When it comes to queso, hummus and other delicious dips, we subscribe to the philosophy, "Friends that dip together, stick together."
You can't go to happy hour without ordering something to nibble and nosh on. For those who don't, we don't know you. (Of course, we'd have flatter stomachs if we associated with more of these types, but we like to have fellow foodies at our tables.)
So next time you're getting the gang together, suggest one of these six watering holes in order to share their drinks and dips.
We've given you our list of great guacamole, and we've queried the city for standout quesos.Not to be left out are the munchies at Tin Lizzy's Cantina, an Atlanta establishment known for its well-priced margaritas and award-winning "FlexMex" tacos. (Southern Comfort, anyone?)
Tin Lizzy's is popular with the after-5 crowd, so grab as many pals as you can squeeze around a table. Then order at least one "Three Amigos" – your choice of salsas, guacamoles and quesos.
Of course, you'll have other decisions, too: How spicy do you like your salsa, and do you dig chorizo in your melted cheese? Gluten-free friends can join in the fun, as Tin Lizzy's menu accommodates varying diets and taste buds.
When we think dips, cheese-filled bowls usually spring to mind.
But your perspective might change once you've tried the smoked trout dip at Marlow's Tavern: The restaurant sources Ducktrap River smoked trout from Maine, then prepares it with olive oil, horseradish, fresh herbs and even housemade Wheat Thins.
Cozy up in a booth inside this contemporary, yet classic, establishment with 15 Atlanta-area locations (a Roswell outpost is opening soon).
Speaking of cheese and seafood, Roux on Canton, in Roswell's culinary epicenter, is a go-to spot this time of year with its savory dishes and warm atmosphere.
One of our favorite dishes is simply named "The Dip," a combination of lump crab, artichoke, white American, Gouda, cream cheese and Parmesan accompanied by pita bread.
Ask your server to pair it with one of the restaurant's continuously rotating craft beer menu for double the pleasure.
This is a cool, convivial place to grab a pint. Prominently located on Peachtree Street, TAP Gastropub has been a perennial go-to place across from Colony Square.
TAP boasts an international beer list, and it captures some state pride with its hummus blend, which includes Georgia olive oil and sesame seeds served with lavash. (And come on, the edamame hummus is basically good for you anyway.)
This restaurant first opened in Nashville, Tenn., in 1977. For just as long, spinach-and-artichoke fans have flocked to Houston's for its Chicago-style dip, served with salsa, sour cream and tortilla chips.
Houston's has built a reputation for serving versions of classics that allow the ingredients to shine, and this dip is a great place to start. It has locations on Lenox Road, Peachtree Road and Northside Parkway.
Which Atlanta eatery serves the best pimento cheese? You might as well ask a packed bar for SEC Championship predictions in September.
Still, despite all the varied opinions, we're particularly fond of the offerings at Empire State South (also on Peachtree Street) . We cheer especially loud for the small jar of pimento cheese with bacon marmalade.
Tune in to Peachtree TV at 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 10:30 a.m. Sundays for more Atlanta Eats!
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