The Varsity (restaurant)

TheVarsity Atlanta-GA

TheVarsitySign Atlanta-GA

The Varsity night

Varsity, Kennesaw, GA, US

The Varsity full meall

Varsity catering

The Varsity is an iconic fast food restaurant chain in the United States, renowned for its unique place in Atlanta, Georgia's culinary and cultural history. Founded in 1928 by Frank Gordy, it has grown to become one of the most beloved institutions in the city, famous for its hot dogs, hamburgers, and orange shakes. The original location near the Georgia Institute of Technology has expanded over the years to include additional branches, making The Varsity the largest drive-in fast food restaurant in the world.

History

The Varsity was established in 1928 at the corner of Luckie Street and Hemphill Avenue in Atlanta. Its founder, Frank Gordy, was a Georgia Tech dropout who sought to create a restaurant that catered to the nearby college students. The original name was "The Yellow Jacket," but it was soon changed to The Varsity. The restaurant's growth mirrored the expansion of Atlanta, becoming a landmark in its own right. Through the years, The Varsity has become famous for its carhop service, where servers take orders and deliver food to customers in their cars, a nod to the nostalgic era of American drive-ins.

Menu

The menu at The Varsity is a testament to classic American fast food, with its most famous offerings being the "chili dog" and the "Frosted Orange" drink. The chili dog is a hot dog topped with The Varsity's signature chili sauce, while the Frosted Orange, often referred to as an "F.O.," is a creamy, frozen orange drink that has been a staple since the restaurant's early days. Other popular items include hamburgers, onion rings, and fried pies, all of which have contributed to The Varsity's reputation as a go-to destination for quick, satisfying meals.

Cultural Significance

The Varsity holds a special place in Atlanta's heart, not just for its food but also for its cultural impact. It has been visited by numerous celebrities and politicians over the years, making it a frequent stop on tours of the city. The restaurant's catchphrase, "What'll ya have? What'll ya have?" is instantly recognizable to locals and visitors alike, embodying the fast-paced, friendly service that has become a hallmark of The Varsity experience.

Locations

While the original location near Georgia Tech remains the most famous, The Varsity has expanded to include several branches across the state of Georgia. Each location maintains the classic menu and retro aesthetic that have made the original so beloved, ensuring that the Varsity experience is accessible to a wider audience.

In Popular Culture

The Varsity has been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its status as an iconic Atlanta institution. Its distinctive architecture and signage make it an instantly recognizable backdrop for scenes set in the city.

See Also

• Fast food in the United States
• History of Atlanta
• Georgia Institute of Technology

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