Feeding Frenzy

By Eileen C

April 11, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Maybe 10 miles.

By Howdy!

April 11, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

What is an ITP kinda gal? What does ITP mean?

By Jeanne Besser

April 11, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

ITP - in the perimeter….sorry about the abbreviation.

By ELLE

April 11, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

We traveled almost 50 miles to go to Gumbeaux’s in Douglasville.

The wait cant be almost an hour to be seated.

While you wait there are MANY, MANY people you get to visit with.

The food was EXCELLENT! I would definitely go back!

Prior to going to Gumbeaux I would travel tops maybe 20 miles. I also tend to be an ITP kinda woman.

By Peachtree City Dawg..

April 11, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

The range of my golf cart is just about right. It’s great to only have to fight the traffic on the paths….

By ITPer

April 11, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I work slightly OTP. On the weekends I refuse to leave the city - Buckhead, Va-Hi, Midtown. I never have to get on the interstate. I don’t understand when someone wants to go out in Marietta or Alpharetta. The city has everything I need.

By dpg

April 11, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Hunter’s Pub in Hamilton,GA is 57 miles from home. I only eat steak there and at home. Theirs is better.

By bizzez Grrrl

April 11, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

No matter where I’ve lived over the past 10 years or so, the answer has been the same: Whatever it takes to get to Bacchanalia!

By MW

April 11, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

I won’t go out of my way at all -nor will I wait too terribly long for a table. Food is food for goodness sakes —if you are so wrapped up in a particular restaurant or a particular meal then you need to get a life.

By Becky

April 11, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Don’t be so wimpy! My husband and I live an hour south of Atlanta but often meet friends for dinner in Atlanta. We’ve driven at least 1 1/2 hours for dinner at Posh, Sotto Sotto, C & S Seafood and Atlanta Fish Market. We flew to California for dinner at The French Laundry, so obviously I would go a long way for dinner. Get out of your little ITP groove(you sound so snobby with that).

By Keon

April 11, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

It all depends. With the price of gas going up that has curtailed many trips for me. But Atlanta is a city spread out. I typically will travel about 10-20miles to eat. However, that’s typically what people have travel JUST to get to work in the first place…so I don’t see how that’s too big of an issue. Now I’m not old, but I’m old enough that I don’t like waiting for service overly long unless I just have my heart set on the place. You generally have to wait for flying Bisquit on the weekend. You generally have to wait for places like the cheesecake factory, magiano’s etc. I made a specific trip to get there so I’m going to wait. Interestingly enough, I love Fogo De Chao which is popular but I don’t recal having to wait more than 10mins if that.

By Sam

April 11, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

I will be travelling to Atlanta this weekend from NYC to enjoy the batter-fried lobster tails at Paul’s restaurant in Buckhead. New York does not offer anything close to Chef Paul’s incredible lobster tails!

By Keon

April 11, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

It all depends. With the price of gas going up that has curtailed many trips for me. But Atlanta is a city spread out. I typically will travel about 10-20miles to eat. However, that’s typically what people have travel JUST to get to work in the first place…so I don’t see how that’s too big of an issue. Now I’m not old, but I’m old enough that I don’t like waiting for service overly long unless I just have my heart set on the place. You generally have to wait for flying Bisquit on the weekend. You generally have to wait for places like the cheesecake factory, magiano’s etc. I made a specific trip to get there so I’m going to wait. Interestingly enough, I love Fogo De Chao which is popular but I don’t recal having to wait more than 10mins if that.

By ATL rocks

April 11, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Hunters Pub in Hamilton, Ga also has whole fired lobster tails and they are well worth the drive…

By OTPer

April 11, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

I’m OTP. I lived in the highlands for a couple of years. We tend to drive 30 minutes for dinner. I rarely go ITP though. Mostly Marietta, Roswell, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs.

By bronxchic

April 11, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

This email is for Sam. You’re coming down here to get some lobster and you’re from NYC…. PLEASE… Have you ever been to City Island in the Bronx? The Best seafood in the world. Good people and great food. There is nothing here in Atlanta (NOTHING) that can EVER beat NYC seafood, Little Italy for Italian, China Town for Chinese, Spanish Harlem for arroz con pollo. NYC is here I come. Atlantas’ food is horrible.

By Martha

April 11, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

My husband and I drive 125 miles to Jacksonville, Florida to eat at Biscotti’s in the Riverside area. We also fly to California for a meal once in a while. Hubby is a “foodie” and will go to great lengths to get a great meal. I am happy with Wendy’s. g

By Martha

April 11, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

My husband and I drive 125 miles to Jacksonville, Florida to eat at Biscotti’s in the Riverside area (we live in South Georgia.) We also fly to California for a meal once in a while. Hubby is a “foodie” and will go to great lengths to get a great meal. I am happy with Wendy’s. g

By atl todd

April 11, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

We drive regularly from Gainesville in Hall County down to Fogo. Its worth every mile.

Todd

By Jill

April 11, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind at all driving for the food I want… I live in Marietta, and think absolutely NOTHING of driving to Tucker some nights when I HAVE TO HAVE Matthews Cafeteria, for instance… and I was raised by parents who would drive to Athens… not to visit me at UGA, but to get Schlotzky’s when it wasn’t readily available near them in Tucker… or would drive to B’ham to eat Johnny Ray’s BBQ, oh, and would see me while vising as well…

My husband doesn’t want to drive more than 5 minutes… which leaves out a lot of great options in the 15-20 minutes away range, IMO… but I convince him often enough if it matters to me…

~Jill Dotter Marietta, GA

By atlgamecock

April 11, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

My wife and I will drive 230 miles to Columbia, S.C. and the 1st stop is at Lizard’s Thicket either in Irmo or Lexington…Best “home cooking” I’ve found…period…The BEST fried chicken, fresh vegetables,and some major cornbread and sweet tea…Of course we have family there as well as being avid Gamecock fans however as I mentioned it’s ALWAYS the 1st stop…Do check it out !!!

By Michele

April 11, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

Well, We have been known to drive to Sahannah to have Dinner at “Lady and Sons”. A few weeks ago, my sister came down from Ohio to see my son before he leaves for Afghanistan. We drove fron Henry County to Savannah for dinner then came right back home. It is well worth the ride.

By bronxchic

April 11, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

What is all the writing about driving all across this dull state for Southern/Country cooking? Don’t you country hicks ever eat anything besides fried chicken/mashed potatoes/corn bread? And how much Mexican food can you eat? That’s all you see here,Mexican this and Mexican that. Give me a break!!!! And you drive ITP/OTP for boring food and boring theme restaurants. Get out and live a litte go to NYC for some good diverse food….

By Becky

April 11, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

bronxchic, Delta is ready whenever you are..If our state is so dull, please don’t let us “hold” you here any longer..

By Love to eat

April 11, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Cincinnati for chili and bakery, Maine for fresh lobster, Baltimore for crab cakes, Zurich for chocolate and cheese, Athens and Cyprus for great Greek food and San Francisco for authenic Chinese.

By Keeping It Real

April 11, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

To “Bronxchic”:

If the food here in Atlanta is SO horrible and disgusting to your system, then you should be dead by now, right? But since you’re obviously still alive, then why don’t you go back to the Bronx and live. We here in the ATL could care less. Maybe your move will inspire others to do so the same. Hopefully your move will clear up some of the congestion from all you wannabe BIG Fish Living In The Little Pond. Your azz probably can’t afford the NY lifestyle you’re living here in the ATL. Oh and by the way… I have travel the country and parts of the world and I must say…Atlanta is in the same league as any other major city in the US with the exception of NY and San Francisco. Atlanta is known for its dining and shopping.(And ppl please don’t tell me about the city of Chicago. I had a corporate apt on Michigan Avenue for over year and ate off of the company’s dime. I went to every imaginable high-end restaurant in that city. And let me tell you….the restaurants were just okay…nothing comparable to NY, SF, Milan or LV) Three years ago two young gentlemen drove down to Buckhead just to eat at Soto’s (sushi) on the night the restaurant closed. It was in the paper and I sat right next to them. So, it’s not incomprehensible for anyone to drive to the ATL for good food and/or dinning. And lets not even talk about good ole Southern dishes…NY can’t compare!

By 91AUGRAD

April 11, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

From Atlanta to: Seattle (for the Metropolitan Grille), Tampa (Armani’s), Boston (Il Panino Trattoria), and Memphis (Chez Phillip). Had reservations for La Tour D’Argent in Paris, but the trip had to be postponed ):

By Mary

April 11, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

We have driven all the way to Jackson, GA from N. GA mountains for fried chicken like you can’t believe. Or to the Blue Willow for some FINE cooking!

By Mel

April 11, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Auburn, AL to Gulf Shore, AL which is about 4 hours to The Gift Horse Restaurant. Drove there many times to have lunch then drive back home. They only serve a buffet..breakfast, lunch, dinner..served on a 40 ft mahogany table. It’s not just the great food, its the beautiful historic building that makes the trip worthwhile.

By Chris

April 11, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

We used to drive to Clayton, GA for dinner The Green Shutters but they closed down a couple years ago. Now we might make a trip to the Dillard House once a year.

By ET

April 11, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Dillard House (100 miles) Blue Willow Inn (50 miles) Worth $3.25 gas every time.

By Jennifer

April 11, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

I will drive far and wide for great food; I make it a point to have tea at my favorite tea shop in Chattanooga as often as I can. By the way, does anyone know where I can find salted caramel ice cream either in Atlanta or near?

By Zack

April 11, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Atlanta’s food is great. All of you Yankees go back home, please!!! Do everyone a favor!

By Eatz

April 11, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Live, work, play in midtown where else would you want to be? And to Howdy, you need to get out more!

By bronxchic

April 11, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Becky,

I actually flew them to get here and by the way, their food sucked too. Next time I will try Airtran, food will be equivalent to the price of the ticket at least. At least in New York the food seems to be better prepared and we have a better chance to walk it off. Maybe you’ll should take a hint from New York’s skinniest. NO MORE BUTTER.

By Grant FB

April 11, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

I went to Paris for the food. It was alright. I drive to Athens to eat Chef Hugh Acheson’s food. I will drive to Murrayville for a morning biscuit that will make you slap your momma. I live in the land of Applebees so we have to travel to get non corporate food. And Bronxchic(k)-We don’t want or need you here. First you burn our city down, then you come and build 1,000,000 subdivisions and drink all our water, and then you complain about our city being terrible.Your accent makes me cringe. Sell your prefab McMansion and get on up to the turnpike.Yankee.And that is the worst thing I can call you I assure you.

By Phil

April 11, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Back when I could, I have flown into new Orleans just for a weekend of brunch at the Court of Two Sisters and or dinner at Marisols.

I have also really enjoyed going to Dallas for the fried Lobster Tail at The Mansion at Turtle Creek

By Chris

April 11, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I have to disagree with the statement that ATL is in the same league as alot of the other major cities. I am from ATL..the food is good there but I live in NYC now and there is just so much diversity when it comes to meals. I must say, growing up in ATL sheltered me to alot of the different kingds of foods that are out there from different cultures. Ive been in NYC for two years and I rarely eat american and mexican food which are the mainstream eaterys in ATL. Don’t get me wrong, I love Atlanta. Its home for me. But when it comes to FOOD..New York City!!!

By ATLmom

April 11, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

I’m an ITP girl too and we rarely go outside our neighborhood for food. We’re considering moving to a burb location closer to my husband’s office, and our biggest hesitation is that we wouldn’t be able to walk to our great neighborhood-owned restaurants and shops.

By PAIGE

April 11, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

My husband and I live in Flowery Branch and drive to Greer SC to eat at Mimi’s Steak House of Japan at least once a month. It is the best!!!

By Phil

April 11, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

chris I am from NY and have lived in Atlanta for the last 25 years ! I still have some great meals when in NY and I agree it has more but as we know more doesn’t always mean better! For the size of Atlanta it holds its own with many of the great restaurant locales

Its still not the best but it certainly seems to be improving every year!

By Kelvin

April 11, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

I’ve flown to Bogota Colombia… They have a spot called Andres Carne De Res (Chia). The best steaks on the planet earth…

By bronxchic

April 11, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Okay Grant FB, This blog is about driving far for good food; Not about my accent ( since I’m writing this blog how do YOU know I have an accent)????.( bumkin) Anyway, I can’t drink your water (you’re in a drought) I’m not building McMansions ( I only live in one)and your city is horrible ( look at Fulton county,ie..East Point, West End, AND ALL points East, west north and south )… As far as food goes, everything here is about the look and not about the FLAVOR AND/OR TASTE. So get a handle on things, there are more Yankees here than there are Southerners up there. We’re here to buy your forclosed properties, because obviously you don’t know how to pay your morgages or live within your means. Having to drive for hours for a dish that you’all have probably had your ENTIRE small country hick life is so small thinging(what do you expect) no wonder Yankees like me laugh at you people everyday. Try eating really good different food, change your pallet and get A LIFE (go to NYC… don’t be scared..)( if you can get on your highways without killing yourselves or others)…( fly NYC it’s beautiful).. If your going to drive for miles eat something DIFFERENT… Live alittle

By themansgonnagetyou

April 11, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

give me a break, atlanta’s food can’t hold a candle to NY, SF or chicago or new orleans to say otherwise gives irrefutable evidence that you are a provential retard.

with the pain of getting around in atlanta, maybe the question should be ‘how long?’ not ‘how far?’

why do the numbnuts here get so insensed and try to defend the suckiness here. all you have to do is pick up the paper to daily reporting on the laughableness of trying to compare atlanta to the real world class cities. but then again, ‘every day is opening day’ he he he.

By foodie

April 11, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t travel very far for food. If I can’t get it close by, I have it delivered. We have ordered foodstuffs from all over the country via the Internet. Perfect when you just don’t want to drive…

By Becky

April 11, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Bronxchic, a pallet is something you sleep on, a palate is in your mouth. Themansgonnagetyou, the word is provincial. Good grief, learn to spell.

By Jen

April 11, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

I’m born and raised in NOLA. There’s no place in the country, NYC included, that can compare to the food of south Louisiana.

No, I haven’t been to every state and every restaurant, but I’ve been to the big cities of this country many times over and they all have plenty to offer. You can find good food anywhere…you just have to look.

And if you ask a local and they’re from the south and they send you to some southern food restaurant don’t complain. Don’t go to North Carolina looking for the best Thai in the country. Don’t go to Florida and look for the best Indian. Certain states have certain cuisines and you should appreciate them while they’re there.

All this being said…now that I live in Altanta I don’t find that I suffer from the lack of good food. It all depends on what I have an envie for, too.

The food here is good.

As to the question at hand…no I won’t drive to the ends of the earth for good food. I moved ITP so I could stop driving so much.

I will WALK far for good food, though.

By themansgonnagetyou

April 11, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

wow becky, your a great speller and a fabulous condescending batch.

oh and pleas, i’m begging, correct my grammer and spilling again, fatso.

By capt Bill

April 11, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

Since the topic if riding for food, ive ridden my motorcycle more than once to eat at the Chart House in Daytona Beach from Gainesville. Absolutely, the finest food, good view, good servers and be sure and eat downstairs at the bar. Take a shrimp cocktail outside, along with your favorite beverage and enjoy the boats on the Intercoastal Waterway. The best getaway one (or two) can ask for.

By Really now

April 11, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

I would never have believed that someone with such a poor grasp of spelling, punctuation and usage would really have the nerve to call anyone a hick.

I’ll refrain from mentioning how ironic it is that you can’t spell “bumpkin.”

Anyway, Bronxchic, as my mom used to say to small children being obnoxious just to get attention: We all see you. You can stop now.

I’m really sorry that you hate the place that you live so much. But, you act as if the fact that you can’t leave is somehow the fault of people who do like it here. Being mean to the other commenters isn’t going to change anything about whatever it is you’re so angry about.

Besides, calling people names because they don’t rise to your arbitrary standard of dining sophistication is really juvenile. You like what you like. Other people like what they like. There’s really no more to it than that.

By frank simmons

April 11, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

What interesting comments I hear beforehand. I have lived in and also dined in several cities myself and I find all these cities are special and very delightful with their cuisine. ATL,SF,Chi,NO,LV,BAL and D.C. all have foods that represent very well. Each of these cities can hold a candle to the “big apple,N.Y. because they feature eating/dining as their major attraction. Honestly, for good down home cooking no place can compete with two states (Miss. and La.) where all the best cooks originate from where seasoning rules all else in the kitchen of grandma.

By Brenda

April 12, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

i grew up in Atlanta, but now live in Tennessee and I drive 4 hours to downtown about once every 4 - 6 weeks to get a dog at The Varsity….. it makes me less homesick!

By Nickie

April 12, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Being NOLA transplants (nearly 20 years) we love good food. Locally we get po=boys at AJs here in East Cobb and drive to Henry’s in Acworth for bayou cakes and pasts oh la la. Every couple of years we drive to NO for some oysters at Acme, incredible everything at Commanders, fantastic french bread at every local grocery and boiled crawfish or crabs with friends. Most places, people eat to live. In NO people live to eat. You always seem to be talking about a great meal you had or planning where to eat or what to cook for the next one. Ok, so it’s shallow but good.

By Ann

April 12, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

My husband and I live in Cumming and for special occasions will drive to Vinings and go to La Paz, the best Mexican restaurant in town. We became hooked when they had other locations. Of course we will try and combine the trip with other things… but if we can’t.. the food is well worth the drive, no matter what the cost of gas is.

By JP

April 12, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Hey Bronxchic - it seems as if you’re the one that needs to get a life. After all, you’re putting way too much effort arguing with people on an online blog. Manhattan is great - but the Bronx is horrible. I feel sorry for people who have to live and work with you, because you seem like a real witch.

I drive to Douglasville for Gumbeaux’s about once a month. They serve the best Cajun food outside of LA that I’ve ever had. Try getting a good etoufee in the Bronx, and you’ll probably end up getting shot.

And Bronxchic, don’t bother responding to this, I won’t be checking back to see your feeble minded response…

By Edward

April 12, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

I’m not going to drive more than 5 miles or so for food, I don’t care how fabulous or wonderful the restaurant might be. Within my 5 mile radius of Midtown there is more than enough high quality diversity to satisfy me. Other than to go to the airport for trips (for which I take MARTA), I haven’t been OTP in years… no reason to do so.

By Bill

April 12, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Hey —bronxchick what you need is a big old bowl of grits and eggs and streak o lean um good.And some cat head biscutts and home made strawberry jelly.That will make you forget NYC.

By Sam

April 12, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Dear bronxchick, I made it to Atlanta and I am at Paul’s right now having the batter-fried lobster tail and it is absolutely the best! By the way, if you can make it to Paul’s Restaurant tonight at 6pm, I will buy you the dinner portion of the lobster tail and you can judge for yourself. If you don’t find it to be the best lobster you have ever had at least it will keep you quiet for a few minutes. FYI, City Island does not even have the famous batter-fried lobster tail. Cheers and here’s to your health!

By Ed B.

April 12, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

I drive about 45 miles to the Varsity from Griffin. Got to have some chili dawgs, rings and fries every so often no mater what gas costs are or will be !!

By bdawk

April 12, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Hey, I have question. Is there a non-chain, maybe family owned, quality Italian restaurant in the city that will not cost $100 or more for 2 people to eat dinner?

I have tried a few but have not had any luck so far.

By History Speaks

April 12, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

I’d walk a mile for a camel. I’d fly to the moon, for a Lorna Doone!

By Ben

April 12, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

I’ve just become ITP and have no intention of driving far for anything, well maybe for good coffee. Starbucks is not good enough but it’s only about 6 miles to my favorite independent coffee shop. So I’m going to say 6 miles.

By Rodney

April 12, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

Seems like very few of the posters here travel internationally for food. I admit, being single and not having children probably makes it a bit easier for me than for others (no, that wasn’t a slam to families just logistically speaking, it must be easier).

I’ve taken food trips to Italy, France, Spain and England (so far). I intend one day to hit the “far east”.

I also wouldn’t mind traveling to South American countries either and probably will plan on that one day.

Domestically, I often plan to meet friends in other cities just for a meal at certain restos. I’ve read several mentions of New Orleans dining in this blog but nobody has mentioned Uglesich’s! Back pre-Katrina I would meet friends in NOLA for a long weekend, really just to go to Uglesich’s. OF course, now we can’t do that anymore (closed, re-opened, closed again, not sure now if it is open or not).

New England is also a favorite “meet up” spot for good food - there’s a fantastic resto in Provincetown called the Red Inn - directly on the waterfront, great regional (read, seafood) cooking. Wonderful.

SO I guess to answer the question, what with food being a passion of mine I have traveled quite a bit for food. Hey, if they put a great resto up on the moon I might try to get there, too!

(Locally, I have no problem driving anywhere I hear about good food.)

By Dee A

April 13, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

I got married and moved to south Florida for 4 years. On every anniversary my hubby and I stopped through Atlanta for a Hot Brown at the Original Dwarf House in Hapeville.

By harold

April 13, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Living within walking distance of the Marietta Square, there is virtually no reason to drive anywhere in Atlanta for a meal. The only thing missing from the Marietta Square is steak, but I can do that at home better than any restaurant.

By Art

April 13, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

All the way to Lexington NC at least 4 times a year for my all time favorite BBQ… Lexington #1! Can’t live without it!!!!!

By W Lambert

April 13, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind traveling a distance for good food. One of my family’s favorites is the Blue Willow Inn in Social Circle, Georgia. Great atmosphere and wonderful southern cuisine. My mother asks to go every time she is in town. Ironically, my family also took a trip to San Francisco for Spring Break. We were somewhat disappointed in the restaurants we ate at in the City. Overall, it was a great experience, but Atlanta is not as bad as we make it out to be sometimes. We have a good selection of restaurants; great cultural life and lots of natural beauty. Besides, San Francisco is very expensive especially with regard to food and gas prices.

By W Lambert

April 13, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind traveling a distance for good food. One of my family’s favorites is the Blue Willow Inn in Social Circle, Georgia. Great atmosphere and wonderful southern cuisine. My mother asks to go every time she is in town. Ironically, my family also took a trip to San Francisco for Spring Break. We were somewhat disappointed in the restaurants we ate at in the City. Overall, it was a great experience, but Atlanta is not as bad as we make it out to be sometimes. We have a good selection of restaurants; great cultural life and lots of natural beauty. Besides, San Francisco is very expensive especially with regard to food and gas prices.

By joe

April 13, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

No wonder why our population is so overweight, our savings accounts are nonexistent and our environment is so polluted with you people driving everywhere for a meal. I suggest eating at home more and when you travel, do so to experience the countryside, not just a menu.

By N-GA

April 13, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

We live in the North Georgia mountains, so we frequently travel 100 miles each way to enjoy a terrific dinner at least once or twice each month. In fact, next weekend we have reservations at Cuerno. Depending on the circumstances, we will get a hotel room to avoid the long drive home after wine and/or cocktails.

Perhaps our situation is unusual, but I suspect that even ITP people cannot have top quality cuisine of every type/ethnicity within a five mile radius.

We travel abroad often, but dining is just part of the enjoyment. We definitely like going to Charleston or Savannah for great fresh seafood. Boston and San Francisco belong on that list as well.

But I have to assume that while you find the “willing to travel to the ends of the earth” responses interesting, your real question was meant to be “How far will you travel LOCALLY for a good meal?”. So I encourage you to venture out, because Decatur, Duluth, Woodstock and most of the other bedroom communities surrounding Atlanta all have hidden treasures just waiting for you to discover them.

By Mason

April 13, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

My grandmother passed on…I would certainly get a TARDIS and go back in time to eat at her table one more time….

That said, I am not opposed to more realistic drives to get to more exposed tables. I am still looking for the best Italian, Pizza, Cuban, Chinese,and Mexican…I don’t like the chains. In the meantime I enjoy cooking in my kithen too.

By MC Reality

April 13, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

I’d go to the gates of hell for some dim sum

By fp

April 13, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

not one good deli in the whole state of georgia

By Familyof5

April 13, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

We live in Douglasville and routinely head to Atlanta for meals. We’re not big on the regular chain establishments that we have out here.

We drive about 30 minutes to the Vinings for Chinese (Orient Express.) We have also found “excuses” to drive 3.5 hours to Charlotte in order to visit Price’s Chicken Coop.

By Beth Haynes

April 13, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Typically,my husband and I joke about never eating outside our zip code (downtown, 30303) and fortunately in recent years the choices are getting better and more varied all the time. We love being able to walk to dinner, usually with neighbors.

But the true is we tend to travel further when the company is worth it. For us it’s more about the friendship than the food.

By Bob

April 13, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

I travel a lot for work and I eat well when I travel. My wife businesses in Florida and Georgia so she eats out a lot also. We’re both here together at a bit more than two weeks a month, on average (lately less) and we prefer to eat at home with our sons.

Today I drove 30 minutes each way to get some items at the farmers market. I bought leaks, onions, carrots, and celery for the chicken soup I started last night. I bought lamb and beef roasts for dinner tonight. I also got makings for salad and some spinach for tonight and a chocolate cookie cake for those of us who eat dessert.

I grabbed some shrimp tortellini and some mushroom lasagna for tomorrow night. I filled out the bottom of the cart with some pomegranate juice and with a couple of types of fruit.

When I got home I realized the boys had used up all the oil in the house last night while they were making French Fries so I had to go to a local store (another 10 minute round trip) to buy oil for the lamb marinade.

So … 70 minutes of driving for me and I have to cook it!

By EAthefirst

April 13, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Jenkin’s Deli in Cleveland, TN has the best chicken salad. I would drive 2 hours to eat there in a heartbeat. I also love Shipfieffers (sp?) in Buckhead for some great gyros, but was shocked to find it closed last week!!! Anyone know what happened?

By GAPGIRL

April 13, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

HOTBROWNS….IN ATL???? I think not…GO TO KY FOR A REAL ONE….

As for ATL…I’m a Southerner and where else can you get a VARSITY chili bun?????

OH….and BRONXCHIC???? THE SOUTH WILL RISE AGAIN….BE READY!!!

By Opinionated One

April 13, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

I live in Augusta. Several times a year I drive to Savannah, to Mrs Wilkes’ Dining Room at 110 West Jones St. It is 135 miles, each way. Worth every bit of what it cost. Family style, It just doesn’t get any better than Mrs Wilkes. Try it. You will LOVE it. They only serve lunch m-f. 11 to 3. 912-232-5997

By HS Teacher

April 14, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

Yes, I travel for good food. BBQ in the Augusta area is the best and I was there a few days ago. Right now, I am in Honolulu for a meeting and I have eaten some of the best fusion food ever. I walked past Roy’s tonight—need to make a reservation though.

By AV8R

April 14, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

Annes snack bar is great

By jct

April 14, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Before the gas prices went through the roof, I would travel up to 50 miles. Now, if it is not in my neighborhood or on the commute home, we don’t eat it. In fact, we stop eating out almost entirely.

By terri

April 14, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

I drive often to Valdosta, GA to visit my folks and must always go to Ray’s Millpond in Ray City. Don’t confuse this with ATL’s Ray’s on the River…this is the total refreshing opposite. Ray’s Millpond is a gem to say the least. Hidden down a dirt road in a tiny town with one flashing light, Ray’s is a low-ceilinged, wood panel shack tucked along the bank of a swampy pond. Years of popularity have brought the addition of room after room, so now it resembles some sort of off-kilter maze of small dining areas, filled to the gills with large tables of south georgia’s finest patrons. Lots of pentecostal ladies with monkey bread hair-dos and older men stooped in their ironed percale shirts. It’s like a time warp back to a town meeting in Mayberry. Oh, yes, and the food…fresh fried platters of catfish, mullet, roe, nile perch, oysters and shrimp just to name a few. All plates come with fries & hushpuppies…and then the table is set with family-style servings of cheese grits, cole slaw & a plate of dill & sweet pickles. Swish it all back with a huge glass of perfectly sweetened iced tea. Afterwards, you can stroll out to a deck overlooking the swamp, fend off the skeeters and look for the resident alligators before heading home and going for a good five mile walk to compensate for the indulgence! This dining experience is definitely a slice of culture unique to itself.

By Josh

April 14, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

75 Miles to eat in Chattanooga

By JJ

April 14, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

With gas prices going up with no end in sight, and the possibility of $4/gal, I will not drive further than the grocery store. And that’s on my way home.

By me2too

April 14, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

We drive all over to find great food, trying out everything. It’s the “thing” we do as a couple; we take friends and family with us to great ones we have found and tell them that they may want to steer clear of others. We call it Adventures In Eating and have a great time exploring together that way.

By Storm

April 14, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Sounds like alot of ya’ll have more money than sense. With gas prices what they are, why are you driving 50-100 miles for a single MEAL? That is just utter nonsense.

By Shannon

April 14, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

There is one place that I still drive to get mexican food (its a restaurant close to where I lived at up until 4 years ago) and its about 14 miles one way, however that said I will try to combine it into a day where I have to go that way for all of my errands (whether it be a doctor’s appointment or a hair appointment or just general shopping in the area).

By Aurora

April 14, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

I would much rather cook my own meals, than drive somewhere and use up all my gas.

I love The Fresh Market, and I pass by one on the way home, so I stop in there a couple of times a week.

I do one weekly trip to Publix, but I buy my meat and veggies at The Fresh Market in Suwanee. OR, I buy my veggies at the local Farmers Market on Saturdays at Suwanee Town Park.

By tony

April 14, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

I miss bronxchick, where is she???

By Clay

April 14, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

I don’t go out of my way for food; but, I have to drive to Columbus, GA about once every 6 weeks or so and I eat BBQ while I’m there. I’ve lived here for 4 years and I haven’t found any BBQ around here yet. Before someone tries to point out some chain BBQ restaurant in the area, if you haven’t eaten at Smokey Pig, 13th Street or even Mike & Ed’s, then you haven’t eaten BBQ.

Also, the price of gas is irrelevant if you’re looking for good food. I’ve found that the only people who complain about the price of gas are those who are struggling paying for gas. You wouldn’t be in the market for dining, anyway…

By Kelley

April 14, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

not far anymore!

By Kell

April 14, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

We just went back to South Florida for vacation after moving here more than two years ago…partly because of the mexican food at La Bamba and Big Bear Brewery in Coral Springs!

By Bhorsoft

April 14, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Me and my motorcycle buds will ride 150 miles for a good lunch on the weekends. Compared to the car, the total gas cost is cheap, the rides are memorable, and the comraderie is priceless. Plus, we know some of the best mom and pop places in a 5 state area!

By A dining pleasure

April 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Hey bronxchick….that road from NYC runs both ways, ya know?

And Opinionated One…..You are right on! Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room in Savannah is to die for! Be ready to loosen your wasteband though.

By JULIA

April 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

often from Douglasville down I75 to exit 201,to eat fried chkn and vegestables at Buckners.

By Lefty

April 14, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

I travel for food. Sometimes the best finds a right near your home but sometimes you have to seek them out.

http://travelingreview.blogspot.com

By Lefty

April 14, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

I travel for food. Sometimes the best finds a right near your home but sometimes you have to seek them out.

travelingreview.blogspot.com

By The O-Gee

April 15, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

the varsity is aweful!!! full-on crap!

By dino

April 16, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

i take 30 steps, and i’m in the best place in the world to eat: MY KITCHEN

By cdrpar

April 29, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

I love good food and under normal circumstances I would travel to eat, but the ecomony dictates otherwise for me. So instead I cook different recipies and invite people over to enjoy. I guess most people aren’t feeling the recession/depression as much as I am!!!

By TJ

April 29, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Growing up in CT, I’m used to driving to Rhode Island or NYC just to eat. Sometimes we’d stay to shop or catch a show.

Now that I’m here in Atlanta, nothing’s changed. I’ve driven to Macon and most recently, Spartanburg, SC to Beacon Drive-In after seeing a spot about it on Food Network. If I have the craving and I have time, I’m there. But now with gas prices, I’m making the trip to my stove more often than not.

By Some Other Mike

April 29, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

I’m still a big supporter of the “local establishment” concept, so I generally stay within a few miles of where I’m travelling that day, or walking distance if at home.

When I lived close to MARTA rail, I used to take the train intown on a weekend, and almost always included dinner or supper on those trips.

I’ll hold off on naming favorite places, except to say that Ed B. should be heading to Macon instead of Atlanta for those chili dogs. :)

By JR

April 29, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

I’m also a Yankee tranplant now living in Henry County. The majority of the restaurant’s within my comfort zone (10-15 miles) are commercial, but there are plenty to choose from. I did run across this company foodmobile.biz that delievrs from most of my favorite restaurants. With gas prices, demands of my job and family…. It’s awesome to NOT have to drive to enjoy what I feel like eating.

By Tweetiepie

April 30, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I will travel for food, but most of time I eat at different places when I’m vacationing. One place you must try if you’re in the area is Boondocks in Panama City Beach, FL. It is very, very good.