Ten stories above Buckhead, The Tess, Autograph Collection, makes a compelling case for soaking up summer’s final moments on a rooftop.
Whether you’re watching the skyline fade from gold to violet with a handcrafted cocktail in hand, or unwinding inside a cabana that stays open until October because of the warm Atlanta weather.
The Tess’ rooftop serves as the centerpiece of the experience.
A Refined New Look
Formerly the Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead, the hotel reopened in 2025 after a complete reimagining of its identity.
Upon entry, The Tess exudes a perfect blend of refined Southern hospitality and modern luxury. Warm golden tones welcome guests into the lobby, where Art Deco-inspired chandeliers cast a soft glow against dark wood walls and rich leather seating.
The hotel offers 201 guest rooms, including 40 suites ranging from standard accommodations to the expansive Presidential Suite.
At 1,048 square feet, the Presidential Suite feels more like a private residence than a hotel room. A separate living and dining area, private balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows showcase sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline. A secondary guest bathroom makes entertaining easy, while the primary bathroom features a deep soaking tub and a spacious shower for a spa-like retreat.
The standard suites deliver the same thoughtful design on a smaller scale. Velvet-wrapped headboards, subtle tribal-inspired patterns and gold accents create an elevated, residential feel throughout the rooms.
A Destination for Dining and Drinks
While Buckhead is surrounded by standout restaurants, guests do not have to leave the property for a great meal.
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Tesserae, recently introduced a menu centered on seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine with modern interpretations of Southern classics. Breakfast favorites include braised short rib Benedict and biscuits and gravy made with real lard. Lunch features dishes like a Thai broccolini salad, while dinner ranges from caviar service to oysters topped with Champagne gel.
The rooftop bar is equally impressive. Signature cocktails include the Bloom Service, a fresh take on the New Orleans classic Sazerac made with chamomile-infused honey and cognac, and the Breadwinner, a bourbon cocktail layered with walnut and dark chocolate flavors, served alongside a slice of house-made banana bread.
The rooftop pool, one of the few in the Buckhead area, is surrounded by cabanas, lounge seating and a seasonal pool bar, making it one of the hotel’s biggest draws during warmer months.
True Connection To Southern Hospitality
Beyond its redesign, The Tess has made community engagement part of its identity, with a conscious effort to embody Atlanta’s creative, unique spirit. The property regularly welcomes locals for yoga classes, sound baths and poolside DJ sets during cocktail hour. It also features an on-site podcast studio available for hourly rental.
The hotel has partnered with local organizations, including Black Girl’s Guide to Atlanta, to host its Female Founders’ Suite, a series of luxury staycations and networking events for women entrepreneurs.
Guests can also take advantage of The Tess Edit by Rails, an ongoing partnership with the fashion brand Rails that lets them borrow handbags throughout their stay.
More Than Just A Room
Buckhead offers no shortage of luxury hotels, but The Tess distinguishes itself by creating a destination that extends beyond the guest room. It offers a bar worth ordering another round, a kitchen worth requesting seconds and a rooftop that will keep guests returning even as the weather cools.
Its transformation is more than cosmetic. The Tess has emerged with a distinct identity that blends modern design, elevated Southern hospitality and one of Atlanta’s most inviting rooftop experiences.
