atlanta invasion, resaurant opinions needed

[laurawood]

So- i have come to the decision that the first big storm to come in is a great reason for us sowallers to invade atlanta for a few days......(have to give them a taste of their own medicine). I will be sure to rubber neck and drive like an idiot.
on a lighter note, I am looking for new restaurants to try out. Have been to joel and au pied du cochon (misspelled im sure), thinking of trying goldfish........
any opinions...???

[Smiling JOe]

There are plenty of good restaurants in Atlanta which we should hit. For Breakfast, you have to try the White House, located in Buckhead. Go for the pancakes.

[Spencer]

Bones is great for a good steak!

[pgurney]

My little neighborhood favorite is the Floataway Cafe - seems like that might be appropriate for the first big storm. It's run by the same lady that does Bachanalia (another great one).

[BeachSteelers]

Nuevo Laredo on Chattahoochie Industrial-Best Mex in the South

[Tootsie]

I am in for an Atlanta invasion - only if we are forced to leave town that is. would love to hit the aquarium... and would love to try out some great restaurants too.

[kathydwells]

Well, when you all do your invasion let me know. I am only 2 1/2 hours away from the ATL ;-) . Make sure you get big enough rooms for me to crash!!!!!

[JB]

Is the Buckhead Diner still around? Don't get over there much anymore, but we always loved that place.

[gotothebeachmom]

Is the Buckhead Diner still around? Don't get over there much anymore, but we always loved that place.

It's still open!

[Abe Drinkin]

The BH diner is still around! It is the same old crap! I wiuld stay away!


Feel free to stay at my house! If the storm rolls in! There is plenty of room! Just ask SJ!

I got some Oyster for you, Sj if you ever get up here! Oh and a cowboy steak!

[kurt]

I got some Oyster for you, Sj if you ever get up here! Oh and a cowboy steak!

Sounds sort of like a Brokeback invite. :lol:

[katie blue]

..and, if you want to eat Thai, Indian or Mexican, I've got the scoop.

I also have an annual pass to the Aquarium, and I've been missing my penguins and otters. Hit me up.. :wub:

[skippertoo]

Is the Buckhead Diner still around? Don't get over there much anymore, but we always loved that place.

JB, Still there and crowded as ever. We have not been in a year and a half. Last time we went they had just put a new chef in charge and we did not like it as well.
There are plenty of great places here. One of my favorites is Dish in Va.Highlands area.

[Beach Runner]

We are creatures of habit and tend to go to the same restaurants over and over. Here's our current list of favorites:

Favorite special occasion restaurant: Bacchanalia. Although the menu varies, a typical meal would start with an appetizer such as lobster bisque (outstanding) or their signature crab fritters with citrus slices (although sometimes the citrus is too juicy and gets the fritters wet and soggy). A typical selection of entrees might be sea bass with porcini mushrooms, salmon with spinach, or a beef filet (not as tender as one would expect). If you are a cheese lover, you must try the cheese course instead of a salad as your third course. One can choose from cow's cheese, goat's cheese, sheep's cheese, and blue cheese, with choices ranging from mild to sharp in each category. I personally prefer the chocolate cake for dessert, although my husband and daughter prefer a soufflé. The tab for three of us, one of whom does not drink, is typically around $400 - ouch!

Favorite special occasion restaurant when we’re missing Tuscany: Antica Posta. The bruschetta is good, although frankly I think that my daughter's is better. The fagioli appetizer is wonderful, with a bit of butter, olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. The filet with balsamic vinegar is absolutely divine. Next time I'm getting the osso bucco - always the best thing on the table. The grouper is quite good, but then we're spoiled by getting the freshest of fish at the beach. Still it's a luxury just to dine at a place that *gets* Tuscan food. BTW I'm hooked on their Pasquini olive oil.

Favorite place for comfort food and to just plain be comfortable: Houston’s. We like the West Paces Ferry/Northside Parkway location the best (love the food, love the atmosphere, love everything) - it's more "clubby" - guess it's the influence of the Buckhead neighborhood in its proximity. The price is right, too. My new favorite is the Ahi tuna salad - awesome! I love the house Chardonnay, Selaks. I adore the lime grilled chicken salad. When I want to go wild with calories, the ribs are awesome. They do a fabulous grilled salmon. The fries are our family's favorite. My husband loves the burgers, especially on Saturdays when they have chili. He also likes the prime rib. The house salad is fabulous, too (if you don't like eggs or bacon, don't order it). Another surprise is the brussels sprouts - I'm not a fan of this vegetable, but it tastes absolutely fabulous - I'm a convert! The good thing about Houston's is that you can spend under $10 or do the full 9 yards. And for dessert, you MUST try the five-nut brownie. Order a shot of Kahlua on the side. They also have the best iced tea on the planet. My daughter and I decided that the only thing we don't like about Houston's is that they always ask you, "Do you want an appetizer? Maybe our fresh spinach dip?" We always are reminded of the question, "Do you want fries with that?" à la McDonald's.

Favorite gourmet Mexican restaurant: Taqueria Del Sol. What a great place for lunch or a light dinner! We go there so much it's embarrassing. I promise you that tacos here are to those at chain Mexican restaurants as hand-cut pasta at floataway is to Chef Boy R Dee. I loved the fried chicken taco (filled with fried chicken strips, lime jalapeno mayo, lettuce, and tomato), the fish taco (Tilapia dipped in egg wash, rolled in masa and deep fried, with poblano tartar sauce and pickled jalapenos), the veggie taco (refried beans, queso blanco, and roasted tomatillo salsa). The turnip greens are incredible (cute with the fried chicken taco), and the shrimp corn chowder is awesome. And none of these items are more than $1.95!!!!! Most of the stuff on this menu isn't even in the vocabulary of the Mexican chains! Warning: don't go right at noon on a weekday because the line to get in is a mile long (the food is that good).

Favorite Tex-Mex Mexican restaurant: Nuevo Laredo Cantina. I know why Nuevo Laredo has been voted best Mexican restaurant in Atlanta so many times. The steak diablo, fajita beef in a red chili guajillo sauce, was awesome. Loved the enchiladas de chorizo - Mexican sausage enchiladas topped with Monterrey jack. The chicken taco especiales was nice, too, with lots of fresh cilantro. WARNING: if you have GRD, don't order anything with chorizo. I had the chorizo tacos there one night; the next day I started having chest pains and thought I was having a heart attack. After an EKG, echocardiogram, stress test, and heart scan, it was determined that I just had indigestion (some pretty expensive tacos, huh? LOL!) Nevertheless, we'll be back, even though the last time my daughter went, she got food poisoning. Hey, that can happen at the best of places.

Favorite inexpensive restaurant that happens to be Asian: Doc Chey’s. This place is SOOOO good. It reminds me of the little out-of-the-way noodle houses in Tokyo. I love the way Doc Chey's makes use of fresh basil, cilantro, and mint. Why would you spend $60 per person on a meal when this place is divine for a max of $6? My new favorite is the lo mein. I like my wine, but the tea they serve is so good, especially on a cold winter night. I also love the basil rolls, the Japanese ramen soup, the Chinese chicken soup, the awesome Thai coconut chicken soup, the Thai spicy basil chicken, the Chinese chicken in black bean sauce, the Vietnamese vermicelli bowl, the Szechwan vegetable stir-fry. Heck, I love everything on the menu (except the Japanese yakisoba and udon) ... On second thought, you could order everything on the menu here (we came close to doing that once) and not spend as much as you'd spend in Buckhead.

[Abe Drinkin]

Sounds sort of like a Brokeback invite. :lol:

Yah, well Kurt if you want to come up, I can tell you how to get to the gay bars down on 10th street! I am sure you can find somebody to put a sticker on!

[30A Skunkape]

Couldn't we evacuate to a locale with better food than the home of So-So Def Records?! :rolling:

[Beach Runner]

:eek: I don't think that So So Def defines dining in Atlanta.

I don't see the hip-hop crowd at Bacchanalia, even though where Cherish recorded "Do It To It" is just blocks away, and there are posters on every telephone pole nearby advertising that fact. The hip-hop crowd might define the club scene and the music scene and perhaps The Cheesecake Factory scene, but when Lil Flip in the song "Sunshine" implies that the ultimate in cuisine is "spaghetti, shrimp, and steak" ... well, you get my drift.

[30A Skunkape]

Good bloody marys at Einsteins on Juniper(?)-whether or not still open, I don't know :idontno:

[Beach Runner]

ME ON JUNIPER: I run every red light. No way I'm stopping.

The halfway-house people attack you and your car when you're stopped at a red light (especially at Juniper and Pine). It's really scary, but it's faster to take Juniper to 75/85 at The Ted than get on the connector at 10th.

[katie blue]

One of my current favorites is Oakhurst Grill in Decatur/Oakhurst--it's run by this one chef with creole-inspired food, great atmosphere, on the square in a hip decatur neighborhood, great prices. Everything on the menu is a winner. One of the only places I'll eat Gulf Shrimp when I'm not actually on the gulf.

Udipi Restaurant in Decatur - Best Indian in Atl, arguably. It's vegetarian, but you never even think about that while you're there.

[30A Skunkape]

ME ON JUNIPER: I run every red light. No way I'm stopping.

The halfway-house people attack you and your car when you're stopped at a red light (especially at Juniper and Pine). It's really scary, but it's faster to take Juniper to 75/85 at The Ted than get on the connector at 10th.

Luckily they are all sleeping in when it is brunch time at Einsteins. I don't even know if that place is still open. It was pretty much a gay hangout when Mrs Skunk used to take me there. She lived on 8th and Piedmont which was quite the colorful neighborhood. The crackheads were delightful and didn't bite :floor:

[Beach Runner]

One of my current favorites is Oakhurst Grill in Decatur/Oakhurst--it's run by this one chef with creole-inspired food, great atmosphere, on the square in a hip decatur neighborhood, great prices. Everything on the menu is a winner. One of the only places I'll eat Gulf Shrimp when I'm not actually on the gulf.

Udipi Restaurant in Decatur - Best Indian in Atl, arguably. It's vegetarian, but you never even think about that while you're there.
We've found that waiters assume that all females dining in Decatur are lesbian (as has happened to us at Watershed). So we don't go there anymore. When a waiter makes comments alluding to that when you're there with your daughter, it ticks me off.

[katie blue]

Oh, nowwww... don't cut yourself off from all the delicious Decatur restaurants simply because of one experience...I mean, Watershed, being owned by Indigo Girls Emily does get a larger than usual share of lesbians sometimes, but so what? (Hey, might as well take it as a compliment that someone thinks you're hot and happening enough to be dating a 20-something! :floor:)

Decatur/Oakhurst are the cheeriest, most lively neighborhoods ITP right now. Lots of life happening there, and yes, the fun is in the mix.

Two other places in that area worth mentioning:
--Wahoo!, a seafood bistro that everyone raves about, havent been yet
--Brick Store Pub, on the Decatur square. Recently voted one of the top 10 world-class pubs, and its here in the south! Dripping with history, wooden beams, belgian brews and good food.

[gotothebeachmom]

Oh, nowwww... don't cut yourself off from all the delicious Decatur restaurants simply because of one experience...I mean, Watershed, being owned by Indigo Girls Emily does get a larger than usual share of lesbians sometimes, but so what? (Hey, might as well take it as a compliment that someone thinks you're hot and happening enough to be dating a 20-something! :floor:)

Decatur/Oakhurst are the cheeriest, most lively neighborhoods ITP right now. Lots of life happening there, and yes, the fun is in the mix.

Two other places in that area worth mentioning:
--Wahoo!, a seafood bistro that everyone raves about, havent been yet
--Brick Store Pub, on the Decatur square. Recently voted one of the top 10 world-class pubs, and its here in the south! Dripping with history, wooden beams, belgian brews and good food.

KB my family took me to Wahoo for my birthday last year. We had a great night to sit outside in their great dinning courtyard.

None of us were too happy with our meals though. It could have just been an off night for the cook and wait staff. We all got a variety of items from the menu. It ranged from being cold, to under cooked, to overcooked.

I'd probably give them another try just to test my theory about the off night. The look and feel of the place was wonderful. Let me know if you go, what you think.

[skippertoo]

--Brick Store Pub, on the Decatur square. Recently voted one of the top 10 world-class pubs, and its here in the south! Dripping with history, wooden beams, belgian brews and good food.

Make sure you order the homemade pretzels

[katie blue]

KB my family took me to Wahoo for my birthday last year. We had a great night to sit outside in their great dinning courtyard.
None of us were too happy with our meals though. It could have just been an off night for the cook and wait staff. We all got a variety of items from the menu. It ranged from being cold, to under cooked, to overcooked. .
I'll let you know how it goes when we try it. And make a point to try the Oakhurst Grill for dinner sometime, GTTBM, I don't think you'll be sorry. He has a way with soups and sauces... :wub:

As for bad meals, it really is all about who's cooking that day. I actually had a not-so-great meal at Tamarind Thai recently, and for years their food has usually been, well, pretty much perfect. But I was eating at an off hour.

[gotothebeachmom]

I'll let you know how it goes when we try it. And make a point to try the Oakhurst Grill for dinner sometime, GTTBM, I don't think you'll be sorry. He has a way with soups and sauces... :wub:

As for bad meals, it really is all about who's cooking that day. I actually had a not-so-great meal at Tamarind Thai recently, and for years their food has usually been, well, pretty much perfect. But I was eating at an off hour.


We'll definetly try Oakhurst Grill and Tamrind Thai. I heart Thia!

[Beach Runner]

Oh, nowwww... don't cut yourself off from all the delicious Decatur restaurants simply because of one experience...I mean, Watershed, being owned by Indigo Girls Emily does get a larger than usual share of lesbians sometimes, but so what? (Hey, might as well take it as a compliment that someone thinks you're hot and happening enough to be dating a 20-something! :floor:)

Decatur/Oakhurst are the cheeriest, most lively neighborhoods ITP right now. Lots of life happening there, and yes, the fun is in the mix.

Two other places in that area worth mentioning:
--Wahoo!, a seafood bistro that everyone raves about, havent been yet
--Brick Store Pub, on the Decatur square. Recently voted one of the top 10 world-class pubs, and its here in the south! Dripping with history, wooden beams, belgian brews and good food.
You're right about Watershed. If we're ever in that 'hood, we'll try out your suggestions. I have a new BMW from Nalley in Decatur, but we haven't decided if we're going to get our maintenance done there or at Hank Aaron which is a lot closer.

Oh, and we love Tamarind Thai. Never had a bad experience there. For an appetizer, try the basil rolls and the dumplings (Ka-nom-jeeb). The red curry chicken (Kai-pad-prik-kingk) with string beans and kaffir lime leaves is very good, as is the green curry chicken (Gang-khew-wan) with eggplant, basil and coconut milk. My favorite is the Siam chicken with pineapple, cashews, and mushrooms.

[Mermaid]

Oh, and we love Tamarind Thai. Never had a bad experience there. For an appetizer, try the basil rolls and the dumplings (Ka-nom-jeeb). The red curry chicken (Kai-pad-prik-kingk) with string beans and kaffir lime leaves is very good, as is the green curry chicken (Gang-khew-wan) with eggplant, basil and coconut milk. My favorite is the Siam chicken with pineapple, cashews, and mushrooms.

Please tell me you brought the menu home with you, or I'll kill myself with envy about your culinary powers of recollection!! I always forget what dish I liked the best and end up ordering what I thought it was, rather than what it really was. Sometimes that's been good...other times very disappointing!

[Beach Runner]

Please tell me you brought the menu home with you, or I'll kill myself with envy about your culinary powers of recollection!! I always forget what dish I liked the best and end up ordering what I thought it was, rather than what it really was. Sometimes that's been good...other times very disappointing!
Honey, my memory has been sh** ever since I turned 40. I always take notes.

[steeleing1]

My Atlanta favorites:

Taqueria del Sol - on Howell Mill or in Decatur; make sure to order the fried chicken taco and the shrimp chowder; cheap and delicious!

Nuevo Laredo - BEST authentic Mexican

The Vortex - on 5th or in Little 5; great burgers & veggie burgers, huge beer selection, lots of local flavor (especially in Little 5)

Prince of Wales (on Piedmont) or Fox & Hounds (on Howell Mill) - good beer and pub food

I know there are so many new places that I haven't tried since I haven't been to Atlanta for a while. But these are the places I love!!! The other Steeleings eat there more than I do. So they should be able to add better input.

[jdarg]

My Atlanta favorites:

Taqueria del Sol - on Howell Mill or in Decatur; make sure to order the fried chicken taco and the shrimp chowder; cheap and delicious!

Nuevo Laredo - BEST authentic Mexican

The Vortex - on 5th or in Little 5; great burgers & veggie burgers, huge beer selection, lots of local flavor (especially in Little 5)

Prince of Wales (on Piedmont) or Fox & Hounds (on Howell Mill) - good beer and pub food

I know there are so many new places that I haven't tried since I haven't been to Atlanta for a while. But these are the places I love!!! The other Steeleings eat there more than I do. So they should be able to add better input.

Hey Steeleing1- I know 2 gals that went into labor after eating fajitas. Just an idea if you are ready to roll. Since we were talking about food and all...;-)

[Beach Runner]

Daughter loves Vortex (although now you have to be 21 to enter), and it's within walking distance from our place in Midtown. I love their burgers.

Fox & Hounds is her "girls' night out" place. I've never been there.

[Oldtimer]

Nobody has even mentioned The Varsity! Now they do have some tasty treats and the price is so easy on the pocketbook. I could go for a chili dawg with greasy onion rings right now. YUM!! YUM!!

Maybe we'll do that for Thanksgiving dinner this year. How does that sound?

[skippertoo]

Nobody has even mentioned The Varsity! Now they do have some tasty treats and the price is so easy on the pocketbook. I could go for a chili dawg with greasy onion rings right now. YUM!! YUM!!

Maybe we'll do that for Thanksgiving dinner this year. How does that sound?
:puke:

[Beach Runner]

Nobody has even mentioned The Varsity! Now they do have some tasty treats and the price is so easy on the pocketbook. I could go for a chili dawg with greasy onion rings right now. YUM!! YUM!!

Maybe we'll do that for Thanksgiving dinner this year. How does that sound?
My Mom always took us to The Varsity as a treat if we behaved at our yearly trips to Dr. Davenport (as mentioned in the Anne Rivers Siddons' novel "Peachtree Road"). One year I ran away from home to avoid the yearly vaccinations. Dr. Davenport would have to sit on me to give me my injections.

I love me some chili dogs, onion rings, and frosted orange drinks at The Varsity. I always smile when I see families right after a Georgia Tech graduation going to The Varsity one last time. Hopefully we'll be celebrating a new GT grad there within the next year. BTW John Gordy was a friend of my dad and tried to encourage him to be a partner in the business. OOPS! The only bad business decision I ever remember my father making.

[steeleing1]

Hey Steeleing1- I know 2 gals that went into labor after eating fajitas. Just an idea if you are ready to roll. Since we were talking about food and all...;-)

Maybe I'll try that tonight. I've been eating lots of Thai food, but I think it just makes him go to sleep.

[kathydwells]

Maybe I'll try that tonight. I've been eating lots of Thai food, but I think it just makes him go to sleep.

If you happen to go into labor tonight after eating fajitas and we don't get to chat with you again until after the birth of this sweet boy, I just want you to know that I hope everything goes well with the birth. So looking forward to seeing pictures when you feel like posting!

[jdarg]

If you happen to go into labor tonight after eating fajitas and we don't get to chat with you again until after the birth of this sweet boy, I just want you to know that I hope everything goes well with the birth. So looking forward to seeing pictures when you feel like posting!

She's either going to be thankful or curse me.:shock: OK- we are officially on Babywatch.

[tistheseason]

For a great new restaurant check out The Globe. It's on 5th street at Spring street in an area called Technology Square right by Ga Tech. It's a great restaurant. The chef, Joshua Perkins, was recently profiled in Esquire magazine as a hot new chef to watch (they profiled maybe 5 from the entire US). And the AJC and Atlanta Mag have mentioned it as one of the best new restaurants.

So, enough about what the critics think. I have enjoyed every meal there. It's a beautiful space, very slick but surprisingly comfortable. The lamb sandwich is great. I've heard rave reviews of the Spaghetti (who raves about spaghetti -- so I have to try it!) The desserts are incredible. But the thing I loved the best there is the BRUNCH. They serve it on Saturday and Sunday with $5 mimosas and bloodies. I loved the lemon ricotta pancakes!

[Smiling JOe]

Nobody has even mentioned The Varsity! Now they do have some tasty treats and the price is so easy on the pocketbook. I could go for a chili dawg with greasy onion rings right now. YUM!! YUM!!

Maybe we'll do that for Thanksgiving dinner this year. How does that sound?:puke::puke::puke:"What'yl you have?"

Jdarg, funny you mention the fajitas and childbirth. A guy (without kids) was telling Balder about that old trick last night.

[gotothebeachmom]

[QUOTE=Smiling JOe]:puke::puke::puke:"What'yl you have?"


YOu left out part of it. "What'll ya have? What'll ya have? Have your order in your mind and your money in your hand!" YOu're right about this though. :puke::puke::puke:Although, a FO would be good right about now.

[Beach Runner]

I'm in Midtown tonight. Any suggestions for dinner within 10 miles that isn't too pricy? How expensive is Globe? Should we revisit Toast (although I've heard that they have a new chef, and it's bad)?
My usual list of inexpensive restaurants is Houston's, Taqueria Del Sol, Figo (but went ther last night), Doc Chey's, Fratelli's, Nuevo Laredo.

Any ideas? I'm HONGRY!

[Bernster]

Horseradish Grill next to Chastain Park. Great for lunch or dinner!

[gotothebeachmom]

I'm in Midtown tonight. Any suggestions for dinner within 10 miles that isn't too pricy? How expensive is Globe? Should we revisit Toast (although I've heard that they have a new chef, and it's bad)?
My usual list of inexpensive restaurants is Houston's, Taqueria Del Sol, Figo (but went ther last night), Doc Chey's, Fratelli's, Nuevo Laredo.

Any ideas? I'm HONGRY!

Globe's menu looks interesting. Maybe a bit $$$. Why don't you try it out and review it for us?

[wetwilly]

I'm in Midtown tonight. Any suggestions for dinner within 10 miles that isn't too pricy? How expensive is Globe? Should we revisit Toast (although I've heard that they have a new chef, and it's bad)?
My usual list of inexpensive restaurants is Houston's, Taqueria Del Sol, Figo (but went ther last night), Doc Chey's, Fratelli's, Nuevo Laredo.

Any ideas? I'm HONGRY!

Welcome to Hotlanta. Hope you enjoy it. Where did you end up going for dinner? :cool:

[Beach Runner]

Welcome to Hotlanta. Hope you enjoy it. Where did you end up going for dinner? :cool:
Daughter wouldn't go to Globe. She's known several people who have gotten sick after eating there.

So we went to our comfort place, Houston's at West Paces. Got a quick table in the bar area (we know how to play that game). They've made some menu chances, but at least they let me special order the Ahi tuna salad. What I really wanted was salmon (which they didn't have), tomatoes drizzled in EVOO and balsamic, and their yummy corn-off-the-cob.

[melissa]

Hey Steeleing1- I know 2 gals that went into labor after eating fajitas. Just an idea if you are ready to roll. Since we were talking about food and all...;-)

Eggplant Parmesan from Scalini's supposedly does the trick, too -- they claim within 48 hours of eating it, you'll go into labor... In the restaurant, there's a wall with pictures of all the 'eggplant babies'!

I had it for dinner on a Wednesday, and then went into labor early Saturday morning :idontno: coincidence? who knows.
But, I had pizza for dinner on Friday night and my sister did also the night before she went into labor with her son. ;-)

[Beach Runner]

Tonight we were at a great pre-wedding party for the daughter of our very best friends. The hosts are among the biggest donors to Georgia Tech and have a compound with multiple houses, including a steak house. We were grilling brats at their steak house and talking about Globe in Atlanta. I said that I wanted to dine there on Thursday, but my daughter's friends had gotten sick there. OOPS! :oops: One of the guests owns Globe and said that he promises us a great experience. I'll report back later.

Fabulous party!

[gotothebeachmom]

Tonight we were at a great pre-wedding party for the daughter of our very best friends. The hosts are among the biggest donors to Georgia Tech and have a compound with multiple houses, including a steak house. We were grilling brats at their steak house and talking about Globe in Atlanta. I said that I wanted to dine there on Thursday, but my daughter's friends had gotten sick there. OOPS! :oops: One of the guests owns Globe and said that he promises us a great experience. I'll report back later.

Fabulous party!

We will expect a review. Please.

[Allifunn]

There are so many great resturants in Atlanta...it is like saying where is the best grain of sand in SoWal!
The only food I was never able to find was Cuban...but I am sure there was a good one somewhere...but Atlanta area is so HUGE that it is impossible to know!
I went to a Brazililan Resturant in Midtown once...YUM!!!!
Bacchanallia is, indeed, supposed to be excellent, $$$$ but most romantic! Also the Ritz always get high reviews in Gourmet and Bon Appetite
Most people can't leave Atlanta with out experiencing the Varsity! I used to eat at the one up in Alpharetta area, but to truly "experience" it you have to go into town!

[Beach Runner]

There are so many great resturants in Atlanta...it is like saying where is the best grain of sand in SoWal!
The only food I was never able to find was Cuban
Yes, and a lot of it is a matter of personal taste.

One Cuban, Las Palmeras on Fifth Street in Midtown, got a good review by Bob Townsend last summer in the Atlanta paper. I should try it since we're in the area a lot. I love Cuban sandwiches.
"Located on a Midtown residential street, in a hard-to-spot storefront that also houses a quirky bodega/gift shop, this friendly, budget Cuban offers a lot of bang for the buck. The homestyle menu features tasty and authentic renderings of all the classics, including empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, black beans and fried plantains. But some of the lesser known Cuban delicacies are even better. Masitas de puerco are perfectly fork-tender chunks of pork in a bright lemon sauce. Boliche, roasted eye of round stuffed with sausage, is equally tender and garlicky good. For dessert, look for mango pie — a smooth and refreshing variation on Key Lime pie, made with mango puree in a graham cracker crust. "

[gotothebeachmom]

There are so many great resturants in Atlanta...it is like saying where is the best grain of sand in SoWal!
The only food I was never able to find was Cuban...but I am sure there was a good one somewhere...but Atlanta area is so HUGE that it is impossible to know!
I went to a Brazililan Resturant in Midtown once...YUM!!!!
Bacchanallia is, indeed, supposed to be excellent, $$$$ but most romantic! Also the Ritz always get high reviews in Gourmet and Bon Appetite
Most people can't leave Atlanta with out experiencing the Varsity! I used to eat at the one up in Alpharetta area, but to truly "experience" it you have to go into town!

I got your Cuban food right here! This place is sooooo good! It's been around for years! It's on Buford Hwy. south of North Druid Hills Rd.

http://www.havanasandwichshop.com/home.html

[Duchess]

Everyone has given such *great* ATL dining recommendations...just thought I'd put in my two cents. Nuevo Laredo still rocks, but took us 2 Saturday nights to get a table. Bagged it 2 Saturdays ago after being told it was a 1 hr 45 min wait at just before 7 pm. Made it this Saturday at 5:30 pm and was told only a 40 minute wait. Wait time was right on the money, amazing food, not really rushed. Braves games did not impact crowd. Try going on Monday or Tuesday; as always, 'cerrado' on Sunday. We knew we were going at tough times.

Wahoo Grill in Decatur is wonderful... but to mention a couple of different places I thought I'd toss Cafe Alsace in Decatur and Anis off Grandview in Buckhead for wonderful, authentic French food. Cafe Alsace is more intimate and has a bit 'heavier' cuisine (Alsatien). Anis has a great outdoor seating area and has never let me down. Can definitely be a wonderful respite after a busy day of handing over one's Visa card at Lenox/Phipps malls.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Kyma off Piedmont in Buckhead has incredible Greek seafood. Their grilled octopus is one of the best dishes in Atlanta, period.

Hope this helps, now I'm hungry, and I just go back from Apres Diem after Mamma Mia at the Fox. I must dance off the calories tomorrow!!

[laurawood]

appreciate everyone's insight. Atlanta is definitely a fast moving town..... Too scary for me to actually drive around there. I think a car w/ a driver will be required. :D oh, Phipps Plaza Mall is my absolute favorite, can be a little dangerous!!! I found lenox to be well, trashy.
!!everyone cant forget that waco got the gig at the 393 lounge friday night at 9pm!! (behind the gas station)

[Gypsea]

Horseradish Grill next to Chastain Park. Great for lunch or dinner!


I'm with ya, Bernster, on the Horseradish Grill!!! yummm!!!!

[Beach Runner]

I'm with ya, Bernster, on the Horseradish Grill!!! yummm!!!!
Different strokes for different folks. We've been to Horseradish Grill so many times, and it never floated our boats. Not that it's not good, but I think we're just not into Southern food (I OD'd on it as a child), however upscale it might be, except on Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. Exception: I always order turnip greens at Taqueria del Sol since my husband is a "Yankee" and doesn't like them. Thus, I never prepare them at home other than New Year's Day, when I cook beans for him.

Nuevo Laredo - I've reviewed it elsewhere.

And the Havana Sandwich Shop did get a good "local" review by the AJC, for whatever that's worth. I don't always agree with them, but as I've said before, we all have our personal tastes.

BTW, laurawood, we've try to stay away from Lenox on Saturdays. It can get scary. There are a lot of people hanging out there with no money or intention of shopping, blocking the aisles for people who are there to shop. Like one of my favorite salespersons as Neiman's said, "Most of our good customers only come on weekdays." Of course, that's difficult when you live an hour away. When I go on Saturdays, I either just stay in Neiman's, or if I venture out of the wing where Neiman's is, I have my 6'8" 270 pound bodyguard (a.k.a. my husband) with me.

[katie blue]

I have another good intown recommendation. This is a true local find, might not be in your tour book, but it's the real deal. It's called the Roman Lily cafe, and it serves awesome southern-meets-tuscan dishes. It's run by an italian chef that helped found the Flying Biscuit. It reminds me a lot of the Bisciut, in fact, before they went "chain". It's another one of these destination bistros that'd be worth it for the funky intown/arty-cool atmosphere alone (if you're into that), but the food happens to be incredible. Big portions too. They have what reviewers call hands-down the best hot banana bread dessert in town. I had it a couple days ago, and they're right. :wub:

It's on North Highland near Inman Park/Old 4th ward. It's a stretch that used to be run down, and now is full of life with new condos, sushi bars, sidewalk cafes, etc. Great skyline view.

[Beach Runner]

I have another good intown recommendation. This is a true local find, might not be in your tour book, but it's the real deal. It's called the Roman Lily cafe, and it serves awesome southern-meets-tuscan dishes. It's run by an italian chef that helped found the Flying Biscuit. It reminds me a lot of the Bisciut, in fact, before they went "chain". It's another one of these destination bistros that'd be worth it for the funky intown/arty-cool atmosphere alone (if you're into that), but the food happens to be incredible. Big portions too. They have what reviewers call hands-down the best hot banana bread dessert in town. I had it a couple days ago, and they're right. :wub:

It's on North Highland near Inman Park/Old 4th ward. It's a stretch that used to be run down, and now is full of life with new condos, sushi bars, sidewalk cafes, etc. Great skyline view.
We love that part of town. We'll have to try it. Thanks for the recommendation.

[tistheseason]

Eggplant Parmesan from Scalini's supposedly does the trick, too -- they claim within 48 hours of eating it, you'll go into labor... In the restaurant, there's a wall with pictures of all the 'eggplant babies'!



I can attest to Scalini's Eggplant Parmesan. Ate it a week before my due date with my first child -- and my water broke 8 hours later! My son's picture is up there with the eggplant babies -- the only one that's b&w (the picture, that is)

[Beach Runner]

For me, labor was induced after shoe shopping at Neiman's. I had bought several pairs of Bruno Magli's (I was into them in those days for some reason) in half-a-size up. Annie Laurie, wife of the famous artist Lamar Dodd after which buildings/etc. are named at the University of Georgia and LaGrange College, was my usual salesperson there and suggested that my shoe size would go up in late pregnancy and after having a baby. After lugging my loot to the car, I casually walked in for my regular checkup at Peachtree Women's Clinic. OOPS! At 26 weeks I was in labor. I was hospitalized for two months, and our preemie baby is now 6'2" tall.
Guess I shouldn't have bought so many shoes that day. :funn: I can laugh about it now, but then it was a life-or-death situation for both me and the baby and a nightmare for our family, especially my poor husband.

[laurawood]

thanks for the tip!!

[peapod1980]

Nuevo Laredo on Chattahoochie Industrial-Best Mex in the South
Just revived this thread looking for this restaurant; Mr. Pod just called me from there, was sent on a recommendation. Wow, even BR gives this one her stamp of approval! :clap_1:

[olive]

Just revived this thread looking for this restaurant; Mr. Pod just called me from there, was sent on a recommendation. Wow, even BR gives this one her stamp of approval! :clap_1:

Been there, it rocks!

[Allifunn]

where exactly is this located? I would love to try it next time I am in 'Lanta.

[Beach Runner]

where exactly is this located? I would love to try it next time I am in 'Lanta.
Just take the Howell Mill exit off I-75 near the Brookwood split, head south, take a right at Chattahoochee Avenue, then drive almost two miles and you'll see it on the right. It's in a sort of run-down industrial/warehouse area, but don't let that put you off. 1495 Chattahoochee Ave., N.W., (404) 352-9009.

[skippertoo]

Just take the Howell Mill exit off I-75 near the Brookwood split, head south, take a right at Chattahoochee Avenue, then drive almost two miles and you'll see it on the right. It's in a sort of run-down industrial/warehouse area, but don't let that put you off. 1495 Chattahoochee Ave., N.W., (404) 352-9009.

Does this place have good Fajitas ?? Or where are the best ones (near Midtown) ??
Skip

[tistheseason]

Does this place have good Fajitas ?? Or where are the best ones (near Midtown) ??
Skip

I don't know about Fajitas. But they have the best shrimp tacos in the world. And the margaritas aren't bad either!! :drink2:

[Beach Runner]

Does this place have good Fajitas ?? Or where are the best ones (near Midtown) ??
Skip
The steak diablo, fajita beef in a red chili guajillo sauce, is awesome. Love the enchiladas de chorizo - Mexican sausage enchiladas topped with Monterrey jack. The chicken taco especiales are nice, too, with lots of fresh cilantro. WARNING: if you have GRD, don't order anything with chorizo. I had the chorizo tacos there one night; the next day I started having chest pains and thought I was having a heart attack. After an EKG, echocardiogram, stress test, and heart scan, it was determined that I just had indigestion (some pretty expensive tacos, huh? LOL!)

I know it's a chain, but Pappasitos has some awesome fajitas (and Tex-Mex as well). We love the family combos- Plato Toro or Plato Loco (check out http://www.pappasitos.com/pdfs/Pappasitosmaingroupmenu_8.06.pdf). We only go about once a year because (a) it's pretty pricey for Tex-Mex, and (b) too many calories -- they use a lot of butter.

We also love Taqueria Del Sol -- very cheap (but no fajitas) and totally different from other Mexican restaurants. I love the fried chicken taco (filled with fried chicken strips, lime jalapeno mayo, lettuce, and tomato), the fish taco (tilapia dipped in egg wash, rolled in masa and deep fried, with poblano tartar sauce and pickled jalapenos), the veggie taco (refried beans, queso blanco, and roasted tomatillo salsa). The turnip greens are incredible (cute with the fried chicken taco), and the shrimp corn chowder is awesome. Also, the enchiladas with red or green saice are pretty awesome.

[coonass]

there is tierra,bones,dickand harrys,two urban licks,lobby bar i midtown kichen and the best is rathbuns tell the 6'9 chef gator sent u

[PrincessKel]

I am not sure of the name, but there were so many desserts! They actually took you on a "tour" of the dessert case:biggrin: It was Cafe M.... something or another. I believe it was in mMid town Atlanta.

[Beach Runner]

I am not sure of the name, but there were so many desserts! They actually took you on a "tour" of the dessert case:biggrin: It was Cafe M.... something or another. I believe it was in mMid town Atlanta.
Was it Paul Luna's defunct Cafe Mystique? He probably showed you more than his desserts. :floor:

[tistheseason]

Was it Paul Luna's defunct Cafe Mystique? He probably showed you more than his desserts. :floor:

:idontno: Cafe Intermezzo maybe? I know they do the tour!

[olive]

:idontno: Cafe Intermezzo maybe? I know they do the tour!

That's the one! I believe Steeleing1 used to be a tour guide!!;-)

[Beach Runner]

:idontno: Cafe Intermezzo maybe? I know they do the tour!
Yeah, that's it. Never been there.

On another note, BJ went to Little Azio for the first time the other night. Walking distance from her ATL residence, and she says that the pizza is comparable to Amoré.

For those of you who are not Houston's fans, we actually had a not-so-special meal there last night. The Brussels sprouts tasted good, but were a bit too al dente for my taste. For some reason, BJ didn't wanna do Bacchanalia, her usual choice, for her birthday. Maybe it's because we had done Thirty-A, Borago, and Bud & Alley's a week ago.