Eating Your Way Through Atlanta (on a College Budget)

When the Ole Miss Rebels take on the Boise State Broncos in Atlanta for the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game, fans will want to be fueled up for a win. After buying the ticket to the game, absorbing the cost of commuting to the city and finding somewhere to sleep at night, there probably isn’t much money left in your weekend budget. With the help of Atlanta locals, we’ve made a list of the tastiest places to eat without breaking the bank.
1. The Varsity, 61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, Ga 1.7 mil from Georgia Dome
If you are wandering around downtown, The Varsity is a great place to grab a bite to eat and feel more like a local. The Varsity is an Atlanta eater’s landmark.  It first opened the doors of its original downtown location in 1928.
“The Varsity is all about the experience. It’s in the heart of downtown and like no other fast food you’ve experienced,” said Ole Miss sophomore Tory Guenther, “It’s rich in history and in grease!”
The Varsity is famous for it’s carhop services, so you can enjoy this tasty meal from the comfort of your own air-conditioned ride. When you find yourself looking for that cheap, greasy fix, The Varsity is the place to be, and here’s how to get there.
2. Flip Burger, 1587 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, Ga 3.5 mil from Georgia Dome
“Would you like Asian pear, pine nuts and soy dressing on your Raw Tuna Tartare Burger?”
Atlanta has no shortage of boutiques, and this “Modern Burger Boutique” will appeal to all burger-lovers, whether it’s a classic American or an off-the-wall Oaxaca.
“They have artsy kind of burgers and turkey burgers and veggie burgers and sides like vodka-battered onion rings and zucchini fries,” said Ole Miss senior Carolyn Smith, “It’s unreal how good everything on the menu is.”
So, whether you’re craving something new, or just like the classics, Flip Burger is another place to check out. Just click for directions. (More tips:  Burger lovers might also want to try Vortex and Yeah!Burger.)
3. The Flying Biscuit, 1001 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta, Ga 2.9 mil from Georgia Dome
It’s not Big Bad Breakfast but it’s Atlanta’s own, unique version of the local favorite. If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast (served all day), this is considered Atlanta’s best. The location is relatively small, but the food has huge fans. From salmon eggs to a bowl of grits, The Flying Biscuit gives visitors lots of choices. They also offer sandwiches, salads, and other specialties. Find it here.
4. Ru Sans, 1529 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta, Ga 4.1 mil from Georgia Dome
Down to your last dollars and love sushi? You’re in luck at this restaurant. Ru San’s menu has a section that offers sushi and sashimi rolls between $1-$2. Don’t let the price fool you; you’ll still be eating well.
“I like Ru Sans because it’s actually really good quality good and it’s really cheap,” said Ole Miss sophomore Kirsten Bartlett, “Plus it has a bunch of combos and specials so you get a lot for your money.”
The music may be a little loud, but unlike some bars on The Square, you can still have great conversations with your friends all while feasting like royalty on your $10 sushi splurge.
Click here to get there.
5.   Waffle House
How can you make a list of cheap Atlanta eats together without including Waffle House? There are countless Waffle House restaurants downtown and in the surrounding areas, all open 24 hours a day, so you can go whenever you please. Just be ready to wait for a table during the early mornings or after around 2 a.m. Here’s your list of locations.
Now, you’re ready to eat your way through the city and still leave with enough gas money to get you home.
Story contributed by Ole Miss journalism students Gabriel Austin and Kendyl Noon.