Why This Downtown Atlanta Pizzeria Is a Prime Investment Ahead of FIFA 2026 | Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate
- Jimmy Carey
- Jun 28
- 6 min read
Updated: Jun 29
As Atlanta prepares to take the global stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026, savvy investors and restaurateurs are looking closely at one of the city's most high-potential neighborhoods: Downtown Atlanta. Already a nexus of tourism, higher education, transit, and sports, this area is undergoing a transformation that will redefine its commercial and culinary landscape. And nestled right in the heart of it all is a rare opportunity: SLICE Pizzeria, a fully equipped, turnkey restaurant now available for sale.
This blog will explore why this particular listing, marketed by Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate, is more than just a restaurant for sale. It's a strategic investment positioned for maximum exposure, immediate operational capability, and long-term growth in a market poised for a global spotlight.
Why Downtown Atlanta Is the Perfect Home for a Pizzeria Investment
Downtown Atlanta Demographics and Spending Power
Downtown Atlanta is already home to more than 15,000 residents, with a demographic skewing notably young and educated. Roughly 40% of residents are aged 18 to 24, and another 19% fall in the 25 to 34 age range. This high concentration of university students and young professionals fuels constant demand for quick-service and casual dining options. The median household income is approximately $70,700, and nearly one-third of residents have bachelor’s degrees or higher, indicating strong consumer spending power and an appetite for diverse food experiences.
The location benefits from being in close proximity to major Atlanta landmarks: Georgia State University, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the State Capitol, and MARTA's Five Points hub. South Downtown, where SLICE is located, is also seeing massive redevelopment momentum, most notably from the $5 billion Centennial Yards mixed-use project.
Foot traffic is further driven by year-round events, tourism, and hotel density, making Downtown Atlanta one of the most walkable and vibrant commercial areas in the Southeast.
FIFA 2026: Massive Impact for Downtown Atlanta Pizzerias
Global Event, Local Foot Traffic Surge
Atlanta will be one of the 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has been selected to host eight matches, including a semi-final at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. These matches will attract hundreds of thousands of domestic and international visitors to the area, with Downtown serving as the epicenter of the fan experience.
Conservative estimates project over $500 million in direct economic impact, while broader regional forecasts suggest over $1 billion in benefit across sectors. Restaurants, in particular, are expected to see enormous spikes in foot traffic, group dining, and brand exposure.
City-wide infrastructure improvements are already underway, including streetscape enhancements, security systems, and stadium renovations—all of which will make the area more accessible, more attractive, and more profitable.
Positioning your restaurant to open or expand in this window isn't just smart; it’s essential. Want broader insight into industry trends shaping the Atlanta restaurant scene? Check out our comprehensive 2025 industry trends guide.
SLICE Pizzeria in Downtown Atlanta: Built for Foot Traffic, Designed for Flexibility
SLICE is not just another pizza joint. It’s a fully built-out restaurant that has operated successfully for 18 years in one of Atlanta's highest foot-traffic corridors. Located steps from GSU and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the space features:
A full kitchen with 10-ft hood
Walk-in cooler
Fully equipped bar
Outdoor seating
Lease with $7,500/month rent
Asset sale structure (no financials disclosed)
Whether you want to keep the brand or rebrand it with your own concept, the infrastructure is already in place. That means no permits, no build-outs, and no delays—just a plug-and-play operation ready for FIFA 2026 crowds.
Explore full listing details here: SLICE Pizzeria for Sale – Downtown Atlanta
Interior and equipment highlights of a fully equipped, turnkey pizzeria just steps from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and GSU. Listed by Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate — Atlanta Restaurant Business Broker.
Interior and equipment highlights of a fully equipped, turnkey pizzeria just steps from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and GSU. Listed by Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate — Atlanta Restaurant Business Broker.
Why an Asset Sale in Downtown Atlanta Makes Sense for 2025
Fast Track to Market Ahead of FIFA
Asset sales are one of the most strategic ways to enter the restaurant market, especially in a fast-moving urban district like Downtown Atlanta. You avoid the time-consuming and expensive build-out process, inherit an existing lease, and begin operations with immediate brand visibility.
Check out this quick video: Save Big on Startup Costs
Compared to starting from scratch, buying a restaurant like SLICE reduces:
Construction costs
Equipment investments
Permitting delays
And in a timing-sensitive window like FIFA 2026, every month counts. Asset sales let you be operational before the first World Cup visitor even steps into Atlanta. Curious about owning a turnkey restaurant vs starting fresh? Review the benefits in our post: Pros & Cons of Buying an Existing Restaurant.
Learn more in our blog: What Is a Restaurant Asset Sale?
Location Strategy: Why This Downtown Atlanta Corner Matters
A Slice of the Right Street Makes All the Difference
Not all Downtown addresses are created equal. Choosing the right street matters more than ever. Explore how FIFA 2026 will impact Downtown Atlanta restaurants and prime location strategies in this detailed breakdown on selecting the right spot. SLICE’s location offers visibility, accessibility, and volume. You're not just near the action; you're embedded in it.
See this video on location insights: How to Choose the Right Restaurant Location
A few advantages:
Walkable to major venues
High daytime density from nearby offices & universities
Steady evening traffic from tourists, concerts, and sports
South Downtown is currently undergoing the type of revitalization that creates long-term value for restaurant operators. Get in before the market prices adjust post-FIFA.
Trust the Leading Restaurant Business Broker in Georgia
With over 37 years of hands-on restaurant and hospitality experience, Jimmy Carey is more than a broker—he's a former restaurateur who speaks your language. As the founder of Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate and a member of Coldwell Banker Commercial Metro Brokers, he brings unmatched expertise in:
Asset sales
Restaurant leasing
Confidential business transfers
Landlord and tenant representation
Learn more about Jimmy here: Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate Team
He is bilingual (English/Spanish), an IBBA member, and one of Georgia’s most trusted names in restaurant brokerage.
For Restaurant Buyers and Sellers in Downtown Atlanta
Buyers: Prepare financials, review lease terms, and sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). This is a confidential sale. Do not visit or contact the location directly.
Sellers: Work with a broker who understands kitchen equipment, lease structuring, and hospitality value. Timing is critical in 2025 and 2026—your window to sell high may be now.
Internal Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying Restaurants in Downtown Atlanta
Q1: Is this a good time to buy a restaurant in Downtown Atlanta?
A: Yes. With FIFA 2026 approaching and major investments flooding the area, it's one of the best times to secure a prime location and benefit from projected spikes in traffic and sales.
Q2: What is an asset sale and why is it beneficial?
A: An asset sale allows buyers to acquire the equipment, fixtures, and lease rights without the liabilities of the business. It’s faster, more affordable, and ideal for entrepreneurs wanting to open quickly.
Q3: Can I convert the space to a different concept?
A: Absolutely. SLICE can be kept as a pizzeria or converted to any other restaurant concept thanks to its fully built-out infrastructure.
Q4: Do I need restaurant experience to buy this business?
A: Experience is preferred but not mandatory. However, strong financials and a solid business plan will help when negotiating with landlords.
Q5: Who should I contact for more details?
A: Jimmy Carey is the listing broker. You can reach him at jimmy@jimmycareycre.com or (305) 788-8207.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss This Downtown Atlanta Opportunity
FIFA 2026 isn’t just a sports event—it’s a real estate and business accelerator. Downtown Atlanta will never be the same again. If you’re a restaurateur, investor, or operator looking to own a piece of that transformation, SLICE is your chance.
Lock in your footprint now before the wave hits.
📄 Download the PDF Flyer
For a full summary of the SLICE Pizzeria listing including photos, kitchen specs, and business details, download the official marketing flyer:
Explore More Expert Resources from Jimmy Carey Commercial Real Estate
Looking to deepen your knowledge before buying or selling your next restaurant? These expert blogs offer insights straight from Georgia’s leading restaurant business broker:
🔍 What Is a Restaurant Asset Sale? Why It’s the Smartest Move for Restaurateurs in 2025
📍 The Secret Recipe for Choosing the Perfect Restaurant Location
🧠 The Pros and Cons of Buying an Existing Restaurant: What to Consider
💵 Show Me the Money: Why Proof of Funds Is Crucial for Restaurant Brokers and Sellers
🗺️ E2 Visa and Restaurants: A Pathway to U.S. Business Ownership
🏢 Restaurant Owners in Atlanta: Should You Lease or Buy? Which Strategy Maximizes Growth?
Contact Jimmy Carey
Restaurant Business Broker
📱 (305) 788-8207
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