The Vortex Bar & Grill in Atlanta, GA

Make No Bones About It

Question: If your restaurant logo evokes Halloween, are you more likely to succeed?

Hypothesis: A newcomer to town would generally avoid anyplace that had a giant skull displayed at the entrance.

Though the above hypothesis might ring true for some, many who pass through Little Five Points have been patrons at The Vortex. Its gigantic decorative skull, which forms the front doorway, makes it distinctive even among the many colorful shops and bars in the neighborhood.

On The Menu

Its signature dishes are the World Famous Vortex Burgers. If stopping in for the first time, we recommend the Classic Cheeseburger (with a choice of American, Swiss, cheddar, jack, pepperjack, provolone or a little blue cheese spread.) For the more adventurous foodies, there are such selections as the Black 'N' Spicy Burger (which includes Cajun spices and roasted red pepper); the Big Blue Buffalo Burger, covered with buffalo wing sauce and topped with the blue cheese spread; and the aptly named Coronary Bypass Burger, topped with "a fried egg, three slices of American cheese, four slices of bacon, and a big fat side of mayo," according to the menu.

Side dishes include French fries and/or sweet potato fries, tater tots, baked potato salad, coleslaw or Zapp's Potato Chips. Of note: if you order the sweet potato fries (which are delicious), onion rings, fried plantains, or fried zucchini, it's an extra $1.75; but it's well worth it. For the same price, you may also order a cup of soup or chili, or a house or Caesar side salad.

For the vegetarians and non-beefeaters in town, there are "Beef Alternative Burgers," including Veggie Patties, Chicken Breast, Turkey Patties, and Bison Patties. The veggie patty combines oats, rice, vegetables, and various seasonings (an additional $.50). The Turkey Patty, which several customers recommend, has less fat than the beef version. "It might even be good for you," claims the menu.