After going to the Jimmy Carter presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, we stopped for lunch at the famous Manuel’s Tavern just down the road.

This restaurant and bar has been run by the Maloof family since it opened in 1956. They pride themselves on being a place that welcomes everyone- where, according to their website, “one can find, at any given time, a broad cross-section of American culture rubbing elbows at the bar, discussing the news item of the day, arguing the merits of a sports team, or espousing the idea of the century. Here a doctor, a plumber, a lawyer, an electrician, a student, a journalist, a salesman, a politician, or a construction worker can feel comfortable–accepted for who they are, known by their name or what they drink.” According to our server, David, since the place opened it has also been racially integrated, with Manuel refusing to follow Jim Crow laws of segregation.

Manuel became deeply involved in Democratic politics in Atlanta and Georgia. His political career dovetailed with the Tavern, which he said let him listen to the man on the street. He passed away in August of 2004. Still, he is fondly referred to as the “Godfather” of Georgia Democratic politics.

The pictures on the wall attest to the fact that major political figures and celebrities regularly drop by the Tavern. President Obama stopped by to play a game of darts and President Jimmy Carter was a regular. It is also a place for the press to gather. During the 2022 Senate run off between Democrat Ralph Warnock and Republican Herschel Walker, Joy Reid, from MSNBC set up shop at Manuel’s Tavern to cover it.

If you find yourself in Atlanta, we recommend a visit to Manuel’s Tavern.