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The Vortex Bar and Grill in the Little Five Points neighborhood is an iconic Atlanta landmark restaurant. Driving down Moreland Avenue, you cannot miss this iconic restaurant. The large skeleton with red penetrating eyes and the painted murals really stand out, even in Little Five Points.
This was my second visit to The Vortex in Atlanta. The first time, maybe 10 years ago, they still allowed smoking in the bar. This time, smoking was outside only.
This bar achieved the best burger in Atlanta credentials. Whether or not this is the best burger in Atlanta is up for debate, but in the least it should be near the top of the list.
My second visit to the Vortex confirms that the burgers are outstanding.
I skipped the coronary bypass burger, even though I wanted to order it, just to place the picture on here. Yet, I couldn’t do it.
For those unaware, the coronary bypass burger has a bacon grilled cheese sandwiches for each of its buns. Yes, 4 pieces of bread, 10 slices of cheese, 9 strips of bacon, an egg and mayonnaise. Oh, and of course a half pound burger.
I didn’t think I would be able to walk out, afterwards. So, I went with one of the bartenders recommended signature burgers. It did not disappoint.
The Vortex Restaurant in Atlanta
This bar is a little intimidating for the uninitiated. It looks tough, with its haunting use of skeletons inside and out. There are shark heads above the bar and the eclectic decor.
The bartender and all of the service was friendly, and rather outstanding.
However, I did see one patron get harassed by a man who had a few too many. The poor fellow left without ordering.
Besides that incident, it is a fun, interesting spot.
It’s great for lunch, dinner or late night (after a few drinks!)
If you are driving, there is parking on site. Many of the spots are marked as Vortex parking only. It shares a lot with Savage pizza.
This restaurant is for patrons 21 and over. It is a bar. Leave the kids at home for this experience.
The Food At The Vortex Bar and Grill
This restaurant has seriously good bar food. Wings, chili and sandwiches. However, most of the menu is dedicated to the burgers.
I wanted to try them all.
The bartender recommended either the Classic Bypass or the Pickle Rick. Both looked unique. I ended up ordering the Pickle Rick.
The burger was served with fried pickles, whiskey pimento cheese, bacon and a Szechuan sauce.
The fried pickles added texture. Pimento cheese is just amazing on burgers. (Do it if you haven’t tried) The sauce was sweet with just a hint of heat.
The burger patty itself was a single patty. However, it was huge. I almost couldn’t finish it and I usually never waste anything. It was cooked perfectly to order.
If you are in Atlanta, The Vortex is worth a visit!
The Vortex is located at 438 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307.
They have second location in midtown at 878 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
If you are looking for other metro Atlanta restaurants, here is a directory of all of the places we have reviewed.