and pop store.

[Sedaded]

You sort of were bolstering my point though, in that Starbucks is really about other things than the coffee. My posts were about the coffee, which is, in my opinion, decidely not a "Grade A product", and how the chain has adversely affected mom and pop coffee roasting businesses across the U.S., who were in fact serving up a superior coffee product, but got steamrolled by the Starbucks onslaught.

SteveD, I apologize for assuming that your comment was based on something other than the actual quality of the coffee. That, as we all know, is a matter of opinion that will vary greatly from person to person. I tend to get on my soapbox about this sort of thing. Speaking of which...

I agree with the rationale behind Starbucks' standing as more than just a coffee place, but I don't think you can fault them for the results of that strategy. Good businesses, even small ones with limited resources, should be able to conduct an accurate analysis of their industry. It seems as though the smaller roasters failed to see that coffee is, apparently, viewed as an incidental product (almost an inpulse buy) and that a centralized, convenient meeting location is actually the main product.

[SteveD]

Steve, you are entitled to you opinion. Also, I do not want to go on a tangent discussing coffee considering this is a forum concerning Atlantic Station. However, there are grades of coffee. Typically, but not always, a higher grade is bitter. Go to Europe, South America this is how the rest of the world drinks coffee. When they started Starbucks, this is what they wanted to bring US consumers. High quality coffee in an environment that was not typical American fast-food style. I agree with you 99.9% of the time, mom and pop stores are where we should spend our money. My point was to simply state what the benefits Starbucks brings to our community. Granted it is at the cost of mom and pop stores, but I still believe as a whole they bring more good than bad. I did a 20 mile search on their website from my zipcode (30342). Their are 125 stores. Now consider each store has at least 10 employees. Probably 5 of those 10 people opt to get their health benefits. These are single moms and college students. Would they be offered health insurance at a local mom and pop? No chance, small mom and pop stores can not afford these benefits. To sum up my point, I just wanted to state fact from fiction and not to discuss coffee quality, but to respond to your comment that you would rather go to a mom and pop store.

OK, I'm sorry folks, this will be my last post on this topic, I promise. Yes, Behind Phips..I know a tad about coffee...I have been a master coffee roaster, and personally roasted over 75 varieties of Arabica and Robusta from around the world, for years during that time, and have sampled coffees from all over the world in my travels. Just so you know, high quality coffee is not bitter...burned coffee is bitter. If the coffee you are drinking is bitter, you are drinking bad coffee.

[john3eblover]

i've always felt that Starbucks was about the experience...the atmosphere, the ambience...a good place to hang out. not necessarily the good coffee

[dirtybird]

There was a coffee shop called Jatema in Gwinnett but it went out of business. They made some of the best fraps and the whip creams are made fresh everyday unlike Starbucks that come out of can.

If you're interested, I believe Cafe Intermezzo makes their fraps daily. I remember my sister complaining about making frap everyday when she worked there.

[cokezero]

Whatever happened to Element at AS - why is it still vacant and unfinished? There's no possible way the fire was responsible for a delay of this magnitude. If I did my math correctly, isn't it currently about 18 months behind schedule??

[Broccoli]

Whatever happened to Element at AS - why is it still vacant and unfinished? There's no possible way the fire was responsible for a delay of this magnitude. If I did my math correctly, isn't it currently about 18 months behind schedule??

I heard they recently started closings, and I've also noticed some flips for sale on realtor.com. They are waaay behind schedule. Heck, they haven't even finished redoing the clubhouse at Art Foundry...

[Behind_Phips]

First of all, I apologize to everyone for keeping this going. I read this site everyday and never usually respond. I respect everyones opinion and love the fact that you appreciate this city so much. I moved here from DC two years ago, and as you can judge from the amount of information on this website few people from there share your enthusiasm. With that said, I think some people need to remember this is a forum. Just because you make a comment (I always assume you have a opinion and are entitled to it) I can disagree. To take someone's response personally is juvenile.

So to your point Steve, no I have not picked coffee beans on the fields of Venuzuela with Juan Valdez. To give me your resume is not necessary. Your reply shows that you totally missed what I was saying.

[Tombstoner]

First of all, I apologize to everyone for keeping this going. I read this site everyday and never usually respond. I respect everyones opinion and love the fact that you appreciate this city so much. I moved here from DC two years ago, and as you can judge from the amount of information on this website few people from there share your enthusiasm. With that said, I think some people need to remember this is a forum. Just because you make a comment (I always assume you have a opinion and are entitled to it) I can disagree. To take someone's response personally is juvenile.

So to your point Steve, no I have not picked coffee beans on the fields of Venuzuela with Juan Valdez. To give me your resume is not necessary. Your reply shows that you totally missed what I was saying.

Maybe your suggestion that SteveD needs to learn about how "the rest of the world" drinks coffee is what made him feel that you needed to know something about his background.

PS. I don't think you were asked if you've picked beans in Venezuela (unless SteveD is doing his subliminal messaging trick again...I hate when you do that Steve) but if you ever do decide to pick beans with Juan, you'll have to go to Columbia.

[cabasse]

as an ex-barista at both starbucks and caribou, i have recently become addicted to the cheap 99-cent french vanilla instant cappuccinos from 7/11. perfect thing to treat my add and help me study, since i don't wanna get on any crazy meds.

starbucks isn't known for having the best coffee anyway, it's their espresso drinks which they're known for. (and which they can cover the coffee flavorings up with by adding daily recommended allowances of sugar in) same goes for caribou, except they put much more care into choosing and roasting their beans - i buy beans from them regularly to brew at home, and when whatever the year's seasonal roastmaster reserve appears... always amazing stuff.

[Terminus]

starbucks isn't known for having the best coffee anyway, it's their espresso drinks which they're known for. (and which they can cover the coffee flavorings up with by adding daily recommended allowances of sugar in) same goes for caribou, except they put much more care into choosing and roasting their beans - i buy beans from them regularly to brew at home, and when whatever the year's seasonal roastmaster reserve appears... always amazing stuff.

Their succes is also because of their role as a "third space" where you can hang out. They sell an exerpience and image as much as they sell a product.

[MarketsWork]

Their succes is also because of their role as a "third space" where you can hang out. They sell an exerpience and image as much as they sell a product.

To bolster your point, Starbucks officials admitted last year that its healthcare costs had spiraled out of control to the point that it now spends more on health insurance for its employees than it spends on coffee. That is a large part of the reason you spend $3 to $4 at Starbucks for a cup of coffee that is worth only $1 to $1.50. The rest of the cost is for the experience and "free" rental of the facility to work or hang out. Starbucks is not about coffee, but a concept -- and an absolute triumph of marketing in a strong economy. Its continued success appears pegged to continued economic prosperity and the novelty of its community experience.

[GThomas]

Let's all just drink water ... Keeps our teeth whiter and nothing is worse than a coworker's fresh morning coffee breath. Ew.

In other news, I've noticed the panelling going on the side of target along the back. There's also a large clear window on the north end. I remember something saying they were going for a March opening. Anyone know if they'll make this deadline?

[SteveD]

I've been wondering...did anyone else encounter as much difficulty as I in attempting to see the latest incarnation of Cirque du Soleil, staged at Atlantic Station? I couldn't get tickets, and missed the production for the first time ever in one of its Atlanta tours. Was it wildly more successful at this location? Or perhaps a smaller venue? Or maybe they booked a shorter run in Atlanta this time around? :shrug:

I should mention that there was a special category of "elite" tickets generally available, for a special experience (I forget what they called them), but these were for $400 or $500 per seat. I was unable to obtain any "regular" tickets.

[Dragonheart8588]

I've been wondering...did anyone else encounter as much difficulty as I in attempting to see the latest incarnation of Cirque du Soleil, staged at Atlantic Station? I couldn't get tickets, and missed the production for the first time ever in one of its Atlanta tours. Was it wildly more successful at this location? Or perhaps a smaller venue? Or maybe they booked a shorter run in Atlanta this time around? :shrug:

I should mention that there was a special category of "elite" tickets generally available, for a special experience (I forget what they called them), but these were for $400 or $500 per seat. I was unable to obtain any "regular" tickets.

I tried to get some tickets, too. However, the seats that were available were only single seat in a row so my friend and I can not seat together. There were only fragmented seats available left when I checked. I thought there were plenty of seat judging by seat chart on their website. Their show in Atlanta lasted over a month or two, if my memory serves me right. The "elite" ticket that you talk about is the "experience" ticket where the customers can arrive early to have food and be backstage in a room that really suppose to be really nice.

[catlike]

^^^
We got tickets, but we bought ours well before Christmas. I believe the shows started mid-December and went through the end of January.

[john3eblover]

I had some friends come all the way from Ohio to see it...which made no sense to me, but whatever. they enjoyed it a lot i think

[dirtybird]

I should mention that there was a special category of "elite" tickets generally available, for a special experience (I forget what they called them), but these were for $400 or $500 per seat.

It's called Tapis Rouge, and they were $195 each. I didn't think they were worth it because the seats were actually too close to the stage (I would have preferred to sit a few rows back for a better view of the whole production). And the lounge area before the show and during intermission was decent but not worth paying triple the normal ticket prices.

[SteveD]

It's called Tapis Rouge, and they were $195 each. I didn't think they were worth it because the seats were actually too close to the stage (I would have preferred to sit a few rows back for a better view of the whole production). And the lounge area before the show and during intermission was decent but not worth paying triple the normal ticket prices.

Ahh..OK...I first checked Cirque's official web page and everything was sold out, then I was checking things like Craig's List and ticket resellers, and they were I suppose marking up those Tapis Rouge tickets by 100% or more...

[Chris Creech]

Their succes is also because of their role as a "third space" where you can hang out. They sell an exerpience and image as much as they sell a product.


I recently had to meet a client at a Starbucks just N of 285 on the N side. The place was PACKED and at almost every single table there was some sort of full blown business meeting going on. Not just people working on laptops, but 3-5 people going over projects, revieiwing docs, files, presentations, etc.

I think pretty much every self-employed or work-at-home person in the city uses Starbucks as there "conference room".

I joked about it to one of the employees, and they mentioned Starbucks was actually looking into putting in small conference rooms at some locations that you could book and they would provide the coffee and danish.

[joey]

Cirque du Soleil was quoted as saying that this Atlanta run significantly exceeded their expectations, and that they would have liked to have extended their run, but (as usual) they were booked in another city right after.

I think the visibility of being right next to the Interstate in-town may have boosted interest beyond what they expected.

[Chris Creech]

Cirque du Soleil was quoted as saying that this Atlanta run significantly exceeded their expectations, and that they would have liked to have extended their run, but (as usual) they were booked in another city right after.

I think the visibility of being right next to the Interstate in-town may have boosted interest beyond what they expected.


I wish the city or a developer would make them a sweet deal for a permanent home here.

The building in Orlando is a nicely done landmark building.

Something similar downtown around Cent. Park, or Atlantic Station would be great.

Then you could work the convention crowds and tie in with the World of Coke and the Aquarium.

Plus Cirque has an image that would add a bit of international flair to the city. (Much more than say NASCAR.)

[sprtsluvr8]

I saw their show here back in 1998 (I think!) when it was located over by the Civic Center. If I remember correctly we ordered tickets more than 6 months in advance and during it's run there were no tickets available except obstucted view and maybe some single seats. So it sounds to be about as popular as always. To get tickets you need to know their schedule and order tickets WAY ahead of time...

[Behind_Phips]

My realtor just sent me this link to new houses either in or close to Atlantic Station. Really nice.

http://castlerockintown.com/images/listing_images/7290/gallery/detail/f1.jpg

http://castlerockintown.com/za/PLT?PAGE=START&HOME_LISTING.ID=7290

[DoteDote]

Judging by the angles of 1180 and the old IBM Tower in the background... that house is somewhere around Piedmont Park, east of Midtown.

[ascommunity.com]

My realtor just sent me this link to new houses either in or close to Atlantic Station. Really nice.

http://castlerockintown.com/images/listing_images/7290/gallery/detail/f1.jpg

http://castlerockintown.com/za/PLT?PAGE=START&HOME_LISTING.ID=7290

These were going to be built on Barnes, rear of the homes will face Midtown. Last I heard these homes were not getting through the Home Park Land Use meetings because of the design of the homes. Maybe something has changed?

[niff]

Too bad. For some reason I've started to really dig this kind of modernist style

[Curious Atlantan]

These were going to be built on Barnes, rear of the homes will face Midtown. Last I heard these homes were not getting through the Home Park Land Use meetings because of the design of the homes. Maybe something has changed?

Maaan, why people in this city do not accept contemporary design, but they happily go along with the neo-traditional crap, is very hard for me to comprehend.
Also, I don't buy the "character of the neighborhood" argument. Having different styles of construction only enhances a neighborhood.

[MidtownMile]

Too bad. For some reason I've started to really dig this kind of modernist style


I agree. It is also done in enough of a modular style where, if styles really change, this could be updated archicecturally VERY easily (and cheaply). That really enhances the value for anyone that can see beyond the finish to see the bones of a project.

[Terminus]

Maaan, why people in this city do not accept contemporary design, but they happily go along with the neo-traditional crap, is very hard for me to comprehend.
Also, I don't buy the "character of the neighborhood" argument. Having different styles of construction only enhances a neighborhood.

Amen to that! This was one of the things that most upset me about Norwood's infill work - the assumption that what is there today was unequivocally of more value than change for all parts of the city. There are plenty of parts of the City that embrace modern design - The Old Fourth Ward being the most open to it.

I believe that areas that do not want to evolve should be made historic districts on a case-by-case basis. Citywide code changes in the absence of a neighborhood-specific vision of its future are flawed. I say let Va-Hi, Poncey Highland, Morningside, etc. protect themselves, but also let areas that want to evolve to do so.

There is a GREAT row of modern duplexes under construction on Ormond Street (?) in the southern part of Mechanicville. I have photos, but no way to post them. They have a great street presence, compatible materials, but modern design.

[Andrea]

http://castlerockintown.com/images/listing_images/7290/gallery/detail/f1.jpg

Gee, those look great! Unfortunately that's about 5 times my price range.

[jason21atl]

I went to the movies at Atlantic Station today and noticed a few spaces being built out. There are two spots next to Old Navy (between Old Navy and the theatre) and one across the street, I think next to the Atlantic Grill. Does anyone have an up-to-date map with the leasing to see what they are? The LA Fitness site seems to be moving along quickly as well. Also, I know this comes up every couple of months but has anyone heard any updates on the Irish Pub?

[atllocal74]

Here are a couple pics of the actual site of for castlerock homes near Atlantic Station. There are a couple dumpsters there, and one site has a foundation poured. I don't know if this is recent activity, or if it's been sitting like this for a long time. Hope they still build these, they would be great addition to the area.

http://www.geocities.com/mabbott3/IMG_0983.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/mabbott3/IMG_0980.jpg

[atllocal74]

A few pics of the Beazer Phase II Townhomes near State Street. IMO some of the nicer looking residential in Atlantic Station...though of course they are pretty pricey.

http://www.geocities.com/mabbott3/IMG_0988.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/mabbott3/IMG_0991.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/mabbott3/IMG_0994.jpg

[galaca]

^Those look MUCH better than the other residential they put up at AS. They look almost as good as some of the buildings at Glenwood Park.

[GThomas]

I saw today that the steel "monument" where 17th street splits around the park has been taken down. It appeared that it was being set up north of where it was, across the street nearer to Target.

Perhaps the Millenium Gate monument will be in our near future.

[MidtownMile]

^Those look MUCH better than the other residential they put up at AS. They look almost as good as some of the buildings at Glenwood Park.

I agree. They don't nearly smell of "WOW! I overpaid for this construction" like the former set did... ;)

[Chris Creech]

My realtor just sent me this link to new houses either in or close to Atlantic Station. Really nice.

http://castlerockintown.com/images/listing_images/7290/gallery/detail/f1.jpg

http://castlerockintown.com/za/PLT?PAGE=START&HOME_LISTING.ID=7290


Mmm just not feeling it.

My guess is that the neighborhood doesn't care of the "garage forward" design. Those doors are a little too prominent. The whole front yard is basically paved over.

Somehow it manages to look like the back of the house, not the front. There's no real focal point. Sort of a mish-mash of MIMO, Prairie, Deco, Trailor Park design.

[Harry Cane]

I saw today that the steel "monument" where 17th street splits around the park has been taken down. It appeared that it was being set up north of where it was, across the street nearer to target.

Perhaps the Millenium Gate monument will be in our near future.

I read in the Intown newspaper that they did in fact have a groundbreaking.

Interestingly, the article said something like it was the largest monument constructed in the U.S. since the Lincoln Memorial in Washington. I thought that sounded strange and meant to go back to be sure I didn’t misread it, but have since thrown out the paper. Maybe someone has seen it?

[Tombstoner]

I read in the Intown newspaper that they did in fact have a groundbreaking.

Interestingly, the article said something like it was the largest monument constructed in the U.S. since the Lincoln Memorial in Washington. I thought that sounded strange and meant to go back to be sure I didn’t misread it, but have since thrown out the paper. Maybe someone has seen it?

I thought they said the biggest since the Jefferson Memorial. Oh, I hope it has lots and lots of cherubs and orators in togas! (I love cherubs...) :banana:

[ATLmangum]

Do I see a red tower crane going up for the Atlantic in the WOC cam or are my eyes playing tricks on me???

[Broccoli]

I drive past the Atlantic site on my way to work, and this morning there were a few of pickup trucks parked there, along with a number of guys setting up tripods... :cool:

[jobe]

I was going to ask that too. Looks like they're starting to move dirt. Yeah!

[gttx]

Do I see a red tower crane going up for the Atlantic in the WOC cam or are my eyes playing tricks on me???

I don't see what you're talking about in the webcam, but I can tell you that there definitely is not a tower crane up at the Atlantic site. In fact, I don't think there's any equipment at all there. If there is a tower crane on the horizon it's probably the red one at the Nanotech Building at Georgia Tech, which is pretty much right in the line of site from the WOC to Twelve AS.

[Broccoli]

I live in Atlantic Station, so this evening when I got home from work I took a walk up to the site...

There is a backhoe, a couple of bull dozers, and some other smaller equipment down at ground level of where the Atlantic will go, but that's it. No crane or anything as yet... Personally, I am really looking forward to watching this from start to finish. :)

[DoteDote]

Well, this one is almost finished. Wonder if they'll start on the next hole to the west, or take a break for a while.
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/6712/as021407crou7.jpg

[smArTaLlone]

:previous: Nice pic

[boomtown]

My realtor just sent me this link to new houses either in or close to Atlantic Station. Really nice.

http://castlerockintown.com/images/listing_images/7290/gallery/detail/f1.jpg

http://castlerockintown.com/za/PLT?PAGE=START&HOME_LISTING.ID=7290

If you are interested in that property, I suggest you verify that the siding material is real stucco on masonry and not EIFS or Dryvit.

[Behind_Phips]

I have a meeting with the developer next week. That was my first question! If you know of any other questions I should ask, please speak up. I appreciate any wisdom or experience you can provide. Thanks Chris.

[SteveD]

:previous: However, in my opinion, if you find that it IS EIFS or Dryvit, that doesn't necessarily mean that you have to walk away from it. It's just that EIFS and Dryvit require a thoroughly knowledgeable installing contractor, and its installation must be accomplished with a close attention to detail, particularly at corners and edges, and areas where it intersects with other construction materials, and in strict adherence to the manufacturer's recommendations. EIFS gets a bad rap, and a lot of it is deserved, but it can be done right. The bad rap is nearly always the result of poor or shoddy installation. On the up side, it would probably come with a warranty from both the installing contractor and the EIFS manufacturer, and it has beneficial insulation properties. If they do intend to build with EIFS, and you decide you want to proceed anyway, I'd recommend that you spend a little extra on a certified home inspector prior to closing and ask them to pay extra attention to the cladding details. Ask them how much they know about EIFS before hiring them. Having said all that, though, I'd prefer stucco!

[ATLBlaxican]

In today’s ABC it said that Phase I on the Millennium Gate has begun construction. Originally it was reported to cost $13 million, but now is priced at $20 million. Also, it said that currently Atlantic Station is only 30% built out with approximately 3,000 residents with around 150,000 visitors weekly. So I can just image how dense and full of life it could be when it is completely built out!!!

[trainiac]

In today’s ABC it said that Phase I on the Millennium Gate has begun construction. Originally it was reported to cost $13 million, but now is priced at $20 million. Also, it said that currently Atlantic Station is only 30% built out with approximately 3,000 residents with around 150,000 visitors weekly. So I can just image how dense and full of life it could be when it is completely built out!!!

They had the first rendering I've seen so far of the arch. Very classical, could almost be in Nimes

http://jolomo.net/atlanta/pics/AS-arch.png

How are the existing statues going to relate to this?

[GNofAtlanta]

From AS email list:

NEW BOWLING LOUNGE ADDS TO ATLANTIC STATION ENTERTAINMENT OFFERINGS

The Dolce Group, the Los Angeles-based restaurant and nightlife company, presents a distinguished take on an American classic: Ten Pin Alley. Located in Atlantic Station, Ten Pin Alley is a sophisticated bowling alley, ultra-exclusive lounge and American-themed eatery with a vintage feel; it's a three-level multiplex boasting twelve total bowling lanes, three billiards rooms, and a distinguished menu of innovative fare, plus a cocktail lounge where local and nationally known DJs spin popular music from many eras.

Ten Pin Alley marks the second establishment from the Dolce Group to open in Atlantic Station. Dolce Enoteca opened in November and is located beneath Ten Pin Alley, and Geisha House will open across the street this spring.

Lonnie Moore, partner of The Dolce Group, calls the Ten Pin Alley concept an adult playground, "offering entertainment on multiple levels under one roof in Atlantic Station. We took the traditional concept of a bowling alley and lounge and made it classy...to make Ten Pin Alley cater to the refined Atlantan who wants to have a good time.?

Ten Pin Alley is open Ten Pin Alley also hosts special events all of kinds. To book your private party at Ten Pin Alley, or for hours or additional information, click here. Ten Pin Alley guests must be 21 years of age or older.

[gttx]

They had the first rendering I've seen so far of the arch. Very classical, could almost be in Nimes

http://jolomo.net/atlanta/pics/AS-arch.png

How are the existing statues going to relate to this?

I really like this. The double colonnade is reminiscent of Bernini's Piazza San Pietro, only without the size, power, grandeur, majesty, charm, brilliance, religious significance, and history of the original. I can accept the dumbed-down version, I suppose; it's not like there's any good classical architecture in Rome to emulate, anyway... :rolleyes:

[daharris80]

They had the first rendering I've seen so far of the arch. Very classical, could almost be in Nimes

http://jolomo.net/atlanta/pics/AS-arch.png

How are the existing statues going to relate to this?
If this is the first rendering you have seen of the monument you really should check out the National Monuments Foundation page (http://www.thenmf.org/projects.htm).

[Fiorenza]

Looks like an arch piggybacked on top of a piazza. That would be a joke. I hope they remain with the original rendering, although the setting is bad in any case.

As my dad used to say, it's going to look real Atlanta.

I really wish I didn't have to be so negative.

[Andrea]

Looks like an arch piggybacked on top of a piazza. That would be a joke. I hope they remain with the original rendering, although the setting is bad in any case.

As my dad used to say, it's going to look real Atlanta.

I really wish I didn't have to be so negative.

It is incredibly goofy looking. It's a good thing we Atlantans have thick skins, because I don't think it's going to be pretty when the rest of the world finds out about this.

It's really kind of a shame because something like this might be cool in one of our parks.

[Broccoli]

I personally like the steel mill memorabilia and feel it's a lot more fitting...

This Millenium Gate belongs, as others have said, at the entrance to a park or something. Not the entrance to some condos, apartments, and an Ikea. :shrug:

[atl2phx]

looks like something you'd find in disney paris. :( does anyone know what the materials are....stone vs. stucco?

[Terminus]

Looks like an arch piggybacked on top of a piazza. That would be a joke. I hope they remain with the original rendering, although the setting is bad in any case.

As my dad used to say, it's going to look real Atlanta.

I really wish I didn't have to be so negative.

You clearly do not understand the design. From the street you will not see the piazza. It will be at-grade with the adjacent street.

And I disagree about the Atlanta comment - "real Atlanta" would be made of EIFS, surrounded by a parking lot and knock-off bag kiosks, and, of course, with a giant Coca-Cola sign across the top.

Say what you will about context, but the project itself is classy.