Classes have been over for about two weeks now, and I’m already considering hopping in the car with an ice-filled cooler to stock up on my Athens favorites to bring home to Cincinnati with me. Nothing, and I mean nothing, compares to Athens food. I don’t just want a chicken ‘n waffle sandwich right now, I need one. If you aren’t missing Athens eateries yet, here’s 10 to spark your tastebuds:
1. Big Mamma’s
When talking to some friends about what foods they were missing most, Big Mamma’s was the overwhelming response. Why? Because Big Mamma’s is the Holy Grail of burritos, of course.
2. DP Dough
You can’t find a better calzone anywhere. Also, cheesy bacon tots. That’s all.
3. Union Street Diner
Amazing shakes, yummy burgers and sandwiches, and bomb-ass breakfast food. Also, their deep-fried Oreos are everything. Nothing beats going to USD at 1 AM with your best friends for good food and good company.
4. Ginger
I might have tears in my eyes for this one. So #blessed for whatever soul decided it was a good idea to make a Chipotle-style Chinese restaurant. Not #blessed that Ginger isn’t a chain, because I have to wait until August to eat lo mein bowls and shrimp tempura rolls. Until we meet again.
5. Bagel Street Deli
There’s no other restaurant I could ever eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and not cringe. Dreaming of the day I can be back on the bricks again eating BSD in the sunshine.
6. Popcorn from The Crystal
Alright, this isn’t exactly an Athens delicacy, but nothing quite hits the spot like popcorn from Stal after a few vodka Sprites. You know you miss it.
7. Wings Over
There’s nothing like being two elbows deep in wings with buffalo sauce all over your face, watching the horse cops and drunk humans make their way down Court Street. Ah, memories.
8. Uptown Grill
I would do questionable things for a chicken ‘n waffle sandwich right now.
9. Courtside Pizza
There is nothing more painful than paying more than 50¢ for a slice of pizza. Slice night, I miss you.
10. Casa Nueva
My tastebuds are crying for Casa. Margarita pitchers, and 7-layer dip, and build-your-own quesadillas, oh my! Other Mexican restaurants just don’t compare.
Someone get me back to Athens, ASAP.