Ideal Music and Food Combos Abound In Alpharetta

Famed trumpet player Harry James once said, “Next to jazz music, there is nothing that lifts the spirit and strengthens the soul more than a good bowl of chili.” Even if jazz and chili aren’t your all-time favorites, the sentiment that food and music are the simple pleasures that most engage our senses (fill the soul, if you will) rings true. Fortunately, Alpharetta is filled with both—live music galore courtesy of several venues and over 200 eateries designed to boost your mood.

Imagine for a moment grabbing a slice of heaven in the form of a cheesy, perfectly sauced pizza from Minnie Olivia Pizzeria (where Calabrian chilis kick things up several notches), then heading over to Matilda’s Under the Pines for effortlessly cool backyard vibes featuring live tunes on a downhome stage. Just the right amount of hipster kitsch keeps Matilda’s feeling super authentic, and the cozy set up means there’s truly never a bad seat in the house. Insider tip: Get the pizza to go, bring a blanket, and set up a next-level date night under the stars while Matilda’s hosts musical guests from all over the place. Talk about scoring major cool points with your special someone…

If you’re jonesing for more of a classic combination, start the night off at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Alpharetta for expertly prepared steak, a gorgeous wine list, and the most decadent flourless chocolate cake available anywhere. After you’ve wined and dined, step into the wistful allure of live jazz at Alpharetta’s premier “Acoustic Living Room,” The Velvet Note. Dreamy riffs and craft cocktails are always on offer at this top 100 jazz club. Here, dancing is not just encouraged—it’s essential.

Finally, if you’re feeling something a little louder, create a solid base for yourself by starting the night off with the upscale tavern eats available at Central City Tavern. Start with a shareable snack like the downright addictive hand-cut tavern fries, then graduate to a hearty Signature Pork Skillet (trust us on the Cola-BBQ) as your main attraction. Speaking of main attractions… you’ll find the brightest stars illuminating the stage at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. Go big on the fun factor at this epic outdoor venue (ahem, a 12,000-capacity live music mecca boasting gorgeous greenery and state-of-the-art jumbo screens) with a 2020 lineup featuring Styx with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Kesha, Sam Hunt, Brad Paisley, Disturbed, Dave Matthews Band, and so much more. From pop stars and country music crooners and bangers to bands you’ve been obsessed with since college, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre has the best in every genre live and ready to rock your world this year.