The Varsity is a restaurant chain, iconic in the modern culture of Atlanta, Georgia. The main branch of the chain is the largest drive-in fast food restaurant in the world.
In 1928, it was established as The Yellow Jacket at the corner of Luckie Street and North Avenue. Its founder was Frank Gordy, who dropped out of Georgia Tech in 1925. Then, as it remains today, the resturaunt catered to Georgia Tech students. The business grew rapidly and Gordy had to move to 61 North Avenue (the corner of North Avenue and Spring Street) to accommodate the crowds (the restaurant covers two entire city blocks). At the same time, he changed the name to "The Varsity," reflecting his desire to expand to other college campuses. During the drive-in era, The Varsity began curbside service, which continues to this day.
The location at 61 North Avenue in Atlanta is now adjacent to the Downtown Connector's interchange with North Avenue. Directly across the Connector is Georgia Tech. The restaurant is connected to the Tech campus not only by the North Avenue bridge but also by a tunnel under the Connector.
The Varsity has since expanded to Athens Georgia, home of the University of Georgia, Town Center, Gwinnett, and Alpharetta. The Varsity also has a smaller restaurant called The Varsity, Jr., which, besides the downtown Atlanta location, is the only location to offer curbside service.
Did you know: Comedian Nipsey Russell got his start at The Varsity in the 1940s working as a car hop by making his customers laugh for tips.
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Official website [This is a very good website that will give you a true feeling of what the Varsity is like]
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