Top 5 Live Music Venues in the North Metro

You’re now just one cocktail or cup of coffee away from some of the best local sounds around. North-metro restaurants, pubs, and coffeehouses are becoming quite the touchtone for music lovers who would just as soon relax on a patio with a beer and a band than make the trek towards the big ATL crowds. I’ve compiled a list of some of the places that I think stand out in this capacity: these are the local hangouts that produce local flavor and local music in a casual, hometown atmosphere.

1. Pure Taqueria in Downtown Woodstock

The rooftop terrace of Pure is a great place to grab one of their signature margaritas, watch the sun set over downtown Woodstock, and listen to some acoustical tunes. Sidenote: The balcony can get pretty lively (read: raucous) as the night wears on, so people watching is also a prime source of entertainment.  The rooftop hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 5-11, and  Thursday-Sunday, 11-11.  Visit their Facebook fan page or call 770-952-PURE for information on the upcoming bands.

2. The Woodstock Coffee House in Woodstock

You would expect that with coffee drinks and cafe fare named after the likes of Dylan, Marley, and the Rolling Stones, the Woodstock Coffee House would have a special reverence for music, and they don’t disappoint. Giving Mondays a new reason to be, the WCH hosts an open mic night that attracts stellar local talent from 7-10 p.m. They also host live music EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT from 8-10 p.m. Check out their Facebook Fan Page or call 770-928-2901 with any questions.

3. The Downtown Kitchen in Canton

Zack Kell’s Canton restaurant Downtown Kitchen is becoming known all over Cherokee County for more than their delicious steak dinners. The second floor of the restaurant, with its full bar and exposed brick walls, is the perfect venue to enjoy some live music in a historic setting. The bands range nicely in both style and age, so be sure to check their website calendar and Facebook fan page to see some of your favorites.

4. Land of a Thousand Hills in Roswell

A coffeehouse whose slogan is “Drink Coffee, Do Good,” Land of a Thousand Hills is as much “great cause” and “great coffee.” They have been featured on CNN for their efforts to help Rwandan genocide survivors by offering small farmers a just living wage for their Arabica beans, and they also extend micro-loans to Rwandan women entrepreneurs. The coffee they serve is roasted locally in Roswell and offers a freshness beyond compare. Live music is held here every Friday and Saturday night from 8-10 p.m. and ranges from jazz to acoustic covers and more.

5. The Right Wing Tavern in Downtown Woodstock

Located in the historic train depot in downtown Woodstock, the Right Wing Tavern is the local watering hole for thirsty (and hungry) townies. Owner Jamey Snyder is always posting daily Facebook specials, so make sure you check them out before you head over. With beer pong tournaments on the back deck and scheduled Dirty Hippy, Left-Wing Music Night, it’s a great place to hang out, no matter what your politics are looking like these days.