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The Whigs Got Ideas: Julian’s Favorite Places To Eat/Drink In Athens, Ga.

whigslogo1Like most bands, the Whigs—guitarist/vocalist Parker Gispert, drummer Julian Dorio and bassist Tim Deaux—have had to endure their fair share of rough patches during their eight-year existence, including major-label troubles and lineup changes, but perhaps these bumps in the road were merely the stars aligning for the Athens, Ga., trio. The label issues prompted them to record and release their debut album, 2005’s Give ‘Em All A Big Fat Lip independently, earning them the title of “the best unsigned band in America” from Rolling Stone. It wasn’t long before they were signed to ATO Records—which issued the band’s critically acclaimed second release, Mission Control, in 2008—and playing high-profile shows at festivals and late-night talk shows and touring with some really famous names. New album In The Dark is the Whigs’ grittiest and most explosive album yet. Ever the kings of the road, the Whigs are currently on tour in support of the release, but they’ll also be guest-editing magnetmagazine.com all week. Read our brand new Q&A with the Whigs and our 2008 feature on them.

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Dorio:
Eating:
1. The National
I can’t resist the red-pepper bisque soup and hangar steak. It’s definitely my favorite meal in town, and there is not a bad thing on the menu. Eating here is a must if you’re visiting Athens.

2. The Four Coursemen
Only a few times a month, this culinary team treats Athens not only to an amazing meal but to an overall educational experience in a beautiful shotgun house. The cream of the crop mixed with the atmosphere and comfort of a home-cooked meal. All inclusive at a very reasonable price.

3. Cozy Yum Yum
My favorite Thai restaurant in town. A new addition to Athens and delicious every time. Although it doesn’t have to be, spicy is an understatement.

4. The Royal Peasant Pub
I have to have a place where I can get fish and chips. This is it. I love it.

5. Harry’s Pig Shop
Offering delicious BBQ and more. Perfect for the traditional BBQ lover and anyone looking for a little twist.

Drinking:
1. Normal Bar

A brand new installment in a town with stiff bar competition, this will surely be my new watering hole. A welcome addition to Normaltown.

2. Farm 255
A killer organic restaurant that is only rivaled by its bar. Live music inside and out. In the heart of downtown Athens. I love it.

3. Manhattan Cafe
There is no drink better than a Maker’s Mark and Blenheims spicy ginger ale at the Manhattan. Quite possibly the best interior design ever. Hopefully a fixture in Athens for years to come.

4. 40 Watt Club
How is it the best rock ‘n’ roll club ever is just a mile from my house?! This is an international landmark. It’s always a privilege to step foot on this stage.

5. Tasty World Uptown
Where the Whigs started. Our home. A true rock club that we will never forget. Thank you, Murphy!

Video after the jump.