The Grit

Beloved Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant the Grit Is Closing in Athens, Georgia - Eater Atlanta

"A much loved vegetarian and vegan restaurant is shutting its doors after 36 years in Athens next month, when the Grit closes on October 7. An announcement posted to Facebook Thursday afternoon indicates continuing struggles stemming from the pandemic were making it difficult to keep the restaurant afloat. For many Athens residents, University of Georgia alumni, and local musicians, the Grit represents more in their lives than just a restaurant with good food. For some, their introduction to tofu, hummus, and a broader range of vegetarian and vegan foods happened at the Grit, giving the restaurant crossover appeal in Athens. This includes serving sandwiches like the grilled tofu Reuben on rye and a falafel pita stuffed with hummus and vegetables tossed in tzatziki dressing. The Golden Bowl garnered several mentions in the comments. The dish features tofu cubes sauteed in soy sauce and nutritional yeast served over brown rice with the option to add cheese and vegetables." - Beth McKibben