Atlanta is a city that never fails to surprise me when it comes to food. I’ve made it a personal mission to explore not just its savory cuisine, but also its vibrant world of sweets and desserts. From artisanal chocolate shops to quirky candy stores and bakeries, Atlanta offers a variety of sugary delights that are worth the trip alone. In my experience, nothing complements a day of sightseeing like finding the perfect dessert, savoring it slowly, and sometimes even taking a few treats home as sweet souvenirs.
During my recent culinary adventures, I visited five standout establishments in Atlanta. Each one offered a unique experience, signature dishes or candies, and, in some cases, little-known tips that every dessert lover should know. I’m excited to share these experiences with you, along with practical details like pricing, locations, reservations, and my personal impressions.
- King of Pops
Location & Ambiance
Nestled in the Virginia Highland neighborhood at 1035 N Highland Ave NE, King of Pops is more than just a popsicle shop; it’s an Atlanta institution. The colorful, hand-painted popsicle cart caught my eye immediately, and stepping inside felt like entering a world of playful, artisanal sweets.
Signature Treats
King of Pops specializes in gourmet popsicles made from high-quality ingredients. During my visit, I tried:
• The Cookies and Cream Pop – $3.50. Creamy, rich, with generous chunks of real cookie.
• Strawberry Basil Pop – $3.50. The freshness of the basil paired with sweet strawberry was unexpectedly delightful.
• Chocolate Sea Salt Pop – $3.75. A perfect balance of bitter and sweet, with a subtle salty kick.
My Personal Experience
I spent the afternoon walking around Virginia Highland, savoring the popsicles while people-watching. The staff was incredibly friendly, explaining the flavor rotation and suggesting seasonal specialties. I left with a mini pack of popsicles for home, a perfect sweet souvenir for friends.
Tips:
• They don’t take reservations, so visiting early is best during weekends.
• Seasonal flavors rotate frequently; I recommend checking their Instagram before visiting.
• Parking is limited, but street parking nearby is usually available.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Location & Ambiance
I stumbled upon Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Ponce City Market, located at 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE. The store itself is bright, modern, and has a minimalist design, which makes the vibrant ice cream flavors pop visually.
Signature Treats
Jeni’s is known for inventive, sometimes unconventional flavors:
• Brambles & Brambleberry – $5 per scoop. Sweet, tangy, with a smooth texture.
• Brown Butter Almond Brittle – $5 per scoop. Nutty and caramelized, almost like dessert in every bite.
• Darkest Chocolate – $5 per scoop. Intense, rich, and perfect for chocolate lovers.
My Personal Experience
I indulged in a double scoop of Brambles & Brambleberry and Darkest Chocolate. The ice cream was luxuriously creamy — unlike anything I had tasted in a traditional shop. I also purchased a pint to take home. It lasted only a day because my family was equally impressed!
Tips:
• No reservations are needed; the store operates on a first-come-first-serve basis.
• Their Ponce City Market location is perfect if you want to combine shopping with dessert.
• A pint for takeaway costs around $14–$16.
- Savannah’s Candy Kitchen
Location & Ambiance
Located in downtown Atlanta at 260 Peachtree St NE, Savannah’s Candy Kitchen is a wonderland of candy and nostalgia. The moment I stepped in, I felt like a kid in a candy store — literally. The walls are lined with bins of handmade candies, fudge, and chocolates, making it impossible not to sample a little of everything.
Signature Treats
• Saltwater Taffy – $1.50 each or $15 per pound. Chewy, flavorful, and perfect for mixing flavors.
• Pecan Pralines – $3.25 each. Sweet, nutty, and creamy, a classic Southern treat.
• Gourmet Fudge – $5 per slice. I chose the chocolate walnut, which was decadently rich.
My Personal Experience
I spent nearly an hour tasting different candies, taking notes for future visits. I left with a small gift box for friends, which included pralines and taffy. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen has that old-school charm — you feel like you’re part of a long-standing tradition in Atlanta.
Tips:
• Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
• Cash and cards accepted; gift boxes are available if you plan to bring souvenirs home.
• Ask for samples — the staff are generous and helpful.
- Highland Bakery
Location & Ambiance
Highland Bakery has several locations, but I visited the one on 655 Highland Ave NE. It’s a cozy space with rustic décor and large windows that invite natural light, perfect for sitting down and enjoying a leisurely breakfast or dessert.
Signature Treats
• Red Velvet Cake – $6 per slice. Moist, rich, and a true indulgence.
• Cinnamon Roll – $4.50. Soft, warm, and smothered in a creamy glaze.
• Homemade Cookies – $2.50 each. I tried the triple chocolate chip, which was perfectly chewy.
My Personal Experience
I had a red velvet slice and a cinnamon roll with a cappuccino. The flavors were comforting, reminding me of home-baked treats but elevated to a café-quality level. I noticed many locals coming in regularly, which is always a good sign of quality.
Tips:
• Parking is available on the street; weekend mornings can get busy.
• The bakery offers catering and pre-orders for special events.
• Some locations accept online orders through their website for takeout.
- Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters + Dessert Selection
Location & Ambiance
I found this gem in Midtown Atlanta, at 196 14th St NE. While Batdorf & Bronson is primarily a coffee roaster, their dessert selection is impressive. The interior is chic, industrial, and comfortable — perfect for an afternoon break.
Signature Treats
• Salted Caramel Brownie – $5.50. Dense, fudgy, with a subtle salty edge.
• Lemon Lavender Shortbread – $4.50. Light, delicate, and fragrant.
• Seasonal Fruit Tart – $6.00. Bursting with fresh local fruits.
My Personal Experience
I paired the salted caramel brownie with a pour-over coffee, and it was heavenly. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable about their coffee and dessert pairings, enhancing the overall experience. I spent nearly an hour savoring flavors while reading a travel guide, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.
Tips:
• Reservations aren’t needed; it’s a walk-in café.
• Desserts change seasonally, so check their social media for updates.
• Takeaway is available for all desserts, perfect if you’re planning a sweet picnic or want to bring treats home.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta’s Dessert Scene
- Timing Matters – Many dessert shops are busiest in the late afternoon or on weekends. Arrive early if you want to avoid lines.
- Cash vs. Card – Most shops accept credit cards, but smaller candy stores might prefer cash. Always good to have a little on hand.
- Takeaway & Souvenirs – Consider buying a gift box or take-home pack. Many of these places have beautifully packaged treats perfect for gifts.
- Seasonal Flavors – Atlanta dessert spots often rotate flavors seasonally. Check social media or websites to plan around your favorite tastes.
- Dietary Considerations – Some shops offer vegan or gluten-free options; ask staff for details if needed.
Savoring Sweet Memories in Atlanta
Exploring Atlanta through its desserts has been one of the most delightful aspects of my travels. Each shop has a unique personality, from the playful popsicles at King of Pops to the nostalgic candies at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen. Sampling these treats is more than just tasting sugar; it’s a way to connect with the city’s vibrant culture, meet passionate local artisans, and uncover hidden culinary gems that many visitors overlook.
What strikes me most about Atlanta’s dessert scene is its creativity. The chefs and candy makers here aren’t just following trends—they’re experimenting with bold flavors, pairing unexpected ingredients, and transforming simple sweets into memorable experiences. I still remember the subtle hint of basil in the Strawberry Basil pop at King of Pops, or the almost sinful richness of the Darkest Chocolate at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Moments like these are why I always carve out time for desserts in every city I visit; they tell a story about local taste, tradition, and innovation.
Another aspect I love is how desserts in Atlanta are not just for indulgence—they’re social experiences. I’ve watched families laughing over pralines at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, friends taking photos of their oversized cinnamon rolls at Highland Bakery, and couples savoring brownies paired with artisanal coffee at Batdorf & Bronson. Desserts bring people together, and Atlanta’s spots are particularly good at making that connection feel authentic.
For those planning a visit, here are some additional tips from my personal experience:
• Plan a Dessert Crawl: If you’re staying in central Atlanta, it’s possible to visit 3–4 dessert spots in a single day without feeling rushed. Start at King of Pops or Highland Bakery in the morning, hit Ponce City Market for Jeni’s in the afternoon, and finish with Savannah’s Candy Kitchen or Batdorf & Bronson in the evening.
• Pairing Drinks with Desserts: Many of these locations offer coffee, tea, or specialty drinks that elevate the tasting experience. I found pairing the salted caramel brownie at Batdorf & Bronson with a pour-over coffee to be a game-changer.
• Photograph Your Sweets: Atlanta’s desserts are not just delicious—they’re visually stunning. Taking photos isn’t just about social media; it’s about capturing memories of flavors and experiences that will stay with you long after your trip.
• Takeaways Are Worth It: Several shops offer beautifully packaged candies and baked goods, perfect for gifts or just to relive the experience later. I always grab a few souvenirs to share with friends and family—it’s a little piece of Atlanta that lasts longer than a day.
• Engage with the Staff: The people behind the counters are often the most passionate about their craft. Ask them about their favorite flavors, the story behind seasonal treats, or insider tips for the best combinations. Their enthusiasm is infectious and adds another layer to the experience.
Atlanta’s dessert scene is a reminder that travel isn’t only about sightseeing—it’s about savoring moments. Each bite I took felt like a small celebration of the city itself. The joy of discovering a hidden candy shop tucked into a quiet street, the surprise of a flavor I never expected, the simple pleasure of sharing a dessert with friends or family—these are the moments that make a trip unforgettable.
Atlanta’s sweets are more than just food—they’re a cultural expression, a memory maker, and a reason to wander the city with your taste buds wide open. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for a romantic afternoon, indulging in Atlanta’s dessert scene is an experience I can’t recommend enough. Each shop tells its own story, and together they paint a delicious portrait of a city that is endlessly creative, welcoming, and indulgent.
Next time you wander the streets of Atlanta, don’t just pass by the bakeries or candy stores. Step inside, taste, savor, and maybe take a sweet souvenir home. Because in Atlanta, desserts aren’t just treats—they’re memories waiting to be made.
Atlanta has a rhythm of its own, and the dessert scene captures it perfectly—warm, innovative, and unforgettable. And as a seasoned traveler who’s sampled desserts around the globe, I can honestly say: the sweetness of Atlanta will stay with you long after the trip ends.
