SINCE 1928, the Varsity, Atlanta's quintessential drive-in restaurant, has been slathering hot dogs in chili and filling bright red cups with icy Frosted Oranges. Folks from all walks of life, from everyday Joes and Janes up to U.S. presidents, continue to experience the restaurant's brand of glorious grease. Sounds like a cause for celebration.
The original Atlanta location hosts an outdoor musical bash Aug. 2 to celebrate its 80th anniversary. Live performances from the Cool Whips, the Hibbert Brothers and the Planet Rock Experience serve as the soundtrack. The latter features an all-star line up of students, ages 7 to 18, from the Planet Rock School of Music Performance.
Since the Varsity and cars go hand in hand, the Coca-Cola NASCAR Experience seems right at home. This simulator places riders in the driver's seat of a NASCAR race car. And motor heads get a gander at Coke Zero's Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a collection of classic cars from the '50s.
Visitors score free birthday cake and ice cream throughout the day. And the usual menu suspects will be available for purchase. In order to prime yourself for a Varsity visit, brush up on the following lingo:
Heavy Weight: Shorthand for a hot dog with extra chili.
Mary Brown Steak: Way before Dr. Atkins was shilling his diet, this was code for a hamburger without a bun.
F.O.: Stands for the trademark frozen drink, the Frosted Orange.
P.C.: This means a carton of plain chocolate milk, which comes with a cup of ice. Want to skip the ice? Then ask for a N.I.P.C.
Bag of Rags: Bag of potato chips.
Walk a Dog: Say this if you want your hot dog to go.
Chili Steak: Hamburger with chili.
Ring One: A single order of onion rings.
Strings: A side order of French fries.
Sideways: Onions on the side.
THE 411: Varsity 80th Anniversary. Free. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 2. The Varsity, 61 North Ave., Atlanta. 404-881-1706, www.thevarsity.com.
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