"Manuel’s Tavern has been a haven for the who's-who of Atlanta politicians as well as a reliable neighborhood joint in Poncey-Highland for decades. It’s the kind of place that encourages people from all walks of life to sit down with a beer and stay awhile, which is perfect because after consuming the Dogzilla you’ll want to stay seated for a few hours. Have a fork and knife ready since this half-pound monster takes up half a plate with enough melty cheese to turn your table into a crime scene if you're not careful. And we recommend adding chili, slaw, and kraut for the full effect. But if you can manage to eat it with your hands, we salute you." - juli horsford, demarco williams
"The late Manuel Maloof opened Manuel’s Tavern along North Avenue in 1956. Over the decades, Manuel’s has become the gathering spot for neighborhood folks, political junkies, journalists, and local bigwigs swigging beer and talking about everything from sports to politics. The historic Poncey-Highland bar underwent an extensive renovation in 2016, but it still has the same charm and pretty solid food, too." - Missy Frederick
"Every inch of vertical space at Manuel’s Tavern serves as a photo archive. Think: family pictures, newspaper clippings of historical moments, and anything depicting memorable Atlanta sporting feats. Those around in the ‘50s can confirm that this Poncey-Highland spot has been a hub where the who’s-who of Atlanta politicians (like Andrew Young and Maynard Jackson) rub elbows with the regulars who've adopted it as their preferred watering hole. The Dogzilla—a half-pound mammoth that made our best hot dog guide. Manuel’s founding owner, who held a few DeKalb County public office positions, helped to push the construction of Spaghetti Junction." - juli horsford, jacinta howard
"Manuel's Tavern is a reliable neighborhood hangout for beer and decent bar food. And as another historic Poncey site, it feels like stepping into a nostalgic time capsule with polaroids of old employees and a mish-mash of old-timey Atlanta memorabilia on the walls. With two massive dining rooms, it’s never hard to find a seat and there’s plenty of bar food options on the menu to keep everyone happy. Make sure to order the sweet and spicy Terry-style wings and the massive, classic McCloskey Cheese Burger, named after a long-time employee. Swing by, grab a beer, and bask in this bar from another era." - juli horsford
"Manuel’s Tavern is a restaurant institution in Atlanta and so is the loaded hot dog topped with relish, chili, cheese, coleslaw, and sauerkraut. This hot dog plate comes with two, so pace yourself. Pair it with cold beer on draft, and you’ve got yourself a meal." - Eater Staff