Top Jukebox Bars In Atlanta

Let’s go back to a simpler time–a time when cars had fins, television was in black and white and music wasn’t played on iPods, but by large boxes in the corners of restaurants and bars. Coin-operated jukeboxes were all the rage in the 50s and 60s. During this period, three-quarters of all records produced were made for jukeboxes. Originally made of wood, jukeboxes eventually became thought of as works of art as lights and color animation were added to the metal and plastic jukeboxes of the rock and roll music era. There are still jukeboxes around, some vintage models that still play vinyl, and some new models that play CDs and digital music files. Here’s where you can become a “Jukebox Hero” in Atlanta.

Lucky’s Burger and Brew
1144 Alpharetta St.
Roswell, GA 30075
(770) 518-5695
www.luckysburgerandbrew.com

Jukebox cost: 50 cents per song
Hours: Mon to Thur -12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fri and Sat – 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Sun – 12:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Lucky’s has an old time burger joint feel to it, but with a modern menu and a very modern jukebox. Selections on the menu include just about every type of burger you can imagine plus a choice of french fries or tater tots. How great is that? Multiple televisions let you watch your favorite sporting event and a modern internet-connected jukebox will play just about any song ever recorded.

The Local
758 Ponce de Leon Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30306
(404) 873-5002

Jukebox cost: 50 cents per song
Hours: Mon. to Sat. – 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sun 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.

The Local a “dive bar,” but it is also so much more. If you like great burgers, wings and chicken tenders you’ve come to the right place. A variety of cold drinks from the bar make this the perfect place to start your evening off at. You’ll be taken care of by a great staff and you can play with the internet jukebox that will play everything from ABBA to Zac Brown Band. The Local is a must-visit for a great music scene.

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The Earl
488 Flat Shoals Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30316
(404) 522-3950
badearl.com

Jukebox cost: 50 cents per song
Hours:  Mon to Sat – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sun – 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m.

The Earl is the hot spot on the east side of Atlanta. With a menu that makes your mouth drool and some of the best regional and national bands performing, The Earl is an Atlanta jewel. When the music isn’t live, you can rev up the vintage jukebox and fill the room with your favorite music. Don’t pass up the opportunity to try some sweet potato fries, an Earl Dog and a PBR. It’s Southern music and food at its best.

Gibney’s
231 Peachtree Center Suite A-07
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 688-0928
www.gibneyspub.com

Jukebox cost: 50 cents per song
Hours: Mon to Sat – 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., Sun – 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Gibney’s may be the most unique bar in Downtown Atlanta. It’s located in the Peachtree Center Mall and attracts regulars and convention goers. Locals call it a little bit of rural Ireland, set in the middle of bustling Atlanta. Try a Guinness or a tasty Prangster Belgian Ale at the bar. Couple it with a filling Shepard’s Pie or one of the delicious appetizers. The house jukebox is always rocking a variety of hits and old country classics. Gibney’s is a great pub and more in the heart of Atlanta.

Sidebar
79 Poplar St.
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 588-1850
www.sidebaratlanta.com

Jukebox cost: 50 cents per song.
Hours: Mon to Wed – 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., Thur to Sat – 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sun – 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Sidebar is a neighborhood bar that is frequently overlooked, but it is frequented by locals, college students and downtown workers. There are always wing and beer specials at Sidebar so bring your friends and recharge your batteries or just hang out. Sidebar is know for the best Cuban sandwiches in Atlanta and a jukebox that rocks the hits from the 70s, 80s and today. Sidebar is one of the best deals in Downtown Atlanta, so check it out.

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Rick Limpert is a freelance writer/photographer in Atlanta. His work can be found at Examiner.com.