The Varsity in Atlanta: A Classic Drive-In That Became a City Landmark

Walk up to the bright red sign off North Avenue and you’ll hear it before you see it:
“What’ll ya have?”

The Varsity in Atlanta is more than a fast-food spot. It is widely recognized as a local institution, a drive-in that has been part of the city’s daily life, game-day rituals, and late-night cravings for generations. For many visitors and locals, stopping at The Varsity is as much about experiencing a slice of Atlanta history as it is about grabbing a hot dog and an onion ring.

This guide explores what makes The Varsity restaurant in Atlanta unique, what to know before you go, and how to make the most of your visit.

What Is The Varsity in Atlanta?

The Varsity is a historic fast-food drive-in restaurant located near downtown Atlanta, close to Georgia Tech and major city attractions. It is known for:

• Classic American drive-in food (hot dogs, burgers, fries, onion rings, shakes)
• A lively, bustling atmosphere
• Distinctive staff calls like “What’ll ya have?”
• Strong ties to Atlanta sports, student life, and local culture

Over time, it has developed a reputation as a must-visit Atlanta landmark, frequently included on lists of iconic local experiences.

A Brief History of The Varsity

Origins and Growth

The Varsity opened in the early 20th century as a small drive-in focused on quick, affordable food served with energy and personality. Over the decades, it expanded its footprint and reputation, eventually becoming closely associated with:

• Georgia Tech and nearby universities
• Atlanta sports events, especially football games
• Road trips and family outings through the city

As car culture grew, the idea of a large, bustling drive-in restaurant with a huge parking area and fast-paced service matched the spirit of the time. Many local families describe visiting The Varsity as a shared memory passed down across multiple generations.

Cultural Legacy

The Varsity’s staying power comes from its consistent identity:
simple menu, familiar flavors, and a specific kind of energy that regulars recognize instantly.

It often appears in:

• Local stories about Atlanta’s development
• Media coverage about classic American drive-ins
• Travel guides highlighting “old-school” or nostalgic food stops

This mix of nostalgia, continuity, and location has made The Varsity a symbol of Atlanta as much as a place to eat.

Where The Varsity Sits in Atlanta’s Food Scene

Atlanta has a diverse and evolving restaurant landscape, with everything from high-end dining to global street food. Within that mix, The Varsity fills a particular niche:

• Historic, no-frills fast food
• Emphasis on tradition over trend
• Simple menu, focused on hot dogs, burgers, and fried sides

For many visitors, it is less about comparing The Varsity to newer restaurants and more about experiencing a specific piece of Atlanta’s culinary history.

The Varsity Menu: What People Commonly Order

While menus can change over time, several items are strongly associated with The Varsity and often mentioned by regulars and first-time visitors alike.

Signature Items

1. Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a core part of The Varsity’s identity. They are often served with:

• Chili
• Onions
• Mustard or ketchup

Variations commonly referenced by customers include:

• Chili dog – hot dog topped with chili
• Chili cheese dog – chili plus shredded cheese

2. Burgers
The burgers are typically straightforward, classic fast-food style. Guests may choose:

• Single or double patties
• Add-ons like cheese, onion, pickles, and condiments

3. Sides
The sides are especially well-known and often described as essential to “the full Varsity experience”:

• Onion rings – thick, battered, and fried
• French fries – classic, salty fast-food fries
• Chili cheese fries – fries topped with chili and cheese

4. Drinks and Sweets

Customers frequently mention:

• Frosted orange drink – a sweet, creamy, orange-flavored frozen beverage
• Shakes and malts – traditional ice cream-based drinks
• Soft drinks and sometimes house-special variations

Quick Menu Snapshot 🍔🌭

Menu specifics and availability may change, so current offerings can differ from long-standing traditions.

How Ordering Works: “What’ll Ya Have?”

One of the most recognizable features of The Varsity is the ordering experience itself.

The Atmosphere at the Counter

Inside the main Atlanta location, the ordering area is usually:

• Busy and loud, especially on weekends and game days
• Staff calling out “What’ll ya have?” to keep the line moving
• Customers deciding quickly as they approach the counter

There is a long-standing expectation that customers know roughly what they want before reaching the front, which keeps the pace brisk and adds to the high-energy environment.

Tips for First-Time Visitors 📝

• 🧠 Decide in line: Look at overhead menus while you wait so you are ready to order.
• 🎯 Keep it simple: Start with a classic combination (e.g., chili dog + onion rings + a drink).
• 👂 Listen for your order: Food is often ready quickly; stay attentive for your tray.

Location, Parking, and Access

The flagship Varsity is located near downtown Atlanta, close to major highways and key landmarks like Georgia Tech. This location makes it a frequent stop for:

• Travelers passing through the city
• Fans heading to or leaving sporting events
• Students and locals from nearby neighborhoods

Parking and Drive-In Feel

The main location is known for its large parking area and a design that reflects its origins as a classic drive-in restaurant. While the format has evolved over time, the basic drive-in feel is still part of its identity:

• Many visitors park and walk inside
• Some areas are oriented toward car-based service, depending on the configuration and current operations

Because traffic and parking conditions in Atlanta can vary, people often plan a little extra time, especially during busy periods.

When The Varsity Is Busiest

Although specific traffic patterns can change, regular visitors often note:

• Game days (especially nearby college football or large events) tend to be busy
• Lunch and dinner rushes see more lines at the counter
• Weekends typically draw families, tourists, and groups

Some people enjoy visiting during peak times for the full, high-energy experience, while others prefer quieter hours so they can explore and eat at a more relaxed pace.

What Makes The Varsity a “Must-See” for Many Visitors

1. Strong Sense of Place

The Varsity captures a particular version of Atlanta’s character:

• Car culture and drive-in nostalgia
• Connections to local sports and student life
• A loud, fast-paced, energetic environment

For many, it feels like stepping into a living piece of city history rather than simply picking up fast food.

2. Nostalgia and Ritual

Long-time Atlanta residents often describe rituals such as:

• Stopping at The Varsity on the way to games
• Introducing out-of-town guests to chili dogs and onion rings
• Returning as adults to a place they visited as kids

These personal traditions contribute to The Varsity’s ongoing relevance in the city’s collective memory.

3. Iconic Branding and Language

Phrases and features like:

• “What’ll ya have?”
• Bright red signage
• Simple, old-school menu boards

are widely recognized and frequently referenced in local conversation, media, and tourism materials.

Helpful Tips for Visiting The Varsity in Atlanta

Here is a quick, skimmable set of practical pointers:

Visitor Checklist ✅

• 🌟 Know why you’re going
  • History, nostalgia, and atmosphere are major draws.
• ⏰ Time your visit
  • Expect crowds around lunch, dinner, and game times.
• 📋 Scan the menu early
  • Decide on basics (hot dog or burger, fries or rings, drink) before the counter.
• 💬 Expect quick interactions
  • The service style is fast and energetic, not leisurely table service.
• 🍟 Try a side and a drink
  • Onion rings and the frosted orange are often highlighted by regulars.
• 👪 Plan for a busy dining room
  • Inside seating can feel crowded, especially on peak days.

Families, Students, and Tourists: Different Ways People Experience The Varsity

Families

Many families treat The Varsity as a fun outing, especially for children who may enjoy:

• The lively environment
• The visual spectacle of the large building and signage
• Simple, familiar menu items

Parents often plan visits as part of broader Atlanta activities, such as trips to museums, sporting events, or campus tours nearby.

Students and Locals

For nearby students and city residents, The Varsity can become:

• A late-night stop after events or studying
• A social gathering spot before games
• A familiar, comfortable option when friends visit

It often serves as a shared reference point in conversations about campus life and local traditions.

Tourists and Road-Trippers

Travelers often visit The Varsity because it is:

• Frequently mentioned in travel guides and discussions of Atlanta icons
• Close to major roads and attractions
• Perceived as a way to experience “classic Atlanta” in a short time

For out-of-towners, it often sits alongside other key stops like city parks, museums, and sports arenas.

Atmosphere, Décor, and Experience Inside

The Varsity’s interior typically emphasizes:

• Bright, functional spaces rather than elaborate décor
• Large ordering counters with visible menu boards
• Ample seating areas designed to handle significant crowds

The overall feel is fast, utilitarian, and energetic, reflecting its origins as a high-volume drive-in. Many visitors describe it as lively, sometimes chaotic, especially when packed, which contributes to its character.

How The Varsity Fits Into Atlanta Traditions and Events

Game-Day Culture

On football Saturdays and other major sports days, The Varsity often becomes part of the ritual:

• Fans stopping in before or after games
• Large groups ordering in a hurry
• A general sense of celebration and anticipation

Its location near Georgia Tech and within reach of downtown stadiums makes it a natural gathering place.

City Storytelling and Local Identity

The Varsity frequently appears in:

• Stories locals tell visitors about “old Atlanta”
• Conversations about classic food spots that have survived multiple eras
• Photo collections and social media posts highlighting “Atlanta essentials”

Because of this, it serves as a cultural reference point as much as a dining option.

Is The Varsity Right for Every Visitor?

The Varsity has a strong identity, which can be a major draw for some and less appealing for others.

People who typically appreciate The Varsity most often:

• Enjoy historic or nostalgic food experiences
• Don’t mind busy, loud environments
• Prefer simple, familiar fast-food-style menus
• Are curious about local institutions recognized by many Atlanta residents

Those looking for quiet, upscale dining or extensive modern menu options might not find what they are seeking here. In many cases, visitors decide to experience The Varsity for what it is: a long-standing, energetic Atlanta landmark with a specific style and atmosphere.

Quick Takeaways: The Varsity at a Glance 💡

• 🏙️ Location: Near downtown Atlanta and Georgia Tech, easily reached from major roads.
• 🕰️ History: A long-running drive-in-style restaurant deeply woven into local culture.
• 🍔 Food Focus: Hot dogs, burgers, onion rings, fries, and classic drinks like the frosted orange.
• 🔊 Vibe: Busy, loud, and fast-paced; staff call out “What’ll ya have?” as you order.
• 🎟️ Best For: Visitors who want to experience a well-known Atlanta icon and classic fast food in a historic setting.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Crowds: Expect more people during lunch, dinner, weekends, and game days.

Stepping into The Varsity in Atlanta is less about discovering the newest food trend and more about connecting with a long-standing piece of the city’s everyday life. Whether you go for a chili dog, a basket of onion rings, or simply to hear “What’ll ya have?” in person, the experience offers a snapshot of Atlanta’s past and present gathered under one bright red sign.