The Varsity ~ Atlanta, Georgia

Latest visit: Apr 2024 (Georgia Tech area)

First visit: Feb 2006 (Lindbergh / Piedmont - closed)

Locations: 8 in the Atlanta area (including two in the airport), with one being built.

What luck! I wasn't sure if I'd ever get back to The Varsity. I had one opportunity to try it prior when working for software-company-everyone-has-heard-of (and is now our arch enemy). There's not one anywhere near where our office is, and since I'm sans wheels, I have no way to get there without considerable time, money, and effort. 

So as we closed down our training sessions, some folks began to head to the airport. Since we only have one flight back to the Springs, I needed to wait until 7 at night. No big deal, I'll continue to work at the office and walk somewhere for lunch. I'm beginning to realize that some of my peers are like-minded in the RJG methodology, including one of our leaders. The local gentleman (who suggested Little Alley) offered to drive us to The Varsity. It was suggested by another peer, not I. Yes! I want to be with these guys! So there were five of us as we made the pilgrimage to the original location near Georgia Tech (hence the name).

When I started the RJG, The Varsity (first opened in 1928) is exactly the kind of place I had in mind to talk about and recommend. As the years have drifted by, places like this have gone the way of the dodo. But The Varsity continues to thrive. The first location I went to remains a mystery to my memory but it most assuredly wasn't this (OK some research is revealing it was the Lindbergh drive location known as Varsity Jr. (had an historical note about that too) which is now closed). This place is humongous! Multiple rooms - a very large ordering counter service. They direct you to a line similar to how major airports direct patrons in customs. Everything here takes you back to the 1950's and 60's.

Their famous greeting is "What'll Ya Have?". Seems many of these workers have been here for decades judging by their look. I went with the iconic #1 which is two chili hot dogs (added cheese), fries, and a Frosted Orange (known humorously as FO). Junk food at its absolute finest! What a excellent mix of flavors. As commented by my peers, the frosted orange is like a liquid Push-Up for those who enjoy those. You'll need a spoon at first before using the straw.

What a great way to close off an excellent team gathering.

2/5/06; 4/18/24 (new entry)