One of Atlanta’s beloved spots, Mary Mac’s Tea Room, is celebrating its 80th anniversary. The celebration will take place on October 20, honoring the restaurant’s loyal guests.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room Celebrates 80 Years in Atlanta
Fondly known as ‘Atlanta’s Dining Room,’ Mary Mac’s is marking a huge milestone with its celebration on October 20. Mary Mac’s Tea Room is a historic landmark of Atlanta; with its comforting Southern flavors, it remains a local favorite gathering place.
Mary Mac’s is one of the few remaining restaurants founded by women in the post-World War II era, when many used formal names to establish credibility in the community.
Located on Ponce de Leon Avenue, Mary Mac’s Tea Room was founded in 1945, post-World War II. Since then, the cozy diner with 75 seats has now grown into a full-service bar and six dining rooms spread across 13,000 sq ft.
Over the past 80 years, Mary Mac’s has carried on the traditions of founder Mary MacKenzie and her successor Margaret Lupo, from baking desserts in-house to handwashing greens and preparing beans by hand.
Atlanta’s Dining Room Marks the Celebration with Giveaway
To celebrate the remarkable 80 years of service, every guest who purchases an entrée will receive a complimentary serving of the restaurant’s signature and classic Georgia peach cobbler on October 20.
The diner staff will also wear commemorative uniforms in honor of the tea room’s milestone. The restaurant recently completed a full renovation, updating its décor, freshening paint and carpets, and renewing its focus on Southern hospitality.
“Mary Mac’s has always been about family, tradition, and creating memories,” said Tina Leftwich, general manager of Mary Mac’s.
She further added, “For years, long waits were a byproduct of our success, but we’ve worked hard to make sure today’s guests can count on less waiting and more enjoying. The food will be delicious, the hospitality will be warm, and with certainty you’ll get a table on time.”
Legacy and Sweet Memories
Over the years, the diner has welcomed and served generations of Atlanta’s and globally famous guests, including the Dalai Lama, James Brown, Alan Jackson, the late President Jimmy Carter, and Congressman John Lewis.
For 80 years, Mary Mac’s has been a favorite for weeknight dinners and family celebrations alike. The spot is one of the first stops for visitors to Atlanta.
The State of Georgia has officially recognized Mary Mac’s as ‘Atlanta’s Dining Room’ for its lasting legacy and traditions.
