June 18, 2019 – Three Athens restaurants have been awarded the 2019-2020 “Georgia’s 100 Plates” distinction by the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division (GDEcD). The wildly popular nomination-based list of “Georgia’s 100 Plates” is featured in the fifth annual Explore Georgia Culinary Guide. The 100 Plates list is a collection of outstanding dishes from around the state that represent Georgia’s diverse culinary scene.  

“One of the best ways to immerse yourself and truly experience Georgia is through our food,” said Lisa Love, Interim Deputy Commissioner at Georgia Tourism. “The history and culture of our state is woven into the many flavors, ingredients, dishes and traditions that create an unforgettable dining experience. This issue of the Explore Georgia Culinary Guide is our best yet, as it focuses on sharing our distinctive food and dining offerings you can’t find anywhere else.”

Since the inaugural issue of the Explore Georgia Culinary Guide, Georgia Tourism has designated “Georgia’s 100 Plates” as a way to provide visitors with locally sourced suggestions. Nominations from around the state are gathered via ExploreGeorgia.org as well as Georgia Tourism’s social media channels and evaluated by a panel of judges who curate the list down to the final designees. The list has been likened to recommendations that Georgians would share with family and friends, and it has received rave reviews from visitors as well as restaurant owners. The full list of  “Georgia’s 100 Plates” can be viewed online at ExploreGeorgia.org.

Athens has been named a rising star in the food scene, thanks to restaurants such as The National, home. made and Last Resort Grill. New restaurants are popping up each year in the Classic City by local Athenians and others who have decided to call Athens home. The National’s vegetable plate, home.made’s Swanee bites and Last Resort Grill’s fried green tomato sandwich are all featured on “Georgia’s 100 Plates Locals Love” list. Creature Comforts brewery, Mannawenta Ethiopian Restaurant and Five and Ten were each profiled in the culinary guide.

The Explore Georgia Culinary Guide is available for free at the 11 Visitor Information Centers across the state and on ExploreGeorgia.org. To learn more about Georgia’s rich culinary experiences through videos, tours and more, visit ExploreGeorgia.org. Share your favorite food finds using #ExploreGeorgia.

About GDEcD
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects.

www.georgia.org

 

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