The Guide for HUNGRY BULLDOGS + TIGERS at the SEC Championship
Our own Steak Shapiro has put together this great guide for hungry Auburn and UGA fans visiting Atlanta and looking for a great bite near the new stadium. Take a look at his suggestions and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for more suggestions.
We all know that a big game is about a lot more than just football – it’s the build-up, the hype and the gameday experience. 22 years of covering sports and food in Atlanta has made me an expert on only a few things in the world like where to eat and drink by the big game. Here are the spots to think about this weekend to make your big game experience that much tastier…
The NICK CHUBB of BBQ
Consistent, solid and always puts a smile on your face – that’s what NICK CHUBB delivers every Sunday and it’s what these two spots deliver every gameday. The first spot is SMOKE RING, a classic BBQ spot that respects downtown and is located on the Northside drive side of The Benz. Don’t miss their take on Sliders, Smoked Brisket Burrito and Baby Back Ribs.
The other spot is TWIN SMOKERS. If brisket is your thing then it doesn’t get any better than than what this Marietta Street spot next to CNN Center is bringing – moist, meaty and a carnivore’s dream.
GUS MALZAHN Burger Mania
Like GUS’ hurry-up offense, TED’s MONTANA GRILLE has a tricky combination (of burgers) in all shapes and sizes, and they always have something up their sleeve. Ted’s delivers the best combination of regular and bison burgers you’ll ever find. Warning: the Knife and Fork Chili Cheese Burger and the Kitchen Sink creation with a fried egg and bacon will take your breath away…literally.
KERRYON JOHNSON Best-in-the-Game Pizza
Similar to the dominant Running Back who takes a back seat to no one in the country, MAX’S COAL OVEN PIZZERIA was named Best Pizza in Atlanta in an AJC online poll. Like a JOHNSON
TD run against a beefy goal line, you’ll punch a hole in the Tradizionale pie once it gets to your table. It’s got Pepperoni, Sausage, Roasted Red Peppers, and Red Onion. You can also tuck the Traditional Meatball Sub – trust me, you won’t want to fumble.
The VINCE DOOLEY Classic Beloved Steak House
Legendary coaches like VINCE DOOLEY are revered for their connection to tradition and history. Likewise, the classic steakhouse is in similar company, and there’s none better than RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE. Their one-of-a-kind Downtown location delivers on their great history, reputation and then some. The New Orleans heritage and flavors are a real bonus (just check out the Sizzling Steak and their version of a championship trophy, the epic Seafood Tower).
The JARRETT STIDHAM Keeps-Getting-Better-and-Better Sports Bar
Not only is STATS downtown’s first big time restaurant near the stadium, it is also a spot that keeps evolving and looking more impressive – much like current Auburn QB JARRETT STIDHAM. STATS has always been knows for phenomenal burgers and sandwiches (check out the new Pastrami Dip) but they’re now reinvented as STATS Brew Pub and are rewriting the beer scene downtown.
The HERSCHEL WALKER of Downtown Restaurants
It’s been there a long time and it’s still loved by folks who remember it from their childhood. That’s what TRADER VIC’S in the Atlanta Hilton gets credit for time and time again. This Polynesian restaurant runs you over HERSCHEL style with their original Mai Tai’s and then stays on top of their game with Asian flavors like Wok Stir Fried Seafood and BBQ Spare Ribs.
