O’Betty’s Red Hot is a hidden treasure in Athens that many students learn to love during their time on campus. From gourmet french fries to eccentric hot dog toppings, there’s something for everyone at this location, which is just off Court Street and open until 3 a.m. Monday through Saturday.
If you’re curious about what you should get off their iconic menu, here are O’Betty’s best menu items:
The “Blaze” hot dog
The “Blaze” is an all-beef hot dog on a toasted butter bun that is then wrapped in bacon and topped with fresh coleslaw, making it a simple yet effective menu item. If you’re looking for something with a little bit of grease after a long night out, this is the perfect hot dog to try. You can also get it vegetarian-style, just ask for an alternative! It’s also only $5.50, which isn’t too expensive for students. It’s one of my personal favorites from time to time, especially if you’re looking to switch up your usual order.
The “Gypsy” hot dog
For the ultimate hot dog lover, this is a classic take on the item, with O’Betty’s calling it the “high class” version. On the “Gypsy,” there’s Heinz ketchup, mustard, sweet relish and fresh diced onions. For only $4.75, this is a great option if you love all things toppings, and it’s also served on a toasted butter bun. It’s one of the cheaper menu items as well, which makes it worth your money after a long week of classes and extracurriculars. It also can be made to accommodate vegetarians!
Cajun spiced fries
If you like spice, then the cajun spice fries are the ideal side to get when at O’Betty’s. These french fries mixed with Southern spices will definitely set your mouth on fire in seconds. Its mix of sweet and spicy ingredients makes these fries super addictive, and you’ll never want to stop getting them after you try them for the first time. Starting at $4.50 for a small fry and $5.50 for a large, there are multiple size options to choose from as well, depending on how much spice you can handle!
Chili cheese fries
Starting at $5.50 for a small or $6.50 for a large, the chili cheese fries at O’Betty’s are also a fan favorite. These fries topped with two different cheeses and spicy O’Betty’s chili are underrated because of how hearty and filling they are. You can also sub in vegetarian chili, making it a more inclusive option. While it may not be ideal to have in the midst of summer in Athens, it’s a fantastic item to try in colder temperatures during the fall or winter.
The “Varla” hot dog
The “Varla” is another hot dog to try from O’Betty’s if you are a fan of unusual toppings. Another all-beef hot dog on a toasted bun, the item also comes with sauerkraut, crunchy bacon bits, horseradish sauce and Thousand Island Dressing. As one of the quick service’s more experimental menu items, this hot dog is for more experienced students on campus who have been to O’Betty’s before, and it’s sure to become a new favorite after giving it a try. Additionally, it’s priced at $5.50.
Chipotle ranch
Lastly, you obviously need a dipping sauce for your hot dog or french fries, and O’Betty’s has an array of choices to pick from. My personal favorite is the chipotle ranch, as it adds just the right amount of heat to whatever you’re eating. It compliments all of the menu items perfectly, and is only 75 cents. Try pairing it with the cajun spice fries or the “Varla,” and you’ll never go back.
Find the rest of the O’Betty’s Red Hot menu here.
