The Varsity

The Varsity, an Atlanta staple, is family-owned and operated since 1928 by the Gordy family. It’s the world’s largest drive-in restaurant and an iconic downtown landmark. Celebrities ranging from presidents, to famous football players and well-known actors have visited this historical spot. 

Manager Sharel Allen has worked at The Varsity since 1990. 

“It’s a good business working here,” Allen said. “It’s a family-owned business, and they’re a nice couple to work for. I’ve worked here for 28 years straight and most employees that work here work here for a long time. 

Cashier and food handler Bianca Duvall has worked at The Varsity for 14 years. During her time at the restaurant, she’s met a lot of famous people. 

“It’s fun working here. It’s easy, friendly,” Duvall said. “Allen Payne recently came to the restaurant and came to my line, and I greeted him, which was really exciting. Michael B. Jordan, TI, and pretty much everybody that raps has been in here.”

Political figures, including Gov. Brian Kemp and current and former presidents, have also visited the restaurant. 

“When Kemp came, they shut down the whole place, same with Obama and Trump,” Duvall said. “We know that the presidents are here because we have to come through the back doors, and it’s so secretive.”

The Varsity was originally created as “The Yellow Jacket” for Georgia Tech students and is often frequented by fans going to Georgia Tech football games. On a busy day, Duvall could serve thousands of customers. 

“The drive-through has been shut down since the pandemic, so the restaurant has been more crowded because the curb isn’t there to help out anymore,” Duvall said. “People love their hot dogs and hamburgers — especially sports teams.” 

Frank Gordy founded the restaurant and, for the past 94 years, it has been passed down through the family. The current owner is Nancy Simmers but her son, Gordon Muir, has run the restaurant since her retirement. 

“The owner comes in all the time and he greets us, he’s so nice,” Duvall said. “He asks us how we are and what he can do to improve the place.”

Allen says the founder’s family creates a positive work environment that keeps people coming back. 

“They’re really nice people to work for,” Allen said. “They’re really friendly; they get to know you.”

Aside from its almost century-old origins, The Varsity has other unique features such as its family-owned secret recipes. 

“No one knows the recipes to the chili, the apple pie, and the peach pie we make from scratch,” Allen said. “We’re famous for our orange drink and frosted orange drink that you won’t find in any other restaurant.”

The Varsity has imprinted generations of Atlanta citizens with its rich history and environment. Junior Virginia Laster is a frequent customer at The Varsity.

“Everyone knows The Varsity, it’s a staple of Atlanta,” Laster said. “I like how The Varsity has its own culture and is just a huge part of the culture of Atlanta. I also like the building in Midtown because of all of the pictures and history that are in it.”

61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 881-1706