As nearly any resident or well-seasoned visitor might tell you, Atlanta’s Cheshire Bridge Road could very well be the city’s own red-light district. Whether you’re gay or straight, there are ample choices for getting wild. Strip clubs and lingerie shops where curvaceous girlies take it all off for drooling dudes, porn shops and adult toy stores, a notorious motel, gay strip clubs, gay bars and dance clubs, offices, medical clinics, antique stores, family-friendly restaurants, and more blend into a delicious stew of sex, alcohol, business, and great food.
Perhaps among the most popular food and drink destinations on this unique street is ROXX Tavern. This diner and bar has long been a mainstay in Atlanta’s gay community not only for its menu and libations, but for its comfortable, attitude-free vibe as well.
Dean Chronopoulos has been the owner and chef at ROXX since it opened its doors in 2000.
“ROXX prides itself as the place to where your food is cooked-to-order, drinks are cold, service is friendly, it’s easy on your wallet and, most importantly, you can be yourself.”
Being yourself is a trait that Atlanta’s gay folk pursue, and when they first discovered ROXX, they found a place they could call home.
“ROXX was originated and opened for the GLBT community,” said Chronopoulos. “What is heartwarming is the reception we received. From the very beginning, the community welcomed us with open arms, for which we will be forever grateful.”
Because Cheshire Bridge Road has a high concentration of gay-owned establishments nestled among its diverse offerings, it’s “one of the most eclectic, warm, and sociable streets in Atlanta,” Chronopoulos said. “What a great spot for a restaurant that shares its same characteristics.”
“ROXX has the proud distinction and the honor of being the gayest restaurant and tavern in Atlanta. The great food and drinks are not the only comforting feature of ROXX. ROXX is the place where you can bring your friends and loved ones, hug, hold hands, and kiss, and there is never an awkward moment because the rest of dining room or patio is occupied with the GLBT community. ROXX is the place where you can relax and feel happy being yourself. ROXX has the privilege of continuously receiving accolades as being the best gay-friendly restaurant in Atlanta.”
Chronopoulos continues to be grateful for the overwhelmingly positive reception and accolades his creation has received from its inception.
“There are many times where a gay couple would stop and thank us for allowing the GLBT community to be part of ROXX. Our response is that we are the ones who appreciate being part of the community. ROXX would not exist without the GLBT community, and we are grateful for every single person who shares their dining, stories, and laughter with us.”
Because ROXX is now such an integral part of the community, it’s also an unofficial meeting place for many local GLBT organizations, which flock to it and hold meetings, special events, and fundraisers there. But Chronopoulos and his staff are not to be outdone in hosting their own events.
“The largest and most special event we host every year is during Pride weekend. Who doesn’t celebrate Pride at ROXX?”
Roxx Tavern is located at 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd. NE
You can find Roxx Tavern online at www.roxxfanclub.com
