Eating Out:ATL

Trips to the Dirty South automatically trigger the BBQ aficionado in me. But, before diving into some of the great BBQ spots and common joints that the ATL has to offer, I want to start our trip to the home of the Braves (and OutKast) with a stroll to the Dwarf House.

Those in the know would say, "Hey blasphemer, you talk all this food stuff and you dare reference fast food?" For those who've been left out of the loop, Dwarf House is Chick-Fil-A but for some obscure reason there's a small door and a large mural for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. If you're unsure if what I am saying is true, the pic at right shows me, all 6'2", trying to leave the Dwarf through their door. Ok, ok, truth be told there's also a regular sized door but this one is much more funner.
 

But why hype up a Chick-Fil-A with a small door Dominic J? Funny you should ask. The reason is simple, this is the only place you can get a Hot Brown. While I'm sure if you search Urban Dictionary you'll find some not so pleasant meanings. Either way, the Hot Brown is a delightful combination of all things good - chick-fil-a chicken, gravy, bacon, cheese, and toast. Wanna see? I bet you do! Not I bet you want to taste it too! Truth be told, the menu is far more expansive than just the Hot Brown and some other featured items that you cannot find at your local Chick-Fil-A.

Next up in the ATL we have Manuel's Tavern, a neighborhood staple since 1956. Manuel's is a bar that also serves up some tasty treats. The folks I was with were raving about the must have, Dogzilla. Some warned that it was, "too big" and I "probably couldn't eat it by myself." Naturally my interest was piqued at these comments that I absorbed as veiled threats to my manhood. Granted that's not the best picture but Dogzilla features a heaping of slaw, fries, and of course hot dogs. Too big? No, no. Not for this guy. Hungry or not I can do two of those. If hungry, 4 is no problem.

More to come about Varsity, Vortex, and some other ATL favorites but I know I have not seen either of these ATL hidden gems on ANY food travel show...