Ponce City Market announced the opening of La Cueva, a slot canyon speakeasy and restaurant from Co-Founders Robert Hopper, owner and founder of The Commodore, a local barbershop which just opened its fifth location at Ponce City Market, and Peter Terrones.
Guests will enter through a narrow, rugged stone passageway on the second floor of the food hall, illuminated with warm, glowing light and emerge into a dimly lit cave with echoes of Latin rhythm and spirit. Designed by Maison Maluee, the 2,700-square-foot space is intended as a fusion of modern sophistication and the mystique of a classic speakeasy, looking to evoke a dark and immersive atmosphere where time feels suspended.
Seventy-five seats are distributed between plush lounge areas, an inviting bar and a versatile side section that can be transformed into a private enclave for intimate gatherings. A small stage will serve as the heart of the space, welcoming live musical performances and DJs nightly.
“We set out to create a place that is transportive and full of possibility,” said Hopper. “La Cueva is designed to feel like a discovery, and we’re excited for guests to experience that sense of possibility and curiosity when they step into La Cueva.”
The bar will be open six nights a week. The beverage program will be led by Bar Lead Francis Coligado and Beverage Director Alexander Holender. Lima-born, Holender specializes in pisco and mezcal and is the Co-Founder of Barsetters, an Atlanta-based premium bar-station design and manufacturing firm.
The bar menu will feature extensive mezcal offerings, creative cocktails, wine, and beer. Consulting Chef Luis Damian – who is behind Atlanta-area Mexican restaurants Oaxaca in Chamblee, El Valle in Midtown and Casa Balam, a 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best New Restaurant, in Decatur – will present a menu with Mexican botanas and larger dishes for sharing.
“Ponce City Market is built around experiences, and La Cueva adds an exciting new layer that our guests find intriguing,” said Adam Schwegman, Head of Retail Leasing at Jamestown. “Rob, Peter, and their whole team have created something that completely transports you to another place, and we’re thrilled to see it come to life at the property.”
