The Varsity in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you search for “Atlanta Varsity Restaurant”, you’re most likely looking for the famous Varsity near Georgia Tech — the massive, old-school drive‑in that’s become an Atlanta landmark. This guide walks you through what it is, what to order, how to navigate it, and tips for locals and visitors who want the classic Atlanta experience without feeling lost or overwhelmed.

What Is The Varsity in Atlanta?

The Varsity is a long-time fast-food restaurant in Atlanta known for:

• Chili dogs, burgers, onion rings, and frosted orange drinks
• A busy, energetic counter-service setup
• Its location near downtown Atlanta and Georgia Tech
• The famous greeting: “What’ll ya have?”

For many Atlantans, The Varsity is a mix of nostalgia, game-day tradition, and late-night food. For visitors, it’s often treated as a must-see stop, similar to riding MARTA to a Falcons game or walking around Centennial Olympic Park.

Where Is The Varsity in Atlanta?

The most well-known location is:

The Varsity – Atlanta (Main Location)
61 North Avenue NW
Atlanta, GA 30308
Near the intersection of North Avenue and Spring Street, close to I‑85/I‑75 and the Georgia Tech campus.

Getting There

• By car:

  • Right off the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85) near the North Avenue exit.
  • Expect heavier traffic on weekday lunch, Friday nights, and game days.

• By MARTA:

  • Take the Red or Gold Line to North Avenue Station.
  • The Varsity is roughly a 5–10 minute walk west from the station.

• Nearby landmarks:

  • Georgia Tech campus
  • Midtown Atlanta
  • Downtown’s Civic Center area
  • Short drive to Centennial Olympic Park and State Farm Arena

What to Expect Inside: Atmosphere & Experience

Walking into The Varsity, especially the main Atlanta location, can feel like stepping into a busy food hall with a retro fast-food vibe:

• Loud, fast-paced ordering area with multiple counters
• Employees calling out, “What’ll ya have?!” as you approach
• Large, open dining areas with plastic trays and simple seating
• Lots of students, families, tourists, and locals mixed together
• On game days (especially Georgia Tech football), the crowds and energy spike

If it’s your first time, it’s normal to feel a little rushed at the counter. Regulars often know exactly what they want and order fast. To make it smoother, scan the menu boards before you step up and stick to a simple order if you’re unsure.

Classic Foods to Try at The Varsity

The Varsity is not about health food or fine dining. It’s about fast, greasy, comfort-style Atlanta food. Here are the signature items most people try at least once.

Core Menu Favorites

• Chili Dog (Hot Dog):
  A classic Varsity item — a hot dog topped with chili and mustard, with optional onions. Often ordered in pairs.

• Naked Dog / Chili Cheese Dog:

  • Naked Dog: Hot dog without chili.
  • Chili Cheese Dog: Hot dog with chili and cheese on top.

• Hamburgers & Cheeseburgers:
  Simple, flat-grilled burgers, sometimes ordered “all the way” with toppings like mustard, ketchup, pickles, and onions.

• Onion Rings:
  Crispy, thick, and greasy — one of the most-talked-about sides. They’re a favorite for many Atlantans who grew up going to The Varsity.

• French Fries:
  Straight-cut fries, often ordered alongside hot dogs or burgers.

• F.O. (Frosted Orange):
  A sweet, creamy orange drink — something like a frozen orange creamsicle in a cup. Very popular, especially in warm weather.

• Varsity Orange / Varsity Swirl:
  Different variations of orange-flavored drinks and ice cream mixtures, depending on the current menu.

How Locals Often Order

Many Atlanta regulars stick to combinations like:

• 2 chili dogs, onion rings, and an F.O.
• Cheeseburger, fries, and a Coke
• Chili burger, chili dog, and onion rings (on “cheat days”)

If you want the most “Varsity-style” meal, focusing on chili dogs, onion rings, and a Frosted Orange will give you the classic experience.

Ordering Tips: “What’ll Ya Have?” Without the Stress

The Varsity is famous for its fast-talking staff and long lines that move quickly. A few tips to keep your visit smooth:

1. Decide Before You Reach the Register

When you step up to the counter, you’ll likely be asked almost immediately: “What’ll ya have?”
To avoid feeling rushed:

• Scan the big menu boards before you get in line or as you move.
• Choose a main (hot dog or burger), a side (fries or rings), and a drink.
• Keep special requests simple and clear.

2. Use Simple Phrases

You don’t have to know every bit of Varsity slang. Clear, direct orders work best:

• “Two chili dogs, one order of onion rings, and a large F.O.”
• “Cheeseburger with everything, fries, and a medium Coke.”
• “Naked dog, fries, and a water.”

3. Expect Fast-Paced Service

• The line may look long, but it tends to move quickly.
• You’ll usually order, pay, then move down the counter to pick up your tray.
• Check your tray briefly before you walk away to make sure everything’s there.

When to Go: Timing Your Visit

The Varsity’s experience can change a lot depending on when you go.

Busiest Times

• Weekday lunch (11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
• Friday and Saturday evenings
• Georgia Tech home game days and big events nearby

You’ll see more students, office workers, visitors, and sports fans during these times. Expect more noise, longer lines, and parking competition.

Calmer Times

• Mid-afternoon on weekdays
• Later in the evening on non-game weekdays
• Weekend morning/late afternoon outside of big events

If you’re visiting Atlanta and want to take your time soaking in the atmosphere, a mid-afternoon stop often gives you room to breathe while still feeling the energy.

Parking, Accessibility, and Practical Details

Parking

At the main Atlanta Varsity:

• There is typically onsite parking around the building.
• On busy days, especially game days, spaces can fill up quickly.
• It’s common for people to park once, eat at The Varsity, then walk over to Georgia Tech or nearby areas.

If you want to avoid parking stress, consider:

• Rideshare drop-off near North Avenue
• MARTA to North Avenue Station, then walk

Accessibility

• Entrances and dining areas are generally set up for high-volume access with wide walkways.
• If you have specific mobility needs, going during off-peak hours can make it easier to find seating and move around.

Is The Varsity Kid-Friendly and Group-Friendly?

Yes, The Varsity is commonly used for:

• Family stops before or after downtown attractions
• School or youth group outings
• Team meals after sports events
• Large friend groups on game days

Why it works for groups:

• Plenty of seating in the main Atlanta location
• Fast food-style options that are familiar to most people
• Kids are unlikely to feel out of place in the louder, casual environment

If you’re bringing a group:

• Aim for non-peak hours if possible.
• Have a plan for younger kids who may get overwhelmed by the noise and crowds.
• Consider splitting up to order at multiple registers to speed things up, then regroup to find tables.

How The Varsity Fits into an Atlanta Itinerary

For visitors, The Varsity is often combined with nearby activities. A few typical pairings:

Before or After a Game

• Georgia Tech football or basketball
• Events at Bobby Dodd Stadium or McCamish Pavilion

Many fans stop by The Varsity either on the way to the game or right after, adding to the busy game-day atmosphere.

Downtown or Midtown Sightseeing Days

You might work The Varsity into a day that includes:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• College Football Hall of Fame
• Centennial Olympic Park
• A walk through Midtown Atlanta, Piedmont Park, or the Midtown arts district

Because of its location near the Downtown Connector and North Avenue, The Varsity can be a central, easy lunch stop between activities.

What Locals Think: Expectations vs. Reality

Ask five Atlantans about The Varsity and you’re likely to hear five different opinions. Common themes include:

• Nostalgia factor:
  Many locals grew up going there with family, on school trips, or for post-game meals.

• Food style:
  The menu leans heavily toward greasy, classic fast food — chili, burgers, fried sides, and sweet drinks. It’s not designed as a modern “healthy” spot.

• Atmosphere vs. taste:
  Some people go mainly for the experience and history; others genuinely love the taste of the chili dogs, onion rings, and F.O.

A realistic way to approach it:

Quick Reference: Planning Your Visit to The Varsity in Atlanta

Below is a simple summary to help you decide how and when to go.

Visiting the Varsity in Atlanta is less about chasing the “best food in the city” and more about experiencing a piece of Atlanta culture. If you plan your timing, know what you want to order, and set your expectations for classic, old-school fast food, it can be a memorable stop that feels distinctly local to Atlanta, Georgia.