The wide variety of Atlanta neighborhoods means the city has many different atmospheres, cultures, and many different local hangouts. This city also has a large number of excellent restaurants with some that might not be as well known to the general public, but they are local favorites. Check out these places where you can eat like a local in Atlanta.
The Varsity
The Varsity in midtown has some of the best and cheapest chili cheese dogs in Atlanta. Customers have been getting their dogs here since 1928, and they are still as good as they were 90 years ago. Make sure to get the thick cut onion rings to go with the dog, and if you want to eat like a local, you can’t leave without getting the signature frosted orange drink. You can also get excellent burgers and sandwiches at Varsity, and this place makes their own coleslaw fresh every day.
HomeGrown
Want fresh local food? Head to HomeGrown in Cabbagetown. This place uses their Facebook page to show pictures of the veggies they will pick each day, and then you can go in to see what they’ve done with them. HomeGrown also uses local pork and chicken. This is the Atlanta place to go for a friendly atmosphere and good old southern comfort food. You can get dishes such as soft shell crab po’boys or sloppy Joes made from scratch, and if you really want something that feels like home, get the fried bologna sandwich.
Ria’s Bluebird Cafe
Ria’s Bluebird Cafe serves up breakfast and lunch and is a favorite with the locals. You can get a traditional southern breakfast here complete with grits, biscuits, and of course huevos rancheros. The atmosphere in this place is laid back and casual, with murals created by local artists on the walls.
Pub 71
Pub 71 is an Irish pub owned by a local and is the place for just hanging back with friends and family while enjoying some good food and a drink. The Irish-themed bar and restaurant serve up homestyle food such as a smoked brisket sandwich, Pub 71 wings, chicken pot pie, and even shepherd’s pie for a dish that tastes just like home. The taps also feature many of the usual favorites, along with some more unique choices such as New Holland Dragon’s Milk and Sweetwater Festive Ale.
No Mas! Cantina
No Mas! is a staple in the Castleberry Hills area and serves up authentic Mexican dishes and tequila. This is the type of place where you are likely to see the owners sitting at the bar along with all of their guests. The décor in the restaurant makes you feel like you are sitting in Mexico, and the music makes you want to get up and dance. This is a great place to go with friends, on a date, or for a family dinner.
Eat like a local at these Atlanta restaurants, and you are sure to get an excellent meal along with friendly service.
Photo by Central Atlanta Progress via Flickr licensed under CC-BY 2.0 | Cropped from original
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