"Darren Carr and Eric Simpkins open the Waiting Room this winter in the former Top Flr space above the duo’s restaurant Bon Ton. Here, Carr and Simpkins hope to fill a void on the Atlanta drinks scene, one that sees the Waiting Room become a place for people to grab cocktails, hang out, and even listen to live music without the need to order food. The space oozes 1970s throwback vibes, complete with red shag carpet, bucket and panton-style chairs, and DayGlo lighting. As for drinks, those could include everything from funky takes on classics to large format drinks served in decanters meant for sharing. Food will also be slightly over-the-top, Carr says, leaning “grandiose and maybe ridiculous”, fitting the tongue-in-cheek vibe of the Midtown cocktail bar." - Beth McKibben