Busy Bee Cafe to open second location in Atlantic Station

Driving the news: Busy Bee will open in a 4,000-square-foot space at Atlantic Station.

• The new restaurant will offer a dine-in option, which hasn't been available at the original Vine City location since the pandemic.
• It will also have a larger menu and patio seating.

What they're saying: Expanding was about "finding the right partner, place and moment to continue the Busy Bee legacy with care and intention," owner Tracy Gates said in a press release.

• "At Busy Bee, it's never just been about the food — it's about the feeling it brings," she said. "Every plate is a piece of our history, and we've worked hard to deliver that same comfort, joy and flavor every single time. We didn't chase the spotlight — we honored our roots, stayed true to the recipe and let the love speak for itself."

Catch up quick: The original location on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive has attracted notable guests over the years, including former President Barack Obama, former Vice President Kamala Harris, Oprah Winfrey and the late Anthony Bourdain.

• It was also a popular spot for King and fellow civil rights activist Hosea Williams.

What's next: Busy Bee's second location — 230 18th St. NW Suite 1110-A — is set to open in spring 2026 next to the shopping district's Atlantic Green.