Check out these Athens restaurant that have withstood the test of time and are still standing as some of the oldest restaurants in Athens.
Although popular chain restaurants like Jimmy John’s, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Wendy’s can be reliable options for a quick, go-to meal for those late nights or when rushing to class, certain Athens eateries have stood the test of time on the bricks. Alumni returning for Homecoming can revisit some of the places they frequented and loved decades ago as certain spots have been around for more than 50 years. Here are seven of some of the oldest Athens eateries:
1. Larry’s Dawg House
Larry’s Dawg House has been letting the “dogs” out and keeping alumni coming back for 51 years. The retro appearance of Larry’s adds to the nostalgic feel of the restaurant. This reminiscent feeling one might feel when eating an Athens’ beloved weiner is perhaps one of the reasons customers have kept coming back all these years.
Since when? 1964
Where? 410 W. Union St.
What’s popular? “Larry’s Favorite” — a Larry’s Dawg topped with sauce (chili), mustard and onion
Source: Nate Smith - manager
2. Miller’s Chicken
Since the early 1900’s, Otis Miller owned a small, hole-in-the-wall meat market in Canaanville, Ohio, about six miles outside of Athens. This little meat market would eventually become Miller’s Poultry located on Factory St., run by Otis’s sons, Harold and Joe Miller — still only serving fresh (not fried) chicken. Miller’s Poultry, gaining popularity and at this point being known as “Miller’s Chicken”, moved to its current location in 1969, now serving the fried chicken that won the the restaurant its loyal customers.
Since when? 1969
Where? 235 W. State St.
What’s popular? “Super Chicken Breast Sandwich” — just a big, tasty Miller’s Chicken sandwich.
Source: Sandra Zoulek, manager and granddaughter of Otis Miller
3. The Pub
Voted as the “Best Burger in Town” by The Athens News, The Pub can be a Homecoming Week hot spot for returning Bobcats. So much so, the kitchen will not be serving food Saturday because of the expected crowds. Not to worry, however, the bar will be in full-swing, ready to serve those thirsty Bobcats that are happy to be home.
Since when? 1973
Where? 39 N. Court Street
What’s popular? Steak burger
Source: Ryan Boyd, manager
4. Lam’s Garden
While business remains about the same during Homecoming Week because of it being located away from Court Street, Lam’s Garden has been the place to go for Bobcats to get some good Chinese food ever since the ‘80s. The restaurant is closed on Sundays, however, alumni will need to stop by before then if they’re in the mood for some Chinese this Homecoming Weekend.
Since when? 1981
Where? 934 E. State St.
What’s popular? General Tso’s chicken
Source: On Lam, manager
5. Casa Nueva
The Ohio University Alumni Jazz band will be getting down this Saturday at the Mexican-inspired restaurant, cantina and bodega. Casa is known for its locally sourced ingredients and it’s employee-owned, co-op business style, making the restaurant near and dear to the hearts of many people in Athens.
Since when? 1985
Where? 6 W. State St.
What’s popular? Build-your-own quesadilla (available both in the restaurant and bodega)
Source: Casanueva.com
6. Bagel Street Deli
Standing in the lengthy line to get a signature Bagel Street sandwich has been a tradition since the ‘90s.
Since when? 1993
Where? 27 S. Court
What’s popular? The MacGyger- hard boiled egg, avocado, choice of cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo
Source: Madison Jackson, employee
7. The Pigskin Bar and Grille
At almost any time of day, someone can be seen playing ping pong or pool through the all-glass front of the Court Street bar. Pigskin has been the go-to place for friends to have a cold one — or a few — and maybe a burger while watching the game for many years. The spacious bar makes it a great spot for students and alumni to crowd in this Homecoming.
Since when? 1995
Where? 38 N. Court St.
What’s popular? Chicken tenders and also the Cowboy Burger topped with pepper jack cheese, mayo, grilled onions, bacon, and Pigskin’s hot sauce
Source: Chris Roach, general manager
Athens loves its classics, and these seven are some of its greats. However, other local restaurants have been in the business for quite a while as well. Soulvaki’s Mediterranean Gardens (9 W. State St.), Union Street Diner (70 W. Union St.), Court Street Diner (18 N. Court St.), and Taco John’s (392 Richland Ave.), are a few others that have also been feeding hungry Bobcats for decades.
@saruhhhfranks
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