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Transmetropolitan: Hearty Italian That Is Worth A Wait

by Sheryl Gudelsky
02/17/2008

When visitors of Athens are looking for good, local food, I usually advise them to check out Transmetropolitan. Transmet, as it is referred to by those who live in Athens, offers a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of rustic Italian food.

Transmet's location on East Clayton Street places it in the heart of downtown Athens. Its lively atmosphere and cozy brick walls adorned with black and white photographs make it a favorite hang-out among many. A second floor offers additional space for seating, as well as a full bar. Transmet also has a separate room upstairs that is perfect for accommodating large groups.

There is a reason why the line going into Transmet often stretches out the door. Most people generally do not mind the wait, and the staff taking orders works quickly.

However, I did notice some customers a bit aggravated with the lengthy wait for their food. When dining at Transmet, keep in mind that your food is made to order, which means a few extra minutes is probably necessary. The need for tableside service is minimal, and the limited staff is adequate. Getting an extra dressing or a refill of water though, can be a bit difficult, especially during the restaurant's busiest hours.

The menu offers selections that will satisfy almost any diner. There are several pasta dishes and sandwiches to choose from. My Sliced Turkey sandwich at Transmet took on an Italian twist, as it was served on thick, foccacia bread with artichokes, provolone and a spinach-artichoke spread.

You can also create your own pizzas, calzones, pastas and salads by choosing from the menu's vast list of fresh ingredients. The salads are large enough to split and have generous amounts of your favorite veggies and cheeses.

Non-meat eaters will enjoy a Sauteed Portabello Mushroom or Zuccini panini. Tofu is also an option in any sandwich, calzone, or on a pizza. Many meatless choices, such as the Vegetarian Pesto pizza and the Pasta Fajiole, would satify meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

Transmet's reasonable prices make it a favorite among the large student population in Athens. Large portions give diners the most for their money and many leave the restaurant with an extra meal for the following day. Giant salads and sandwiches cost around $6, and entrees are only $7 or $8. Pizza by the slice may be the best buy, as a huge slice of traditional or Sicilian Crust pizza will cost less than $2.

Full pizzas come in 12 or 16 inches and are priced from $12 to $14. Sicilian crust pizzas and specialty pizzas run for a bit more, such as the Hungary Sasquatch, which comes with pepperoni, Italian sausage, meatballs, ham, bacon, veggies and extra cheese.

Transmetropolitan opens for lunch at 11 a.m. and stays open until midnight from Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays the restaurant remains open until 2 a.m.