I won’t attempt to justify my love for Emily in Paris, mainly because I can’t. It’s a show with no discernible plot, incoherent characters, and an almost comical lack of self-awareness. And yet, I confess—I’m one of the countless Americans who tune in to this Netflix sensation, fully aware of its flaws, but somehow still hooked.
As I watched Ashley Park, who plays Mindy, serenade a Parisian park with La Vie en Rose (while hiding my face in second-hand embarrassment), I couldn’t help but wonder—what would Emily do if she visited North Georgia? Where would she find her Instagram-worthy moments? Below are a few picture-perfect spots we think would make Emily’s itinerary.
Brunch | Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails
On a crisp fall morning, you can almost picture Emily and Mindy from Emily in Paris seated on the wide veranda of Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails in downtown Milton. The air is cool, the sky a perfect blue, and the charm of the 150-year-old farmhouse offers a rustic backdrop that feels as timeless as the Southern hospitality within. Wrapped in chic fall layers—Emily in a tailored plaid blazer with an oversized scarf draped casually around her neck, and Mindy in a bright, flowy dress under a cropped leather jacket—they settle in, ready to chat about life and love.
Their conversation, naturally, turns to their romantic escapades, with Mindy tossing out playful jabs about the French heartthrobs they’ve left behind. Emily, ever the optimist, half-jokingly muses that maybe all her Parisian drama was just “market research.” The two laugh, their voices mixing with the soft hum of diners around them, as they toast with Mimosas—Emily sipping on the classic Freixenet, while Mindy indulges in a Mimosa Flight, because why not?
As plates arrive at the table, the magic of Milton’s unfolds. The famed Fried Green Tomatoes, topped with herb pesto and a sweet peach chow chow, and the indulgent Shrimp & Grits, with its creamy cheddar grits and lemon butter sauce, set the scene for a Southern brunch that’s as decadent as it is Instagram-worthy.
Pumpkin Patch & Nursery | Scottsdale Farms & Garden Center
From the moment Emily and Mindy step into Scottsdale Farms & Garden Center, they’re captivated by the storybook charm of the place. It’s as if they’ve wandered into one of Emily’s favorite childhood tales—The Secret Garden or A Little Princess. The autumn air is crisp, and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes dot the grounds, creating the perfect backdrop for an Instagram moment.
Mindy insists on finding “the most extra pumpkin” for her apartment, while Emily leans toward something more classic and understated, admiring the symmetry of a perfectly round, deep-orange one. As they browse, children giggle and pet the animals in the nearby pen, and the peaceful vibe of the farm works its magic on both of them.
They take their time, moving through the rows of pumpkins, discussing which pumpkin would best complement their fall decor, and snapping photos along the way.
Espresso Break | Nido Cafe
Nestled in Vickery Village, Nido Café strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and contemporary charm. The space is refined without being pretentious—its aesthetic a tasteful blend of modern and farmhouse elements, with white shiplap walls, dark floors, and a variety of seating options that feel both welcoming and upscale. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine Emily and Mindy sitting at a cozy table by the window, cappuccinos in hand, soaking in the effortlessly chic atmosphere. Nido offers character and elegance without feeling overly curated, allowing its patrons to feel like they’ve stumbled upon something special and authentic.
For these two, Nido would be the perfect respite—a step above the basic cafés they might otherwise find. The menu offers everything from artisan cappuccinos and house-made pastries to more indulgent bites like French toast or a Nutella crepe. Emily would likely savor a lox bagel, while Mindy could be torn between the decadent strawberry basil brie croissant and the chocolate fondue. The space and its offerings appeal to their love for the unique and Instagram-worthy, without losing an air of exclusivity and refinement.
Romance & Books | Johns Creek Books
Hands down, one of the most romantic locales in North Georgia is Johns Creek Books, just north of Alpharetta. While many may associate romance with botanical gardens or intimate cafés, I would argue that few places spark a sense of amore like this spacious, cozy, book-lined store. After all, observing someone as they prowl the aisles, thoughtfully reading book summaries, reveals so much about their priorities, tastes, intelligence, and values. It’s a quiet, intimate kind of romance, where discovering someone’s favorite author or genre feels like uncovering a piece of their soul.
Don’t believe me? I have two love stories to back it up. Recently, at Johns Creek Books, a couple named Josh and Bethany charted their path to marriage with a heartfelt proposal right in the middle of the store. And speaking from personal experience, my now-husband made his first grand gesture by purchasing my very first Christmas gift from this same store- a beautiful copy of the collected work of Charles Dickens. There’s something undeniably magical about the way books and love intertwine, and Johns Creek Books is the perfect place for that kind of story to begin.
Emily and Mindy, both well-educated women, periodically reference higher subjects throughout the series, reflecting the Millennial generation—the most educated in history. Emily, with her master’s degree, and Mindy, always quick with a sharp wit, would be naturally drawn to Johns Creek Books, a place where their love for learning and romance converge.
Yoga | Clayton Yoga and Barre
After a mind-expanding morning browsing through the shelves at Johns Creek Books, Emily and Mindy would be eager to challenge their bodies next. Deciding to leave behind the city buzz, they head to a Clayton Yoga and Barre event at Terra Incognita, a vineyard located in the North Georgia mountains. The class, led by Spencer Turk, strikes the perfect balance between rigor and relaxation. Under her expert guidance, they move through each pose with a blend of mindfulness and physical challenge that leaves them both feeling accomplished and centered.
Once the class concludes, the ladies retreat to the balcony that overlooks the sprawling vineyard and isolated mountains. As they sip their glass of Cabernet and stretch out their limbs, the peaceful surroundings envelop them in a sense of serenity.
Dine | Harvest on Main
Once their limbs are loose and their shop the girls are desperate for the perfect meal to cap of such fine morning. They are willing to drive this restaurant keeps popping up on several review sites. Harvest on Main, located in scenic Blue Ridge, is a rustic yet sophisticated restaurant that embodies the essence of southern hospitality with a global twist. Committed to supporting local farmers and artisans, Harvest on Main takes pride in using seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby suppliers, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.
The restaurant’s cozy and inviting ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying its diverse menu offerings, which include mouthwatering burgers, hot sandwiches, soups, salads, and seafood delicacies. Guests rave about the blackened trout, a standout dish that perfectly showcases the chef’s skill and creativity. The attentive and friendly staff add to the overall dining experience, making guests feel right at home.
Among the many establishments that bring joy to the community, Harvest on Main stands out as a beloved dining destination. With a menu that constantly evolves to feature fresh dishes, such as the smoked salmon and trout dip appetizer, guests are treated to a fresh farm-to-table experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you’re seeking comfort food classics or exploring new culinary delights, Harvest promises a memorable dining experience that celebrates the best of local flavors and global inspiration.
Shopping | Moonbeam and Mudpies
After finishing their meal, Emily and Mindy stroll through the charming streets of Blue Ridge, the evening still young. They pause at Moonbeam and Mudpies, an upscale children’s boutique nestled among the quaint shops. The boutique exudes elegance, with its airy displays of chic, high-quality fabrics—soft cotton, delicate linens, and luxurious cashmere in muted pastels and subtle patterns. Racks of tiny dresses, perfectly tailored trousers, and hand-knit sweaters offer a touch of sophistication for little ones, and the store’s thoughtful design—bright, open spaces and polished wood floors—enhances the boutique’s upscale vibe.
The ladies browse with purpose, carefully selecting timeless pieces for Gabriel and Camille’s baby. Emily picks out a carefully embroidered onesie, while Mindy falls in love with a soft baby blanket made from organic materials. By the time they leave, their arms are filled with beautifully wrapped bags, each holding elegant items that reflect their refined taste. With full bags in hand, they head back to their resort, ready to indulge in some relaxation after their stylish shopping spree.
Resort | The Dogwood Inn
Emily and Mindy eventually find themselves unwinding at the Dogwood Inn, an elegant boutique retreat. The inn sits on a ridge with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a historic farm, offering the perfect combination of tranquility and sophistication just five miles from downtown Blue Ridge. The ladies are quick to take advantage of the beautifully appointed common areas—the great room where they cozy up with books from the library and the outdoor porches where they can sip their morning coffee, gazing at the serene wooded grounds.
Their suite is everything they could have hoped for, with a king-size bed dressed in luxurious cotton sheets, a fireplace for those cool mountain evenings, and an oversized soaking tub where they can unwind after a long day of exploring. Emily and Mindy indulge in room service for desert, making the most of the inn’s thoughtful amenities. With its perfect blend of modern luxury and classic charm, the Dogwood Inn offers them the ideal place to relax and recharge before their next adventure.
Conclusion
Emily and Mindy’s tour of North Georgia was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and posh. From bookstores to retreats, they experienced the region’s beauty and sophistication, leaving with fond memories and a touch of Southern hospitality to take back with them to the streets of Paris.
