The secret menu item is irresistible to diners, restaurateurs and journalists alike. It takes a variety of forms, such as the off-menu Meat Stick at One Eared Stag, an open secret for years now. Sometimes it’s offered in limited quantities, like the original burger at Holeman & Finch, where tightly controlled supply drove demand to unusually frenzied heights. In other restaurants, it’s an unlisted mashup of items already found on the menu. This system was made famous by In-N-Out Burger but can be found locally at the Vortex.
Such dishes stoke the egos of diners who can demonstrate their knowledge of a particular restaurant. Pre-internet, these menu items spread only through word-of-mouth from restaurant insiders and regulars who gained access to privileged information. Today, the secret is easily spilled to the general public, but the feeling of exclusivity remains.
Around metro Atlanta, restaurants new and old offer hidden menu items that not only taste delicious, but will raise your status in the eyes of your dining companions.
*Note: photo contributed by Colin Murphy of the Vortex (not taken by me).
More feature writing:
Food Tour: Peachtree Pavilion Shopping Center
Global flavors rise and shine on breakfast menus around town
Creative condiments add zing to meals at Atlanta restaurants