File Under: Sandwiches, Burgers and Chicken. Features: Take-out, counter service, cash only (ATM available). • Old-school hot doggery in the country makes a steamed dog with coleslaw on a toasted bun like no other. Also grilled cheese, corned beef and chicken salad.

File Under: Downhome. Features: Cash only, delivery. Hours: Breakfast and lunch. • The oldest restaurant in Athens (since 1948), with Southern comfort food for breakfast and lunch. Lunch options rotate and include pot roast, fried chicken livers and lemon pepper tilapia alongside vegetables like fried okra, cabbage, sweet potato souffle and squash casserole.

File Under: Bars and Clubs. Features: Full bar, cash only. • Escape the downtown scene for the oldest bar in the area, built in 1952. The atmosphere is warm and unfussy with pool and karaoke. Cold domestic beer and liquor drinks.

File Under: BBQ. Features: Cash and checks only. Hours: Lunch and dinner. • Family-owned place you might have seen on "True South" on the SEC Network serves barbecue pork, chicken, beef and ribs with beans, hash, slaw, potato salad, collard greens and seasonal vegetables. Sauce is hot and thin.