Being a Tech student, you spend a lot of your time in the books and not a lot of time venturing off campus. While campus food options are better than the collegiate norm, sometimes just a new taste can reinvigorate those long study nights. Here are some cost-friendly hidden gems around Atlanta guaranteed to make a foodie out of anyone!
1. Hankook Taqueria
1341 Collier Rd Atlanta, GA 30318
3.1 miles from North Avenue
Born from the culinary genius behind Takorea, Hankook was born originally as a taco-truck joint and later developed into a sit-down hole-in-the-wall style restaurant. Hankook offers a unique and delicious Mexican twist on Korean cuisine. The impressive menu offers everything from bulgogi tacos (made with kimchi fried rice, of course) to sesame French fries, which are a must-have for Hankook virgins. While its sister restaurant, Takorea took on more of a “fine-dining” atmosphere, Hankook remains true to its roots as a simple, no-nonsense, all-about-the-food quick dine in. Much of the cuisine offered at Takorea are also offered at Hankook at a fraction of the price. As an added bonus, the orders are served quickly – perfect for a busy Tech student on a budget!
2. Arepa Mia
209 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30303
2 miles from North Avenue
Who doesn’t love arepas? The corn-meal patties stuffed with delicious meats and veggies are sure to please anyone! This classic, adorable Venezuelan spot offers a wide array of the South American country’s cuisine, with a wide selection of arepas, empanadas (fried turnovers stuffed with meats), veggies, or fruits, and cachapas (cornmeal pancakes topped with delectable meats and veggies). Inspired by Venezuelan roadside stands, Arepa Mia offers its food fast and most entrees run around $8. At Arepa Mia, you can feel the love and passion behind the food, and the result is pure foodie bliss.
3. Woody's Cheese Steaks
981 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30308
1.3 miles from North Avenue
Move over, Philly – Atlanta’s got a cheese steak king in town! An Atlanta staple for cheese steaks, hot dogs, and milkshakes since 1975, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Woody’s. A short bike ride or walk from North Avenue and on the way to Piedmont Park, Woody’s is a great hole-in-the wall joint to grab a quick, delicious, and cheap bite. Their famous Original Cheese Steak is only $6.50 and is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of students. Not in the mood for a cheese steak? Woody’s also offers out-of-this world Polish and Italian sausages – with all the works. Grab a milkshake while you’re at it to enjoy under that Hotlanta sun; you’ll thank me later!
