Passing through Madison, Georgia, developer Preston Snyder was struck by a eureka-like inspiration to transform the square into a warm haven of hospitality.
Story by Cara Clark
In the heart of Madison, Georgia, a quiet revolution is unfolding — one that blends Southern charm, chef-driven dining, and historic preservation into a singular vision of modern small-town life. That vision belongs to Preston Snyder, a real estate developer, historic preservationist, and founder of MAD Hospitality, a growing group of restaurants and venues breathing new life into Madison’s picturesque downtown square.
“Madison has always had this undeniable magnetism, but it took me a while to really see its full potential,” Preston says. “I grew up in Milledgeville, so towns like this were part of my DNA. But for years, Madison was just a beautiful detour. Then, one day, I looked a little closer — and that changed everything.”
Just an hour outside Atlanta, the town is rich in history and charm and is now experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Founded in 1809, Madison’s historic downtown is one of the best-preserved antebellum districts in the country, boasting more than 100 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With elegant Greek Revival mansions, brick sidewalks, and a classic town square, Madison was once known as the “Queen of the Piedmont” and remains a living museum of Southern history and architecture.
At the heart of this revival is MAD Hospitality, a fast-growing hospitality company focused on creating unique, stylish, chef-driven culinary experiences in beautifully restored historic spaces. In that mission, MAD Hospitality has breathed new life into Madison’s Downtown Square through a collection of restaurants, event spaces, and residential lofts housed within meticulously preserved buildings.
Among these gems are The Dining Room, Betty Gene’s Pop Up at Buggy Works, Hart & Crown Tavern, The Sinclair, and The Patisserie on Main. Each venue offers outstanding cuisine and a tangible connection to the town’s rich past. The New South Motor Inn, which opened in 2024, adds to the mix, seamlessly blending history with modern hospitality under the Preston Thomas Real Estate umbrella.
