5 & 10
Five and Ten, at 1073 S. Milledge Avenue in Athens, is possibly the most upscale restaurant in the city. Owner and Executive Chef Hugh Acheson won the James Beard award for Best Chef in the Southeast in 2012 and has recently been nominated for Outstanding Restauranteur in 2019. Diners walk in the door of 5 & 10 expecting an exceptional experience, and much care is given to meeting that expectation.
The name of the restaurant stems from its former location at the corner of Highway 5 and Highway 10, but several years ago it moved to its present spot at the end of Fraternity and Sorority Row for University of Georgia students. The building is a large home built in 1913 by architect Fred Orr who placed his distinctive “O” in the roof line right over the front door.
Steve and I shared the Duck Liver Mousse appetizer and the Grilled Trout entree. Both were outstanding, beautifully presented and delicious. Service was discreet but attentive.
I would strongly recommend calling to make a reservation. Parking is provided in the back.
LAST RESORT GRILL
The colorful mural of vegetables painted on the side of the building will assure you that you’ve found the right spot. Last Resort Grill is vintage is every sense of the word. It began as a music/entertainment venue in 1966, seeing such notable performers as Doc Watson, Jimmy Buffett and Steve Martin during the 1960’s and 70’s. It was closed and vacant throughout most of the 80’s before being reopened as a restaurant in 1992.
Last Resort Grill, at the corner of Clayton Street and Hull Street, is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. It prides itself on fresh, local produce, homemade dressings and trout straight from the streams of North Georgia.
Steve and I shared a flavorful veggie bowl and a thick burger.
The many flavors of cheesecakes and triple-layer cakes are made by nearby Blackbird Bakery and are said to be worth the calories in every mouthful.
Go for the good food, the beautiful local artwork lining the walls, and the vibe of history.
STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM PIE
At least 30 years ago, Steve and I attended a veterinary conference on the campus of the University of Georgia and stayed at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel. We enjoyed a dessert during that visit that was good enough to remain in our minds ever since. During this recent visit, we wanted to know if that pie still existed.
Yes, it does. Inside the Magnolia Room at the Georgia Center, you’ll find their famous Strawberry Ice Cream Pie that has been served since the building opened for guests in 1956. The crust is made of crushed almonds and coconut. The filling is vanilla ice cream infused with strawberries and sweetened whipped cream. The pie is topped with a strawberry coulis and garnished with fresh strawberry slices. Hopefully, this pie will stay on the menu for years to come.
By the way, their celestial chicken is also an iconic dish that has been served since 1956. If you find yourself on the UGA campus, I would highly recommend seeking out the Georgia Center for a delicious meal.
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