The laughing skull logo should give you a clue that this is a wild little bar and grill with a big attitude. If you're easily offended, don't go. Or at least don't read the "stuff you really need to know" on the back of the menu, which, among other things, decrees the restaurant an Idiot-Free Zone and suggests you don't get a knot in your shorts if you aren't served within 5 minutes. There's all kinds of weird flea market stuff all over the walls, which should fascinate children, teenagers, and easily amused adults.

Attitude aside, this is the place to come for a big, fat, juicy chargrilled burger, one of the best in town. There's plenty here, too, for non-carnivores, including soups, generous sandwiches, and fresh salads. If you don't want a beef burger, you can substitute a turkey burger, chicken breast, veggie burger, or black bean burger for a nominal charge. There's a full bar, out-of-the-ordinary soft drinks, and more kinds of beer than you can imagine. There's another Vortex at 438 Moreland Ave., in Little Five Points (tel. 404/688-1828).