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Return to Local Secrets, Big Finds homeView 2005 Local Secrets, Big Finds
Fat Matt's Rib Shack
Atlanta
404.607.1622
Upon entering Fat Matt's Rib Shack, you can leave your diet at the door, and if you're wearing a tie, you have to at least "loosen the knot or you'll be denied entry." In a city where the grill is as ubiquitous as the Georgia peach, many believe this to be the "greatest barbecue joint in Atlanta." Although the specialty is ribs, be sure to look over the rest of the menu for side-dish favorites, like the "amazing baked beans." Each night, you'll be welcomed with "great bands" and "live blues music," which creates a nice atmosphere if you want to unwind. Read more.
The Big Chicken
Marietta
If you're lost and asking directions for just about anything in Marietta, chances are the locals will use The Big Chicken as a point of reference. Better than a billboard, this "beloved local landmark" is also a "real hoot" of the "kitschy-but-cool" kind. The larger-than-life chicken is artwork super-sized--it serves no purpose other than to stand as tall as the surrounding buildings on the "site of one of the earliest Kentucky Fried restaurants." After it was destroyed by a tornado a few years back, the locals raised funds to repair it to what you see today.
Mark of the Potter
Clarksville
706.947.3440
Located on the Soque River, near Clarksville this is an "unusual roadside, water-powered grain mill that was converted to a craftsman pottery shop." Local artists run pottery demonstrations every Saturday and Sunday. The store also sells crafts from the region, including weavings, jewelry, and jams. From the porch, you'll get "a lovely view of the Soque River," and you can "even feed the large stream trout that are visible in the clear water." The drive along Highway 197 between Clarkesville and Lake Burton "is some of the most picturesque countryside in Georgia." Read more.
Café Intermezzo
Atlanta
404.355.0411
Café Intermezzo is "a little piece of Vienna in the heart of Atlanta." Opened since 1979, this European coffeehouse is "nestled behind hidden pathways and gazebos." This "quaint little cafe is an oasis to the locals." It's no secret that "people drive for hours to get a bite of the rich, sensual cheesecakes and smooth coffees and espresso drinks." "Try their Mexican hot chocolate, served with rich chunks of deluxe chocolate and whipped cream!" If the sweets don't entice you, they serve savory food too--everything from soup and sandwiches to crepes and pastas. Read more.
Eddie’s Attic
Decatur
404.377.4976
A "music venue, tavern and restaurant rolled into one," Eddie’s Attic has been a staple of the Atlanta area live music scene for more than 15 years. A stopover for aspiring musicians, it’s a "cultural blend of Berkeley and Mayberry." On any given night, locals gather in this "intimate setting" to hear everything from acoustic melodies to rock n’ roll. Sit out on the covered patio for "some quiet and a beer," and order the "world famous" chicken wings or Attic mushrooms, fried and stuffed with garlic herb cheese. Read more.
Before you make plans to experience these local secrets for yourself, we suggest that you contact them to confirm dates, times, and locations. We are not responsible for the information submitted to us, and disclaim any liability for the information. Additionally, the addresses for or links to third party Web sites are provided for your convenience only. These Web sites, their owners, and operators are not affiliated or associated in any way with Travelocity, and we assume no responsibility for the content of such sites, or for any of your transactions or experiences with the owners and operators of such sites.
