Eat & Drink Athens, GA | 2023

Q&As

FEATURES

cover

Farm Burger [Jessica Gratigny]

EDITORIAL

GUIDES AND MAGAZINES ADVISER Mary Logan Bikoff

SENIOR EDITOR Elizabeth Rymarev

ASSISTANT EDITOR Dawn Sawyer

ASSISTANT EDITOR AND PHOTOGRAPHER Melanie Velasquez

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jim Bass, Jayden Henson, Ellie Pool

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Tim O’Brien

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sidney Chansamone, Brittany Shivers

CREATIVE SERVICES

CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Brandon Dudley

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Maddie Daniel

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carter Webb

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ADVERTISING INTERN Ava Sims

BUSINESS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Charlotte Varnum

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Melissa Mooney

NEWSROOM ADVISER Kayla Renie

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Barri Leach

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More Expert Guides from The Red & Black

EAT & DRINK ATHENS, GA: FAVORITE RECIPES FROM THE CLASSIC CITY

This guide includes dozens of recipes from local favorites including Mama’s Boy, The National, Weaver D’s, Sweetie Pie by Savie and Rashe’s Cusine. This gorgeous book is a great gift for anyone who’s a fan of the Athens food and drink scene. Find it at redandblackstore.com

VISITORS GUIDE

Published twice a year, this guide is packed with insider recommendations on what to see, do, eat and experience during your next trip to Athens. Read the digital edition online or order a copy at redandblackstore.com

TAILGATE GUIDE

In town to cheer on the defending national champions? Our annual guide covers all the essentials for Georgia Bulldogs fans, with plenty of insider tips on setting up your tailgate and feeding your guests in style.

redandblack.com/guides

Our annual guide for freshmen and transfer students helps newcomers settle into campus life with guidance from true experts: their fellow students. This guide covers essentials like dorm life, study tips, resources and advice for finding your niche on campus.

redandblack.com/uga101

UGA 101

Jayden is a third-year journalism major and entrepreneurship certificate program candidate. She is the assistant Eat & Drink editor and previously worked on the desk as a contributor. Her favorite part about working on the desk is getting to know the stories behind restaurants and their owners. Also, it allows her to share her love for good food and beverages.

Tim is a senior journalism major, with interests in photography, videography and storytelling. He is the chief photographer for the Guides & Magazines team.

Ellie is a third-year journalism major and film minor at the University of Georgia. She is currently the Eat & Drink editor and has previously contributed to the culture desk. She loves reporting on and photographing the Athens food scene and being able to help people tell their stories.

Elizabeth is a third-year journalism and Russian student. She has worked as the assistant culture editor, Eat & Drink digital editor and is now the senior Guides & Magazines editor. She loves reporting on and photographing Athens food, local businesses and social issues.

Dawn is a third-year journalism major minoring in political science and dance. She is currently an assistant editor for Guides & Magazines, and previously worked as assistant recruitment manager and a contributor on the news desk. She focuses her reporting on social justice, education and poverty.

Melanie is a senior journalism major at UGA and an assistant editor for Guides & Magazines at The Red & Black. She is passionate about food, photography and covering Hispanic and marginalized community stories and experiences.

Jayden Henson

Tim O’Brien

Ellie Pool

Elizabeth Rymarev

Dawn Sawyer

Melanie Velasquez

The UGA community, guests, and public are welcome to stop by and have a delicious meal at any of our five dining commons. You can also pop into one of our many restaurants, coffee shops, or market locations across campus.

Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to sign up for a UGA Meal Plan

CHECK OUT WHAT’S OPEN NOW dining.uga.edu/locations

POWER PLANTS

Athens restaurants amp up the vegetables for plant-based dining

BY ELIZABETH RYMAREV

Athens has a culture rooted in food and offers a variety of cuisines to vegetarians, vegans and omnivores alike. With the recent closing of The Grit on Prince Avenue and Heirloom in Boulevard, both of which catered specifically to plantbased dining, plant-eaters of Athens looked to other places for nourishment.

Barbecue joints aren’t typically known for their vegetarian cuisine. But White Tiger, a barbecue spot with its original location in the Boulevard neighborhood of Athens and a colorful new spot in Watkinsville, is known for more than its inventive pulled pork sandwiches. It also offers a substantial vegetarian section with menu items such as the Tofu Q sandwich, grilled tofu sandwich and the portobello cheese burger. Each sandwich is made to order and the tofu allows barbeque lovers to enjoy the delicacy plant-based.

The owner, Ken Manring, is a veg-

etarian himself and recommends the Tofu Q sandwich. The tofu is first grilled on a flat top grill, then slapped onto a kaiser roll, grilled veggies are tucked under the tofu and a bed of greens smothered in barbecue sauce is thrown on as well.

Customers can bring any visiting family or friends and will find the barbeque place accommodating.

“You’ll find something for everybody,” Manring said.

Manring finds that people tend to overcomplicate eating plant-based and keeping it simple is the best way to do it. He recommends ZZ & Simone’s and Cali N’ Tito’s as restaurants to try for their standout vegetarian dishes.

Another beloved plant-powered meal is the customizable build-yourown bowl from Maepole. Featuring a rotating, seasonal side dish menu that adds new flavors in the mix every few months, Maepole is a mostly vegetarian establishment. With the exception

of a few proteins like chicken and pork, all of the menu items are vegetarian, and most are vegan.

The first step is to choose your base of either super greens, quinoa, sweet potato or brown rice, then adding sides that range from beet salad, mac and cheese and roasted vegetables. Finally, adding a protein like black-eyed peas-based fritters or tofu completes the meal.

The fritters are made with quinoa, portabella mushrooms, red onion, black-eyed peas and seasonings according to Ken Daniel, assistant to the general manager of Maepole. The brown rice with herbs and red onion, macaroni and cheese and the braised kale, which is braised in vegetable stock and sprinkled with smoked paprika, are among the most popular items.

Daniel explained that Maepole is successful because of the community in Athens, saying customers appreciate their extra efforts to make intentional food and thoughtfully dispose of waste, using

compostable containers and straws.

“We try to cater to as many dietary restrictions as possible, and make good food,” Daniel said.

Zoe Nixon, a first-year linguistics and French major, has been vegetarian for almost all of her life. She grew up in a plant-based household due to her parents deciding to go vegetarian when Nixon was little and in her adulthood, the lifestyle just stuck with her.

Nixon finds that navigating the dining halls can be a challenge for those with dietary restrictions.

“I would say don’t be afraid to try things. There’s a lot of options and although not all of them are the best, you can definitely find some hidden gems,” she said.

When she isn’t dining on campus, she enjoys eating at Maepole and Big City Bread Cafe, a brunch place that offers veggie menu items like the Big City veggie burger or the hummus sandwich.

Chef-owner Ken Manring of White Tiger serves up a Tofu Q sandwich. [Elizabeth Rymarev]

Plant-based dishes

El Sandwich Cubano Veggie

Cali N’ Tito’s

This staple features sauteed onions, mushrooms, red and green bell peppers, jalapenos, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, zucchini, mayo, avocado and salsa verde.

Korean Fried Cauliflower

Taco Taco Tsunami

This tasty taco combines Latin– and Asian–inspired flavors with fried cauliflower, cabbage, guacamole and chipotle sour cream, topped with cilantro and sesame seeds and drizzled with Korean pepper sauce.

Fussy Hussy Burger

Slutty Vegan

An experience all on its own, Slutty Vegan has a completely vegan menu that includes seasoned fries, desserts like the seamoss banana pudding and the sweet potato pie. Find a variety of burgers with names like “Fussy Hussy,” which has a plant-based patty topped with pickles, vegan cheese, caramelized onions, tomato, lettuce and their signature slut sauce on a Hawaiian bun.

Flying Vegan Harvest

Jinya Ramen

A ramen place with a large selection running from traditional ramen, to rice bowls & curry, to

mini tacos, Jinya is a champion of plant-based menu items. The flying vegan harvest is served with thick noodles in a vegan miso broth, surrounded by Impossible meat, tofu, bean sprouts, broccolini, green onion, corn, red onion, crispy garlic and chili seasoning.

Yemisser Wot Mannaweenta

Praised as one of the best international restaurants in town, this Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurant is owned and operated by chef Haregu Bahtu. The East African cuisine includes dishes such as yemisser wot, or red lentils cooked with onion, tomatoes, berbere, fresh garlic and ginger.

The Tofu Q sandwich at White Tiger Deluxe in Watkinsville [Elizabeth Rymarev]

to try around town

Amritsari Chana Taste of India

Taste of India is located on the eastside of Athens and offers an authentic glimpse into Indian cuisine, complete with beer and wine imported from India, to create the whole experience. The amritsari chana features stewed Punjabi-style chickpeas in a tomato-ginger-onion sauce.

Tofu Bowl Maepole

This customizable bowl place has a virtually fully vegetarian menu minus some protein options. Start with a base like the sweet potato or seasoned

quinoa, then add seasonal side dishes like the mac and cheese or the braised kale then top it with sauce and tofu, which is marinated in tamari and tossed in nutritional yeast to create a savory, smokey flavor profile.

Tofu Q Sandwich White Tiger

The Tofu Q sandwich at White Tiger is a classic favorite of regulars to the restaurant. The sandwich features tofu marinated in sauce and seasoning, then grilled and sandwiched between a bed of cooked greens and White Tiger sauce on a kaiser roll.

Four Cheese Tortelloni

ZZ & Simone’s

Craving pasta and pizza? ZZ & Simone’s on South Lumpkin Street offers vegetarian and vegan options like the Four Cheese Tortelloni, which can be made vegan upon request.

Black Bean Sandwich Big City Bread Cafe

A perfect brunch spot, Big City Bread Cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, burgers, baked goods and hearty salads. The black bean sandwich has spicy black beans, grilled sweet potatoes and spinach on a grilled ciabatta bun.

A veggie-based bowl with avocado and crunchies from Maepole [Melanie Velasquez]

EAT LIKE

Your Athens Picnic

11 local goods to pick up for the perfect spread

By Dawn Sawyer

Kate Arnold Wines

Kate Arnold Wines are sourced from family-owned vineyards in California, Oregon and Washington — though its founders are based here in Athens. The 2021 Riesling, produced in Washington, is a rich combination of mandarin, peach and mineral notes. Available at bottle shops around town.

Lucky Bee Farms Honey

Lucky Bee Farms is a local, family-run beekeeping farm that produces honey products that are pure and unfiltered. This locally sourced wildflower honey has a rich, floral flavor. Available at Athens Cooks.

UGA Meat Science Technology Center Store

UGA’s summer sausage makes a great picnic staple. Operating as part of the Animal and

Dairy Science Department at the University of Georgia, The Meat Science and Technology Center is a federally certified animal processing facility that hosts weekly meat sales on Fridays. It also partners with and sells goods to a variety of local food companies such as Kelly’s Jamaican Food and Mama’s Boy. The program is a part of a larger educational effort for student outreach and research in the school.

Phickles

For a picnic classic, try the locally grown dill pickled cucumbers from family-run Phickles. The business started out selling pickles, but soon grew to include foods such as green tomatoes, beans, carrots, jalapenos, cucumbers and more. One of the things they’re most famously known for is Southern Charm pimento cheese spread.

Condor Chocolates

The smooth, dark chocolate and smoked sea salt is made with Ecuadorian cacao and cocoa butter, organic cane sugar and Bull’s Bay Smoked Sea Salt. Condor Chocolates, with locations Downtown and in Five Points, is known for its chocolate and coffee, but also special-

izes in sweet treats and espresso drinks.

Independent Baking Co.

The flavorful baguette is a staple of Independent Baking Co., which specializes in all things bread. Located in Five

Points, this bakery also whips up stellar pastries and coffee. Other specialties include challah – available only on Fridays, kalamata olive bread, ciabatta and focaccia. You will also find their bread and pastries in various restaurants in

A LOCAL

Athens, such as Choco Pronto, The Expat and Seabear.

Piedmont Provisions

Strawberry-lavender jam is a favorite at Piedmont Provisions, which just moved into new digs on Barber Street, specializ-

Local goods for a very Athens picnic spread [Tim O’Brien]

ing in preserves as well as regionally sourced and organic herbs and spices. The shop avoids overly processing their items and utilizes traditional methods to make jam. home.made Grab these tasty cheese

straws or a tub of pimento cheese from home.made on Baxter Street. Also available at Athens Cooks.

New Creation Soda Works

New Creation is a small, family-owned craft soda

company in Bishop. The unique, hand-crafted sodas, like a strawberry habanero (pictured here) and a butter pecan cream soda, are lighter and fresher than your average soda.

Strawberries from the local Lazy Willow Farm

Hit the Markets

Get your food straight from the source

Athens Farmers Market

The market operates at Bishop Park on Saturdays, offering local produce, eggs, meat and flowers, plus baked goods and local art. On Wednesday evenings, catch a smaller market at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. downtown, and relax with a beer and live music after filling your market bag with veggies. athensfarmersmarket.net

The Culinary Kitchen of Athens

The nonprofit Culinary Kitchen, started by Rashe Malcolm of Rashe’s Cuisine, will host its downtown market spring through fall. The market’s mission is to support the local food industry, ranging from farmers to entrepreneurs in Athens. culinarykitchenathens.com

West Broad Farmers Market at the Athens Housing Authority

The market opens April 1 and runs every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 300 S. Rocksprings St. Operated by the Athens Land Trust, the West Broad Farmers Market showcases vendors offering seasonal products and artisanal goods, including produce grown at some of the Athens Land Trust’s own community gardens. wbfm.locallygrown.net

Local Farms

Diamond Hill Farm

Located on the outskirts of Athens, Diamond Hill is a small-scale farm of 12 crew members. Started in 2012 by the Dodd family, the 7-acre farm prides itself on its efficiency and ability to provide food and flowers to the various farmers market events hosted in the city.

Washington Farms

In the nearby Oconee County, Washington Farms works to provide all families with access to clean, organic food. The farm also offers a variety of farm activities for friends and family to enjoy while also offering food options for participants that are grown right on the farm like pick-your-own strawberries, homemade ice cream and its “world famous” kettle corn.

Community Meat Co.

Community Meat Co. comprises three different farms in the Athens area that produce fresh, quality meat that are antibiotic and hormone free. Each farm serves a different purpose – Riverview Farms supplies the pasture-raised pork, Grateful Pastures provides organic pasture-raised poultry and Five Arrow Farms supplies grass-fed beef.

Farmers market finds [Melanie Velasquez]

Drink Up

Local sodas, teas and other things to sip

Figment Kombucha

Figment Kombucha specializes in craft kombucha and fermented foods, partnering with local farmers to source ingredients. Visit its taproom on Baxter Street and test flavors like orange blossom and ginger lemongrass, or pick up cans at shops around town.

HIBO Superdrink

This hibiscus tea sports drink created by two UGA grads is infused with vitamins and electrolytes — and comes in a caffeinated options as well. Find the distinctive hot pink bottles at shops around town.

MePlus Tea

Despite its name, MePlusTea advertises itself as more than just a tea company. Its combination of locally grown herbs and loose leaf teas are a part of a bigger movement towards herbal wellness, sustainability and environmental protection.

New Creation Soda Works

See page 13. HIBO Superdrink [Tim O’Brien]

INDEPENDEN T BAKING CO

706.850.3550

1625 S. LUMPKIN ST

Tues-Sat | 7am-5pm Sun | 8am-2pm

Athens Cooks NEW!

Part store, part school, part hangout spot, this recently opened establishment on Prince Avenue hosts cooking lessons and classes (usually with drink pairings), runs a cafe and sells fine kitchenware and many Athens-made items such as honey, knives and barbecue sauce. The cafe offers 1000 Faces coffee, plus pastries made in-house, and a bar serves up wine and beer tastings.

athenscooks.com

Something Specialty

At specialty grocery stores, find everything from local produce to homemade noodles

By Ellie Pool and Melanie Velasquez

Achachi International Market

Milledge Avenue

A newer addition to Athens, Achachi International Market is located on Milledge Avenue and stocks a wide variety of products from Indonesia, Pakistan, West Africa and Asia. Check out the variety of fresh produce, seafood and halal meats. achachimarket.com

Costa de Jalisco

Barber Street

This Barber Street store stocks a colorful array of packaged and canned products from Mexico and Central America as well as exquisitely displayed produce. The real highlight is the meat, seafood and poultry counter.

Daily Groceries Co-Op

Prince Avenue

This beloved community-owned grocery store that opened in 1992 on Prince Avenue stocks organic and local foods, including fresh bread delivered fresh Monday through Saturday. Daily Groceries supports over 60 local farms and

producers; select from bulk items or vegan and vegetarian convenience foods, like soups and sandwiches. The co-op is currently planning a move to a larger location on Prince Avenue, hoping to be funded by a GoFundMe the team created. dailygroceries.org

Earth Fare

Five Points

The community importance of this compact supermarket that specializes in organic and non-GMO products was underscored when it briefly closed in 2020. Reopening later that year following corporate restructuring, the Five Points market attracted even more fans. In town for a visit? Check out the deli counter. earthfare.com

Fooks Foods

Milledge Avenue

Karen Fooks’ shop on South Milledge Avenue holds a world of discoveries. Whether you are looking for fresh Asian produce, homemade noodles or convenience foods from India or Thailand, Fooks

stocks essentials from a variety of cuisines. The shelf of housewares and utensils always yields interesting and useful finds.

The People’s Pantry at Figment

Baxter Street

This shop features a mind-blowing array of products. Staff focus on stocking locally and regionally produced goods like Rock House Creamery cheeses, fresh tempeh and snack novelties from home. made, restaurant. At this Baxter Street shop you can sip on seasonal flavors of Figment Kombucha served on tap while you browse.

Supermarket El Camino Real North Avenue

Located on North Avenue, this grocery store offers a wide selection of products, produce and freshly baked goods. If you get hungry while shopping, this supermarket doubles as a Mexican restaurant with a variety of options including tortas, flautas, sopes and all kinds of tacos, most under $2.

Stocking the shelves at Athens Cooks [Melanie Velasquez]

Favorite New Restaurants

KEY $: Up to $10 | $$: $15–20 | $$$: Over $20  Open Late  Outdoor Seating

BY JAYDEN HENSON

A slew of new restaurants and bars entered the Athens community over the past year, elevating the town’s already impressive and diverse selection of dining options.

Baddies Burgers

Five Points

American

$

Feeling indecisive? Keep it simple at this Five Points new addition where only three things are on the menu: burgers, fries and banana pudding. The burgers are available as a single, double or triple patty with the option to substitute with a gluten free bun. Don’t be shy with the Baddie sauce!

Bar Bruno

Five Points

Wine & Aperitivo Bar

$$ 

Led by the team at ZZ & Simone’s, this wine and aperitivo-focused

bar transports you to Italy with its comfortable European cafe vibe. Lounge under its large red umbrellas with an aperol spritz or Italian espresso and a slice of olive oil cake. New to wine or looking to try something new? Wine expert and co-owner Greg Smolik and the bartenders here have you covered with their extensive wine knowledge.

Bon de Paris

East Side

Vietnamese $

When your regular ham and cheese isn’t cutting it, try Bon de Paris’s mouthwatering bánh mì, a Vietnamese sandwich served on a warm baguette. Select from options like the Bánh Mì Bò, a bulgogi beef sandwich, or the Bánh Mì Chay, a vegan sandwich. Sweeten your day with its colorful boba teas such as the Thai tea or strawberry milk tea.

Bruxie Downtown American $ 

Sweet and salty collide at this fried chicken and waffle sandwich shop, the first of this California chain on the East Coast. Don’t miss “The Original” — fried chicken breast, chili honey and cider slaw served between a light, fluffy waffle. Or play it safe with American favorites such as chicken tenders, loaded waffle fries and shakes.

Dooley’s Bar and Grill Downtown American $–$$  

UGA Football fans can’t miss out on this bar-fare restaurant, named after beloved head coach Vince Dooley. Popular items include the buffalo chicken rangoons, served with a sriracha honey lime sauce, as well as the Junkyard Dawg, a deepfried hot dog wrapped in bacon

Tacos from Poquitos on Prince Avenue [Melanie Velasquez]

and served on the basic grilled cheese or a bun.

Poquitos

$-$$ 

Prince Avenue

Mexican Birria, carnitas, posole and more come to Prince Avenue from the former owners of The Grit and Pedro de Paz of Ted’s Most Best. The colorful corner patio in the former Go Bar space is perfect for sipping a michelada and watching the day go by.

Puma Yu’s North Chase/Boulevard

Thai $$ 

This new Thai-inspired restaurant by Pete Amadhanirundr and Ally Smith packs a big punch in flavorful small plates for sharing (like crispy rice salad and pork and collards red curry) and a snug, stylish space at Southern Mills. If you’re a

fan of classic instant noodles, try the Spicy Mama Noodles, made with chicken and Puma Yu’s “swag.” Pair that with a Whiskey Ginger, a house cocktail made with Japanese whiskey, yuzu liqueur and Ginger’s Bunkhouse ginger ale.

Slater’s Steakhouse Five Points Steakhouse

$$$

Parents in town? Impressing a date? This old-school-style upscale steakhouse from Jerry and Krista Slater of the Expat opened in late 2022, boasting an indulgent vibe with red velvet curtains, thick cuts of meat, and a make-your-own martini bar. Try the 16-ounce rib eye or the duck with celery root puree and a classic French bigarade sauce. This steakhouse may be fancy, but not too fancy for onion rings, complete with a side of black pepper aioli.

COMING SOON

Cafe Racer

Craving a delectable donut or buttery biscuit? You no longer have to drive to Oglethorpe County to get your Cafe Racer fix; a second location is opening on West Broad this year.

Whataburger

Whataburger has finally made its way into the Georgia market! The famed Texas burger joints plans to open three chains in the Athens area — on Lexington Road, Atlanta Highway and Pottery Road in Commerce.

Nighthawks Lounge & Pretty Boy

Later this year, Jerry and Krista Slater, the minds behind The Expat and Slater’s Steakhouse, plan to open a cocktail bar on Tracy Street, Nighthawks Lounge, and a Vietnamese restaurant on Barber Street, Pretty Boy.

Hidden Gem

From the minds behind Buvez, Automatic Pizza and Normal Bar comes a buzzy new cocktail joint, landing this year on Barber Street.

THE LISTINGS

Find light and sophisticated Italian fare at ZZ & Simone’s. [Tim O’Brien]

Key:

KEY

Jinya Ramen Bar

$: Up to $10

$: Up to $10 | $$: $15–20

$  

shine at this family-owned restaurant.

$$: $15–20

$$$: Over $20

Downtown

$$$: Over $20

 Open Late  Outdoor Seating

Asian

Choo Choo

$–$$ 

East Side

Satisfy late-night cravings at this spot that serves Japanese-Korean foods and is open past midnight. Choose from a variety of bowls, entrees and side dishes, such as kimchi.

Iron Factory

$$  

Downtown

In this chic restaurant, Korean-style barbecue is prepared on a cast iron grill at the table. With a large patio, private karaoke rooms and an extensive alcohol selection, Iron Factory is a favorite spot for celebrations.

This ramen joint is full of interesting and flavorful options like a spicy creamy vegan bowl and a wonton chicken bowl. Drinks include Japanese beer and sake, as well as cocktails such as the lime Chu-Hai. It’s open until 11 p.m., letting you grab a hearty dinner before a night out downtown.

Shokitini

$$–$$$ 

Downtown

Enjoy hibachi entrees, house sushi rolls and sake at this Japanese restaurant with karaoke rooms available to reserve by the hour.

Thai Spoon

$ 

Downtown

Traditional dishes such as masaman curry and pad-woon-sen

Bakeries and Sweets

Bee’s Knees Bakery

$

Epps Bridge Parkway

Specializing in cakes doesn’t stop this Epps Bridge Parkway bakery from offering other treats, such as cake pops, chocolate-covered strawberries, savory cheese straws and six flavors of gooey bars.

Cecilia’s Cake Shop

$$ Cobbham

This Milledge Avenue shop offers custom cakes as well as cupcakes and cookies. Signature cake flavors include Red & Black, Kentucky Bourbon and Cecilia’s Original Caramel.

Condor Chocolates

$ 

Five Points, Downtown

In addition to bar chocolate and truffles, the Five Points and downtown cafes serve coffee, hot chocolate, gelato and other treats.

Hodgson’s Pharmacy

$ Five Points

This drugstore, which has served Athens since the 1950s, operates a tiny soda fountain with drinks and treats. The menu features fresh limeade, malts, floats, old fashioned sundaes and hand-dipped ice cream for just $1.25 a scoop.

Independent Baking.

$ Five Points

This cozy bakery is a destination for a cafe au lait, croissants or the signature Morning Roll, a luscious swirl of cinnamon and pastry. Head here early for fresh-from-theoven baguettes and whole-grain loaves.

Lil’ Ice Cream Dude’s Cool World

$

East Side

High schooler Beau Shell has been selling frozen treats from carts and trucks since he was eight years old. His vision became reality with the opening of this East Side shop featuring shakes, sundaes and scoops. Customers love the ice cream sandwiches and hot chocolate floats, too.

Sweetie Pie by Savie

$ East Side

This bakery has roots in Bangkok. For takeout, try a buttery scone with Thai tea. Owner Savie Arnold, who supplies desserts for local restaurants, also creates cakes for weddings and special occasions.

Vampire Penguin

$ Downtown

This shop sells shaved snow, desserts and “potions,” otherwise known as drinkable desserts. There’s plenty to choose from in fun flavors like cotton candy and watermelon. Most of the flavors are dairy free.

Zombie Coffee & Donuts

$ Downtown

Opened by a UGA alumni, this bakery offers customizable donuts with options such as maple icing and bacon.

Barbecue

Butt Hutt

$ 

Macon Highway

In addition to standards like pulled pork and brisket, this family-operated restaurant offers turkey and chicken entrees as well as sandwiches. It’s a popular destination for groups.

Dawg Gone Good BBQ

$ 

Downtown

Serving recipes passed down from his grandmother, owner William Hardy keeps things simple but tasty at his small restaurant on West Hancock Avenue. Chow down on essentials such as mac and cheese, pulled pork and brisket on classic picnic tables.

Pulaski Heights BBQ

$–$$ 

Pulaski Heights

Locally sourced pork and brisket are the stars here, where meat is smoked daily and served until it runs out. The menu also features some inventive vegetarian options including hearty smoked cauliflower and a smoked tofu sandwich. The restaurant is tucked into a former factory building on Pulaski Street next to the train tracks, making for a scenic spot to eat on summer evenings. Another plus:

It’s BYOB.

Saucehouse Barbeque

$$ 

West Broad Street

At this classic barbecue joint, owned by a UGA alum, find brisket, ribs, stew and a lively scene spilling from porches and patios.

Tamez Barbecue

$–$$ 

West Broad Street

At Alejandro Tamez’s new Texas-style barbecue spot, homemade tortillas and brisket take center stage. The retro, no-frills building

24 hours in Athens

This sample dining itinerary takes you on a tour of Athens

Coffee 7 a.m.: Choco Pronto on Baxter Street opens at 7 a.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday, offering Ecuadorian coffee plus sweet and savory bakery items from Independent Bakery Co.

Breakfast 9 a.m.: On West Broad Street, grab an everything bagel with herby cream cheese, salmon and capers from Ideal Bagel Co.

Lunch 12:30 p.m.: Catch a game at The Royal Peasant pub in Five Points and nosh on some British and Indian pub-style food while drinking a Guinness on draft.

Drink 5 p.m.: It’s time for a local beer. Grab one on tap from Athentic Brewing Company in Normaltown, and stay for live music or games on the expansive patio.

Dinner 7 p.m.: Wanting to go a little fancy? Dine at Chuck’s Fish Downtown where fresh seafood comes straight from the restaurant’s own wholesale docks on the Gulf Coast, and dishes include a fish of the day, Gulf shrimp and a full sushi menu.

After-dinner drinks 9 p.m.: Walk down the street to Little Kings Shuffle Club for an eclectic living room vibe and a gin cocktail.

Late-night snacks at midnight: To fill up after imbibing, head to World Famous and try the General Tso’s Tofu Box or its delicious empanadas.

The hangover cure 10 a.m.: When you drink a little too much, try the classic Mexican soup called menudo at Tlaloc on North Chase Street. It is only served on weekends, so lucky you!

offers a drive-thru but little indoor seating. Don’t sleep on the breakfast burritos.

White Tiger Gourmet

$ 

Boulevard, Watkinsville

Operating out of a former grocery, White Tiger serves up smoked pork, veggies and simple soups. Locals congregate in the side yard and take advantage of the BYOB policy. A splashy new location in Watkinsville offers similar fare in bright pink digs. (See our feature on White Tiger’s vegetarian options on page 8.)

Breakfast & Brunch

Athens Bagel Company

$ Downtown

This Jackson Street spot close to campus is the place to go for hearty bagels with creative toppings like Stripling’s sausage and Nutella. It is undergoing a major renovation and is expected to reopen this year.

Em’s Kitchen

$ Hawthorne Avenue

At this eatery in Hawthorne Drugs, the breakfast menu features omelets and made-from-scratch biscuit sandwiches. Lunch includes classics such as pimento cheese and chicken salad sandwiches, heaping salads and homemade Brunswick stew.

The Farmcart

$–$$ 

Baxter Street

After years of operating a food cart serving massive, fluffy hand-crafted biscuit sandwiches at the Athens Farmers Market, husband-and-wife team Michael and Iwalani Farfour opened this Baxter Street spot in early summer 2019. From the organic flour in the biscuit dough to fixings grown on the owner’s own farm, everything is locally sourced.

Ideal Bagel Co.

$ 

West Broad Street

Operated by Luna Baking Co.,

Ideal Bagel whips up classic, chewy bagels loaded with house-made cream cheese spreads.

Mama’s Boy

$-$$

Chicopee Dudley, Macon Highway

Consistently voted Best Brunch in Athens by Red & Black readers, Mama’s Boy turns out indulgent fare like salmon cakes Benedict and Georgia peach French toast. (For very thick flapjacks, go on Pancake Tuesdays.)

Burgers

Add Drug

$

Five Points

This old-school local pharmacy hosts a lunch counter with a throwback vibe. It offers a selection of milkshakes, burgers and more.

Clocked! American Diner

$  Downtown

Just up from 40 Watt Club, this

eatery’s signatures include sci-fi themed decor and inventive burgers made with organic, local ingredients.

Farm Burger

$ 

Prince Avenue

The restaurant sources meat and other ingredients from local farmers for a menu of grass-fed beef hamburgers, vegan burgers, salads and fries. Farm Burger opened its new Prince Avenue location in January after its farm-to-table predecessor, Farm 255, closed in 2013. Check out the rotating weekly burger selection, and don’t miss the sweet potato hushpuppies with apple butter.

The Grill

$  Downtown

After being closed for much of the pandemic, the iconic Downtown institution finally reopened quietly in March. Burgers, shakes, and of course its legendary fries and feta are back on, in its same (spiffed up) retro digs on College Avenue.

Grindhouse Killer Burgers

$-$$ 

Five Points

This burger joint on South Lumpkin Street hosts “Sex, Drugs & Rock N Roll” trivia on Mondays at 8 p.m. and “Pub Quiz” trivia on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. First, second and third place winners receive cash prizes.

Crepes

Pauley’s Crepe Bar

$ 

Downtown

Popular for date nights and hangouts with friends, Pauley’s on East Clayton Street offers sweet and savory crepes, sandwiches, cocktails and 150 craft and domestic beers. The kitchen is open until 10 p.m. and the bar is open until 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

Ethiopian & Eritrean

Mannaweenta

$

East Side

This restaurant is notable for dishes like spicy doro wat — chicken simmered in hot spices, herbs and butter — and injera, a traditional spongy flatbread. Hand-woven placemats and brightly colored wall hangings decorate the pastel walls, creating a cheery atmosphere, even for carry-out customers.

Indian

Taste of India

$ 

East Side

This eatery is a hot spot for vegans and omnivores, offering veggie samosa and Tandoori chicken.

Italian Automatic Pizza

$

Normaltown

Giant slices (and even bigger pies) hit right at this charming corner joint, a former filling station.

DePalma’s Italian Cafe

$–$$$ 

Downtown, East Side, Timothy Road

An Athens classic, DePalma’s serves up pizza by the slice or the pie, plus comforting favorites such as eggplant Florentine.

The Expat

$$$ 

Five Points

This venture from Jerry and Krista Slater, housed in a cozy Five Points cottage, emphasizes inventive cocktails and an Italian cafe–inspired menu, with dishes like classic cacio e pepe and risotto and features salads based on what’s locally available.

Little Italy

$ 

Downtown Athens is home to many pizza joints, but this Lumpkin Street dive is known for its late-night social atmosphere. Select from cheap thickor thin-crust slices and a variety of subs.

Ted’s Most Best

$ 

Downtown

Families flock to this casual pizza and pasta place with one of the best patios in town (including a giant sandbox). Pizzas are light with thin crusts; salad dressings are made in house.

ZZ & Simone’s

$$$ 

Five Points

In a new, design-foward space (a blush bar, saddle-leather booths), the folks behind the erstwhile Dinner Party put forth elegant renditions of classic pastas, pizzas and seafood.

Jamaican

Kelly’s Authentic Jamaican Food

$$ 

Five Points

An Athens classic and Jamaican-style meat-and-three, Kelly’s serves heaping plates of curry chicken, jerk pork and specials like grilled salmon and curried goat alongside mounds of veggies, rice, plantains and cornbread.

Rashe’s Cuisine

$-$$

East Side

Becoming an Athens staple, Rashe’s offers Jamaican homestyled comfort food. A variety of delish options are available: jerk chicken, Jamaican patties, mac and cheese and more.

Latin

Agua Linda

$$ 

Normaltown, Timothy Road

Loyal crowds wait in line to splurge on huge Tex-Mex platters, traditional dishes and generously poured margaritas at this Prince Avenue restaurant with a new rooftop patio. Fan-favorites are also available from the La Carreta food truck, which makes stops about town, including at Creature Comforts and Oglethorpe Garage.

Cali N Tito’s $–$$ 

Five Points

This Central American–themed spot features empanadas, fish tacos and Cuban sandwiches. It’s popular with students thanks to its Lumpkin Street location, spacious outdoor seating, modest prices and a BYOB policy.

No frills, all-fun Texas-style tacos at Tamez Barbecue [Tim O’Brien]

UGA Dining Services is looking for new team members to join our family. In addition to competitive wages, all positions offer:

• flexible schedules at convenient locations across campus

• free meal for every shift

• advancement opportunities

Positions available include full-time, part-time and student opportunities

VIEW OPEN POSITIONS

dining.uga.edu/employment

El Barrio Tacos and Tequila

$ 

Five Points

This family-friendly restaurant draws crowds with its approachable, creative tacos and specialty tequilas. It’s an inviting place to linger, thanks to a screen porch and broad front lawn complete with putting green.

Paloma Park

$$ Downtown

Opened in 2021, this lively TexMex spot offers up bar fare like elote street corn and heaping nachos. Drinks match the vibe with sangria and, yes, palomas, on draft.

La Puerta del Sol

$–$$

East Side

The sprawling East Side sister restaurant of Cali N Tito’s houses arcade games and rides as well as huge family-size tables. While students might prefer the BYOB policy at the Five Points location, the

friendly bar service and in-house gelato counter at this location are a plus.

Punta Cana Latin Grill

$ 

Prince Avenue

This Dominican restaurant offers a variety of dishes featuring longaniza, a Dominican sausage, and other Caribbean cuisines. Extra hungry? Add a side of fried yuca or sweet maduros to your order.

Taqueria del Sol

$ 

Prince Avenue

The fast-Mexican Atlanta outpost slings the ever-popular fish tacos and pork green chile enchiladas with speed and precision. The line moves quickly.

Tlaloc $

North Chase/Boulevard

You can get Salvadoran pupusas (stuffed cornmeal cakes) or order a Tex-Mex platter with a chalupa and a chile relleno. It’s the range

of options that makes this small, vibrant restaurant on North Chase a favorite of students and the Athens Latinx community alike.

Viva! Argentine Cuisine

$

Prince Avenue

Owner Gaby Lindsey’s mother, Elena, is the inspiration for the flavors and spirit of this restaurant with offerings that include empanadas and sandwiches as well as steaks, chops and a signature sausage plate. Don’t miss the changing cupcake menu.

Mediterranean Mediterranean Grill

$$ 

Five Points

A local branch of the small metro-Atlanta group of restaurants, this spot pleases vegetarians and carnivores alike with specialties such as hummus and falafel as well as gyro meat. Everyone’s a fan of the rice pilaf and crispy potatoes.

The National

$$–$$$ 

Downtown

This Mediterranean-influenced restaurant on West Hancock Avenue was co-founded by Hugh Acheson and Peter Dale. With serene decor and stellar service, it’s ideal for lunch meetings and family celebrations. Check out the expanded patio.

Persian

International Grill and Bar

$ 

Mitchell Bridge Road

This welcoming restaurant features family favorites that the owners grew up eating. Try the savory lamb shank or zesty eggplant dip. Check the calendar for live music and comedy.

Pub Grub

Blind Pig Tavern

$ 

Downtown, East Side, Atlanta Highway

This family-friendly spot offers a

lengthy beer list and a vast menu (try the fish tacos or wings). Entertainment includes trivia and lots of massive screens playing all the big games.

The Globe $$  

Downtown

Closed for two years during the pandemic, this Irish-style bar refurbished during the downtime and reopened in mid 2022. Traditional menu items like fish and chips are complemented by vegan and vegetarian options. The selection of whiskeys has been a hallmark since it opened in 1989.

Hi-Lo Lounge

$ 

Normaltown

A neighborhood favorite thanks to a cozy vibe with a sizable beer list and creative cocktails, Hi-Lo serves more than bar staples — try the Cincinnati chili or the smoky tempeh.

Drag Brunch

Showgirls bring fun to ordinary brunch at Hendershot’s

Costumes, makeup and dancing may be something you never knew you needed at brunch. But some weekends at Hendershot’s, you can catch the Athens Showgirl Cabaret presenting special events in sequins over eggs and soysage, charcuterie boards and Bloody Marys. Kellie Devine is the “Hostest with the Mostest,” so expect to have a lot of fun. The event, announced on social media, sells out fast. Tickets sell for $25 per person and are open to all ages. The show begins at noon with seating opening at 11am. The next drag brunch: May 21 @athens_showgirl_cabaret

Pub vibes at The Globe [Tim O’Brien]

The Royal Peasant

$$  

Five Points

Watch the week’s top Premier League and Bundesliga matches and chow down on bangers and mash at this small pub with a definite British vibe. Regulars know this is the best place in town to watch soccer, and it also has a terrific beer list.

Trappeze Pub

$$-$$$  

Downtown

Famous for its enormous craft and imported beer selection, this pub at the corner of Hull and West Washington streets serves superior bar fare, catering to carnivores with items such as the Double Pig (braised pork plus bacon). But vegetarians and vegans have options like the veggie Reuben. Try the signature raspberry ketchup.

The World Famous

$ 

Downtown

“This is it!” proclaims the sign above the door of this tiny bar with a massive following thanks to its eclectic interior, thoughtful food and fun cocktails. The chicken and waffles have devoted fans.

Sandwiches & Pickup

The Café on Lumpkin

$

Five Points

Breakfast and lunch options include decadent salads and chicken salad sandwiches. Don’t miss afternoon tea, with a tower of scones.

Donderos’ Kitchen

$ 

Cobbham

With seating tucked into a historic home, this place has the cozy feel of a tea room or B&B. In addition to homey breakfasts and sandwiches, Donderos’ offers to-go items like lasagna and pot pie.

Lindsey’s Culinary Market

$

Downtown

Farm-fresh salads, hearty sandwiches and soups are highlights at this North Thomas Street spot. Family meals and weekly specials are available for takeout.

Marti’s at Midday

$ 

Normaltown

Huge salads and hearty sandwiches are the draw at this cheery cafe

with a small indoor area and sunny patio. You also can pick up entrees and salads to go.

Seafood

Chuck’s Fish

$$$ 

Downtown

Operating in a renovated former Greyhound station, this restaurant is part of the same group as Five Athens and features seafood fresh from the company’s Destin, Florida, docks. Along with daily specials, Chuck’s serves sushi and classics like seared scallops and stuffed shrimp.

Five Athens

$$$

Downtown

Those who don’t like being overwhelmed by choices will love the simplicity of the menu at this Hull Street restaurant — five selections each of appetizers, entrees, wines, beers and specialty cocktails. Specials feature seafood delivered from the owners’ market in Florida.

Last Resort Grill

$$–$$$ 

Downtown

Opened as a music venue in 1966, Last Resort is now known for yum-

my desserts, arty decor and Southern fare with a dose of coastal influence, like crab cakes and salmon and grits. (Steaks and praline chicken are signatures too.)

Seabear Oyster Bar

$$ 

Prince Avenue

Go for the namesake shellfish; stay for the fried clam strips, lobster roll and fish po’boy. Linger longer for the frozen negroni and tiki drinks.

Square One Fish Co.

$$$

Normaltown

Square One previously operated downtown; now reincarnated in Normaltown, the restaurant is drawing former regulars as well as new customers. Options include the extravagant seafood tower appetizer, a raw bar, daily fish specials, steaks and crab legs.

Southern

5&10

$$$ 

Five Points

Before “Top Chef,” Hugh Acheson made his name here with innovative takes on Southern fare (think fried catfish with saffron buerre blanc and cornbread with fennel pollen). Located in a historic home on South Milledge Avenue, this is a destination for special occasions.

George’s Lowcountry Table

$$-$$$ 

Macon Highway

George’s offers Cajun-inspired jambalaya and etouffee along with a variety of seafood and steaks. Open daily for dinner and for Sunday brunch.

home.made

$$

Baxter Street

Updated Southern fare shines at this elegant, understated restaurant. The menu varies, but staples such as pecan trout and stellar vegetable plates are cozy and familiar, as are snacks like deviled eggs and cheese straws. Start next door at its glam companion cocktail bar, Sidecar. Inquire ahead about pickup hors d’oeuvres.

Hilltop Grille

$$$ 

Atlanta Highway

The interior of this steak and seafood restaurant is like an upscale lodge with UGA football-related decor, making the restaurant popular for meetings, events and family gatherings. Enjoy cocktails on the outdoor patio as well.

Maepole $$ 

North Chase/Boulevard

At the fast-casual Maepole — a brainchild of Peter Dale, the chef/owner behind the likes of Seabear and The National — diners select from bases, sides and proteins to create new twists on meat-and-three standards.

The Place

$$–$$$  Downtown

If you’re craving Southern specialties, The Place, across from historic North Campus, has you covered. Sip on a “Peanuts and Coke” — Coca-Cola and peanut-infused bourbon — while perusing the menu, which includes a decadent

twist on chicken and waffles.

South Kitchen + Bar

$$–$$$ 

Downtown

Elegance abounds in this restaurant/ bar tucked into the first floor of the historic Hotel Georgian. From the stained glass and vintage tiled floors to the gleaming wood bar, South combines old-school gentility with fresh takes on classics such as shrimp and grits, pork belly and even tater tots. Leave room for dessert specials.

Strickland’s Restaurant

$ Atlanta Highway

Opened on Broad Street in 1960, the family-owned restaurant eventually settled on Atlanta Highway in 1995. Serving up Southern oldtime favorites like ribs, catfish and green beans, Strickland’s is a popular catering option for tailgates.

Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods

$ Downtown

Made famous for owner Dexter

Weaver’s slogan, “Automatic for the People,” which became the title of an R.E.M. album, this bright green restaurant on East Broad Street is popular for juicy fried chicken and signature meatand-three plates. Try the sweet potato souffle or broccoli casserole.

Food for the Soul

$

West Broad Street

Providing just what the name implies, this classic, no-frills spot serves up fried okra, collard greens, mash potatoes, fried chicken and more to comfort what ails you.

Steak

Porterhouse Grill

$$$ 

Downtown

Students love to have their parents take them to this swanky steakhouse, which also features a sizeable seafood selection. The menu offers standbys like surf and turf, shrimp cocktail and a wedge salad.

EAT & DRINK ATHENS

Campus Eats

Bulldog Bistro

Inside of the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel, this restaurant offers everything from coffee and muffins to lunch entrees and afternoon drinks.

FujiSan

A quick-grab market favorite is the sushi and bubble tea at Fujisan in the Red Clay Café section of Joe Frank Harris Commons.

Lemon Grass Kitchen

Located in Bolton Dining Commons, the pho and stir-fry from Lemon Grass Kitchen is a crowd favorite.

O-Hacienda

Found at Oglethorpe Dining Commons, O-Hacienda features personalized burritos and quesadillas.

Snelling Dining Commons

Snelling takes advantage of the overnight dining option with power bowls, pizza and desserts.

Tate Student Center

The food court at Tate features familiar brands such as Starbucks, Panda Express and Chick-fil-A Express. A notable homegrown option is Barberitos, an Athens-based chain with healthier versions of burritos, tacos and other Southwestern fare.

OWNER, KELLY’S AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN FOOD

Born and raised in Jamaica, Chef Kelbourne “Kelly” Codling owns and runs Kelly’s, the muchloved Jamaican restaurant in Five Points. He has served the Athens community with his comfort food — like jerk chicken, collard greens and plantains — and family recipes for over two decades.

What motivated you to open your own restaurant?

I didn’t really start a restaurant business right away. I started working construction 30-something years ago and went into the food business after I was done with that.

How has it grown since you first started?

For 24 years, it has grown a bunch. Repeat customers, word of mouth, friend to friend, students, advertisements…Students tell other students and put me on Facebook and stuff like that.

Why did you decide to build the restaurant in Athens? Are you from Athens?

No, I’m from Jamaica. It’s kind of a long story with Athens. I didn’t really choose Athens per se. I had a restaurant in Stone Mountain and a friend of mine came into the restaurant, tasted the food, and said, “Hey man, you need to go to Athens with this type of food.” But I did not really know that there was an Athens, Georgia. So I ran a joke with him saying, “Man, you want me to go to Athens, Greece, with this food?” He said, “No, no, Athens, Georgia.”

So I headed up here, came here, and a lady had a Jamaican restaurant and she wanted to get out of it. So I purchased the business from her and you know, it just kept growing. I just give them quality stuff and it works.

What’s your favorite thing about Athens?

My favorite thing about Athens, I’m going to say people — the students. You know, Athens is a lot more friendly than Atlanta and other places. I don’t know if it’s because of the university or what, but people talk, and to me, I feel that there’s more love in their hearts. We connect fast. The people here, they support me and they support the restaurant.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Athens?

My favorite thing to do—cook.

Interview by Dawn Sawyer

DRINKS GUIDE

Bars

Allgood Lounge

Two bars plus a rooftop Tiki lounge makes this a great hangout, whether you’re catching the game or catching up with friends.

Bar Bruno

A new addition to the Five Points food scene, the swanky Bar Bruno is described as a wine and aperitivo-focused bar led by wine expert Greg Smolik and the team behind ZZ & Simone’s.

Blue Sky Bar

A (sort of) secret entrance above Walker’s Pub & Coffee gives this bar a speakeasy vibe. The drink menu boasts more than 100 beers and a serious whiskey list.

Boar’s Head Lounge

Huge indoor and outdoor spaces make this bar a destination for sampling local music.

Clarke’s Collective

Known for its specialty cocktails, Clarke’s is good for socializing and checking out live music. It was renovated in 2021 to include two huge bars.

Cutters Pub

Stellar service, huge screens and excellent drink specials make this downtown bar a prime spot to catch the game or play a round of pool.

The Globe

This cozy spot for a pint recently

reopened, offering cozy vibes and stellar pub fare.

HyBar

This rooftop bar at Hyatt Place

Athens Downtown offers spectacular 360-degree views of campus and downtown, as well as craft beers, cocktails, frozen drinks and appetizers.

Hi-Lo Lounge

This Normaltown spot is a neighborhood favorite thanks to a cozy vibe, sizable beer list and creative cocktails.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

This townie-friendly bar has an adjoining stage that hosts music and film screenings. Bonus: A large outdoor patio.

Bar Bruno brings chic cocktails to Five Points [Melanie Velasquez]

Little Kings Shuffle Club

Catering to the local crowd, this bar has plenty of craft beers and a spacious outdoor area.

Magnolias

This classic college-town bar at the edge of campus is known for happy hour specials, Long Island iced tea and shots.

Manhattan Cafe

This quirky hole in the wall is a local favorite thanks to the chill atmosphere and cocktails served with zero pretentiousness.

Plus: There’s always plenty of free popcorn.

Normal Bar

A mellow bar catering to Normaltown locals, this place has an enormous main room and a small outdoor area perfect for date night.

Insider Tip: Order from Automatic Pizza next door for in-bar delivery.

Normal Bar [Tim O’Brien]

Nowhere Bar

Laid-back and known for darts and pool, this bar was opened by Craig “Sky” Hertwig, a former Georgia All-American who returned to town after an NFL stint.

The Old Pal

Wood-paneled and serious about mixology, this Normaltown bar has a nice selection of whiskeys. Always wanted to try Absinthe or Pastis? This is the Athens destination for it.

Oglethorpe Garage

Built in an old service station on Oglethorpe Avenue, this West Side bar gives you plenty of space to warm up near fire pits on an extensive outdoor patio. You’ll probably watch some motorcycle repairs while you’re there.

SideCar

Mimi Maumus’ new endeavor attached to home.made on Baxter Street features an experimental menu and a fun atmosphere, including an outdoor fire pit for s’mores.

The Pine Bar

Wine is the focus at this upscale bar, where a wood-fired oven turns out flatbreads, shareable items and entrees like wood-fired oysters.

The Rook & Pawn

Have a house cocktail and a snack while playing games at this cafe and bar which stocks almost 600 games ranging from classics like Yahtzee and Risk to strategy challenges like Catan, Histories or Zombicide.

The Root Basement Bar

Located beneath the Pine Bar in

Athens Six Pack

Five Points, The Root offers seasonal cocktails, craft beer and an expansive snack menu.

Trappeze

This downtown gastropub has more than 30 beers on draft and over 100 bottles to choose from.

Tropical Bar

Patrons can enjoy merengue, bachata and more at this Latin bar downtown.

Wonderbar Athens

Gamers love playing vintage arcade games over drinks at this downtown bar.

The World Famous

Listen to local music, sample creative cocktails and share plates of food like the Bento Box and poutine.

Automatic

5.5% ABV

This pale ale from Creature Comforts Brewing Company is reissued periodically with cans designed by local artists. What’s always consistent is the rich flavor and complexity.

Bibo

4.9% ABV

This classic Pilsner from Creature Comforts is refreshingly crisp. Fun fact: This beer shares a name with Albert Einstein’s parrot.

Classic City Lager

4.2% ABV

With its retro styling and crisp taste, this easy drinking lager is a cut above standard party beers. Pick up tallboy cans at the Creature Comforts tasting room.

Golden

4.6% ABV

This smooth ale from Terrapin Beer Co. is nicely hoppy without being overpowering. Great with grilled chicken and salads.

RecreationAle

4.7% ABV

This session IPA from Terrapin is light and ideal for all-day tailgates. Bonus: It also comes in tallboy cans.

Red and Black

4.5% ABV

This refreshing and tart Berliner from Southern Brewing Company is made with raspberries and blackberries, giving it a surprisingly bright red hue.

Illustrations by Marianne Delgado

Breweries

Akademia Brewing Company

In addition to original beers and guest brews, Akademia serves wine, cocktails and offers brunch, lunch and dinner at its spacious location just off Atlanta Highway. The brewpub has outdoor seating on a large patio and often holds events in its main taproom. akademiabc.com

Athentic Brewing Company

The newest addition to Athens’ beer scene is located in Normaltown and officially opened in August 2020. The brewery offers indoor and patio seating and also sells cans of beer to take home. The company has a variety of beers, including fruit-filled Berliner Weisse and a coffee and cream-inspired brown ale. athenticbrewing.com

Creature Comforts Brewing Co.

Displayed through the windows of an old tire factory is the Creature Comforts downtown tasting room, where patrons can get year-round favorites such as Athena or Bibo, or try special edition brews. The brewery also sells 4- and 6-packs to go, and patrons can sit outside in the brewery’s expanded, covered patio area. creaturecomfortsbeer.com

Creature Comforts [Melanie Velasquez]

Normaltown Brewing Co.

This brewery offers a constantly changing selection of beer on tap, and is located in the historic Chase Street Warehouses. It was the fifth brewery to open in Athens and the first in the Normaltown neighborhood. normaltown-brewing-co.business.site

Southern Brewing Company

At this Highway 29 spot, patrons can try Southern Brewing’s staple and seasonal brews in a huge indoor and outdoor space, like Hobnail, a popular IPA and the Red and Black sour. sobrewco.com

Terrapin Beer Co.

Since its founding in 2002, Terrapin has become Athens’ most widely distributed beer. Popular beers include Hopsecutioner and Luau Krunkles but visitors can sample more unusual creations, like watermelon-infused sours and chocolate milk stouts. A gift shop and outdoor grassy area distinguish the Newton Bridge Road brewery. terrapinbeer.com

Trolley Beer Tour

Take a fun tour to several of Athens craft breweries, where you can enjoy history, drinks and sightseeing all-inone. Hosted by the Athens Trolley Tours, you will get to visit Southern Brewing Co., Akademia Brewing Co. and Terrapin Beer Co. on Thursdays and Athentic Brewing Co., Normaltown Brewing Co. and Creature Comforts on Fridays. The trolley runs every Thursday and Friday afternoon-evening.

The experience costs $28 per person.

Pick up a Bottle

Five Points Bottle Shop

There’s no bar here, but you can sure pick up a fine bottle. This Five Points institution (which has a second Westside location) feels anything but stuffy, and knowledgable staff can conjure up unusual and accessible selections for newbies or wine snobs alike. A monthly club makes it especially easy to try something new. fivepointsbottleshop.com

The Lark Winespace

Both a tasting spot and a wine shop, this Prince Avenue store specializes in sustainable wine and cocktail goods. It offers a rotating tasting menu to showcase a variety of foreign and domestic wines. A selection of specialty tinned fish and other goodies make hosting a cocktail party easy. thelarkwinespace.com

A great selection of wines to “try before you buy,” with 24 wines on tap and over 200 labels to choose from, with five or six new varietals rotating in each week. You can grab cheese plates and other snacks to practice pairing. tappedathens.com

Q&A

Todd Hurt

OWNER, TAPPED ATHENS

Tapped brings a self-service twist to the typical wine bar. Located in historic Bottleworks, Tapped allows those to move at their own pace while selecting snacks (meats, cheeses, olives) to pair with the 24 bottles of wine on tap. Opened last year, Tapped is owned and operated by Angela and Todd Hurt, who also bake the bar’s French bread as well as homemade biscuits to pair with mimosas on the first Saturday of each month.

Why did you choose to open Tapped?

My wife [Angela Hurt] and I had sort of the concept in New Orleans. And we thought it was a really neat idea to be able to sample wine before you buy it. And so that’s what we do here with our self-serve machines. You can buy wine by the ounce — you can get as small as a one-ounce pour, and see if you like it before you commit to a glass. And if you like the glass, you could buy a bottle and take it home with you.

How often do you rotate wine selections?

We probably get five or six new introductions a week at a minimum. We try not to change it too much, because people come looking for things that they had the time before. And so we want to kind of balance between showing them something new and then keeping some tried-and-true things in the machines.

What other options do you have besides the ones on tap?

We’ve got over 200 labels in the store and we do have beer and sodas and non alcoholic drinks available.

What’s the process?

You’ll come in and we set up an account, and then we make you a wine card that works the dispensers. We take you over to the dispenser and show you how it works. We will talk about the ones that are there and ask what you like and what you don’t like. And then from there we can make recommendations. We have stations so that you can rinse your glass between and you can have a fresh glass between each port.

Why did you choose the food pairings that you did?

Different wines obviously have different characteristics, but one of the most important things is the acidity level. So if you get a highly acidic wine, pairing it with something that’s got a little bit of fat content, like a parmesan-style cheese, turns the acidity down in the wines. So it makes it where you can taste the flavors in the wines a little bit easier.

Interview by Melanie Velasquez

Home Brew

Coffee from Athens roasters to take and make at home

Jittery Joe’s

This roasting company partners with many local businesses and nonprofits on custom coffee blends. Create Coffee is a blend of South and Central American beans and benefits AthFest Educates, which supports arts and music education in local schools and is the organization behind the annual AthFest music festival. Available in whole beans or ground, $14.99 for 12 ounces. jitteryjoes.com

Choco Coffee Roasters

Named for the Choco toucan, which lives in the cloud forests of Ecuador, Choco Coffee Roasters celebrates the family heritage of Peter and Nick Dale, the co-founders of Condor Chocolates. Responsibly grown coffee beans are imported from Ecuador and roasted in Athens. The Juan Pueblo blend features notes of dark chocolate, pecan and caramel and is named after a popoluar character based in the town of Guayaquil, the owner’s mother’s home town. Availabe for $16 for 12 ounces. condorchocolates.com

1000 Faces Coffee

Founded in Athens in 2006 by ecologists and social entrepreneurs, this fair-trade company partners with growers around the world. Made with beans from Ethiopia, Basha Gansamo, has hints of fruits and berries. Starts at $20, packaged in compostable bags. 1000facescoffee.com

R&R Secret Farm

This small farm offers small-batch coffee that is sourced via FarmGate. It’s sold in 12-ounce screen-printed bags. Find the farmers at local markets, order online or — if you’re an Athens resident — arrange for local delivery. Bags of beans start at $12. rrsecretfarm.com

[Tim O’Brien]

Cafe Culture

Where to sip coffee and tea

1000 Faces Coffee

Downtown

The Athens-based fair-trade roasting company operates a coffee shop on North Thomas Street offering thoughtful, artisanal brews.

@local Coffee House & Study Lounge

Downtown

At @local, it’s acceptable to enjoy espresso up until midnight or even until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The space is versatile with its lively upstairs environment, offering live music events, and its calm downstairs study lounge.

Bitty & Beau’s Coffee

Five Points

This North Carolina chain opened in Athens in 2021, serving up specialty drinks and pastries while providing training and employment to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Bubble Cafe

Downtown

A variety of Taiwanese tea drinks and menu items make this a cozy location for lunch paired with a caffeine boost.

Buvez

Boulevard/North Chase

This Euro-style cafe on Barber Street offers caffeine-infused drinks during the day and aperitivos and cocktails during the evening.

Choco Pronto NEW

Baxter Street

Find impeccable Ecuadorian coffee along with tasty pastries from Independent Baking Co.

Condor Chocolates

Downtown & Five Points

In addition to Ecuadorian chocolates, this Five Points cafe serves coffee, hot chocolate, gelato and other treats.

Iron Works Coffee

Downtown

Located in the historic Graduate Athens hotel property on East Dougherty Street, this quiet shop is great for meetings.

Hendershot’s Prince Avenue

This Prince Avenue location is a coffee shop by day, bar by night, and a popular spot for food popups and local markets.

Jittery Joe’s Multiple locations

The Classic City’s best known coffee brand has several area shops, but the café at the corner of Broad and Jackson streets remains a favorite.

Molly’s Coffee Company

Macon Highway

One of Athens’ newest additions on Macon Highway is a great getaway from the bustle of downtown.

OK! Coffee Downtown

Grab a cup of joe in a jiffy at this window-service coffee shop in downtown Athens in a small building attached to Wuxtry Records. Its beans are roasted at the owners’ micro-roaster in Comer, GA at Comer Coffee Co.

Sips Espresso Cafe

Normaltown

Located in Normaltown across from the UGA Health Sciences Campus, Sips features a patio and take-out window, and is great for relaxing.

Veronica’s Sweet Spot Boulevard/North Chase

At this cafe in the Chase Street warehouse district, musician Veronica Darby serves sandwiches, pastries and snacks, in addition to coffee, juices and teas.

Walker’s Coffee and Pub Downtown

Across from the Arch on College Avenue, Walker’s offers indoor and outdoor seating. Bonus: It’s also a bar at night.

Zombie Coffee & Donuts Downtown

Opened by a UGA alum, this bakery on East Broad Street offers doughnuts with toppings like Fruity Pebbles or bacon.

Connecting Cultures. Cultivating Happiness.

One Chicken Tender At a time.

Q&A

Brandon Lord

CO-OWNER AT CHOCO PRONTO

From the team at Condor Chocolates, including co-owner Brandon Lord, comes Choco Pronto, a cozy new coffee bar on Baxter Street. It serves up coffee from Ecuador, as well as teas, local Figment Kombucha, Independent Bakery pastries and brownies from, yes, Condor Chocolates.

529 Baxter Street | @ponko athens

Home of the Award-Winning Japanese

American Chicken Tender

So Choco Pronto stemmed from Condor Chocolates?

I devised Condor’s internal coffee program for the shop downtown on Washington Street and in Five Points. So I guess it was really when we started training baristas and focusing on proper handling that we started to consider opening this little shop of our own.

What does the name mean?

We wanted to find a bird that was totally in relationship with what we’re doing, not just some really beautiful thing to pop on the front of the bag. The Choco toucan is native to the areas we source from, and it’s a very beautiful bird as well. And the Choco also is that lovely little two-punch homage to the Condor.

What do you envision for the future of Choco Pronto?

I think we are first and foremost a neighborhood coffee shop. We are trying to be very community-oriented and just provide a space for the community to bask in and thrive. I think for the first year it’s certainly going to be paying a lot of attention to what people are looking for and what they are desiring and then trying to provide that exactly.

What can customers expect from Choco Pronto in the coming months?

There are a couple of things specifically I’m excited about — I would say the iced teas and affogato that we’ll have every day here. And just overall making coffee from Ecuador as properly as we possibly can. We buy really good coffee from Ecuador and handling it properly is the role we play in that process. So I think it’s an awareness of the role we play in the community that we’re serving, and I think just trying to pay attention to those things.

Interview by Elizabeth Rymarev

Drink Well

Five great cocktails from Athens restaurants — without the booze

By Jayden Henson

Restaurants in Athens have diversified their cocktail menus by offering unique concoctions of non-alcoholic beverages, sometimes called “mocktails,” N/A drinks, or zero-proof cocktails. Now, you don’t have to be 21 or an alcohol drinker to experience an aesthetic, flavorful and sophisticated cocktail. Here, some favorites from local restaurants that you can even enjoy at home.

$5

The National’s House Shrub recipe takes some patience, but trust us, it’s worth the wait! Combine 48 ounces of washed fruit with 64 ounces of Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar. Store in the refrigerator, letting it soak for one week. Then, pour your mixture into a pot, bringing it to a light boil and stirring occasionally. Add two cups of sugar, letting it dissolve and simmer for 45 minutes. Cool the mixture and strain. Serve 1.5 ounces of the mix over ice, top with soda and enjoy the refreshing taste of your favorite fruits, vegetables or herbs. And bonus, this keeps in the fridge for months!

The National Downtown House Shrub

A ginless Blackberry Smash from Paloma Park [Melanie Velasquez]

Puma Yu’s

North Chase/Boulevard

Super Sour

$9

Sweet or sour? If you picked the latter, Puma Yu’s Super Sour is the mocktail for you! Mix together two ounces of hibiscus tea, one ounce of blood orange syrup, 0.75 ounces of lime juice, 0.5 ounces turmeric juice and 0.25 ounces ginger juice. Source locally like Puma Yu’s, and buy your turmeric and ginger juices at Journey Juice on Prince Avenue.

The Old Pal

Normaltown

Booze-Free Paloma

$10

Want to make a boozeless Paloma The Old Pal way? Sure thing! Start with 1.5 ounces of Lyre’s Agave Blanco, a non-alcoholic spirit. Combine with .75 ounces grapefruit juice, .5 ounces lime juice and .5 ounces simple syrup. Add ice and shake. Make your own simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and hot water, stirring thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass, fill it with fresh ice and top with club soda. Garnish with grapefruit, and voila!

Paloma Park

Downtown

Ginless Blackberry Smash

$6

It’s fruity, it’s tart, it’s a Paloma Park staple: the Blackberry Smash, minus the gin. First, prepare your lavender lemon simple syrup. Boil one cup of water with two cups of sugar to make your simple syrup base. Add a cup of dried lavender, letting it steep. After it cools, filter it and mix with blackberry puree. Now it’s time to make your mocktail. Muddle two blackberries in a 9-ounce rocks glass with 1 ounce of your syrup. Then, in a tin add 1.5 ounces of Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Spirits Grove 42 and ice. Shake well. Pour into your glass, top with soda and garnish with a lemon. Berry delicious.

The Pine Bar

Five Points

The Powerpuffs

$10

Spicy margaritas are in, and The Pine Bar has one — sans tequila — that fits the bill. The key: strawberry habanero margarita mix from the local New Creations Soda Works. Rim a glass with salt and sugar and fill with fresh ice. In a cocktail tin with ice, shake 2 ounces of the margarita mix, 2 ounces of Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Agave Spirit, .5 ounces of Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Orange Sec, and .5 ounces lime juice. Strain into your glass, garnish with a lime, and taste the sweet flavor of strawberry with a little kick.

Beach Bunny Cocktail

The National

Try this bright and colorful seasonal cocktail to spruce up your brunch

1.75 oz. orange-infused vodka

.5 oz. Aperol

.25 Heirloom Alchermes

1.25 oz. Journey Juice carrot juice

.5 oz. Bear Hug sriracha honey

.5 oz. lemon juice

Shake. Pour over ice in a collins glass. Top with honeysucklelemon Montane sparkling water. Garnish with carrot fronds.

CALLING ALL BURRITO LOVERS

BURRITOS | BOWLS | TACOS SALADS | NACHOS

Our roots in Athens run deep. In fact, we rolled our first burrito on East Clayton. Since then, we’ve been offering great food made from scratch with 100% farm-fresh ingredients delivered to our stores every day. Not bad for your local burrito joint.