Tailgating? Who needs that?

As many (mostly Georgia fans) have brought to our attention, "Tailgating" at Tech football games often consists of hanging out at the "V" and stuffing down dogs, rings and FO's before walking accross the bridge into Bobby Dodd. While this isn't traditional "tailgating" in the truest sense, it's such an integral part of GT football that I can't imagine gameday without it.

Well, it turns out there's a good reason for this. New York Times food critic Frank Bruni has been on a nationwide search for the 10 best fast food menu items in the country ... and two from the "V" made the list [LINK - registration required].

Chili slaw dog from the Varsity (Atlanta, Ga.)

Cole slaw atop chili turns out to be a bold idea, cooling and adding texture to it. And the dog beneath the condiments had a meaty, smoky appeal.

Onion rings from the Varsity.

Steakhouse quality, with pleasantly greasy - but also thin and crunchy - shells that slipped off to reveal real, thick onion slices that weren’t overcooked.

He doesn't cover drinks in this column, but you have to assume that an F.O to chase those down would have made such a list if he had. Maybe "tailgating" is overated when you have some of the best greasy fare in the country right there - and supporting an institution started by a Tech student can't ever be bad, can it? Chili Slaw Dawg, Rings and an F.O on a saturday afternoon? Football can't get here fast enough.

p.s - as our friend PWD is sure to be thrilled ... the "Classic chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A: A simple, unadorned creation, but everything about this - the breast fillet, the pillowy bun - tasted fresh and true. That’s huge." also made the list. No mention of how they lace those filets with crack to keep you coming back, but you know that's gotta be how they do it. 3 of the 10 items from Atlanta fast food establishments ... maybe time for a new slogan: "ATL - Fast Food capital of the US".