The Varsity Atlanta: What to Know About the City’s Most Famous Drive‑In

If you spend any time in Atlanta, The Varsity will come up sooner or later. Whether you’re a local, a new transplant, or just in town for a weekend, this classic spot near Georgia Tech is one of the city’s most recognizable food landmarks.

This guide walks you through what The Varsity Atlanta is, what to expect when you visit, how to navigate the menu, and some practical tips so you can decide if it fits your plans in the city.

What Is The Varsity in Atlanta?

The Varsity is a large, long‑running fast-food drive‑in restaurant known for hot dogs, burgers, fried sides, and a very Atlanta-specific style of service. It’s often mentioned as one of the largest drive‑in restaurants of its kind.

The primary Atlanta location most people mean when they say “The Varsity” is:

For many Atlanta residents, it’s as much a piece of local culture as it is a place to grab a chili dog.

Why The Varsity Matters in Atlanta

Even if you’re not a big fast‑food fan, The Varsity comes up in conversations because it’s:

• A long-standing Atlanta institution, often associated with game days and city traditions
• Located near major Atlanta landmarks, including Georgia Tech, Midtown, and Downtown
• Known for its unique ordering experience and “What’ll ya have?” greeting
• A frequent stop for out‑of‑town visitors who want something that feels authentically “Atlanta”

Many Atlantans have childhood memories of school trips, game-day meals, or late-night runs to The Varsity, so it often carries a sense of nostalgia.

Location Details and How to Get There

The main Atlanta Varsity location is easy to reach from much of the city.

Address & Area

• Address: 61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Neighborhood: On the edge of Midtown and Downtown, across from the Georgia Tech campus
• Nearby: Georgia Tech, North Avenue MARTA Station, the Connector (I‑75/I‑85), and walking/short driving distance to many Midtown hotels and offices

Getting There by Car

• From I‑75/I‑85 (The Connector):
  • Take the North Avenue exit and follow signs toward Georgia Tech. The Varsity sits prominently near the off‑ramp.
• Parking:
  • There is typically on‑site surface parking and drive‑in style spots. During busy times (especially Georgia Tech home games, major events, or weekends), parking can feel crowded, so allow a little extra time.

Getting There by MARTA

If you’re visiting without a car:

• Rail:
  • Take the Red or Gold line to North Avenue Station.
  • From the station, it’s roughly a short walk west along North Avenue toward Georgia Tech.
• Bus and Rideshare:
  • Various bus routes pass near North Avenue.
  • Rideshare services commonly drop off in front or along North Avenue, especially when traffic allows.

The Ordering Experience: “What’ll Ya Have?”

One of the most distinctive parts of visiting The Varsity Atlanta is the ordering style.

• As you approach the counter, employees often call out “What’ll ya have? What’ll ya have?”
• The lines usually move quickly, and regulars tend to order fast, so it helps to decide what you want before you reach the front.
• Menus are typically posted above the counter, and you’ll see a mix of:
  • Hot dogs and chili dogs
  • Burgers
  • Fried sides (onion rings, fries)
  • Classic American desserts and drinks

If it’s your first time, don’t worry—staff are used to visitors and can help you find what you’re looking for, but you’ll feel more relaxed if you scan the menu as you walk up.

What’s on the Varsity Menu? Atlanta Favorites Explained

The Varsity menu is centered on fast, classic American drive‑in food. Names can be a bit specific to this restaurant, so here’s a quick breakdown of common terms you’ll see or hear.

Core Items

• Hot Dogs & Chili Dogs

  • Plain hot dogs, chili dogs, and variations with different toppings
  • Chili tends to be one of the signature elements, often ordered on dogs and fries

• Burgers

  • Basic hamburgers and cheeseburgers with standard toppings
  • Often ordered as a combo with fries or onion rings and a drink

• Fries & Onion Rings

  • French fries: Classic fast‑food style
  • Onion rings: A popular side; many visitors pair them with chili dogs

• Drinks

  • Soft drinks
  • F.O. (Frosted Orange): A creamy, orange-flavored frozen drink that regulars frequently mention
  • Shakes and other fountain options at various times

• Desserts

  • Simple, fast‑food desserts (varies with time and location—often ice cream–type options)

Sample Quick-Reference Menu Snapshot

(Names and availability can vary, but this gives you a sense of what you’ll see.)

If you have dietary restrictions, the options may be limited, as this is a traditional fast‑food menu focused on fried and grilled items.

When to Go: Timing and Crowds

The atmosphere at The Varsity Atlanta can change depending on time of day and what’s happening in the city.

Game Days and Events

Because of its proximity to Georgia Tech and its central location:

• Before and after Georgia Tech home games: Expect larger crowds, longer lines, and a lot of school colors.
• Major Atlanta events (downtown concerts, conventions, parades) can also increase foot traffic.

If you want a less hectic experience, try:

• Weekdays outside of lunch rush
• Mid-afternoon or early evening on non-game days

Lunch Rush

During typical weekday lunch hours, you’ll see:

• Office workers from Midtown and Downtown
• Students from Georgia Tech
• Visitors staying in nearby hotels

Lines tend to move quickly, but seating can fill up, especially in central areas of the dining room.

Drive‑In vs. Dine‑In: How You Can Eat There

The Varsity is historically known as a drive‑in, but the main Atlanta location offers multiple ways to eat:

• Walk-in counter service:

  • Most visitors walk inside, order at the counter, then find seating in the large indoor dining areas.

• Drive‑in service (when available):

  • In some areas of the parking lot, you may find traditional drive‑in style service where staff come to your car to take your order. Availability can vary over time and by area of the lot.

• Takeout:

  • You can order at the counter and take your food to go for a nearby picnic, back to your office, or to your hotel.

If you’re visiting with a group or kids, dining inside usually works best, since it’s easier to share food, keep things organized, and soak in the atmosphere.

Family, Kids, and Group Visits

For Atlanta families or out-of-town guests with kids, The Varsity can be an easy, informal outing.

• Kids often like:
  • Simple hot dogs, plain burgers, fries, and milkshakes or Frosted Orange drinks
• Parents and group organizers often consider:
  • The noise level and energy—this is a busy, bustling environment, not a quiet sit-down restaurant
  • The convenience of quick service and familiar fast-food style items
• For school or team groups:
  • The large dining space can sometimes accommodate buses and big groups, especially if you avoid peak game times and the tightest lunch rush.

If you’re planning to bring a large group from an Atlanta school, camp, or tour, it can be helpful to:

1. Aim for off-peak hours (late morning, mid-afternoon).
2. Have everyone look at the menu in advance so ordering goes quickly.

What Locals Keep in Mind About The Varsity

Many Atlanta residents view The Varsity as:

• A nostalgic or cultural experience more than a gourmet destination
• A place to take out-of-town visitors who want to say they’ve tried a uniquely Atlanta spot
• A spontaneous spot before or after events near Georgia Tech, Midtown, or Downtown

People living in the area often consider a few practical points:

• Food style: Traditional fast-food, fried and grilled items
• Noise and pace: Fast-moving, loud, and energetic—great if you want that kind of atmosphere
• Parking and traffic: The intersection of North Avenue and the Connector can be busy, particularly at rush hour or after major events

If you’re looking for a quiet meal, this may not be your first choice. If you want a classic Atlanta experience with a lot of energy, it can be exactly what you’re expecting.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to The Varsity Atlanta

Here are some quick, practical suggestions if you’re planning your first visit:

• Decide quickly at the counter.

  • Skim the menu boards on your way up so you’re ready when staff ask, “What’ll ya have?”

• Try a signature drink.

  • The Frosted Orange (F.O.) is a popular, distinctive choice many people associate with The Varsity.

• Expect a busy, fast-paced environment.

  • On game days or weekends, plan for crowds and give yourself extra time.

• Have a backup plan for parking.

  • If on-site parking feels too crowded, consider street parking nearby (where allowed), using MARTA, or getting dropped off via rideshare.

• Bring out-of-town guests here for an “Atlanta moment.”

  • Between the signage, location, and overall feel, it’s one of those spots that gives visitors a quick sense of the city’s personality.

How The Varsity Fits Into an Atlanta Itinerary

If you’re visiting Atlanta and building your schedule, The Varsity can fit well into:

• A Midtown day (exploring Georgia Tech campus areas, the Fox Theatre on Peachtree Street, or Midtown museums)
• A Downtown visit (Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center area, State Farm Arena, or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, with a short drive or ride to The Varsity)
• A Georgia Tech game day, either before heading to the stadium or afterward

Because of its central location near the Connector, it’s also a straightforward stop if you’re crossing town from one neighborhood to another and need a quick meal.

Is The Varsity Right for You?

For many people in and around Atlanta, The Varsity is:

• Worth visiting at least once, especially if you care about local history and culture
• A convenient option when you want fast, casual, classic drive‑in style food
• A recognizable spot to meet friends or take visitors

If you prefer quieter, health-focused, or more modern dining experiences, you might treat The Varsity as a one-time experience rather than a regular stop. But for understanding what makes Atlanta feel like Atlanta, knowing about The Varsity—and, if you’re curious, seeing it in person—helps you feel more connected to the city.