The Colonnade, recognized as Atlanta’s second-oldest restaurant, is preparing to mark its 100th anniversary with the release of a commemorative book. The publication is being developed in partnership with Ardmore Avenue Publishing and is expected to be available for pre-order in late 2026, ahead of the centennial celebration in 2027.
Established nearly a century ago, The Colonnade has operated on Chesire Bridge Road and has endured multiple significant events including changes in location, wars, fires, a pandemic, and several ownership transitions. The restaurant has served classic Southern dishes throughout its history and now aims to document its story through this upcoming book.
To collect material for the project, publisher and journalist Rich Eldredge of Ardmore Avenue, together with owners Paul Donahue and Lewis Jeffries, have launched a public Facebook group titled “Memories of Atlanta’s Colonnade.” The group invites patrons to share memories and photographs that may be included in the book.
In addition to online contributions, Ardmore Avenue Publishing plans to hold storyteller sessions at The Colonnade. During these events, guests will have an opportunity to share their experiences for possible inclusion in the centennial publication.
“As an Atlanta reporter, I’ve written about the iconic Colonnade many times through the years,” says Eldredge. “It’s also one of my favorite places in the city to meet up with friends for dinner. It’s an honor to collaborate with Lewis and Paul to finally tell The Colonnade’s fascinating story in book form as part of its centennial celebration.”
Ardmore Avenue’s chief creative officer and co-founder Paolo Aguila states: “By showcasing 100 years of archival images, along with guest and staff memories, plus The Colonnade’s unique history as a Hollywood movie location, our goal is to capture the fun of a night out at The Colonnade in a gorgeous commemorative coffee table book you’ll want to share with friends.”
Paul Donahue explains that he and co-owner Jeffries were regular customers for more than three decades before acquiring the restaurant in September 2024. “When Rich approached us with the idea of creating a book, we were moved,” Donahue says. “We never imagined that one day we’d have the privilege of preserving The Colonnade’s legacy ourselves.”
