Where to Eat and Drink in Downtown Athens

The Place

The Place is a great option for lunch or dinner and the perfect spot to try some southern classics with a modern twist. Some menu highlights include the Buttermilk Fried Chicken and the Southern Bruschetta. The Place is open seven days a week and is located directly across from the UGA Arch.
 

Ted’s Most Best

Recently recognized by Cosmopolitan as one of “The 50 Best College Town Pizzerias”, Ted’s Most Best (or Ted’s as the locals abbreviate it) is a great spot for lunch or a relaxed dinner. Ted’s offers a unique variety of pizzas, specialty paninis, and salads, along with a vast selection of beer and wine. The counter service joint offers both indoor and outdoor seating and is a great pick for a nice day.

The National

The National is an award-winning upscale eatery open for both lunch and dinner. The menu consists of mediterranean-inspired dishes created from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. There are also a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. The National accepts walk-ins, but reservations are recommended and available on Resy.com.

Thai Spoon 

When Thai Spoon opened its doors in 1997, it was the first Thai restaurant in Athens. Twenty plus years later, it is as delicious and popular as ever. Thai Spoon combines fresh ingredients with authentic recipes to produce a classic yet refreshing variety of dishes. Thai spoon is open from 11-2:30 for lunch and reopens from 4-9:45 for dinner.

Jittery Joe’s 

If America runs on Dunkin’, Athens runs on Jittery Joe’s. First founded as one location downtown in 1994, Jittery Joe’s characteristic orange cups can now be found all over the city and University. The coffee shop serves small-batch roasts, specialty drinks, and a selection of pastries (the muffins are a must.) A short, 3 minute walk from the Classic Center, the Jittery Joe's downtown location is the perfect place for a pick-me-up.

Walker’s Coffee and Pub

Walker’s is an Athens classic, beloved by locals and students alike. It is a coffee shop by day, but transforms into a pub in the evening. Whether you’re looking for a unique latte or a craft cocktail, Walker’s is the perfect spot to grab a drink and observe the action in the heart of downtown Athens.