Cheshire Bridge 

Cheshire Bridge is a neighborhood just above Piedmont Heights that’s home to several LGBTQ+-owned and -loved businesses – and after being struck by misfortune in 2021, the area is finally coming back to life. 

In November 2021, a large fire broke out under a bridge on Cheshire Bridge Road near I-285, only months after another bridge on the same road was severely damaged by fire. No one was injured, but a section of road between Woodland Avenue and Faulkner Road was closed to all traffic until October 2023, when one lane in both directions was finally opened. While local businesses in the area took a toll, the LGBTQ+ businesses in the area are back on their feet after the bridge’s full reopening in May 2024. 

The neighborhood is home to The Colonnade, a favorite among gay Atlanta. The gays mingle with the grays at this Atlanta landmark of Southern food served up the way you want it. Mama’s Cocina Latina is also a great spot for Mexican food. 

For a fun time, make sure you stop by Tokyo Valentino Erotique, an iconic Atlanta landmark touting the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995. 

If you want to enjoy Cheshire Bridge’s LGBTQ+ nightlife mainstays, visit BJ Roosters, a friendly neighborhood gay bar that features pool, darts, videos, and an eclectic handful of go-go boys, and The Heretic, the perfect spot to go if you’re looking to dance with a mix of shirtless and light leather crowds. You’ll find a diverse mix on weekends with heavy beats from guest DJs from around the country. 

Fun facts

  1. As the first southbound exit on I-85 in the non-dry Fulton County, Cheshire Bridge became a magnet for liquor stores and bars because northern Georgia outlawed alcohol. 
  2. The Colonnade has been a local favorite restaurant since 1927. 
  3. Cheshire Bridge was the home to Sweet Gum Head, which was once the leading drag bar in the South. 
  4. Cheshire Bridge is the result of Captain Cheshire’s two sons, Napoleon and Jerome, building two farms and a small bridge to connect them. 
  5. Cheshire Bridge is home to the Cheshire Farm Trail, which was named after Captain Hezekiah Cheshire, a captain from the War of 1812.

Reports from the staff of Georgia Voice.