Photo: www.freedigitalphotos.net
The Alabama Crimson Tide kicks off the season at 4:30 CT on Saturday. If you have front row seats to the big screen in the man cave or sports bar, you are probably already pacing, ready for the season to begin.
If you are making the trip to Atlanta, you may be looking for things to do before the game. Seeing a game in the dome is great fun, but you will want to hang out elsewhere earlier in the day. How about a burger to take your mind off the inevitable road rage?
Every visitor to Atlanta needs to experience The Varsity at least once. Chances are, once is not enough. A Southern institution, The Varsity opened in 1928 and has been steady ever since — greeting customers with “what’ll ya have?” and a menu that is sure to please everyone in the family. The least expensive burger on our list, The Varsity is old school burger fun complete with a gift shop. Know what you want before you get anywhere near the counter, because the crowd will be large but quick-moving. If you are looking for a pre-game beer, this is not your place, but if you are looking for the real Atlanta experience, this is a good place to start.
Farm Burger is a bit more expensive than traditional fast food, but it was recently voted Atlanta’s best burger for a reason. Using only local, grass-fed beef, Farm Burger is sure to please and it won’t break the bank either. The $10 combo is a popular choice for first-time visitors. With three locations to choose from, and a good selection of adult beverages, Farm Burger is a local favorite and a nice way to spend some time before kickoff.
Fans driving in from Birmingham have probably already been to Flip Burger at The Summit. With two locations in Atlanta, Flip is an excellent selection for someone who enjoys a great burger, the world’s most interesting shakes, and maybe a stronger beverage too. Owned by celebrity chef Richard Blais, food and drink at Flip is known for great taste and unrivaled eye appeal. One of my personal favorites in the world of burgers, Flip also has some of the best fries I have had anywhere.
Grind House Killer Burgers comes highly recommended from trusted sources. If you are looking for interesting atmosphere, visit the Edgewood Avenue location which is located in a curb market that also features an ice cream parlor, coffee shop and bakery. If you are looking for a cold beer to go with your burger, you might prefer the Piedmont location. Either way, our sources tell us Grind House is one of the best burgers you will ever eat.
Another personal favorite, The Vortex has two locations (in the midtown and little 5 points areas of Atlanta) with a great menu and a unique atmosphere — the little 5 points location has a giant skull for the main entrance. It’s a fun place to hang out even if you are not going to the game. The Vortex does not allow children due to Georgia smoking laws, so if you are traveling with Crimson Tiders under 18, you might consider one of the other options. If you are looking for a good place to unwind with adults you might enjoy The Vortex so much that you forget what time it is. If you’re a fan of Man vs Food and you have ever said “I could do that,” you might be brave enough to try the Triple Coronary Bypass (see the menu online). Maybe trying that on game day is pushing your mortal luck.
America is college football and America is a good burger. Crimson Tide fans looking for a great way to combine burgers and football while in the ATL should enjoy any of these selections. Happy grazing and Roll Tide from your Bama Hammer team.
Follow William on Twitter