The diversity of Athens is reflected in its wide array of dining options, from barbecue to soul food. Here are a few of the city's best restaurants.
Barbecue
Pulaski Heights BBQ on Pulaski Street. For finger-licking good barbecue, head to Pulaski Heights BBQ adjacent to the railroad tracks just outside of downtown Athens. In addition to pork, chicken and beef, the menu offers options for vegetarian customers such as salad, meatless snacks and sides, and tofu. Full-service buffet catering -- including delivery, setup, maintenance and breakdown -- is also available for special get-togethers.
Coffee Shops
Walker's Coffee and Pub on College Avenue. With so many coffee shops and cafes in Athens, each its own personality and flair, it's hard to name just one as the best. Some are housed next to their roasters, some are located inside other buildings, some feature musical acts and turn into bars at night, and some are optimized as study lounges for University of Georgia students seeking a caffeine buzz. But with its ability to serve as both a between-class hangout and evening bar, Walker's Coffee and Pub tops the list -- and that's despite its proximity to the coffee chain Starbucks. You also may encounter a famous face serving your coffee, as a few employees are members of the Indie-folk band Family and Friends.
Upscale
Five & Ten on Milledge Avenue. One of four restaurants in Georgia owned by "Top Chef" judge Hugh Acheson, Five & Ten is a notable destination for special occasions in Athens. The cuisine combines traditional Southern flavors with French and Italian influences to create a diverse menu appetizing to anyone in your party. Be sure to check out Five & Ten's specials on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays.
Soul Food
Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods on Broad Street. Dexter Weaver's nearly 30-year-old restaurant is a soul-food staple in Athens. Chicken and gravy, cornbread and sweet tea are just a few of the menu highlights. The bright green house on Broad Street became famous after its slogan inspired R.E.M.'s 1992 album "Automatic for the People." And in late 2013, when financial strains threatened to close the restaurant, community supporters rallied together to save this beloved Athens institution.
Latin American
Cali N Tito's on Lumpkin Street. With its two locations in Athens, Cali N Tito's gives patrons an authentic Cuban dining experience, with tasty quesadillas, delicious Cubanos and sweet churros. Enjoy ample outdoor seating ideal for large parties at the Five Points spot, but be sure to have cash ready as the restaurant does not accept credit or debit cards.
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