DiningOut Atlanta Spring/Summer 2017

Page 1

ATLANTA Spring/Summer 2017

t h e

g r e a t

r e s t a u r a n t s

WHERE

o f

everybody

a t l a n t a

KNOWS YOUR NAME

THE LEAGUE TAVERN ,

Atlanta’s gourmet gathering spot page 22

TA S T E S A N D T R E N D S TO F E E D YO U R I N N E R F O O D I E

30 THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT ATLANTA :: Featuring landmark restaurants,

Midtown

gems,

and

a

host

of

favorites

like

Nancy’s

Chicago

Pizza,

Downwind, STK, and more :: Also: A look inside Glenwood’s The Shed 81

DISPLAY UNTIL 6/15/17

$4.95




PUBLISHER’S note t h e

g r e a t

r e s t a u r a n t s

o f

a t l a n t a

619.254.4241 :: diningout.com PUBLISHER Christopher D. Sanchez csanchez@diningout.com CITY EDITOR Denise Romeo dromeo@diningout.com City Winery

When winter hits down South, we don’t sulk in snow. To the contrary—the sting of cold weather is even more reason for us to seek out comfort food across Atlanta. And so, we begin this issue with our seasonal list of Things We Love—a collection of the tastiest, most inspiring eat and drink both inside and outside the perimeter. From the Southern stars of Saltwood to the elegant panache of ONE. midtown kitchen, there is a taste for every palate in Atlanta, and we’ve highlighted many of them. We’ve even set aside a few nods to the longstanding classics in our culinary sphere—the decade-plus-old establishments that continue to inspire our appetites—while also honing in on the fresh happenings of Midtown. Read it all, from sip to bite, starting on page 8. Then there’s the pride and joy on our cover this issue—The League Tavern. Giving the old Scales 925 space renewed life, this dynamic multi-concept is the brainchild of restaurant vet Anthony Fortson. Promising a luscious and accessible downtown treat for Atlantans of every stripe, plus exclusive events and lounges, this is sure to be hit. Get a taste for The League’s impending success on page 22. Also, be sure to peruse our restaurant guide, starting on page 27. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up in this season of bluster, we’ve got restaurants of every flavor to help you unwind and celebrate the good things in life. Keep this issue handy; you’re going to need it. To close out our issue, we spend several laugh-laced questions with Chef Jason Dixon at The Shed. His is a story close to our hearts—and one of the reasons we love Atlanta so very much. Read up on his inspiration, his insight, and his vision for the future in our last bite on page 81. Last—but certainly not least—consider picking up a Dining Passbook this season. With two-for-one deals at 50-plus restaurants, it’s a great way to explore the vast culinary world in Atlanta. To get yours, visit diningout.com/atlanta. Let’s eat through the chill! Cheers,

SALES COORDINATOR Tara Florence tflorence@diningout.com SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Tiara Requena trequena@diningout.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeremy Adamo Lea Bennett Jason Braverman Meredith Brower Dan Carmody/Studio 7 Adam Davila

Jaimie Dee Photography Sara Hanna Photography Robin Henson Eric Holder Austin Holt Dorian Martindale Andrew Mead Danielle Menacher Fred Perry Bryant Upchurch Heather Bresnen Watts COVER PHOTO Dan Carmody Studio 7 Photography studio7hub.com ON THE COVER The League Tavern 30 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404.850.0199 theleaguetavern.com

Published Internationally by Pearl Publishing Media Group 3917 West 32nd Avenue, Unit 1 :: Denver, CO 80212 (ph) 720.645.1888 :: (fax) 303.479.2000 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Josh Dinar :: josh@diningout.com PUBLISHER/DIRECTOR OF SALES Geoff Smith :: gsmith@diningout.com PUBLISHER/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Jeff Suskin :: jeffsuskin@diningout.com MANAGING EDITOR Jeffrey Steen jsteen@diningout.com EDITOR Morgan Carter mcarter@diningout.com EDITOR Rebecca Treon rtreon@diningout.com ACCOUNTING Kat Berdine, accounting@diningout.com Elisha Ostmeyer, ar@diningout.com

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Frida Gonzales PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Violet Cruz vcruz@diningout.com CIRCULATION MANAGER Fred Noelke LEGAL, ACCOUNTING, & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Law Offices of William L. Abrams, Esq. Abrams Garfinkel Margolis Bergson, LLP Bill Abrams New York: 212.201.1170 Los Angeles: 310.300.2900

READERS We would love your feedback! Any great dining experiences, any of your favorite restaurants missing from the guide, any suggestions for the next issue, subscriptions … anything at all, please contact us by phone, mail, or email. WRITERS Got a great idea for a food-related story? We’d love to hear about it. Queries should be sent to queries@diningout.com. RESTAURANTS AND ADVERTISERS For information regarding listing your restaurant in our next issue, please contact Chris Sanchez at csanchez@diningout.com.

Christopher Sanchez Publisher

twitter.com/diningoutatl facebook.com/diningoutatlanta 4

DiningOut magazines are presented by Pearl Publishing Media Group (PPMG). All contents are copyrighted 2016 by DiningOut Atlanta, LLC, a division of PPMG.



RESTAURANT contents

spring/summer 2017

INSIDE THE PERIMETER :: 28 Anis Café & Bistro

29 Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar 30 Antico Pizza 32 Atlantis 34 Bellwoods Social House 35 Café Circa 36 BQE Restaurant and Lounge 38 Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar 39 City Winery Atlanta 40 Crispina 41 The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge 42 EATS Atlanta 43 Eclectic Bistro & Bar 44 The League Tavern 46 Henry’s Midtown Tavern 47 Morton’s The Steakhouse 48 Nancy’s Chicago Pizza 50 No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café 51 The Oceanaire Seafood Room 52 Sear 54 Sun in My Belly 56 Varuni Napoli 58 Silver Skillet Restaurant 59 Wahoo! Grill

OUTSIDE THE PERIMETER :: 61 BB’s Bronx Bagels 62 Bite Bistro & Bar 63 Cosmopolitan 64 Grace 1720 65 IPP’S Pastaria Bar 66 Keegan’s Public House 67 Kouzina Christos 68 McKendrick’s Steak House 69 The Mill Kitchen & Bar 70 Red Sky 71 Reed Seafood 72 Secreto Kitchen and Bar 73 Smokejack BBQ 74 Village Tavern 76 Tarahumata Mexican Grille 77 Zeal Restaurant

The League Tavern

6



30 THINGS WE

love ABOUT DINING OUT IN

ATLANTA In no particular order

8


1 Barbecue everything at Smokejack BBQ Housed in a charming 180-year-old building in the heart of historic Alpharetta, SMOKEJACK BBQ has something for all barbecue lovers. From slow-smoked, hand-pulled Pork and moist tender Ribs to their signature Beef Burnt Ends, they honor many regional styles while preparing great barbecue. Listen to live local music each week while you sip on craft beer from local breweries. Oh, and try the Triple Bypass Fries for the ultimate indulgence. uSMOKEJACKBBQ.COM

2 Classic deep dish pizza at Nancy’s Chicago Pizza New Yorkers and Chicagoans have been debating which city has the best pizza for decades. Whether you are a fan of deep-dish pizza or not, there is no denying that NANCY’S CHICAGO PIZZA makes a truly delicious pie. When Rocco Palese modeled his new pizza creation after his mother’s recipe for “scarciedda,” an Easter specialty cake, little did he know the result would be one of the first stuffed pizzas in America. Be sure to try Uncle Carl’s Favorite made with pepperoni and hot giardiniera, or Vinnie’s Choice, stuffed with Italian sausage, pepperoni, and roasted red peppers. Not a fan of deep-dish pizza? No worries! Nancy’s has a create-your-own option with traditional or thin-crust dough and a large selection of toppings to choose from. uNANCYSPIZZA.COM

3 Clean eating at Grace 17•20 With the goal of presenting a unique dining experience that uplifts and inspires guests, GRACE 17•20 offers a creative, seasonal menu in a comfortable and stylish atmosphere. For diners adhering to a “clean” diet, options for eating out are difficult to find, but Grace 17•20 has an entire menu designed with vegetarians, vegans, and clean eaters in mind. Dishes like Coconut Curried Kale and the Grilled Portobello Burger with eggplant and basil oil are sure to please any palate, while wellness teas and fresh juices hydrate with a dose of healthful benefits. uGRACE1720.COM

www.diningout.com

9


4 The romantic oasis of Whisky Mistress Journey into a world of retro elegance at WHISKY MISTRESS where classic style reigns supreme. Whether you’re searching for a gathering place with friends, a romantic oasis, or an exciting late-night adventure, WM promises an in-house getaway in Atlanta’s backyard (aka Buckhead). Stop in for the gourmet dining with live music every night performed by Atlanta’s best artists. The small-plate menu features like Broiled Feta topped with marinara and Basil Pesto with grilled pita are perfect for sharing, but substantial enough to satisfy. uWHISKYMISTRESS.COM

5 Symphony of tastes and sounds at Madlife Stage & Studios Veteran Atlanta Chef David Berry subscribes to the notion that “what goes together, grows together.” As a music lover, he tries to create harmony with both flavor and sound as he crafts nightly specials to complement the music being performed at MADLIFE STAGE & STUDIOS’ live venue. Depending on the guest artist and their style of music, Chef David has been known to serve Southern classics—with some twists and shouts—including an amazing Pulled Pork Sandwich, meats smoked in-house, and fresh seafood, all coupled with delicious breads and desserts made in-house daily. uMADLIFESTAGEANDSTUDIOS.COM

Wine Wednesdays at Village Tavern Included for the fourth consecutive year in Wine Spectator’s annual restaurant awards for their outstanding wine service, VILLAGE TAVERN , located in Alpharetta, is the perfect place to celebrate Wine Wednesdays (or any other day for that matter). And what’s even better than deals on wine? An award-worthy patio from which to drink it. Village Tavern boasts one of the best in the city, perfect for peoplewatching, lingering at happy hour, or toasting good times with friends. uVILLAGETAVERN.COM

10

6



7 Olive oil for every kitchen at Oli + Ve Olive oil has become a staple of every kitchen. In fact, most cooks keep more than one variety on hand. Whether for dipping, frying, or dressing salads, OLI + VE has a wide selection from Italy, Spain, Tunisia, Australia, Argentina, Chile, and California. At any of their three Atlanta locations, customers can taste before purchasing. Along with featured oils, they carry vinegars of varying types as well as gourmet food items like gluten-free pastas, olives imported from Spain, flavored salts, and spice blends. Building a gourmet gift basket is easy and fun—and might even include a bread board or dipping bowls handcrafted from French olive wood. uOLIANDVE.COM

Year-round alfresco dining at WAHOO! Grill Have you ever imagined a glass-walled garden where you can dine outside any time of year? WAHOO! GRILL in Decatur certainly did. They have designed an enchanting garden paradise that can accommodate intimate dining, a gathering of friends, or even private parties of up to 200. This casual Europeaninfluenced neighborhood eatery offers a creative menu with a focus on seafood and fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with a Southern flair. And be sure to stop into Wahoo! Wine and Provisions for a great wine selection and a free wine tasting every Saturday. uWAHOOGRILLDECATUR.COM

8

9 Dueling pianos and Spanish tapas at Red Sky “We want our customers to feel at home here,” says Terry Kirby, co-owner of RED SKY TAPAS AND BAR as he sweeps an arm in the direction of the open dining area and well-lit bar. They offer a new twist on the traditional Spanish tapas menu here; one example is their version of Cajun Shrimp and Grits made with large tender shrimp dotted with tomatoes, roasted red peppers, jalapeños, and cilantro atop creamy grits with just the right amount of Cajun seasoning. And no evening here would be complete without their signature martini, The Desperate Housewife—an impeccable combination of vodka, peach Schnapps, and cranberry juice with a splash of fresh lime. But the real catch at Red Sky Tapas and Bar is their “dueling pianos” every Friday and Saturday evening. Jumpin’ jivin’, it’s a good time. uREDSKYTAPAS.COM

12


Regal dining at Crispina As you stroll into CRISPINA , you will be charmed by the simple and elegant décor with hardwood floors, timbered furniture, and gold draperies. The open kitchen, featuring a wood-burning brick oven, adds to the casual, yet classy atmosphere. The compact bar is fully stocked with Italian wines to complement the Neapolitan-inspired menu. Whether you choose one of the crisp, savory pizzas or the hand-rolled pasta dishes, you will dine like the Roman empress after which the restaurant is named. When you visit Crispina in Smryna—or their hotly anticipated new location in East Cobb—ask for the Calabrese oil to drizzle on your homemade bread for a spicy addition to your authentic Italian meal. uCRISPINAATLANTA.COM

10

11

Artisan finds at No Mas! Cantina Serving delicious Mexican fare in a delightful atmosphere decorated with artisan furnishings, NO MAS! CANTINA offers unique regional dishes like the skewered Shrimp Alambres, or grilled Bistek Tamarindo. Love the hand-blown glass holding your margarita? Pick up one or two in the attached Artisan Market featuring eclectic treasures from places like Guatemala and Mexico. No Mas! Cantina isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an amazing experience. With its central downtown location, this is a great hangout spot before or after concerts, Hawks games, and Falcons games in the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium. uNOMASCANTINA.COM

www.diningout.com

13


A world of food under one roof at Krog Street Market What do you do when you are craving a meaty Italian grinder and your dining partner is hankering for sweet-andspicy Szechuan dumplings? You head straight for the nine-acre mixeduse development known as KROG

12

Georgia-made seasonings at Savory Spice Shop

Is mealtime getting a bit boring? SAVORY SPICE SHOP has a spice blend for any and every taste. With 180 spice blends, traditional American and international cooking is easy and delicious. Savory Spice takes pride in offering spices that are freshly ground in small batches that can be smelled and tasted in their interactive store. After placing a pinch in the hand to sample, customers are encouraged to toss extras on the floor to “season the floor,” adding to the wonderful aromas that fill the shop’s air. Keep an eye out for the four popular in-house blends, made just for Atlanta: Georgia Boys BBQ seasoning, Georgia Peach seasoning, Beltline Dill Pickle Salt, and Stone Mountain Grits & Gravy. uSAVORYSPICESHOP.COM/ATLANTA

14

“Get Brunch!” at BQE Lounge

Trendy, hip and glitzy, BQE LOUNGE in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood is the place to see and be seen. Sophisticated soul food is the hallmark here, as reflected in classic Southern recipes updated with dynamic contemporary flavors served in a chic cosmopolitan environment. But wait, there’s more: BQE Lounge is home to “Get Brunch!”, a popular weekly social event held every Saturday with Live DJs, bottomless mimosas, and amazing brunch standards like Shrimp and Grits and BQE’s signature Red Velvet Waffles with fried chicken. uBQELOUNGE.COM

14

13

STREET MARKET

situated along the BeltLine in Inman Park. With a dizzying array of eateries and clever shops, a visit to the former headquarters of actor Tyler Perry is sure to surprise. Start with a pastry from Little Tart Bakery, then grab a grinder from Fred’s Meat & Bread and a brew from Hop City Beer & Wine to wash them down. Finish it all with a scoop from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. A world of foodie delights await under one high-ceilinged roof. uKROGSTREETMARKET.COM



Landmark RESTAURANTS Decade-old Atlanta MAINSTAYS

15 The Silver Skillet’s biscuits While this restaurant has been featured in many movies—not to mention Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” for its vintage décor, it’s the classic Southern breakfast that keeps folks coming back time and time again. Owned and operated by the Decker family and their descendants for over 60 years, they know a thing or two about cooking up some biscuits, country ham, and red-eye gravy. You haven’t had a true Southern breakfast until you’ve dined at THE SILVER SKILLET ! uTHESILVERSKILLET.COM

16 Tapas at Basil’s in Buckhead BASIL’S RESTAURANT AND TAPAS BAR

is a casual, energetic restaurant best known for its outdoor dining under the stars. They have been offering exceptional food for over 25 years, with flavors of regional Mediterranean cuisine accented by an array of global influences. Their diverse menu features tapas, pasta, fresh seafood, and succulent meat prepared to order, using a mix of classic and contemporary techniques. Basil’s is the perfect happy hour spot to decompress after a long day. Don’t miss Flash-Fried Smelts with a rich tomato, cumin, and tahini sauce, or the chef’s special Charcuterie Plate with a pairing from Basil’s extensive wine list. uBASILS.NET

16


17 Classic French cuisine in the Heart of Buckhead at Anis Bistro As French food continues to trend upward in 2017, there is no better place to find classic Provençal fare than at ANIS BISTRO . Set in a converted cottage nestled in the heart of Buckhead, this has been one of Atlanta’s hidden gems for over 23 years. Anis is the perfect place for a romantic lunch or dinner, especially if you’re lucky enough to snag a table on the tree-shaded brick patio. The specialties are Provençal versions of healthy French cuisine, like their juicy Thyme-Roasted Chicken in jus or the unpretentious Hanger Steak with pommes frites. With food and wine that is affordably priced, you can feel like a Parisian without the expense and nuisance of overseas travel. uANISBISTRO.COM

18

Beer paired with wood-fired fare at Max Lager’s With rustic seating amid giant copper tanks and mechanized milieus, MAX LAGER’S WOOD-FIRED GRILL & BREWERY is the oldest independent

brewery and restaurant in Atlanta. In addition to being the oldest brewpub in the city, they were also one of the first restaurants to feature a wood-fired menu. And boy, do they do it well. One taste of the House-Smoked Hickory Pork Chop served with whipped potatoes and jalapeño gravy will convince you that cooking with wood enhances the Max Lager’s experience by introducing bold flavors which cannot be duplicated with traditional cooking methods. Paired with a Dark Side India Dark Ale, you might ask for a bunk in the industrial loft-style building so you never have to leave. uMAXLAGERS.COM

19 The new Breakfast Burger at Downwind This family restaurant has been serving some of Atlanta’s “best burgers” for 27 years. Enjoy the beautiful view of the flight line at Peachtree DeKalb Airport while chowing down on a Breakfast Burger featuring Georgia-grown, all-natural local beef from the Bear Creek Cattle Co., topped with a fried egg, bacon, and cheese served on a kaiser roll. Not into burgers? Whether you are stopping by for a drink to watch the planes, or getting a bite between flights, THE DOWNWIND RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE has something for everyone. Add the perfect view from the patio overlooking the airport and it’s the ideal spot for gazing and noshing. uDOWNWINDRESTAURANT.COM

www.diningout.com

17


midtown AT L A N TA I CO N S 20

21

Elevated dining at Nine Mile Station

Named for the streetcar landmark that was prominent 100 years ago, this new beer garden offers European-inspired share plates and communal dining under the stars. NINE MILE STATION is located atop Ponce City Market with stunning views of the city and a comfortable outdoor setting; Adirondack chairs and fire pits cut those chilly evening breezes and encourage ultimate relaxation. In true beer garden style, Nine Mile Station offers a selection of sausages with a unique twist—they can be ordered in differing lengths for $1.50 per inch. This restaurant is a must for local residents and visitors alike. u9MILESTATION.COM

23

18

22

True Neapolitan pizza at Varuni Napoli A visit to VARUNI NAPOLI transports you from Midtown Atlanta to the streets of Naples with its traditional Neapolitan cuisine and vibrant, familial atmosphere. Known for woodfired pizzas with locally sourced toppings, plus homemade desserts, the simple and inviting menu is also peppered with such Varuni family favorites as Mamma’s Meatballs and Eggplant Parmigiana, as well as Arancini and Panzerotti. If the prosecco on tap is not your beverage of choice, there is a wine list featuring some of the finest wines from Italy’s Veneto and Campania regions for you to peruse. And for anyone with a sweet tooth, there are the dessert favorites from the ever popular Tiramisù, Cannoli, and Gelato, to the rich and more traditional Torta della Nonna. uVARUNI.US

The Southern delicacies of Saltwood

The hottest menu trend of late is deluxe charcuterie boards laden with cheeses and cured meats, so you can imagine the pleasures that await you at a restaurant solely dedicated to serving the best Southern artisanal ingredients sourced from local purveyors. SALTWOOD CHARCUTERIE & BAR , located in the Loews’ Midtown Hotel, combines European style with homey hospitality to provide diners with a casual, communal dining experience. While meats and cheeses served on rustic wood chargers may dominate the menu, other delights await you, including the Steamers Clams with andouille, garlic, and onions in a brown ale broth. And no one can resist Avocado Toast dressed up with house-smoked bacon, oven-dried tomato, carrot and onion pickles, radish, capers, and black truffle. Pure nirvana! uSALTWOODATLANTA.COM

“Star-gazing” at STK Atlanta This glitzy Midtown space boasts an elevated dining room awash in chic white leather. Plus, a super-sexy bar with an impressive wall decorated with bleached steer horns is the ultimate backdrop for celebrity sightings in the ATL. Perhaps it’s the in-house DJ or the incredible Shellfish Platter large enough for the entire table that attracts the entertainment community to STK ATLANTA . Whatever the allure, you might see Denzel Washington, Selena Gomez, Scarlett Johansson, Owen Wilson, Kevin Bacon, Cam Newton, Bill Paxton, Kim Kardashian, NeNe Leaks, or even Arnold Schwarzenegger at this upscale steakhouse. Come to eat—and star-gaze. uTOGRP.COM/VENUE/STK-ATLANTA


25

24 People-watching at Zocalo Located a short walk from Atlanta’s playground, Piedmont Park, ZOCALO serves delicious margaritas and authentic upscale Mexican food. The patio is ideal for people-watching as you sip on your frozen beverage of choice. And who can say “no” to bottomless guacamole so fresh you actually watch them make it tableside? No one! Whether you are in the mood for burritos, tacos, enchiladas, or even a combo plate, you will surely find a delicious dish to feed your Tex-Mex cravings at Midtown Atlanta’s best Mexican cantina. uRICHARDSANDOVAL.COM/ZOCALO

Italian-American indulgences at Campagnolo

With an intimate interior and a warm bar, CAMPAGNOLO features a rustic menu that draws influences from all parts of Italy, designed to enchant diners with its modern version of Old World cuisine. This neighborhood spot for dining and socializing has become a vital hub in Midtown. Their seasonal menu offers favorites from the Italian countryside sure to delight any palate, such as the traditional Pappardelle with duck confit, mushrooms, and spinach; and the rosemary rubbed Tuscan Rib-Eye served with truffled potato wedges. The delicious fare is complemented by an outstanding wine selection. Great location, good food, and stellar wine—who could ask for more? uCAMPAGNOLOATL.COM

26

Gastropub share plates at Tap

Gastropub cuisine is, for the most part, tried and true: myriad burgers, smothered fries, kicked-up nachos, sliders, salads, etc. But at TAP , Chef Tyler Williams is capsizing the concept with share plates—or as he calls them, “fun food.” Grab some friends and gather ‘round a plate of Yakitori Short Ribs or Beef and Chicken Tinga Empanadas. Even the desserts—and we’re slaves to the Caramel Apple Bread Pudding—are generous enough to share. If your appetite is big enough, you can still get your own Loaded Tots or Double Stock Pub Burger. But sharing is caring, right? uTAPAT1180.COM

www.diningout.com

19


27

Chef-driven menu at Eclectic Bistro When self-taught Chef Justin Caldarella met his wife, little did he know that he would get married and build a restaurant from the ground up in less than a year. Needing an artistic outlet, Caldarella left his corporate job to put his creative talents to good use crafting traditional American dishes with a refreshingly modern twist at ECLECTIC BISTRO . Reflecting true bistro roots, the concept offers delicious, reasonably priced dishes made fresh daily and served in a casual and relaxing atmosphere. Another perk: Eclectic Bistro is located near some of the city’s most popular attractions, like the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, and the Belt Line. uECLECTICBISTROATLANTA.COM

28

29 Complete sensory indulgence at City Winery A unique music venue, combining a fully functioning winery with intimate concerts, classes, and fine dining, CITY WINERY is a utopian setting perfect for sharing an evening with friends enjoying wine, music, and great food—or, as the staff puts it, a “culinary tour of the world’s winemaking regions.” Located on the Ponce City Market campus, this hip, intimate spot serves internationally inspired dishes that pair well with wines from their extensive wine list. Indulge your senses with delectable PEI Mussels and Kale Salad with bourbon-soaked cherries, slivered almonds, and a honey-citrus gastrique; or dig into a hearty Maple Leaf Farms Cassoulet. Looking for something a bit more adventurous? How about the slow-braised and hand-pulled Duck Confit Tacos with guacamatillo salsa and jicama-cabbage slaw tucked inside fresh corn tortillas? With shows and classes nightly, this spot truly has something for everyone. uCITYWINERY.COM/ATLANTA

30

Curated cocktails at Establishment

This in-town jewel is proof that looks can be deceiving. From the outside, the renovated urban warehouse looks a bit plain, but after crossing the threshold, you will find a modern open dining room with beautiful lighting and an inviting atmosphere that frames ONE. MIDTOWN KITCHEN . And that is before you even open the menu. Top culinary talent Chef Matt Weinstein offers modern, out-of-the-box cuisine inspired by international flavors made with the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Watching Chef Matt and his team work in the open kitchen, you see the passion and teamwork that goes into each dish they serve. And with an impressive wine list, you will certainly find the perfect pairing for your meal.

It is as though you have stepped back in time when you visit ESTABLISHMENT , located in the W Midtown Hotel. Paying homage to Atlanta’s rich history and local significance, the restaurant boasts reclaimed Georgia wood from 15 counties, as well as 19th century artifacts from some of the city’s first cobblestone buildings. Establishment’s award-winning beverage and ice program features libations made with exceptional Southern spirits, fresh seasonal produce, and handcarved cubes of ice from blocks delivered daily—all served with a dollop of Georgia history for good measure. Drop in and drink a toast to the founding pioneers of the most happening city in the South.

uONEMIDTOWNKITCHEN.COM

uESTABLISHMENTATLANTA.COM

Chef in action at ONE. midtown kitchen

20



LEAGUE GENTLEMEN THE

OF

How visionaries ANTHONY FORTSON and ROB WALLER are reinvigorating downtown BY J E F F R E Y ST E E N

To those in the know, the pulse of Atlanta is undeniably Peachtree Street—a stretch of downtown bustling with dazzling retail, towering businesses, and a rainbow of entertainment. Wherever you land on this happening strip, you’re mere blocks away from iconic hotels like The Atlanta Marriott Marquis, The Hyatt Regency, and the W Atlanta, while landmark institutions Hard Rock Cafe, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Coca-Cola Museum are easily accessible by foot. 22


With all of this activity, where better to open a world-class restaurant? That was Anthony Fortson’s thought, anyway, when he converted the ill-fated Scales 925 to destination restaurant and event center The League Tavern. “When I heard that the space was available, I realized I had to do something with it,” Fortson recalls. “The area is perfect, and while I had dabbled in restaurants and nightclubs around Atlanta before, I wanted this concept to be completely different.” Fortson’s vision was simple: Craft a multilevel lifestyle hub with unquestionably delicious food and an atmosphere so comfortable, guests would linger for hours. To that end, he delivered what downtown Atlanta needed most—a venue ringed with soft earth tones, cozy banquettes, and dozens of high-definition, big-screen TVs. “We’re not really a sports bar,” Fortson is quick to point out. “Of course, we’re set up perfectly for that if guests want—we even have a nine-screen, 4K TV wall behind the (full) bar on the first floor, after all—but people are just as likely to come for a leisurely meal and conversation.” The first floor, by the way—including an 800 square-foot patio—is only one part of The League Tavern adventure. Private events, organized by the tangential business The League Events, will spread over the second, third, and fourth floors, marked by specialty menus, full bars on each level, and custom luxury touches. The fourth floor—a rooftop patio—will be particularly in demand, as views mingle with high-end cocktails, enjoying exclusive amenities and updated American fare, created by Executive Chef Robert Waller. While Waller has been keen on crafting specialty menus for private events, his focus is equally on the public-facing League Tavern. “The menu is all about fusion fare,” Waller paints, “but the food will still be familiar and comfortable.” Case in point: The visionary Steak Roll that blends traditional sushi preparation with classic Southern ingredients. A lean cut of prime beef is glazed with lime barbecue sauce before rolling up tender julienned veggies. In addition to the fusion, Waller insists that creative whimsy will be happily balanced by small plate offerings and main dishes that have long been hits in Atlanta. Leaning on his unique talents and Southern roots, Waller is blending new ideas with traditional Southern flavors. “Our Cajun

www.diningout.com

23


Chicken Pasta is a great example of a classic dish,” Waller says, “but it’s not boring. Far from it—we’re keeping it light with well-executed flavors so that it’s satisfying without being too heavy.” Waller says he’s also currently working on building purveyor relationships so that the menu’s weekly specials showcase the best Atlanta has to offer. “We’re reaching out to butchers and farmers to help us build an inventory of local product,” he says. But perhaps one of the most endearing things about the menu—and certainly a feather in Fortson’s cap—is the price point. Full entrées top out at $16, while smalls plates run an eminently reasonable $5 or so. “This really gives guests flexibility when they order,” Waller affirms. “You can mix and match small plates, share an entrée, or get an appetizer, main, and dessert without breaking the bank.”

If you’re sliding into a League Tavern booth for the first time, both Fortson and Waller recommend some signatures to get you started: the Chicken and Waffles are a must in a Southern kitchen, while the Wings and Fries fit any sports-viewing festivity. “And I have to add the Macaroni and Cheese and Deep-Fried Baby Back Ribs to the list,” Waller grins. “They’re irresistable.” To anyone in tune with the complexities of getting a concept like this off the ground, the key to its success is passion. And as Waller describes, The League Tavern has it in spades: “I’m really proud of the guys in the kitchen,” he gushes. “They’re really passionate about making the food, and it shows in everything from prep to plating.” If the kitchen shines, then the front-of-the-house team gleams. Led by hospitality expert—and The League Tavern’s General Manager—Josh Black, every server, bartender, and host in the dining room is committed to making an experience

“I’m really PROUD of the guys in the kitchen. They’re really about making the food, and it SHOWS in everything from PREP TO PLATING .” — EXECUTIVE CHEF ROB WALLER

PASSIONATE

24

at the Tavern a memorable pastiche of smiles, laughter, and detail-oriented service. With four sprawling levels spanning 14,000 square-feet, an enviable location in the heart of downtown, a menu pulsing with creativity from an energetic kitchen team, and Atlanta’s warmest hospitality, could there be anything else to ensure The League Tavern’s success? “Well,” Fortson nudges, “we do have a few more things in the works. We’re hoping to open a luxury cigar bar for League Tavern members at some point. And we’re looking forward to offering live music and doing periodic liquor tastings. Oh, and did I mention we’re open for lunch, and will soon offer delivery to the neighborhood?” Such ambition is often rewarded with success. And for Fortson, Jackson, and their team, that success will be undoubtedly well-plied with good food and lust-worthy drink




INSIDE THE PERIMETER ::

RESTAURANTS :: 28 Anis Café & Bistro

42 EATS Atlanta

29 Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar

43 Eclectic Bistro & Bar

30 Antico Pizza

44 The League Tavern

32 Atlantis

46 Henry’s Midtown Tavern

34 Bellwoods Social House

47 Morton’s The Steakhouse

35 Café Circa

48 Nancy’s Chicago Pizza

36 BQE Restaurant and Lounge

50 No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café

38 Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar

51 The Oceanaire Seafood Room

39 City Winery Atlanta

52 Sear

40 Crispina

54 Sun in My Belly

41 The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge

56 Varuni Napoli 58 Silver Skillet Restaurant 59 Wahoo! Grill


ANIS CAFÉ & BISTRO

Buckhead

anisbistro.com

2974 Grandview Avenue Atlanta, GA 30305 PH: 404.233.9889 Open Daily

Anis Café & Bistro opened in February of 1994 with the hope of being a casual bistro where people could meet and enjoy light fare with coffee and drinks.

Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11:30am-2:30pm

But upon becoming an instant hit, Anis was forced to expand and has now grown into a full-scale dining

Dinner: Monday-Thursday 6-10pm Friday and Saturday 5:30-10:30pm Sunday 5:30-9pm

restaurant feels just like home. Set on a side street, it oozes a romantic, relaxed, and casual atmosphere

Sunday Brunch: 11:30am-2:30pm Reservations Recommended Live Music Thursday and Friday Nights Patio Dining Valet Parking Gluten-Free Friendly

establishment that locals still love. Converted from a cottage home, this unpretentious Buckhead that will leave you comfortable and happy. The food comes with a French accent, with favorites like the Croque Monsieur, Moules Marinières, and the Filet of Beef “au Poivre.” Their outdoor patio is one of Atlanta’s favorites and a sure-fire hotspot. Made of brick and tree-shaded, it is a superbly romantic and elegant dining option with a wonderful feel. They have live music on Thursday and Friday nights. Open for lunch and dinner, Anis Bistro is a taste of Provence in the heart of Buckhead. “Set in a converted cottage, it’s the perfect spot for lunch or dinner with a French accent. The specialties are Provençal versions of Mediterranean cuisine, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of that region, especially if you’re lucky enough to snag a table on the tree-shaded patio.”—New York Times #2 Best French Food—Best of Citysearch, 2007

sample menu selections appetizers::

entrées::

Coquilles St. Jacques 12

Boeuf au Poivre 33

Roasted Maine scallops, cucumber, mint, tomatoes, lemon, garlic, and Valbreso

Moules Marinières 13

White wine, garlic, parsley, and cream

Escargots au Pastis 9

Escargots, crispy polenta, roasted garlic, and crushed tomatoes

Saucisses Merguez Grillées 11

Grilled Merguez sausage, Yukon potato purée, baby Vidalia onions, and Dijon mustard

salads:: Salade d’Arnaud 8

Hearts of Bibb, endive, grape tomatoes, artichokes, and aged red wine vinaigrette

Tartare de Tomate 10

Roasted vine-ripened tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, baby arugula, and saba vinegar

Salade de Roquette 8

Arugula, shaved Parmesan, artichokes, and fresh lemon

28

28

www.diningout.com

Filet of beef served with Lyonnaise potatoes; topped with sweet onions, roasted portobello mushrooms, and Cognac-peppercorn sauce

Truite Meunière 22

Pan-roasted trout, wilted greens, marinated artichokes, capers, and lemon brown butter

Saumon à La Poêle 22

Pan-roasted salmon, Roquefort risotto, julienned endive, and pear with saba vinegar

Tortellini and Boeuf Braisé 25

Braised beef short rib and wild mushroom ragoût, handmade ricotta tortellini, and pine nuts

Confit de Canard 26

Duck leg confit, petit salé, and French lentil ragoût


Buckhead

BASIL’S RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR

basils.net

2985 Grandview Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30305

A Buckhead staple, Basil’s delivers a casual yet energetic culinary experience, coupled with unparalleled (and award-winning) outdoor dining. For over 25 years, this Atlanta mainstay has brought exceptional Mediterranean cuisine to locals and visitors alike. Inside the crisp, white-swathed dining room, laughter and conversation buzz around a procession of tapas, pasta, fresh seafood, and succulent meats. Lunch crowds are wont to enjoy simple fare with an emphasis on ingredients—showcased in dishes like the Prosciutto Sandwich with fresh basil and mozzarella—while dinner nibbles like the classic Flash-Fried Calamari sail into entrées that whisk guests away to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean (our sure-fire gateway meal is the Rack of Lamb with mint-citrus butter). When the sun is shining and appetites soar, nothing beats a lingering afternoon or evening on the verdant

PH: 404.233.9755 Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:30-10pm Friday and Saturday 5:30-10:30pm Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 11:30am-2:30pm Family-Friendly Full Bar Healthy Options Outdoor Patio Dining Free Parking

patio, capped with sprawling umbrellas. It’s almost as if you’re docked above the azure expanses of the Amalfi Coast …

sample menu selections salads and small plates::

entrées::

Caprese Salad 10

Fusilli Calabresi Pasta 15

Greek Salad 6

Paella 22

Kale, Spinach, and Gorgonzola 6

Seared Norwegian Salmon 26

Mediterranean Mezza 12

Rack of Lamb 34

Kibbeh Rolls 8

Stuffed Chicken Breast 19

Steamed Mussels 12

Filet Mignon 38

Crab Fritters 10

Lamb Burger 18

With fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic vinaigrette With feta cheese, Kalamata olives, tomatoes, fresh mint, and lemon olive oil Walnuts and pomegranate vinaigrette

With hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and tabbouleh With dried mint yogurt With herbed butter, white wine, tomato, and fresh basil With honey mustard aïoli

With cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil pesto With stuffed fish, mussels, smoked chorizo, and rice wih saffron broth Quinoa with tarragon-citrus vinaigrette With mint-citrus butter and potato purée With herbed goat cheese and mushroom gremolata With rosemary potatoes purée and basil curry sauce With spicy goat cheese and fig balsamic reduction

Ceviche Del Mar 12

flatbreads:: Shiitake and Cremini Mushrooms 8 Arugula, Manchego cheese, and truffle oil

Goat Cheese 8

With roasted garlic, pepper, and spinach

House-Smoked Slamon 10 Capers and spicy crème fraîche

www.diningout.com

29

29


ANTICO PIZZA

Midtown

What is now the gem of Atlanta—Little Italia—began as a humble pizza spot envisioned by restaurateur Giovanni di Palma. Featured in countless magazines and newspapers, and recently lauded as one of the top pizzas restaurants in the country by “Best. Pizza. Ever.” on The Food Network, Antico Pizza is the very soul of Neapolitan pizza-making. Anchored by three wood-burning ovens—the only way to do Old World pizza right—Antico started a trend for fast-casual, but high-quality pizza stops. Inside, guests can cozy up to communal tables with a glass or two of wine and dig into a classic pie, like the Bianca with fior di latte, ricotta, bufala mozzarella, and pecorino; or one of the much-loved favorites like the San Gennaro with salsiccia, sweet red pepper, bufala mozzarella, and cipollini onions. If you’d rather, pick a piping hot, crispy calzone, also cooked up in the wood-burning ovens. Save room for Homemade Cannoli, though, made fresh daily, and be sure to plan out your next visit carefully—Antico makes pizza until the dough runs out.

30

30

www.diningout.com


ANTICO PIZZA

Midtown

littleitalia.com

1093 Hemphill Avenue Atlanta, GA 30318 PH: 404.724.2333 Monday-Friday 11:30am until out of dough Saturday: Noon until out of dough Line and Call in Orders begin at 11:30am

sample menu selections

pizza tradizionale di napoli:: Margherita D.O.P. 19

San Marzano tomato, bufala, basil, and garlic

Marinara 18

San Marzano, garlic, oregano, Romano, and white anchovy

Bianca 20

Fior di Latte, ricotta, bufala, and pecorino

Capricciosa 22

Mushroom, artichoke, prosciutto cotto, and bufala

Pomodorini 21

pollo tradizionale::

Award-Winning

Sorrento Lemon singolo 15; famiglia 38

Family Friendly

Fresh Amalfi-style lemons, garlic, wild oregano, and olio di oliva

Arancia Di Capri singolo 15; famiglia 38

Capri-style oranges, garlic, olio di oliva, and rosmarino

Scarpiello singolo 17; famiglia 43

Salsiccia, dolce piccante peppers, cippoline, and aceto rosso

Cacciatore (Sunday Only) singolo 17; famiglia 43 Green peppers, mushrooms, San Marzano D.O.P., and vino rosso

Fresh cherry Vesuvian tomato, bufala, garlic, and basil

pollo specialita::

Diavola 22

Diavola singolo 16; famiglia 40

Spicy soppressata, pepperonata, and bufala

pizza specialita:: San Gennaro 22

Calabrian peperoncini, garlic, fresh crushed pepper, and olio piccante

Amalfi singolo 16; famiglia 40

Salsiccia, sweet red pepper, bufala, and cipolline

Castelvetrano olives, cippoline, olio di oliva, garlic, and Italian breadcrumbs

Lasagna 20

Arancia Rossa (Seasonal)

Meatball, ricotta, and Romano

Verdura 20

Broccoli rabe, mushroom, pomodorini, and garlic

Napoletana 21

Broccoli rabe, salsiccia, and bufala

calzoni napoletana:: Fromaggio 18

Four cheese, fresh garlic, and basil

Vesuvio 19

Spicy soppressata and prosciutto cotto, and pepperonata

Closed Sunday

singolo 17; famiglia 43 Moro blood oranges

maccheroni napoletani:: Al Forno singolo 13; famiglia 33

Marinara, San Marzano D.O.P., ricotta, and fresh scamorza

Sorrentina singolo 14; famiglia 35

Fresh cherry Vesuvian tomato, bufala, olio di oliva, garlic, and basilico

Napoletana singolo 14; famiglia 35 Friarelli and salsiccia

Arrabbiata singolo 13; famiglia 33 Peperoncini and San Marzano D.O.P.

www.diningout.com

31

31


At Atlantis Restaurant and Lounge, Home of Happier Hours, the mission is simple: Fine Dining at Casual dining prices that guests will want to return to week after week. Atlantis Restaurant & Lounge is an upscale, sexy lounge located in Midtown Atlanta. Experience the flavors of Atlantis, offering happy hour specials, such as 25 cents wings daily, dinner, and even an amazing brunch menu over the weekend. Every plate has the power to ignite your senses, offering international twists on continental favorites sure to please even the most discerning palates. Executive Chef LaTonia Carroll creates a pleasurable experience that your taste buds will never forget! Daily happy hour specials are not to be missed, as the lounge offers a variety of specials , including All You Can Eat Crab Legs, all throughout the week. Not only can you enjoy discounted drinks and a specialty tapas menu, but hookah is also on the menu—a perfect finish after any meal. And after dinner service, Atlantis truly comes alive. With lounge seating—complete with bottle service offerings—delicious cocktails served from the white marbled bar, and music from the best DJs in the city, Atlantis is one of the hottest spots in all of Atlanta. And when the weekend hits, make your way to the patio for terrific brunch specials, and linger for the social hour that follows. The party never stops at Atlantis, so why should you?

32

32

www.diningout.com


ATLANTIS

Buckhead

atlantisrestaurantatlantaga.com

1937 Piedmont Circle Atlanta, GA 30324 PH: 678.974.5155 Monday-Thursday: 4pm-12am Friday 4pm-2am Saturday Noon-2am Sunday Noon-12am Mondays special events only

sample menu selections

appetizers::

sides::

Falafel 9

Mac ‘n’ Cheese 8

Falafel pancake, sauteed mushrooms, roasted pappers, and tomatoes

Grilled Shrimp 13

Fresh herbs and couscous salad

Fried Calamari 11

Lightly pan-fried calamari served with marinara sauce

Eggplant Parmesan 10

Golden fried eggplant served with marinara sauce topped with Parmesan cheese

Sautéed Spinach 7 Braised Fresh Kale 7

Garlic Parmesan Fries 8 Rice Pilaf 5

Mashed potatoes 5

salads::

Fried Chicken Sliders 10

Grilled Caesar Salad 10

Crab Cake 12

Mixed greens, fried red onions, and chipolte aïoli

Feta cheese, thin sliced red onions, and strawberry vinaigrette

main course::

Shredded Parmesan, bacon, dried fruit, and tomato vinaigrette

Spicy tomato jam and pickled red onion

Grilled Lamb Chops 25

Rosemary pepper mint jelly, mushroom risotto, and roasted root vegetables

Angus Ribeye 28

Brandy mushroom sauce, mushroom risotto, and roasted vegetables

Chicken and Waffle Experience 18

Choose from candied apple, peaches and cream, cookies and cream, or bananas foster

Spinach and Strawberry Salad 10 Kale Salad 10

desserts:: Banana Pudding 8 Cheese Cake 10

Peach Cobbler 8

Apple Sturdel 10

Salmon 22

Lemon butter sauce, rice pilaf, asparagus, and red bell peppers

Fried Seafood Platter 24

Catfish, shrimp, clalmari, fries, and lemon tartar sauce

Seafood Pasta 22

Salmon, shrimp, mussels, harissa, cream, Parmesan, and capers

Mixed Grill 26

Lamb, chicken, merguez, shrimp, and roasted vegetables

www.diningout.com

33

33


BELLWOODS SOCIAL HOUSE

Midtown :: West End

bellwoodsatl.com

1000 Marietta Street Suite 202 Atlanta, GA 30318 PH: 678.974.8748

Monday-Wednesday 11:30am-9pm Thursday and Friday 11:30am-11pm Saturday Brunch 11:30am-3pm Dinner 5-10pm Sunday Brunch 11:30-5pm Reservations for Parties of Eight or More Catering Daily Specials Family-Friendly Full Bar Happy Hour Live Music Outdoor Dining Pet-Friendly

Created by Chef Leif Johnson, Bellwoods Social House offers a casual dining experience to Atlanta’s up-and-coming Westside. Uniquely named—and extremely delicious—eats fill up the menu like Gangsta Fries loaded with bleu cheese two-ways and crispy bacon and their “Hog Toes”—also known as Peppadew Poppers—stuffed with housemade pimento cheese, rolled in panko, and deep-fried, then served on top of tomato-bacon jam. And when you are craving a messy delicious burger, look no further than the Bellwoods Animal Style Burger, stacked with two shortrib and brisket patties, bacon, caramelized onions, B&B pickles, American cheese, and a hearty slathering of “Animal Sauce”—the chef’s nod to one of his favorite “secrets” from living on the West Coast. Atlanta brunchers can also find solace here, with a selection of Southern-inspired dishes such as the Waffles and Wings—a Belgian-style waffle with your choice of fresh flavored butters and infused maple syrups served with wings, tossed in your choice of sauce … or naked—as well as a full build your own Bloody Mary bar. Before you head to the aquarium, watch a game at Turner Field, or catch a show at The Fox Theater, get your fill at Bellwoods Social House for some seriously delicious eats.

sample menu selections starters::

house favorites::

Hummus and Pimento

Chicken, Shrimp, and Grits

Our twist on hummus includes cannellini beans, cumin, housemade pimento cheese, and fresh crudité; served with a warm pita

Teriyaki Tacos

The Baller Burger

Chargrilled then topped with our Baller barbecue sauce, Swiss cheese, B&B pickles, and Swiss pimento; served on a toasted H&F bun

Grilled Salmon

Peppadew Poppers

Smoked Chicken Breast

Served with seasonal vegetables and Logan Turnpike grits

saturday and sunday only

Gangsta Fries

sandwiches and burgers::

Corn tortillas, mild tomato salsa, mozzarella, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, Cotija cheese, and two eggs cooked to your preference

Our signature loaded fries; house-cut, topped with bleu cheese crumbles, applewood-smoked bacon, creamy bleu cheese dressing, and chile oil finished with fresh chives

salads:: Peach and Bleu

Arcadian spring mix tossed with honey-Dijon vinaigrette, topped with spiced pecans, bleu cheese, and Georgia peaches

Sirloin

Smoked sirloin and romaine lettuce tossed with ranch; topped with pico de gallo, pickled onions, and avocado 34

This double stack burger is piled high with caramelized onions, bacon, American cheese, B&B pickles, lettuce, tomato, and Krussian; served on a toasted H&F bun

Three mini flour tortillas filled with lettuce, cilantro, andteriyaki-marinated salmon, then rolled and drizzled with sweet chile mayo; served on a bed of our Asian slaw Aka “Hog Toes,” stuffed with housemade pimento cheese, panko-breaded, deep-fried, and served with bacon-topped tomato jam

34

Springer Mountain chicken and bowtie shrimp in a roasted red pepper, pico de gallo, and chipotlekissed broth; topped with bacon, cilantro, and a little fresh pico de gallo; served over Logan Turnpike grits

Animal Style

www.diningout.com

Served with seasonal vegetables, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and pineapple salsa

Chicken BLT

Grilled chicken breast topped with caramelized onion, smoked Gouda, bacon, guacamole, mango aïoli, lettuce, and tomato; served on a toasted H&F garlic rosemary ciabatta bun

Cuban

Keeping it classic with our house marinated and roasted mojo pork, Black Forest ham, dill pickles, Dijon mustard, and Swiss; served on H&F sliced semolina bread

brunch:: Chilaquiles

Waffle and Wings

Belgian waffle, jumbo chicken wings, a choice of butter, and syrup

Huevos Rancheros

Two eggs cooked to your preference, tostadas, refried black beans with chorizo, pico de gallo, cilantro-lime crema, and Cotija cheese


CAFE CIRCA

Downtown

cafecircaatl.com

A fixture in the historic old Fourth Ward Distict, Café Circa is a spot where American comforts are king. Welcoming guests of every background—as long as they have an appetite—Café Circa captures American flavor traditions with a touch of whimsy. Housed in a dynamic 1903 building, Café Circa honors its foundations with elegant environs and food that is richly inspired by American flavor—or, as Chef Gerald Curry calls it, “American food with flair.” To wit, guests can enjoy a wealth of small bite options (comprising the bulk of the menu) like Gourmet Turkey Burgers, Spinach and

464 Edgewood Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 PH: 404.477.0008 Open Tuesday-Thursay 5-11pm Friday and Saturday 5pm-2:30am Rooftop Dining Catering Available Happy Hour Live Music

Artichoke Dip, and Jerk Chicken Tacos with mango salsa, while innovative house cocktails and a robust wine list ensure every meal is complement by the finest libations. Come for a drink, stay for a meal— however you indulge, you’ll be making memories for a lifetime.

sample menu selections starters::

entrées::

Calamari 10

Shrimp and Grits 19

Fried calamari served with an aïoli and fresh lemon

Jerk Chicken Egg Rolls 8

Sauteed shrimp and beef sausage; served over yellow grits with a brown gravy with onions and peppers

Collard greens sautéed with jerk chicken and gravy; served with your choice of honey mustard or spicy jerk chicken gravy

Sauteed Fish 17

Fried Fish Tacos 13

Braised Oxtails 23

Chicken and Waffles 13

Salmon Croquettes 22

Circa Wings 9

Jerk Chicken 18

salads::

Curry Chicken 21

Fried tilapia served with homade slaw, cheese, and jalapeños Southern fried wings served atop a housemade vanilla waffle Lightly fried wingettes tossed in your choice of lemon pepper or buffalo sauce; served with your choice of ranch/blue cheese

Circa Cesar Salad 8

Fresh romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, cucumbers, and Roma tomatoes tossed in house Caesar dressing

Cajun tilapia with grits and seasonal vegetables Oxtails served with rice and peas and your choice of collards or cabbage Two salmon croquettes, rice, seasonal vegetables, and a mustard aïoli Leg quarters marinated overnight; served with rice and peas, plantains, and your choice of cabbage or collards Curry-marinated wingettes served with stewed carrots, potatoes, and red and green peppers over a bed of rice and a side of plantains

Mixed Green 7

Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a red wine vinaigrette

www.diningout.com

35

35


bqe restaurant and lounge is located in the heart of downtown in one of Atlanta’s oldest and most historic districts, the Old Fourth Ward, on Edgewood Avenue. We are a hidden jewel amongst the old brick, glass, and industrial nature commonly associated with the local architecture. We, like many others in the area, are excited about the growth of the Old Fourth Ward and can appreciate the shared benefits of increased foot traffic, the Atlanta Streetcar, and the farm fresh produce provided by the Sweet Auburn Farmers Market. bqe restaurant and lounge is born from a mixture of northern influences and southern taste, values, and traditions. It is something that you will see on the faces of our employees and guests. People love being here; whether wrapped in the comfortable lounge seating, hanging at the bar for a conversation or two, or sitting around the community table with others that have come to sample the bqe’s vibe. Our menu has progressively changed over time in order to further satisfy the needs of our guests, both new and our coveted regulars. Working with our chef, we have made use of taste tests, surveys, and tasting events in order to compose a menu worthy of any palate while maintaining our original house recipes. Try our new Shrimp and Grits, Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich, Southwestern Eggrolls, Smoked BBQ Wings, or our renowned Peach Cobbler. All of these new or modified items are put together with the overall satisfaction of the guest in mind. We are here to serve amazing chef prepared, soul food inspired dishes in a sophisticated, yetrelaxed environment. A New York edge with a southern accent. That’s the bqe way.

36

36

www.diningout.com


Downtown

BQE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

bqelounge.com

262 Edgewood Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30303 PH: 404.996.6159

sample menu selections

appetizers::

entrées::

Catfish Fingers 10

Red Velvet Chicken and Waffles 16

Southern fried catfish fingers with a Southern rémoulade sauce

Spicy Shrimp Cocktail 10

Succulent shrimp on a bed of lettuce and a spicy cocktail sauce

BQE Wings 10 wings 10; 15 wings 14

Your choice of hot, mild, fried, lemon pepper, lemon, hot, or barbecue served with celery, carrots, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese

Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes 10

Our deep-fried seasoned green tomatoes with your choice of seafood créme sauce or roasted red pepper cream sauce

sandwiches and salads:: The Edgewood Turkey Burger 12

A 1/2lb of fresh turkey served on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and turkey bacon with a succulent smoked barbecue sauce

BQE Spicy Chicken Breast 12

Spring mix, spicy honey mustard, and grilled chicken breast placed on a wheat bun

BQE BLT 9

Romaine lettuce, fried green tomato, blue cheese crumbles with blue cheese dressing, and turkey bacon; served on wheat bread

Caesar Salad 8

BQE’s signture red velvet waffle sprinkled with powdered sugar, drizzled with a sweet cream cheese, and paired with a strawberry maple syrup; enjoy your choice of dark or white meat

Blackned Salmon 18

Pan-seared salmon blackened to perfection and topped with a seafood sauce; served with your choice of two sides

Shrimp and Grits 18

Sautéed jumbo shrimp tossed with a red wine and heavy crème reduction, diced tomatoes, and green chile peppers; served on a bed of Georgia stone grits

BBQ Turkey Meatloaf 15

100-percent ground turkey, seasoned with sweet yellow onion, roasted red pepper, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices; topped with a savory low country gravy and served with your choice of two sides

sides:: Collard Greens 6 Fried Okra 6

Honey Muffins 6

Sweet Potato Tots 6

Macaroni and Cheese 6 Homestyle Potato Chips 6 Cream Corn 6

Romaine hearts and grated Parmesan cheese; topped with seasoned croutons

BQE House Salad 8

Mixed greens, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, Mandarin oranges, and feta cheese

www.diningout.com

37

37


CAMPAGNOLO RESTAURANT + BAR

Midtown

campagnoloatl.com

980 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 PH: 404.343.2446 Monday-Thursday 5-10pm Friday 5pm-1am (Kitchen Closes at 11pm) Saturday 11am-1am (Kitchen Closes at 11pm) Sunday 11am-10pm Family-Friendly Full Bar Free Parking Outdoor Dining

Opened in April 2012 by Restaurateur Maureen Kalmanson, Campagnolo has proved to be a neighborhood favorite for seasonal Italian fare with creative twists. Part of what makes Campagnolo so enticing is its convivial, community feel. This is where you gather with friends and family for a meal, a drink, or weekend brunch—marked by classics like Zucchini Piccata, Mussels, and tender Risotto with butternut squash. A hefty wine list does the Old World justice, while the inventive cocktail program blends classic and modern, Old World and New. Adorned with white brick, sprinkled with lights, and fitted with rustic wooden tables and a white umbrella-studded patio, Campagnolo is a perfect choice for any occasion or event—even if you’re just stopping by.

sample menu selections antipasti:: Mushroom Carpaccio 8

Sundried tomatoes, fried capers, pecorino, arugula, and lemon vinaigrette

Pâté e Crostini 8

Smooth chicken liver mousse, tomato jam, and grilled bread

Calamari di Sicily 12

Sautéed pine nuts, golden raisins, white wine, tomato, and scallions

Roasted Beet 8

Cornish Hen 18

Dressed arugula, goat cheese, pickled egg, and hazelnuts

primi:: Capellini 8; 14

San Marzano pomodoro, basil, and Parmesan; add beef and pork meatballs 4

Orecchiette 10; 16

Market fish, shell fish, white wine-tomato broth, and grilled bread Lemon roasted, herbs, melted cabbage, carrots and potatoes, and natural jus

Lamb Marsala 23

Lamb cutlets, mushrooms, Marsala wine reduction, and mashed potatoes

contorni::

Goat cheese and San Marzano pomodoro sauce

Brussels Sprouts 5

Cozze (Mussels) 12

Fettuccine 16

Broccoli Rabe 5

Sweet vermouth, tomato, scallions, and grilled bread

Antipasti Board 14

Fresh pasta, red prawns, sofrito, roasted tomato, preserved lemon, and basil

Chef’s selection of cured meats, Gorgonzola, sweet basil, mascarpone, and fig jam

Gnocchi 15

insalate e zuppe::

secondi::

Soup di Giorno 8

Corvina Scapece 20

Arugula 7

Wild Salmon 21

Celery and fennel bisque Candied pine nuts, pecorino, and lemon vinaigrette

38

Cioppino (Fish Stew) 16

Tomato, mozzarella, basil, roasted garlic, and balsamic reduction

House fennel sausage, broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan

Housemade Focaccia 6

38

Caprese 8

www.diningout.com

Arugula pesto, capers, fried garlic chips, and Parmesan

Summer squash, red pepper, red onion, and chile oil Saffron couscous, roasted radish, daikon sprouts, and arugula pesto

Charred with butter and olive oil Roasted garlic sauté

Glazed Carrots 5

Calabrese chiles and herbs

Rosemary Polenta 5

Sundried tomato and bacon pesto

dolce:: Chocolate Torte 7 Mixed berry coulis

Banana Walnut Semifreddo 7 Warm beignets and salted caramel


CITY WINERY ATLANTA

Midtown

citywinery.com/atlanta

Ponce City Market 650 North Avenue NE S 201 Atlanta, GA 30308 PH: 404.946.3791 Box Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-9pm

More than just a hub of fine vintages, City Winery is a culinary tour of the world’s winemaking regions and Atlanta’s cultural hub. Located at Ponce City Market, this dining, drinking, and entertainment center is all about the experience of wine and food—and the culture that

Notable Wine List Large Parties Live Music Outdoor Patio Entertainment Valet Parking

surrounds it. With a menu that’s globally influenced and wine-focused, as well as underscored by simplicity and quality, the kitchen delivers a veritable tour de force of culinary creations. Start with the Artisanal Cheese Tour, then dabble in a flatbread or two made with dough crafted from wine lees, then segue Prince Edward Island Mussels, Maple Leaf Farms Cassoulet, and American-tinged features that call on flavors of winemaking regions. Naturally, the wine menu is curated to pair beautifully with the food, sailing from the mountains of northern Italy to the verdant vineyards of South America. And with about a dozen City Winery varietals on tap, it’s easy to get a taste of both New and Old World wines. But the experience doesn’t stop here, as City Winery affords guests a colorful array of performances from top actors, comedians, and musicians. With all of this in one chic and buzzing locale, where else would you go for a good time?

sample menu selections headliners::

flatbreads::

sides::

Duck Confit Tacos 14

Wild Mushroom 16

Truffle-Parmesan Steak Fries 7

Slow-braised and hand-pulled duck, guacamalito salsa, jimaca-cabbage slaw, and fresh corn tortillas

Shrimp ’n’ Grits 24

Scampi-style, cajun-spiced shrimp, smoked gouda and tomato grits, and scallions

Buttermilk Fried Chicken 21

Crispy joyce farms chicken breast, broccolini, rosemary country gravy, and pimento mac ’n’ cheese

Crispy Risotto Balls 13

Baby arugula, fresh mozzarella, parmigianoreggiano, and truffle essence

Margherita

Pimento Mac ’n’ Cheese 7

Fresh mozzarella, basil, fire-roasted tomatoes, and garlic

Mashed Potatoes 7

encores::

House Salad 7

Flourless Chocolate Cake 8

Macerated berries and chambord whipped cream

Risotto croquetttes, onion, fresh mozzarella, parmigiano-reggiano, and romesco marinara

Pumpkin Spiced Bread Pudding 8

Mediterranean Dip Trio 12

Hot Apple Crisp à La Mode 10

Red pepper hummus, baba ganoush, rustic artichoke and olive tapanade, and grilled pita bread

Tuscan Style Broccolini 7

Rosemary country gravy

Mixed field greens, cherry tomato, red onion, and balsamic vinaigrette

Crème anglaise and carmel sauce

Cinnamon spiced apples, sweet oat crumble, vanilla ice cream, and caramel drizzle

Prince Edward Island Mussels 14

City winery chardonnay, lemon-white wine butter, toasted baguette, and fresh herbs

Petite Creekstone Farms Filet 29

Mashed potatoes, broccolini, tobasco onions, and natural jus

Maple Leaf Farms Cassoulet 24

White bean stean, confit duck leg, and housemade duck sausage

www.diningout.com

39

39


CRISPINA

Vinings

crispinaatlanta.com

Nobody does Neapolitan-style pizza like Crispina Ristorante & Pizzeria.

3300 Cobb Parkway SE Suite 208 Atlanta, GA 30339

Atlanta has a lot of pizza options to choose from, but there’s something special about Crispina Ristorante

PH: 678.426.7149

housemade dough. Open for eight months, Crispina Ristorante & Pizzeria is simple while also capturing

Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm

the essence of Old World pies. For example, the Regina Margherita keeps things refined with hand-

Dinner: Monday-Thursday 4:30-10pm Friday and Saturday 4-11pm Sunday 4-10pm

crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, grated Parmigiano, extra virgin olive oil,

Daily Specials Family-Friendly Outdoor Patio Dining Free Parking

housemade meatballs, prosciutto, salame, and a world of piquant cheeses. If you’re in the mood for more

& Pizzeria—the brick-lined walls, the rustic wooden tables, the constant smiles, the smell of fresh,

and fresh basil, while more meaty combinations (e.g. the Home Run) showcase fresh ingredients like of an entrée, Crispina Ristorante & Pizzeria delivers with pastas, seafood, and steaks. Dive into the creamy Carbonara or main dishes like the 14oz NY Strip Steak. Dessert is a must, too, and delights with classics like Homemade Tiramisù, Panna Cotta, Ricotta Cheesecake, and Vanilla Honeysuckle Gelato.

sample menu selections antipasti:: Trio Bruschetta 9.99

primi pasta fatta in casa::

Salumi Misti Board 14.99

Homemade paccheri pasta, clams, shrimp, calamari, and fresh Italian cherry tomato sauce

Traditional bruschetta; tomato-basil, eggplant caponata, and rapini and sausage Mixed Italian cold cuts—a perfect dish for two to share with prosciutto di Parma, salami, capicola, artichoke hearts, Sicilian green olives, and roasted red peppers

Polipo Grotta Blu 13.99

Grilled octopus served with arugula salad and citronette dressing

zuppa e insalate:: Pasta e Fagioli ala Torrese 5.99

Canellini beans, short pasta, diced tomatoes, leeks, chopped Vidalia onions, and mussels

Minestrone 5.99

Mixed vegetables, potatoes, and short pasta simmered in vegetable stock

Insalata Crispina 9.99

Wedge iceberg lettuce, homemade Gorgonzola dressing, pancetta, diced tomatoes, and green onions

Arugula 9.99

Fresh arugula topped with shaved Parmigiano cheese, caramelized red onions, and a lemon vinaigrette 40

40

www.diningout.com

Calamarta 18.99

Pappardelle Antonio 14.99

Mild homemade Italian sausage, rapini, fresh tomatoes, garlic, oil, and lemon

Lasagna della Nonna 14.99

Layered pasta sheets with Italian cheeses and Bolognese sauce baked in a wood-burning oven

Tour of Crispina—Pasta Trio 22.99

Calamarata, pappardelle Antonio, and tagliatelle alla Rafaele

pizze nel forno a legna:: Regina Margherita 11.99

Hand-crushed San Marazano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, grated Parmigiano, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh basil

Arrabbiata 12.99

Hand-crushed San Marazano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, grated Parmigiano, spicy salame Napoletano, Calabrese peppers, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh basil

Cafona 14.99

Fresh smoked buffalo mozzarella, housemade mild Italian sausage, sautéed rapini, grated Parmigiano, and extra virgin olive oil

Baked Calzone 14.99

Baked and stuffed with fresh buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, Parmigiano, ground black pepper, mild salame, a hint of tomato sauce, and fresh basil

secondi:: Porterhouse Pork Chop 21.99

12oz grilled pork chop with creamy Parmigiano polenta and ciao sauce (Montepulciano wine, aged balsamic vinegar, toasted walnuts, and fresh mint)

Pan-Seared Scallops 29.99

Fresh Pacific scallops sautéed in Prosecco with garlic butter sauce and a grilled polenta wedge

Bistecca Roma 28.99

14oz New York strip cooked to order in Aglianico red wine reduction; topped with prosciutto and sage and served with roasted potatoes


Brookhaven

THE DOWNWIND RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

downwindrestaurant.com

Downwind Restaurant: great food, service, value, and “plane” fun! Located inside the Dekalb Peachtree Airport off of Clairmont Road, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up the best burgers for the past 25 years. The menu also offers some of the best fish and seafood for the money anywhere in Atlanta. The cooks bake fresh turkey breasts every day for turkey sandwiches and clubs. Some of the newest additions are the Wild Caught Salmon Burger, Turkey Burgers with feta and spinach, and the Black Bean Veggie Burger. They also offer several specials for lunch and dinner which include Jambalaya, Shrimp and Poblano Grits, steaks, pasta specials, and more. A full bar, live music

2000 Airport Road #201 Atlanta, GA 30341 PH: 770.452.0973 Monday-Friday 11am-10pm Saturday Noon-10pm Sunday Closed Live Music and Entertainment Full Bar Daily Specials Takeout Available

“Date Night” on Friday nights, and an aviation-themed playground right outside the restaurant make this a great place for every age group. Come to Downwind Restaurant for good food, great service, and a great value. As they like to say: it’s just “plane” fun!

Best Burger/Best Outdoor Dining/Best Family-Friendly Awards, 2000-2011—City Guide —Zagat-Rated

sample menu selections pre-flight::

sandwiches::

Chicken Wings

Turkey Breast

A pound of jumbo fresh chicken wings fried naked and tossed in mild, medium, or hot sauce; served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing

Our famous, fresh, all-natural oven-roasted turkey breast is prepared in-house daily; make sure you get here early because we do tend to run out!

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Salmon BLT

Buffalo Shrimp

Fried Cod Sandwich

Spinach and artichoke hearts blended with Parmesan cheese sauce; served with tortilla chips After 5pm only; gulf shrimp dusted in seasoned flour, fried, and tossed in hot sauce; served with bleu cheese dressing and celery sticks

Cala Mari

After 5pm only. seasoned, flash-fried and served with homemade marinara sauce

from the garden:: Chef Salad

Our famous fresh oven-roasted turkey breast, deli ham, shredded cheddar/Jack cheese, and homemade croutons on top of a large house salad

Greek Salad

Fresh romaine lettuce, imported Greek Kalamata olives, pepperocini, vine-ripened tomatoes, onions, feta cheese, and homemade Greek dressing

Soup of the Day

6oz grilled wild salmon fillet topped with applewoodsmoked bacon, classic Greek cucumber, and dill dressing Atlantic cod dipped in beer batter, fried, and served on a Kaiser roll

Angus Roast Beef and Bleu Cheese Melt

Black Angus roast beef sliced thin and topped with bleu cheese crumbles on your choice of bread

grilled downwind specialties:: Classic Downwind Burger

Half-pound choice lean ground beef served with lettuce, tomato, and onions on the side

Blackened Chicken Sandwich

Spicy alternative to the regular grilled chicken; this one’s a hottie

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

8oz breast lightly seasoned and flat top-grilled

1/4lb Angus Hot Dog

Certified Black Angus dog grilled with a choice of toppings; add chili (when available), kraut, or coleslaw for 1

greek specialties:: Spanakopita

Layers of flaky phyllo pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, fresh dill, and scallions; served with a Greek salad on the plate

Greek Spaghetti

Homemade meat sauce with a touch of cinnamon; topped with Parmesan cheese and served with a small Greek salad

entrées:: Grilled Chicken Breast

8oz fresh boneless, skinless breast lightly seasoned and served with potato and vegetable of the day

Chef’s Fresh Seafood Selection Country Fried Steak

Certified Choice Black Angus steak, breaded, fried, and topped with country brown gravy; served with potato and vegetable of the day

Beer-Battered Fish and Chips

Atlantic cod dipped in beer batter then fried until golden and moist; served with fries and slaw

www.diningout.com

41

41


EATS ATLANTA

Midtown

eatsonponce.net

600 Ponce De Leno Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 PH: 404.888.9149 Daily 11am-10pm Family-Friendly Healthy Options Free Parking Lot Takeout

EATS Restaurant is an authentic Atlanta mainstay serving up an eclectic variety of healthy foods guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eater. EATS offers affordable, healthy fast food with delicious homestyle staples including their staple Jerk and Barbecue Chicken, Fettuccine Alfredo, and fresh vegetarian dishes. They also offer some amazing Turkey Lasagna and world-famous Mac ‘n’ Cheese. Named “Best Cheap Eats” by Creative Loafing 10 times since its inception in 1993, EATS has grown into a local favorite known for its big portions offered at affordable prices, friendly staff, and casual atmosphere. There’s something for everyone at EATS, so stop by, grab a drink, and settle in.

sample menu selections meat and vegetable plates::

choose your pasta bowls::

choose your sauce::

Combinations

all plates are served with garlic bread

Marinara 6

Three vegetable plate 5.25 Four vegetable plate 6.25 Meat and two plates 7.75 Meat and theree plates 8

Special 7

Meat, black beans, and rice

Meat

Jerk chicken Lemon pepper BBQ chicken chicken chili Turkey meatloaf (except Friday) Fish Tilapia (Friday only)

Veggies

Corn on the cob Broccoli Broccoli casserole Green beans Black beans Collards Rice Mac and cheese Baked sweet pototo Mashed potatoes 42

42

www.diningout.com

Spaghetti Egg Fettuccine Ziti Spinach Fettuccine Chicken Lasagna Cheese-Filled Tortellini

fish friday:: Jerk Tilapia

Fish lovers, take note—it happens every Friday; our turkey meatloaf leaves EATS menu for a day and Jerk Tilapia takes its place

à la carte:: Salad 2 Vegetable Side 2 Chicken or Meatloaf 4.75 Chicken Chili and Cornbread 5 Homemade Brownie 1.50

Olive Oil and Garlic 6 Creamy Marinara 6.25 Pesto 6.25 Alfredo 7 Turkey Meat Sauce 7 Chicken Chili 7

extras:: Garlic Bread .65 Extra Sauce (4oz) 1 Broccoli 2 Peppers and Mushrooms 2 Chicken Breast 2 Italian Sausage 1.50 Meatballs 2 Salad 2


ECLECTIC BISTRO & BAR

Midtown

eclecticbistroatlanta.com

1425 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30309 PH: 404.426.7728 Monday Closed Tuesday-Thursday 5:30-10pm Friday and Saturday 5:30-10:30pm

As its name illustrates, Eclectic Bistro & Bar is the place to come for top-notch service with globally inspired American contemporary fare. Sourcing nothing but the finest ingredients, Chef Justin Caldarella’s menu is a taste of creative whimsy woven together with contemporary fare. Eclectic is a quaint neighborhood gem that is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds with refreshing cooked to order entrees, sweet and savory housemade sauces, and delightful side dishes. Chef Justin urges guests to try one of his house favorites such as Crispy Chicken Schnitzel, Lobster-Mango Ceviche, or Balsamic-Glazed Flank Steak among many others. If you get thirsty while dining, enjoy a pint of local craft beer or seasonal house-spun cocktails. Weekend brunch enthusiasts will also be thrilled to indulge in a happy helping of Eclectics original benedicts, griddle classics, and egg-centric dishes.

Sunday Brunch: 11am-3:30pm Sunday Dinner: 5-9pm Reservations Can Be Made at OpenTable.com Award-Winning Catering Delivery Family-Friendly Full Bar Locallly Sourced/Seasonal Outdoor Patio Parking Lot Weekend Brunch

Located directly adjacent to Atlanta Botanical Gardens in Midtown, Eclectic Bistro & Bar is a refreshing destination for a truly unique culinary adventure. See you soon!

sample menu selections starters::

entrées::

Smoked Salmon Crostini 13

Eclectic Mussels 13

Lobster-Mango Ceviche 13

Crispy Chicken Schnitzel 14

Brandy Seared Bacon Steak 12

Pork Tenderloin Medallions 17

Toasted pita, shaved red onion, fried capers, and lemon-dill crème fraîche Fresh mango, cucumber, red onion, tomato, crisp apple, and citrus served with housemade tortilla wedges Thick-cut Nueske’s slab bacon, baby arugula, Gorgonzola, truffle-citrus vinaigrette, crispy shallots, and balsamic glaze

Fire-Braised Buffalo Flautas 8

Fire-braised Buffalo chicken, corn, red onion, and cilantro crème fraîche

salads:: Spring Delight 6; 10

Organic greens, tart apples, red grapes, pecan wood-smoked bacon, curried cashews, Wild Fire honey vinagrette, and goat cheese

Baby Arugula 6; 9

Caramelized shallots, praline walnuts, crisp apple, dried cranberries, Gorgonzola, and lemon-shallot vinaigrette

Quinoa 9

Caramelized shallots, garlic, tomatoes, fresh thyme, and a toasted baguette Organic young chicken breast, capers, brown butter cream, white wine, citrus, and brown butter cream Truffle pesto mashed potatoes, smoked agliata, and sweet chile sauce

gourmet sandwiches:: Bistro Burger 12

1/2lb certified Angus beef patty, thick-cut smoked slab bacon, provolone, Gorgonzola, crème fraîche, tomatoes, red onions, and romaine heart

Stacked Pork Sandwich 14

Double-stacked pork tenderloin schnitzel, extra crisp and juicy, pickles, tomatoes, shredded romaine, mayo, and sweet chile sauce

Balsamic-Glazed Flank Steak 21

Garlic sautéed spinach and herb roasted potatoes

Herbed Grilled Salmon 21

Mushroon-lemon risotto, roasted red pepper coulis, and herb-garlic aïoli

pasta:: Cajun Shrimp Pasta 16

Shrimp, Nueske’s smoked bacon, andouille, onion, and bell pepper

Butternut Squash Ravioli 14

Shallots, bell peppers, cremini mushrooms, tomato, herbes de Provence, and feta

Chopped romaine heart, sage-garlic croutons, house Caesar dressing, three-cheese blend, and crispy shallots www.diningout.com

43

43


Setting the new standard for sports fanatics in Atlanta, The League Tavern is your go-to for globally inspired American cuisine, top-notch drinks, and sports galore. From The League group—veterans in food, beverage, and sports—comes this dynamically fresh concept just south of Emory in the heart of the city. With a digital wall and over 50 big-screen TVs, there’s no better place to catch the game—especially if you want to pair your viewing with some serious nosh. Expect the classics—like cheesy-meaty Quesadilla and an Angus Burger—paired with gourmet features like Cajun Chicken Pasta and Blackened Tilapia, all sure to satisfy. And with 14,000 square-feet stretching over four levels, you’re sure to find a table or nook where you can settle in for a few hours, sips craft beers and cocktails, and watch your team take the field. Insider’s tip: A private floor is set to open in 2017 with its own entrance, personalized lock boxes, and private meeting rooms. Fittingly dubbed the “Ivy League,” this indulgence is for those patrons seriously serious about their game-watching and their food and drink. So if you’re looking a casual drink, a night on the town, or an afternoon game-watching binge with food to take it to the next level, The League Tavern is your destination.

44

44

www.diningout.com


Downtown

THE LEAGUE TAVERN

theleaguetavern.com

30 Ivan Allen Jr Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30308 PH: 404.850.0199 Monday-Thursday 4-11pm Friday 4pm-1am Saturday 11am-1am Sunday Noon-11pm

sample menu selections

pre-game::

sandwiches and burgers::

Southern-Style Chicken Tenders 10

Philly Cheese 11

Deep-fried hand-battered chicken strips served with a choice of dipping sauce

Championship Rings 6

Beer-battered tower of onion rings served with honey mustard dipping sauce

Mozzarella Curds 6.50

Deep-fried mozzarella rounds served with dipping sauce

Calamari 8

Squid strips fried with jalapeños, lemons, and sweet peppers; served with chile sauce

Jerk Chicken Taco 7.50

Shredded jerk chicken served with shredded lettuce, cheese, and pineapple pico de gallo

Fried Fish Tacos 8.50

Fried Atlantic cod served with lemon aïoli and black bean pico de gallo

Steak Kebabs 14

Steak, grilled pineapple, and peppers, skewered and drizzled with a house teriyaki glaze

Shaved rib-eye or shredded chicken, grilled with onions, peppers, mushrooms, and provolone cheese on a steamed hoagie bun

Shrimp Po’Boy 11

Grilled or fried Cajun shrimp served with lettuce, pickles, and a house mustard rémoulade spread on a hoagie bun

Turkey Club 9.50

Sliced turkey breast, crispy bacon, spinach, tomato, and basil-chipotle mayo

The Breakfast Club 11

Fried egg, applewood-smoked bacon, and fried chipotle grit cake

The Big League 11

Applewood-smoked bacon, bleu cheese, lettuce, tomato, and red onions

The Barbecue Burger 11

Cheddar cheese, onion ring, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw

field of greens::

entrées::

Strawberry Spinach Salad 6.50

Chicken and Waffles 10

Fresh spinach leaves, strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, candied pecans, and grape tomatoes tossed in a strawberry vinaigrette

House Salad 6.50

Mixed greens topped with cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes, candied pecans, and croutons

Caesar Salad 6.50

Kale greens tossed in house Caesar dressing; topped with grated Parmesan cheese and roasted chickpeas

Homemade waffles and hand-battered, deep-fried chicken tenders

Blackened Mango Salmon 16

Delicately grilled salmon topped with a fresh house mango salsa; served with two sides of your choice

Chipotle Shrimp and Grits 16.50

Sautéed shrimp, sausage, and roasted peppers atop a pool of cheesy cheddar and Jack grits

Deep-Fried Baby Backs 17.50

Rubbed with chef’s special rub, half-grilled then flash-fried with a buffalo boom boom sauce; served with two sides

Stir-Fry 11

Steamed rice served under sautéed vegetable medley in a homemade teriyaki glaze; add chicken, beef, or shrimp

www.diningout.com

45

45


HENRY’S MIDTOWN TAVERN

Midtown

henrysatl.com

132 10th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 PH: 404.537.4477 Monday-Thursday and Sunday 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday 11am-1am Bar Scene Daily Specials Full Bar Internet Outdoor Patio Dining Pet-Friendly Parking Lot Delivery Available

The creation of veteran restaurateur Maureen Klamanson, Henry’s Tavern is an undeniable staple in Midtown. The centerpiece of the restaurant is the gorgeous patio— ripe for people-watching, sipping a fresh cocktail, and enjoying the good life. Inside, a chic black and wood interior plays host to romantic dinners, friendly get-togethers, and larger group gatherings. With a palpable welcome, is it any wonder Henry’s serves as a community gathering spot? When appetite hits, you can dive into anything from the supremely delicious and casual—like one of five different kinds of hot dogs—to salads, thoughtfully crafted sandwiches, burgers, and entrées. It’s hard to call out one or two popular dishes as they’ve all gained renown, but you can’t go wrong with the Patty Melt on Texas brioche or the fall-off-the-bone BBQ Baby Back Ribs. Dig in with a creative cocktail from the bar or a crisp glass of wine and celebrate the good life. If you’re lucky, you may even see Maureen chatting with guests. If you do, be sure to say hi!

sample menu selections starters::

dogs::

Baby Baked Potatoes 6.95

served with parmesan fries

sandwiches and burgers::

Slaw Dog 5.95

served with parmesan fries

Corn Relish Dog 6.25

House-roasted turkey, bacon, Bibb lettuce, avocado, tomato, mustard, aïoli, and Chihuahua cheese

House pulled pork, bacon, scallions, queso, and sour cream

Cannellini Bean Dip 8.25

Garlic, lemon, olives, seasonal veggies, and grilled naan bread

Steamed Mussels 10.95

Coconut milk, lemongrass, shallots, white wine, and garlic baguette

Henry’s Parmesan French Fries 5.95

Garlic, herbs, Parmesan cheese, spicy ketchup, and garlic aïoli

tacos:: Short Rib Taco 4.95

Pickled onion, queso fresco, and cilantro

Spicy Fish Taco 3.95

Cumin and cilantro cabbage slaw, jalapeño mayo, and cilantro

Veggie Taco 3.75

Sautéed portobello mushrooms, black beans, sour cream, avocado, salsa verde, and crispy onions

Hebrew National, cumin, cilantro-cabbage slaw, and mustard Hebrew National, corn relish, jalapeños, red onion, aïoli, mustard, and spicy ketchup

Chili Dog 6.75

Hebrew National, housemade all-meat chili, chopped onion, and Tillamook cheddar cheese

Avocado Dog 6.75

Hebrew National, avocado, black beans, red onion, and sour cream

46

Barbecue pork, house pickles, and Texas toast

Diner Burger 10.95

Double 4oz patty, Tillamook cheddar, grilled onions, slab bacon, aïoli, and a brioche bun

entrées:: New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp 15.95

Thai Chicken Salad 9.75

Hanger Steak 23.95

Panang curry, peanuts, avocado, Bibb lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and toasted coconut

Kale and Salmon 13.95

Seared salmon, Green Goddess dressing, avocado, cumbled feta, toatsed hazelnuts, and pickled onion

Spicy Chicken Soup 4.95

With tortilla strips and fresh avocado With hanger steak, ground beef, cheddar cheese, and red onion

www.diningout.com

Pulled Pork Barbecue 9.95

salads and soups::

Chili 6.95

46

BLT Club 9.95

Local smoked Gouda grits and baguette

Garlic, herb, and Parmesan fries with red wineshallot jus

Grilled Salmon 18.95

Lemon-caper sauce and sautéed seasonal vegetables

Barbecue Baby Back Ribs and Henry’s Fries 19.95

Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with house barbecue sauce

Meatloaf 12.95

Mashed potatoes, mushroom gravy, and chives


MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE

Downtown

mortons.com

303 Peachtree Center Avenue Atlanta, GA 30308 PH: 404.577.4366 Monday-Thursday 5-10pm Friday and Saturday 5-11pm Sunday 5-10pm Bar: Open at 5pm Reservations Requested

Morton’s serves only the finest quality foods, featuring USDA Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, an award-winning wine list, and a selection of delicious appetizers and decadent desserts. Reward yourself after a long day with specially priced, delectable “Bar Bites” and chilled cocktails in the bar. For private dining needs, the Buckhead location welcomes groups

Full Bar Private Dining 10-160 Specially Priced Bar Bites Gift Certificates Happy Hour

of up to 80 guests for events on the secluded second floor. The downtown location welcomes over 300 guests in their newly renovated and expanded private dining rooms overlooking a beautiful atrium. A dedicated sales and marketing manager at each location will oversee every detail of your customized event, including state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment needs and special entertainment requests. Enjoy the comfortable and inviting atmosphere in the bar, in the booths, and in the private dining rooms. Business or pleasure, high-energy or laid-back, Morton’s is the ultimate venue for corporate functions, social celebrations ... or just a well-deserved night out.

Award of Excellence—Wine Spectator 10 BEST of Everything #1 Steakhouse—National Geographic Passport

sample menu selections appetizers:: Ahi Tuna Tower

prime steak and chops::

Baked Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp Filet Diane

Center-Cut Filet Mignon

side dishes::

Porterhouse Steak

Steamed Jumbo Asparagus

Signature Cut Prime New York Strip

Sautéed Broccoli Florets

Center-Cut Prime Rib-E`ye

Creamed Spinach

Chicago Style Prime Bone-In Rib-Eye

Creamed Corn

Double-Cut Rib Lamb Chops

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

Bone-In Veal Chop

Sautéed Spinach and Button Mushrooms

Cajun Rib-Eye Steak

Jumbo Baked Potato

Five Peppercorn-Rubbed Prime Strip Steak

Lyonnaise Potatoes

signature dishes, poultry, and seafood::

“Twice Baked” Au Gratin Potatoes

Chopped egg, tomato, bacon bits, and either Morton’s blue cheese dressing or Thousand Island dressing

Chicken Christopher

desserts::

Sliced Beefsteak Tomato

Grilled Chicken Bianco

Maine Lobster Cocktail

Mustard-mayonnaise and cocktail sauces

Broiled Sea Scallops

Wrapped in bacon; served with apricot chutney

Oysters Rockefeller Jumbo Lump Crab Cake Jumbo Shrimp Alexander Prime Ocean Platters

soup and salads:: Baked Five Onion Soup Lobster Bisque Center-Cut Iceberg

Purple onion, vinaigrette, or blue cheese

Chopped Spinach Salad

Garlic beurre blanc sauce

Honey-Balsamic Glazed Salmon Fillet Shrimp Scampi Capellini Beef Short Rib Bolognese Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Parmesan and Truffle Matchstick Fries Key Lime Pie Double Chocolate Mousse Crème Brûlée Morton’s Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake Morton’s Legendary Sundae

Mustard-mayonnaise sauce

www.diningout.com

47

47


Well-known and well-loved, Nancy’s Pizza offers truly tempting eats. Naturally, our claim to fame lies in Nancy’s one-of-a-kind stuffed pizza. Our stuffed pizza is more like a pie, made with two layers of crust, filled with delectable ingredients, and then topped with our special homemade sauce. Our dough—made in house daily—paired with our hand picked tomatoes straight from the vine, guarantees the freshest pie that Atlanta has to offer. Keep it simple with Nana’s Special made with freshly seasoned baby spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese or try a pie stuffed to the brim like our A Lot’ A Meat with Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, pepperoni, and bacon. If less is more, opt for the thin crust variety, or try our Rustic Crust pizza, which is crispy yet fluffy, and is drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a blend of four cheeses. Guest can also choose from 27 of our freshest ingredients to build their own delicious pie. Of course, Nancy’s also offers a full menu of eats to supplement your stuffed goodness, such as baked-never fried-appetizers, fresh salads, handmade pasta, and even made to order signature sandwiches such as the Sorrento Sandwich made with roasted Italian beef, tomato, green pepper, sautéed onion, melted mozzarella cheese, and creamy garlic sauce served on on Italian bread. Come on down, and experience the best in stuffed pizza!

48

48

www.diningout.com


College Park/East Point

NANCY’S CHICAGO PIZZA

3360 Shelby Lane Suite 1030 East Point, GA 30344 PH: 678.515.4806 FAX: 678.515.8819

sample menu selections

appetizers:: Homemade Italian Breadsticks 3 for 3.29 6 for 4.99 Marinara sauce and romano cheese

Spinach Salad small 6.25 large bread bowl 9.99

Baby spinach, mushrooms, bacon, tomato, cucumber, red onion, mozzarella cheese and a house balsamic vinaigrette

Breaded Chicken Tenders 5.69 Mozzarella Sticks 5.49

Breaded and served with marinara sauce

Zucchini 4.99

Fresh cut zucchini double dipped in batter and served with marinara sauce

Meatball Trio 4.99

Served with marinara sauce

sandwiches:: The Godfather 7.99

Roasted Italian beef and mozzarella cheese on garlic bread

The Sorrento 8.29

Roasted Italian beef, tomato, green pepper, onion, mozarella cheese, and creamy garlic sauce on Italian bread

signature pizzas:: Nana’s Special

Freshly seasoned baby spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese

Chicken Florentine

Chicken breast and freshly seasoned baby spinach

Vinnie’s Choice

Italian sausage, pepperoni, and roasted red peppers

Spicy Pepino

Pepperoni, hot giardiniera, and banana peppers

A Lot’ A Meat

Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, pepperoni, and bacon

Rocco’s Party

Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and sautéed onion

Chicken Club 8.29

Breaded chicken tenders, bacon, mozarrella cheese, lettuce, tomato and creamy garlic sauce on garlic bread

The Godmother 8.29

thin crust pizza:: Buffalo Chicken

Breaded chicken tenders, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese on garlic bread

Buffalo wing sauce topped with chicken breast, cheese, and celery; served with bleu cheese sauce on the side

Meatball Supreme 7.99

Northern Italian Veggie

With Marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on garlic bread

Roasted red peppers, fresh basil, roasted garlic, and black olives

Uncle Tony’s

salads:: Garbage Salad Small 6.49; Large Bread Bowl 9.99

Lettuce, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, mozzarella cheese, black and green olives, mushrooms, green pepper, red onion, tomato, and cucumber

Italian sausage, pepperoni, green pepper, and sautéed onion

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken breast, mushrooms, green peppers, and sautéed onion

Greek Salad small 6.25 large bread bowl 9.99

Lettuce, tomato, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, red onion, feta cheese, and oregano

www.diningout.com

49

49


NO MAS! CANTINA/ADIOS CAFÉ

Castleberry

NoMasAtlanta.com

180 Walker Street Atlanta, GA 30313 PH: 404.574.5678 Open Daily Breakfast: 8-11am Sunday-Thursday 8am-10pm Friday-Saturday 8am-11pm Brunch: Weekends 11am-2pm Reservations Not Required Ornate Mexican Hacienda Décor Large Party Accommodations Free Parking Full Bar/Extensive Tequila List Valet Parking Available Weekend Brunch Catering/Takeout Available Breakfast Served Daily Vegetarian-Friendly Espresso and Chocolate Bar

The best of Mexico! No Mas! Cantina serves sumptuous Mexican food in a tropical décor seven days a week: classic favorites, unique specialties, and wondrous desserts with breakfast all week long (that includes a scrumptious brunch on the weekends). The restaurant seats an impressive 350 with a generous mezzanine perfect for large parties and corporate events, while the large patio and surrounding gardens are a delightful setting for outdoor dining and special occasions. Winner of Best Restaurant and Bar in the Atlanta Downtown Design Excellence Awards, the Cantina’s handmade furnishings are entirely from No Mas! Hacienda furnishings gallery, just across the patio. You’ll discover the work of over 300 artisans in Mexico— individually created functional works of art that enhance your unique environment. Custom design and contract manufacturing are also available. Located in the heart of Castleberry Hill Landmark District, a half mile south of the CNN Center, GWCC, GA Aquarium, World of Coke, and Centennial Olympic Park, No Mas! Cantina is your stop for the best Mexican food in Atlanta. Best Mexican Food—Best of Citysearch Best Outdoor Dining—Best of Citysearch Best Restaurant to See and Be Seen/Best Business Lunch—Sunday Paper Readers’ Choice Awards Best Tacos—Atlanta’s Finest Dining Magazine

sample menu selections appetizers::

dinner::

coffees and desserts::

Guacamole

Camarónes Alambres

Cuatro Leches

Fresh avocados blended with tomato, onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime

Calamari Frito con Jalapeños

Flash-fried calamari rings and sliced jalapeños; accompanied by chipotle ranch and avocado cream

lunch:: Tacos de Pescado

Flash-fried tilapia topped with jicama coleslaw and creamy chipotle sauce; served in flour tortillas

Ensalada de los Gringos

Fresh greens, avocado ranch, seasoned chicken or beef, tomatoes, Chihuahua cheese, guacamole, and sour cream; served in a crispy flour tortilla shell

Ensalada de Bistek

Mixed greens tossed in spicy cilantro-lime vinaigrette, topped with grilled fajita steak, sautéed onions, green bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, guacamole, and fresh cilantro

Ensalada de Camarones

Fresh greens tossed with fresh Mexican street corn, tomatoes, onions, and spicy cilantro-lime vinaigrette; topped wiwth fajita shrimp and Cotija cheese

50

50

www.diningout.com

Jumbo shrimp grilled on a sugarcane skewer and served atop a homemade masa cake; accompanied by sweet fried plantains and exotic tamarind sauce

Fajitas Arracheras

Sizzling fajitas, marinated, and seasoned with our custom blend of spices; accompanied by fresh flour tortillas, poblano rice, frijoles puercos, guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese, and sour cream; your choice of chicken, steak, shrimp, or veggie

Bistek Acapulco

A traditional grilled and seasoned skirt steak topped with baby shrimp, julienned carrots, jalapeños, red peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, onions, and cheese; served with creamy mashed potatoes

Pollo Relleno

Grilled chicken breast stuffed with rajas poblanos and Chihuahua cheese; drizzled with a tangy salsa verde and accompanied by cilantro mashed potatoes

Salmon Tampico

Pan-sautéed salmon topped with crabmeat in a tequila cream sauce; served over quinoa rice salad

Our very own rich and moist white cake; made with four types of milk and topped with Kahlúa frosting

Flan

Homemade Mexican custard made our way—extra creamy and rich with a sweet caramel finish

Mayan Mocha

Double shot of espresso with mild chocolate and chile

breakfast:: Adios Breakfast

Chorizo hash browns topped with two eggs, salsa verde, and sour cream; served with black beans and avocado slices

Mexican Eggs Benedict

Two poached eggs, applewood-smoked bacon, and green chile hollandaise atop our homemade masa cake

Southwest Omelette

Three eggs filled with onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, fresh corn, cilantro, and black beans; topped with sour cream

Blue Corn Hotcakes

Served with passionfruit butter and piloncillo syrup


THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM

Midtown

theoceanaire.com

1100 Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 PH: 404.475.2277 Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30am-5pm

Enchanting atmosphere, first-class service, and fresh seafood are all part of the magic at The Oceanaire Seafood Room, located in the heart of Midtown. An eatery straight from the sea, The Oceanaire Seafood Room brings guests a selection of the freshest

Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5-10pm Friday and Saturday 5-11pm Reservations Suggested

seafood Atlanta has to offer, which includes Wild King Salmon as well as countless seafood treasures from across the world. Diners can experience a raw bar filled with a range of oysters from creamy to fruity, prepared to the guest’s liking. Lobster, crabs, and clams are just the beginning of this extraordinary meal, including daily options like George’s Bank sea scallops, halibut, flounder, and snapper. Whether you are a fish lover or just a food lover, The Oceanaire Seafood Room has a little something for everyone.

sample menu selections Seared Scottish Salmon

oyster bar::

soups and salads::

Blue Point-Connecticut

New England Clam Chowder

Roasted vegetable and goat cheese risotto with sage brown butter

Watch House-Virginia

Berry and Goat Cheese Salad

simply grilled or broiled::

East Beach Blonde-Rhode Island

cold appetizers:: Jumbo Lump Crab Cocktail With housemade cocktail sauce

Spicy Tuna Poke

Wonton crisps and wasabi emulsion

Chilled Shellfish Platter

A towering sampler of chilled shrimp, crab, lobster, and fresh oysters

hot appetizers::

Ice wine and raspberry vinaigrette, candied pecans, and goat cheese crouton

Bleu Cheese and Bibb Lettuce Salad

Granny Smith apples, Maytag bleu cheese, and pecans

oceanaire classics:: Baked Stuffed Shrimp

Crabmeat stuffing with creamy linguine

Seafood Mixed Grill

Grilled fish, shrimp, scallop, and baked stuffed shrimp; served with dirty rice and grilled asparagus

Fin and Shell Fish Stew

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake

Mediterranean-style fish stew with Pernod and spicy garlic rouille

Oysters Rockefeller

fresh fish specialties::

Creamy mustard mayonnaise

Shrimp and Grits

Jumbo shrimp with creamy white cheddar grits

Pepper-Crusted Georges Bank Sea Scallops

Scottish Salmon Costa Rican Mahi Mahi Carolina Red Trout Hawaiian “Ahi” Tuna

steakhouse offerings:: 10oz Center-Cut Filet Mignon 16oz New York Strip 20oz Bone-In Rib-Eye Steak Pan-Roasted Springer Chicken Chop Mushroom pan jus and sour cream mashed gold potatoes

* Menu items subject to change

Sweet potato gnocchi, chai-spiced béchamel, cracked black pepper, and cilantro sprigs

Seared Carolina Red Trout “Louie”

Topped with jumbo lump crab cake meat and caper beurre blanc

www.diningout.com

51

51


SEAR

Downtown

There is a distinctive art in knowing the difference between a hotel restaurant and a restaurant that happens to be in a hotel. It is a difference that Sear not only astutely understands, but perpetually celebrates with chic style and world-class culinary skill. Located in the exquisite Atlanta Marriot Marquis, Sear’s fire-inspired venue, replete in rich, vibrant reds and deep, sumptuous brown hues, will envelop you in an unmistakable atmosphere that is equal parts romance, intrigue, and coolness. Executive Chef Alexander Busch has expertly crafted a menu that is in perfect concert with this sleek ambience, as Sear offers an exceptional array of dazzling American inspired cuisine, running the gamete from succulent fish to amazing steaks. And because of Sear’s exciting exhibition kitchen, all of its patrons have the envious opportunity to witness the magic behind the cuisine on a nightly basis, either from a distance or up close at one of their two chef’s tables. Sear is also Atlanta’s premier spot to enjoy a lovely glass of wine, as they feature 140 different foreign and domestic labels contained in one of their five state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled wine vaults that stretch from floor to ceiling in spectacular fashion. Whether you enjoy delectable breakfast, a mouthwatering lunch, or a sumptuous dinner, a journey to Sear will be one that you will want to experience time and again, regardless of where you happen to be a guest or a resident of the city.

52

52

www.diningout.com


SEAR

Downtown

searatlanta.com

265 Peachtree Center Avenue Atlanta, GA 30303 PH: 404.586.6134 Breakfast Daily: 6:30-11am Lunch Daily: 11:30am-2pm Dinner Nightly: 5:30-10pm

sample menu selections

starters, salads, and soup:: Savannah White Shrimp 10 With corn chowder

Kettle Soup of the Day 8 Lump Crab Cake 17 Mustard tartar sauce

Iced Shrimp Cocktail 16

Atomic horseradish cocktail sauce

Grilled Flatbread 14

Smoked salmon, caper-dill aïoli, fresh onion, and cucumber salad

Georgia Baby Wedge 13

Clemson blue cheese, blanched onions, garlic confit, cherry tomatoes, honey-glazed bacon lardons, raspberry vinegar, and bleu cheese dressing

steaks and chops:: aged 21-28 days to reach the ultimate tenderness and flavor; all sear steaks are rubbed with a signature sea salt blend and char-crusted exactly the way you like it Signature 18oz steak from Harris Ranch; naturally raised black Angus beef

Filet Mignon 10oz 36; 8oz 32 Lamb Tenderloin 36 Lima bean mint purée

14oz New York Strip 32 20oz Cowboy Rib-Eye 32

sear pasta:: Lobster Ravioli 25

Sweet corn and sliced green apples

signature sides::

Low Country Barbecue Shrimp 22

Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes 8

Marquis House Smoked Baby Back Ribs full rack 26; half rack 18

Served with our signature barbecue sauce and sweet potato fries

Roasted Lemon Chicken 23

Mushroon potato pavé and broccolini

Chef’s Table Dining 140 Varieties of Wine Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Bone-In Kansas City Strip 37

main plates:: With Tasso ham over Turnpike Mills cheese grits

Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 6:30am-2pm

Sweet Potato Fries 8 Colossal Grilled Asparagus 8 Chef’s Market and Find 8 Food and Beverage Director Alexander Busch Alexander Busch has earned a great reputation creating perfect American cuisine at Sear, yet his culinary roots were initially honed in his hometown of Baden Baden, Germany. In 1991, after completing his apprenticeship diploma and earning a certificate of military services, Alexander took up residence west of the Atlantic, displaying his culinary skills in Miami, Puerto Rico, and New York City before settling in Atlanta in 1999. Today, as the Executive Chef of the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, he oversees all four of the hotel’s restaurants, including Sear and High Velocity, a sports bar that specializes in finely crafted pub cuisine.

www.diningout.com

53

53


At Sun in My Belly, it’s all about the experience. From sips of tea to elegant dining fit for a special occasion, this is one treat you’ll not want to miss. Quintessentially European, the restaurant prides itself on being a place where friends and family can gather, business moguls can pour over emails, and romantic dates can be had in just the right ambience. A breezy open-air patio sets the stage for relaxed afternoons and evenings, while Supperclub menus entice with prix-fixe offerings ranging from cioppino to risotto. When the appetite surges, there’s little Sun in My Belly can’t satiate: breakfast is simple and elegant, Lite Bites feed the passing craving, sandwiches satisfy at the peak of the day, and Big Bites are fit to linger over at the close of day. Executive Chef Alison Lueker is in love with the art of food—and gives each dish visually astounding presentations. Nature-driven fare and the same keen eye for art extends into the catering side of Sun in My Belly, which feeds the celebrations and events of many Atlantans— whether the occasion calls for small bites or complete sit-down meals. Some might say Sun in My Belly has caused a culinary stir in Atlanta, making it an out-and-out phenomenon; others say it’s just an experience to be enjoyed, again and again, any time of day, any time of year. Isn’t it time you experienced it for yourself?

54

54

www.diningout.com


Decatur

SUN IN MY BELLY

suninmybelly.com/simbcafe

2161 College Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30317 PH: 404.370.1088 FAX: 404.370.0859 Brunch: Monday-Saturday 8am-4pm Sunday 9am-4pm

sample menu selections

brunch:: Alison’s Famous Pimento Cheese Omelette

Duck Confit Bruschetta

Cherry marmalade and caramelized leeks

Honey-glazed bacon served with hashed potatoes

salads::

Scrambled Egg Pressed Panini

Hermes Salad

Challah French Toast

Geisha Salad

PBLT

Medici Salad

The Belly Benedict

big bites::

With Hook’s Cheddar and bacon on brioche; served with hashed potatoes Stuffed with honeyed ricotta and served with fresh seasonal fruit and maple syrup Pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, thick-cut bacon, and scallion mayo; served with hashed potatoes Two poached eggs with chipotle hollandaise, sweet potato and honey bacon hash, garlic and spinach sauté, and a buttermilk biscuit

starters:: Antipasto Starter

Selection of cured meats, salami, zested artichoke hearts, rosemary-scented olives, imported and domestic cheeses, and mini baguette

Hummus

Black olive tapenade, green olive oil, and green naan

lite bites:: Black Bean Dip

Yellow tomato and avocado salsa; served with lavosh crackers

Roasted Spaghetti Squash

Stuffed with a puttanesca sauce of tomatoes and Kalamata olives and fresh goat cheese

Crispy Lump Crab Cakes

Served with a citrus aïoli and fresh arugula salad

Grilled Grit Cake

Dinner: Tuesday-Sunday 6-10pm

Fresh arugula, fresh pears, blue cheese, and Champagne vinaigrette Baby spinach, slivered almonds, Mandarin oranges, fresh blueberries, pickled red onion, and ginger vinaigrette Baby spinach, fresh cantaloupe, prosciutto chips, Marcona almonds, shaved Parmesan, and Sherry vinaigrette

Sweet Tea-Brined Grilled Pork Chop

Diced cherry chutney, sweet potato and honey bacon hash, and mojo collard greens

Pepper-Seared Prime Rib

Served with housemade fries and Gorgonzola cream sauce

Miso-Glazed Grilled Salmon

Warm cilantro, shallot couscous, and sauté of fresh kale with sesame

Butternut Squash Ravioli

Truffled mushrooms, brown butter sauce, and organic rapini with red pepper butter

Fried Chicken

Served with mac ‘n’ cheese and mojo collard greens

Chef’s Daily Seasonal Vegetable Plate

sweets:: Chocolate Bomb

With drunken mocha glaze

Daily Crème Brûlée

Roasted mushrooms and Grand Cru Gruyère

www.diningout.com

55

55


Welcome to Varuni Napoli—where each bite transports you to the beautiful streets of Naples.

From the familiar streets of Midtown Atlanta, Varuni Napoli transports diners to

another world and a different time—where family is paramount, food is ever-present, and the kitchen is the center of activity. Here, family recipes dominate the menu and seasonality dictates the dishes. If you’re craving a bit of true, Old World Napoli, begin your feast with some of Mamma Varuni’s meatballs, or share a plate of Eggplant Parmesan as you sip on a spicy Chianti. Chef and Owner Luca Varuni wants you to experience everything about Italian food culture, after all—from the first bite of a wood-fired Margherita pizza to laughter ringing ‘round the table. Guests should know that every diner is treated as a member of the Varuni family from the moment they walk in the door. The energetic and hospitable Varuni Napoli team keeps the atmosphere active, even treating guests twice a week to “Pop Up Pasta,” a surprise, complimentary serving of housemade pasta from the Varuni family cookbook. The daily menu and weekly pizza specials at Varuni Napoli feature only the finest ingredients. Expect to find a myriad of Italian imports such as San Marzano tomatoes, Italian olives, cold-pressed olive oil, doppio zero flour, and a wide variety of artisan cheeses and salumi, alongside fresh, locally sourced ingredients that blend Italian culture and Southern charm, much like Varuni himself. If you can’t make it in to enjoy a meal with the Varuni family, order online and savor a true Neapolitan pizza at home—made to order when you order, and not a minute before. In every way, for every meal, Luca and his staff want only the best for their guests. Or, as he puts it, “… to share the past, present and future of authentic Neapolitan cuisine with you.” Saluti! 56

56

www.diningout.com


VARUNI NAPOLI

Midtown

varuni.us

1540 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30324 PH: 404.709.2690 Tuesday-Thursday 5-10 Friday 5-11 Saturday Noon-11pm Sunday Noon-10pm

sample menu selections

starters::

white pizzas::

Cuoppo 9

with sorrento extra virgin olive oil

Three arancini and three panzerotti

Panzerotti 5

Mamma 21

Three lightly fried potato croquettes with parsley and smoked mozzarella

Provoletta (smoked buffalo mozzarella) and Datterini tomatoes; topped with fresh arugula, prosciutto di Parma, and shaved Pecorino-Romano

Arancini 5

Oro Bianco 21

Three lightly fried rice balls with fresh mozzarella and seasoned beef and peas

Meatballs 10

Three of Mama’s famous meatballs and a side of toasted ciabatta bread

Eggplant Parmesan 10

Our famous eggplant with a side of toasted ciabatta bread

Meat and Cheese Plate (serves two) 16

Prosciutto di Parma, ‘nduja (spicy spreadable pork sausage in ragù sauce), hot soppressata, dried salami, mixed olives, artichokes, candied pecans, Taleggio cheese, and Pecorino-Romano

salads:: Varuni Salad 9

Wild arugula, local spring mix, candied pecans, Delallo tomatoes, prosciutto di Parma, and Luca’s homemade balsamic vinaigrette

Caprese Salad 9

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, Delallo tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic reduction

red pizzas:: san marzano tomato sauce and extra virgin olive oil

Marinara (No Cheese) 16

Datterini tomotoes, anchovies, oregano, olives ,fresh garlic, and basil

Bastardo (Mildly Spicy) 21

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, roasted peppers, ‘nduja (spicy spreadable pork sausage in ragù sauce), Pecorino-Romano, and basil

Pako 21

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, roasted artichokes, salami, mushrooms, black olives, Pecorino-Romano, and basil

Family-Friendly Wood-Fired Oven Happy Hour Takeout Patio Dining

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, buffalo ricotta, Taleggio cheese, pancetta (Italian bacon), Pecorino-Romano, basil, and black truffle oil

Chiattona Benni 21

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, Datterini tomatoes, pancetta, pepperoni, salami, hot soppressata, PecorinoRomano, and basil

Partenope (Vegetarian) 20

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, roasted peppers, black olives, artichokes, mushroms, a drizzle of pesto, and Pecorino-Romano, and basil

Winter Caprese (Vegetarian) 21

Creamy Burrata, fresh basil, Datterini tomatoes, mushrooms, Pecorino-Romano, and black truffle oil

calzones:: Reginella 20

Fried half moon calzone stuffed with fresh buffalo mozzarella, biffalo ricotta, Datterini tomatoes, salami, black pepper, Pecorino-Rromano, basil, and extra virgin olive oil

Scunizzo 20

Baked half moon calzone stiffed with fresh buffalo mozzarella, buffalo ricotta, Datterini tomatoes, salami, black pepper, Pecorino-Romano, and basil; topped with mozzarella, roasted mushrooms, San Marzano tomato sauce, Pecorino-Romano, basil, and extra virgin olive oil

desserts:: Daily Dessert Specials 6 Nutella Calzone 12 Gelato 4

Vanilla or chocolate

Porreca Piccante (Spicy) 21

Fresh buffalo mozzarella, hot soppressata, ‘nduja, Datterini tomaotes, hot Italian peppers, PecorinoRomano, and basil

www.diningout.com

57

57


SILVER SKILLET RESTAURANT

Midtown

silverskillet.com

200 14th Street NW Atlanta, GA 30318

The Silver Skillet is a giant of the classic American diner genre.

PH: 404.874.1388

Famous for its authentic décor and friendly atmosphere, the Silver Skillet has been featured in too many

Open Daily for Lunch and Breakfast

movies, magazines, and television shows to list here. Skillet favorites like the Country Ham with red-eye

Meats and Vegetables: Monday-Friday 11am Burgers, Sandwiches, and Sides: Saturday and Sunday May Be Rented For Private Parties Southern Cooking at its Best Breakfast and Lunch Weekend Brunch Free Parking Takeout Available Family-Friendly Daily Specials

gravy and corn beef hash; and Southern Breakfast with fried or grilled pork chops keep Atlantans coming back for more. The homemade Lemon Icebox Pie is so good that regulars will find any excuse to have it for breakfast. At lunchtime, select from many homemade entrées and vegetables. If you’re looking for classics and an old-fashioned good time, head down to Silver Skilletâ ”they’ve got just the right thing cooking up for you.

sample menu selections breakfast suggestions:: fruits, nuts, and cream:: lunch suggestions:: Southern Breakfast

Two center-cut battered and fried or grilled pork chops, and two eggs; grits, white gravy, and toast or biscuits

Whipped Cream

Grilled Corned Beef Hash

Egg and Cheese

Grilled Hamburger Steak

Smoked Link Sausage

Two eggs; grits, gravy, and toast or biscuits Two eggs; grits, gravy, and toast or biscuits

two egg breakfast plates:: served with grits, gravy, and toast or biscuits

Lonely Eggs Smoked Link Sausage Grilled Chicken

syrupy things:: Skillet French Toast With powdered sugar

Belgian Waffle Weekends only 58

Raisins or Pecans

Country Ham

Half center slice and two eggs; grits, gravy, and toast or biscuits with red-eye gravy

58

Banana or Fresh Strawberries

Pancakes www.diningout.com

sandwiches:: Bacon or Sausage with Egg and Cheese Skillet Country Ham

omelettes:: Cheese Bacon, Sausage, or Ham

Baked Chicken Breast

Lightly seasoned with onions, garlic, and paprika

Famous Skillet-Fried Chicken Breast Chicken Fried Steak

Smothered with brown gravy

Baked Meatloaf

A large portion of 100-percent ground beef baked and topped with a brown gravy or classic tomato sauce

Roast Beef and Dressing

Choice sliced roast beef over a mound of homemade dressing covered in brown gravy

salads:: Fried or Grilled Chicken Salad

Super Skillet

Crisp tossed greens topped with cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and black olives

Smoked Turkey

Cold Plates

Onion, ham, green pepper, cheese, and tomato Onion, tomato, green pepper, cheese, and black olives

Dutch Salad Choice of chicken salad, tuna salad, or solid white chunk tuna


WAHOO! GRILL

Decatur

wahoogrilldecatur.com

Casual, cosmopolitan, neighborly. Wahoo! is a trip around the world right here in Georgia. Situated off College Avenue in Decatur, Wahoo!’s dining room is a comforting, modernist

1042 West College Avenue Decatur, GA 30030

vision wrapped in glass, offering a beautiful open-air feel to the restaurant. But that’s just the beginning;

PH: 404.373.3331

enjoy your meal outdoors in the painstakingly maintained garden paradise and you will have found a new

Monday-Thursday 5pm-Close Friday Lunch 11am-3pm; Dinner 3-11pm Saturday Dinner 3-11pm Sunday Dinner 5-10pm

neighborhood standby. On the menu, a thoughtful tapestry of seafood—ike the eponymous Blackened Hawaiian Wahoo with grits—locally sourced steaks, and Southern classics like (what else?) Southern Fried Chicken with milk gravy and collards means you can pick your culinary adventure every night of the week and always be satisfied. Whatever your choice, be sure to complement the meal with a glass of expertly curated wine or a housemade cocktails. And save room for a sweet treat—nothing completes a meal better than Bread Pudding with a neat glass of whiskey. Brunch lovers will also be happy to know Wahoo! dishes up AM classics on Saturdays and an appetiteinspiring brunch buffet on Sundays.

Brunch: Saturday 11am-3pm Sunday 10am-3pm Reservations Suggested Award-Winning Corporate Meeting Space Daily Specials Family-Friendly Patio Dining Wedding and Rehearsal Dinner Venue

sample menu selections appetizers::

entrées::

Charcuterie and Cheese 11

Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna 23

daily sampling from our wine shop selection

Fried Calamari 10

pan-seared rare, soy-ginger glaze, and wasabi cream with mashed potatoes and wakame garnish

spicy hoisin and mayhaw-citrus sauces with crisp banana pepper

Blackned Hawaiian Wahoo 26

Flash Fried Pimento Cheese 7

Cider-Brined Waldrep Pork Chop 24

tomatillo jam

Crunchy Tuna Tacos 10

tuna crudo, apple-radish slaw, and wasabi cream

PEI Mussels 10 sherry cream

salads:: Farmer’s Salad half; 6 full 12

mixed greens, caramelized pears, brie, pepitas, cranberries, and pumpkin seed vinaigrette

roasted pepper coulis, grits, and fried green tomatoes

Southern Fried Chicken 18

springer mountain chicken, milk gravy, mashed potatoes, and braised collard greens with bacon

Tofu-Kimchee Stir-Fry 15

sautéed organic tofu, simply seoul kimchee, rice, wakaime, and soy-ginger sauce

desserts::

caramelized apples and onions with kale-sweet potatoes hash

Apple Crumble 6

Charleston Shrimp & Grits 18

Bliss Cake 5

Grilled Meyer Farms Rib-Eye 28

Butterscotch Pot de Crème 6

sautéed, pesto butter and sugared pecans, and garlic green beans 12-ounce, bourbon-pink peppercorn sauce, and potato-cauliflower gratin

cinnamon crunch-topping semi-sweet chocolate with ginger, cinnamon, red wine, whipped cream, and chocolate ganache butterscotch custard, hazelnut whipped cream, Maldon sea salt, and caramel sauce

* Menu changes seasonally and will be available online

Caesar Salad half 6; full 12

romaine hearts, croutons, blistered tomatoes, lardons, hard-bolied eggs, and parmigiano-reggiano

Late Harvest Salad half 6; full 12

kale, quinoa, caramelized squash, goat cheese, walnuts, and pomegranate-ginger vinaigrette

www.diningout.com

59

59


OUTSIDE THE PERIMETER ::

RESTAURANTS :: 61 BB’s Bronx Bagels

70 Red Sky

62 Bite Bistro & Bar

71 Reed Seafood

63 Cosmopolitan

72 Secreto Kitchen and Bar

64 Grace 1720

73 Smokejack BBQ

65 IPP’S Pastaria Bar

74 Village Tavern

66 Keegan’s Public House

76 Tarahumata Mexican Grille

67 Kouzina Christos

77 Zeal Restaurant

68 McKendrick’s Steak House 69 The Mill Kitchen & Bar


BB’S BRONX BAGELS

Alpharetta

bbsbagels.net

770 McFarland Parkway Aplharetta, GA 30004

It may seem strange to have a spot named BB’s Bronx Bagels on the outskirts of Atlanta, but it truly has found a home in Alpharetta. BB’s launched in 2007 as the brainchild of Owners Anna and Eddie Siino. Natives of New York, they found their hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels were extremely popular—so popular, in fact, that they decided to launch their own business. With these delicious bagels as the centerpiece of the menu, the Siinos created sandwiches that pay homage to

PH: 770.475.1818 Monday-Friday 6am-2pm Saturday and Sunday 7am-2pm Breakfast Daily Specials Family-Friendly Free Parking

breakfast classics like the Taylor Ham and Egg, lunch standbys like the Grilled Chicken BLT, and burgers. There’s enough to feed any appetite, any time of day, and the menu even includes an impressive array of salads, kids’ treats, and desserts. BB’s is a no-fuss phenomenon that might just tempt you to move next door—it’s that good.

sample menu selections bagels:: plain, egg, sesame, blueberry, pumpernickel, poppy, everything, salt, onion, garlic, marble-rye, whole wheat, or hard roll

specialty bagels:: cheddar, cranberry, french toast, chocolate chip, energy, cinnamon raisin, flagel (any), and bialy (weekends only)

breakfast sandwiches:: served on white, wheat, rye, english muffin, roll, or any bagel; croissant add 1.50

Single Egg 2.99 Egg and Cheese 3.49

Turkey, Egg Whites, and Cheese on English Muffin 4.99 Uncle Herman (Breadless) 6.59

Two sausage patties, two tomato slices, two overmedium eggs, and two slices American cheese arranged in two stacks

grilled chicken sandwiches:: includes macaroni salad and pickle; deluxe includes french fries (add 2.50)

Grilled Chicken 5.99

With lettuce, tomato, and honey mustard on a hard roll

Chicken Roma 7.89

Bacon, Sausage, Ham, or Taylor Ham 5.59

With roasted red peppers and provolone cheese on a garlic hard roll

Egg and Bacon, Sausage, Ham, or Taylor Ham 6.29

With grilled red peppers, provolone cheese, onions, and mushrooms in garlic butter on grilled hard roll

Choice of one meat; with cheese 4.89

Choice of one meat; with cheese 5.59

The Davis 3.99

One egg over-hard with sausage patty and American cheese on toasted English muffin

Italian Chicken 7.49

Spicy Cali Chicken 7.49

burgers:: Bo Burger 8.99

With sautéed mushrooms, onions, melted provolone, and Worcestershire sauce

Bronx Bomber 9.99

With bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, and barbecue sauce

Pattie Melt 8.49

With yellow American cheese and grilled onions on marble rye

wraps:: Anna Wrap 7.99

With grilled chicken, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and provolone cheese

Sante Fe Seasoned Grilled Chicken Wrap 7.49 With salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, and lettuce

Roast Beef or Turkey Club Wrap 8.99

Choice of roast beef or turkey with bacon, lettuce, and tomato

With tomato, onion, cheddar cheese, and mayo on grilled garlic hard roll

www.diningout.com

61

61


BITE BISTRO & BAR

Alpharetta

biteatl.com

11500 Web Bridge Way Suite 9 Alpharetta, GA 30005 PH: 770.754.5570 Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11am-3pm Dinner: Monday-Saturday 5-10pm Reservations Recommended Bar Scene Daily Specials Full Bar Free Parking Catering Live Music Outdoor Dining

With an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, Bite Bistro and Bar offers an eclectic take on New American cuisine. Weaving together bold flavors of American cuisine—even dabbling in different flavor profiles, including Asian, Latin, and East Coast fare—Bite Bistro and Bar features a variety of flavors that make up a unique yet familiar cuisine. Owner and chef Leif Johnson takes a spin on the classics, such as The Pastrami Reuben-Yaki featuring housemade kimchee, and the The Double Burger—which is their version of the In and Out Double Double—made with ground short rib and brisket and topped with their special Russian sauce. And don’t miss out on the famed Lobster Roll made with tarragon, celery, chives, parsley, lemon, aïoli, and pickled onion served on a Holeman and Finch roll. Grab a bite out of Bite Bistro and Bar.

sample menu selections starters:: Mussels and Chorizo 13

Spanish chorizo, balsamic tomato, cilantro, shallot, garlic, and white wine; served with ciabatta

Hog Toes 8

Stuffed peppedew peppers, smoked pimento cheese, housemade bacon, panko breadcrumbs, and smoked bacon jam

Barbecue Chicken 12

mains::

Mole barbecue, roasted apples, caramelized onions, roasted poblano, smoked Gouda, house bacon, and cilantro

salads:: Green Salad 7

Lobster Rolls 18

Beet Salad 9

Tarragon, chives, parsley, lime aïoli, pickled onion, Holeman and Finch roll, and jalapeño-corn slaw

Pork Belly 12

Braised pork belly, Brussels sprouts, sunchoke purée, apple-poblano chutney, and demi

flatbreads:: Fig and Prosciutto 11

Organic mixed greens, currants, toasted walnuts, Parmesan, and balsamic vinagrette Organic mixed greens, red and golden beets, chèvre, orange segments, spiced pecans, and Champagne-vanilla vinaigrette

Pear and Bleu 8

Organic spring mix, Asian pear, candied pecans, blue cheese, and honey-Dijon vinaigrette

Salmon Caesar 15

Mascarpone, fig, prosciutto, arugula, pickled onions, and balsamic syrup

Romaine, green leaf, skinless marinated tomatoes, Parmesan, fried croutons, and sweet onion Caesar dressing

Chorizo 11

Grilled Chicken 13

Smoked pimento cheese, peppadews, pickled onion, cilantro, and pomegranate syrup

62

Crab Cake Salad 18

Pesto, fresh mozzarella, spinach, glazed tomato, and pomegranate syrup

Crab Cake 14

6oz lump crabmeat, sunchoke purée, and heirloom tomato-corn relish

62

Caprese 11

www.diningout.com

Organic spring mix, local peaches, candied pecans, blue cheese, and honey-Dijon vinaigrette

Organic mixed greens, black beans, corn, avocado, pickled onion, Cotija, and Meyer lemon vinaigrette

Smoked Chicken Shrimp and Grits 20

Stone ground grits, green egg, smoked Free Bird Farms chicken, red pepper pico, bacon, and cilantro

Rainbow Trout 21

North Carolina trout, wild rice pilaf, escarole, baby carrots, and Meyer lemon agrodolce

Bistro Tenderloin 24

Roasted wild mushroom, aged Sherry vinegar, cipollini onion, roasted garlic Yukon gold mash, and veal demi-glace

Atlantic Salmon 21

Grilled spaghetti squash, baby carrots, asparagus, and citrus beurre blanc

Chicken Chitarra 17

Spaghetti alla chitarra, house-smoked chicken, chipotle, roasted red pepper pico, spinach, glazed tomato, and Cotija

Grilled Pork Chop 26

White Marble Farms, collard greens, Asher blue cheese mash, Spanish chorizo, red wine demi, and apple-poblano chutney


COSMOPOLITAN

Marietta

cosmomarietta.com

2475 Delk Road SE Marietta, GA 30067

Part elevated bar hub, part contemporary restaurant, Cosmpolitan is an exploration of global fuision cuisine. There’s almost nothing on the menu here that

PH: 770.485.8069 Monday-Thursday 11am-Midnight Friday and Saturday 11am-1am Sunday 11am-11:30pm

won’t speak to you—and that’s the idea. From the white expansive of the elegant interior, guests

Call for Reservations

enjoy everything from Crispy Calamari with fried jalapeños to a world of flavorful entrées, like the Lamb

Family-Friendly Patio Dining Free Parking Late-Night Dining Signature Drinks

Chops with mint jelly and seafood-centric Crabmeat-Crusted Salmon. And when it comes time to pair your meal choice with a drink, rest assured that any one of the dozen-plus wines by the glass, two-dozen brews, or housemade cocktails—like the inimitable Continental Sour—will suit your fancy. Enjoy it all in a dining room filled with white tablecloth elegance, or at the wood-rich bar where conversation and laughter are always in abundance. With something for everyone, there’s no doubt that Cosmopolitan makes it easy to eat, drink, and be merry.

sample menu selections Crabmeat-Crusted Salmon 22

starters::

sandwiches::

Crispy Calamari 12

Chicken Gyro 11

Bruschetta 6

Cosmo Burger 13

Cheddar cheese, lemon and aïoli sauce, crispy iceberg lettuce, tomato, and roasted pepper

Shrimp sautéed with chopped bacon, diced andodille sausage, and scallions; served over cheddar cheese grits

Spicy Fried Shrimp 12

Fried Grouper 12

Lamb Chops 30

Shrimp Pita 12

Rib-Eye 27

salads::

Mediterranean seasoned grilled shrimp, tomato, cucumber, and tzatziki sauce in a warm pita

Greek Salad 7

entrées::

Ginger-Orange Mahi Mahi 19

Flash-fried tender calamari rounds, tossed with fried jalapeños and served with spicy ranch and marianra sauce Diced tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and spices in olive oil, topped with Parmesan cheese and balsamic glaze Cajun breaded shrimp, served with spicy rémoulade

Cosmo Fries 8

Cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles

Romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, green peppers, Kalamata olives, dolmades, and feta cheese tossed in Greek mustard vinaigrette

Mixed Greens 5

With shredded carrots, tomatoes, and cucumbers

Pear and Pecan 7

Sliced pear, toasted pecans, tomatoes, mixed greens, and bleu cheese crumbles with raspberrybalsamic vinaigrette

Grilled chicken with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki sauce in a Mediterranean seasoned pita

Breaded and fried fillet of grouper on a toasted hoagie bun with lettuce, tomato, and lemon tartar sauce

Chicken Piccata 16

Thinly chicken cutlets sautéed in a lemon butter wine sauce; served over angel hair pasta

Chicken Stir-Fry 16

Stir-fried chicken strips and veggies in a housemade teriyaki sauce; served over brown rice

Fillet of salmon stuffed with crabmeat and topped with lemon velouté sauce; served with rice and mixed vegetables

Shrimp and Grits 17

Double-cut lamb chops served over oven-roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, and mint jelly 14oz prime cut topped with grilled onions; served with oven-roasted potatoes and vegetables Grilled fillet of mahi mahi topped with ginger-orange teriyaki sauce; served with brown rice and vegetables

Santorini Pasta 14

Mediterranean sauce with feta cheese, tomatoes, and basil over angel hair pasta

Shrimp Fra Diavolo 19

Shrimp sautéed in a spicy marinara sauce; served over angel hair pasta with crispy garlic bread

www.diningout.com

63

63


GRACE 1720

North Atlanta :: Peachtree Corners

grace1720.com

5155 Peachtree Parkway Suite 320 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 PH: 678.421.1720 FAX: 678.623.0370 Monday-Saturday 11:30am-10pm Live Entertainment Online Reservations Full Bar Corporate Meeting Space Daily Specials Fireplace Healthy Options Locally Sourced/Seasonal Free Parking Private Dining

Graceful is a great way to describe the space at grace 17.20 in Peachtree Corners. The restuarant opened over 12 years ago, and has created a space unlike anything else in the area. A natural and European-style design sets the tone for a dining experience that’s both casual and elegant. The restaurant features several different dining areas, including a large main dining room with soaring ceilings and exposed beams, a more intimate space adjacent to the main room, an upstairs private dining area with stunning antique chestnut hardwood floors, and an elegant outdoor patio with an antique European fountain and outdoor fireplace. The collective space is ideal for hosting any important or special event. And while the design certainly speaks volumes, the food at grace 17.20 steals the show. The dynamic culinary team offers a regularly changing menu of the freshest seasonal ingredients prepared simply and tastefully. Most recently a clean menu has been added as an option for those with special dietary preferences. The wine list includes wines from all over the globe and includes wines by the bottle and glass. The dedicated and committed team at grace 17.20 approaches each day with one common goal: to present a unique dining experience that uplifts and inspires each and every guest.

sample menu selections first course::

fish and shell fish::

grace for dessert::

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake

Shrimp and Logan Turnpike Grits

Banana Fosters Turnover

Eggplant and Sultana Rasin Bruschetta

Pan-Roasted Salmon Fillet

Dark Chocolate Torte

Spicy Chopped Chicken and Sweet Slaw Spring Rolls

Seared Diver Scallops

Sweet caper rémoulade

Basil, bleu cheese, and Dijon gastrique

Mozzarella cheese, slaw, pumpkin seeds, and honey-jalapeño drizzzle

Barbecue Pulled Pork Flatbread

Red onion and tomato, mozzarella, and cliantro aïoli

Green chile, onion, garlic, and white wine butter sauce Ginger-glazed organic rice blend, garnished with wilted spinach and served with citrus beurre blanc Cilantro jasmine rice and pinapple chimichurri

pasta and poultry:: Grilled Chicken Breast Risotto

salads::

Wild mushroom cream sauce and shaved Parmesan cheese

Arugula Salad

Peking Duck Breast

Fuji apples, dried cranberries, candied walnuts, goat cheese, and ginger vinaifrette

Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad

Mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, orzo pasta, and white balsamic vinaigrettte

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Salad

Crispy greens, shredded carrot, radish, cucumber, tomato, buttermilk ranch dressing, and housemade honey mustard drizzle

Potato gnocchi, wild mushrooms, roasted baby carrots, shallots, arugula, and brown butter sauce

from the grill:: 12oz Berkshire Pork Chop

Stoned ground mustard sauce, collard greens, and Anson Mills grits

7oz Filet Mignon Red wine veal jus

Organic Chicken and Spinach Burger Swiss cheese

64

64

www.diningout.com

Vanilla ice cream and caramelized bananas Flourless torte, berry coulis, and crème anglaise

Grace’s Cheesecake Salted caramel

clean menu options:: Farro Salad with Kale and Beets

Butternut squash, walnuts, and honey-lime vinaigrette

Roasted Beet Salad

Red and golden beets, avacado and orange segments. toasted hazlenuts, and Sherry vinaigrette

Grilled Portobello Burger

Eggplant, garlic, onion, sundried tomato, sambal, basil, and oil

Coconut Curried Kale

Braised red onion, chickpeas, cilantro rice, lime, red quinoa, and sautéed vegetables


IPP’S PASTARIA BAR

Woodstock

ippspastaria.com

Since 1989, George and Toni Ippolito have enjoyed great success bringing their Northeast feel and authentic family recipes to the Atlanta suburbs in Ippolito’s Italian restaurants. During these past 20-plus years, the next generation of Ippolito sons have grown up in the family business, joining their father in his passion for creating great Italian food and a welcoming place for families to gather. The Ippolito family is proud to introduce their latest venture, IPP’S Pastaria & Bar, combining the best of old tradition with fresh new tastes and a welcoming atmosphere. Welcome to your neighborhood’s new favorite Italian restaurant. Buoni amici e ottimo cibo!

8496 Main Street Woodstock, GA 30188 PH: 770.517.7305 FAX: 770.516.6631 Monday-Thursday 11:30am-9pm Friday 11:30am-10pm Saturday Noon-10pm Sunday Noon-9pm Full Bar Outdoor Patio Dining Family-Friendly Free Parking

sample menu selections appetizers::

panini::

Bruschetta 6.95

Chicken Parm 9.95

Toasted, sliced IPP’S rolls topped with diced tomatoes, red onions, fresh basil, and fresh mozzarella

Pepe 8.95

Spicy Italian sausage wrapped in dough, brushed with honey, baked, and served on a bed of marinara sauce

Fried Ravioli 7.95

Deep-fried, filled with cheese, and served with marinara sauce for dipping

Italian Gorgonzola Chips 8.95

Homemade potato chips baked with Gorgonzola, fresh tomatoes, basil, and cherry peppers drizzled with ranch dressing

salads:: House Salad small 3.95; large 7.95

Tossed greens topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, mozzarella cheese, and croutons with your choice of dressing

Italian Chopped Salad 12.95

Chopped greens tossed with ham, capicola, Genoa salami, Gorgonzola, black olives, tomatoes, and red onions in our signature house Italian dressing

Breaded chicken breast, lightly fried and baked in tomato sauce and topped with Romano and mozzarella cheeses; served on a hoagie

Eggplant Parm 9.25

Breaded eggplant baked in tomato sauce and topped with Romano and mozzarella cheeses; served on a hoagie

The Italian 9.95

Ham, salami, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and IPPS Italian vinaigrette; served hot or cold on a hoagie

Tilapia Sandwich 9.95

Blackened or sautéed tilapia, lettuce, tomato, and a roasted red pepper aïoli sauce served on a toasted hoagie

pizza:: Margherita Pizza small 9.95; medium 13.95; large 15.95

A light pizza with IPP’S zesty red sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, diced tomato, and fresh basil

White Pizza small 9.95; medium 13.95; large 15.95

Pizza dough brushed with olive oil and garlic and topped with mozzarella, sundried tomatoes, and fresh basil

George’s Grilled Pizza small 9.95; medium 13.95; large 15.95

Italian sausage, tri-colored peppers, caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce

IPP’S Stromboli 10.25

Mozzarella cheese and IPP’S zesty pizza sauce

classics:: IPP’S Spaghetti Dinner 11.95

Our homemade tomato sauce and one jumbo meatball served over spaghetti pasta

Lasagna 13.95

Layers of pasta, ricotta cheese, IPP’S meat sauce with sausage, and zesty Italian spices; topped and baked with Romano and mozzarella cheeses

Seafood Cannelloni 15.95

Fresh pasta filled with a blend of ricotta cheese, shrimp, crab, and lobster baked in cardinale sauce and topped with Romano and mozzarella cheeses

Fettuccine Bolognese 11.95

A traditional Bolognese of ground beef with celery and onions in a white wine tomato sauce served over fettuccine pasta

Cellentani Cream Pesto 13.95

Cellentani pasta with grilled chicken and diced tomatoes in a creamy pesto sauce

www.diningout.com

65

65


KEEGAN’S PUBLIC HOUSE

Roswell

keegansirishpub.net

4401 Shallowford Road Roswell, GA 30075 PH: 770.640.1100

1625 Ridenour Boulevard NW Kennesaw, GA 30152 PH: 678.213.2460

4686 Atlanta Road Smyrna, AT 30080 PH: 404.319.8183

Keegan’s Irish Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 Woodstock, GA 30189

Keegan’s Public House is Atlanta’s new favorite Irish pub that makes anyone who walks through the door want to order a Guinness and do an Irish jig. What better combination for a bar is there than half Irish pub and half sports bar? This perfect blend offers an authentic Irish pub feel where you can watch all your favorite teams while grubbin’

PH: 770.627.4393

on delicious bar fare. If you don’t mind a little noise, there is no better place in Kennesaw to get

Monday-Thursday 11am-1am Friday and Saturday 11am-2am Sunday 11am-Midnight

rowdy with some friends for a game or meet the friendly staff and some regulars who will

Family-Friendly Full Bar Outdoor Seating Free Parking Takeout

remember you when you visit next. Keegan’s must-try dish is the Finnegan’s Fry with beer-battered haddock, served with lemon-caper tartar sauce and a side of coleslaw. What screams Irish pub food more than fish ‘n’ chips?

sample menu selections starters:: Irish Spring Rolls 7.95

Wontons stuffed with lean corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese; served with a side of Thousand Island dressing

Keegan’s Potato Chips 4.95; 6.95

Spinach Salad 8.95

Open-Faced Pot Roast Sandwich 9.95

Covered with warm bleu cheese dressing and topped with bleu cheese crumbles

Harp Lager Cheese Dip 7.95

sandwiches::

Portobello Fries 7.95

Portobello mushroom wedges, hand-battered and fried to a golden brown; served with a creamy horseradish sauce

Spinach and Artichoke Dip 7.95

Fresh artichokes and spinach in a creamy Parmesan sauce; served with fresh tortilla chips

Black and Tan Onion Rings 6.95

These are the real deal, made with Guinness stout

lighter fare:: Mulligan Stew cup 3.95; bowl 5.95

Classic Irish stew made with lamb and a hearty blend of vegetables

Soup of the Day cup 3.95; bowl 5.95 Made fresh daily; ask your server 66

Sundried Tomato Turkey Burger 8.95

Fresh-cut lettuce with cucumber, red onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and croutons; served with your choice of dressing Baby spinach tossed with Granny Smith apples, bacon, candied walnuts, and bleu cheese crumbles in a rice wine vinaigrette dressing

A blend of three cheeses made with Harp lager and a hint of fresh chipotle; served with tortilla chips

66

Keegan’s House Salad 3.95; 5.95

www.diningout.com

Fish and Chips Basket two pieces 8.95; three pieces 10.95 Fresh-cut cod hand-dipped in a Guinness batter, fried to perfection and served with fries and slaw

Bookmaker Sandwich 9.95

Shaved roast beef with grilled onions and provolone cheese on a toasted baguette; served with a side of au jus

Pub Grilled Cheese 10.95

A blend of three cheeses melted to perfection between two slices of sourdough bread; served with a cup of tomato bisque

Keegan Burger 8.95

A half-pound of fresh Angus sirloin on a kaiser roll with your choice of cheese; served with tomato, onion, and pickle

Fresh ground turkey, sundried tomatoes, and onions; topped with pepper Jack cheese and served on a whole wheat bun Slow-cooked and served open-faced with mashed potatoes and gravy

entrées:: Finnegan’s Fry 13.95

Fresh, beer-battered haddock served with a side of homemade lemon-caper tartar sauce and coleslaw

Shepherd’s Pie 11.95

Ground beef, peas, and corn simmered in a brown gravy; topped with mashed potatoes with a side of veggie medley

Bangers and Mash 12.95

Traditional Irish sausages topped with grilled onions and mushrooms on a bed of mashed potatoes with brown gravy

Pot Roast 11.95

Homestyle favorite—tender beef slow-cooked with onions, carrots, and celery; served with mashed potatoes and gravy

Pub Chicken 12.95

Fresh chicken breasts seasoned and pan-fried; served with mashed potatoes and green beans; drizzled with a lemon-caper beurre blanc


KOUZINA CHRISTOS

Marietta

kouzinachristos.com

1453 Terrell MiII Road Marietta, GA 30067 PH: 770.952.1950

Kouzina Christos has been noted for having the best gyros in Atlanta, along with their amazing artisanal crust pizza. The Traditional Gyros are topped with fresh feta and loads of thickly sliced lamb on a bed of finely chopped lettuce with warm pita bread and tzatziki on the side. The foodie accolades do not end for this Marietta gem of over 30 years. Kouzina Christos brings to the community a compilation of expertly prepared Greek Mediterranean dishes built on the foundation of family traditions. Delicious grinders, calzones, salads, and seasonally inspired entrées of seafood, lamb, and pasta are orchestrated into a savory experience paired with fabulous craft beers and wines. Let’s not forget the finale of the meal—traditionally prepared, honey-licious flaky layers with walnuts

Open for Lunch and Dinner Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday and Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday 10am-10pm Takeout Available Free Parking Patio Dining Available Family-Friendly Saturdays: Half-Price All Wine Bottles Seasonal Craft Beers Available Gluten-Free Pizza and Pasta Available

and cinnamon: Baklava. This fabulous dessert completes the experience every time along with piping hot coffee or herbal teas. There are plenty of hearty selections for an excellent dining experience at Kouzina Christos with occasional weekend entertainment.

sample menu selections mezethes::

gyros and falafel::

seasonal entrées::

Shrimp Saganaki

Gyro

Seafood

Extra large shrimp, rustica sauce, feta, and garlic bread

Spanakopita

Spinach, feta, and scallions in flaky phyllo layers

Lamb Chops

Mountain oregano, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper with tzatziki

Rotisserie beef and lamb, tomato, feta, tzatziki dressing, and pita bread

Chicken

Grilled chicken, tomato, feta, tzatziki dressing, and pita bread

Falafel

salads::

Chickpea falafel, tomato, feta, tzatziki dressing, and pita bread

Greek Salad

grinders::

Romaine, tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, cucumber, Salonika peppers, dolmathes, and Kouzina Greek vinaigrette

Antipasta

Pepperoni, capicola, Genoa salami, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, provolone cheese, tomatoes, and pepperoncini peppers

boar’s head premium meats, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, and toasted sub roll

Vegetarian Cuban NY-Style Pastrami

calzones::

pasta entrées::

Spinach Calzone

Bolognese

Meat Lover’s

Keftedes

Spinach, Parmesan, cheddar, feta, and provolone Sausage, pepperoni, meatball, and four cheeses

Traditional beef, lamb, and pancetta Bolognese Kouzina lamb keftedes and John’s signature tomato sauce

Tempura mahi mahi and housemade chips

Lamb

Cinnamon-braised lamb shank, truffled mashed potatoes, and sautéed kale

Greek Peasant Pasta

Roasted eggplant, tomato, artichoke, roasted garlic, spinach, and feta

pizza:: Johnny’s Pizza

Loaded with mushrooms, hamburger, pepperoni, sausage, fresh onion, and bell pepper

Greek Pizza

Black olives, artichokes, sundried tomatoes, and feta cheese

Christo’s White Pizza

Roasted garlic, artichoke, sun-roasted tomatoes, feta, and white cheddar cheese

Niko Pizza

Papou’s favorite with pastrami, onion, and white cheddar cheese

www.diningout.com

67

67


MCKENDRICK’S STEAK HOUSE

North Atlanta :: Dunwoody/Perimeter

mckendricks.com

4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE Atlanta, GA 30346 PH: 770.512.8888 Lunch: Monday-Friday 11am-2:30pm Dinner: Sunday and Saturday 5-10pm Reservations Recommended Bar Scene Daily Specials Internet Available Private Dining Space Available Dress Code

In a world beset by gimmicky restaurants frantically chasing after the latest trend, McKendrick’s Steak House stands tall by simply bringing Atlanta the quintessential classic dining experience. Gorgeous dark oak contrasts with splashes of white oak and the dulcet tones of Sinatra, enveloping the award-winning, critically acclaimed McKendrick’s in a warm, timeless atmosphere and flawlessly setting the stage for their unrivaled, sumptuous steaks and seafood selections. The experience is further enriched by the presence of a nationally revered wine list featuring over 350 selections drawn from all corners of the globe. And any potential worry you may have about an ideal pairing of food and drink will instantly be put by the wayside, courtesy of McKendrick’s attentive and deeply informative staff. Elegant and graceful without a shred of pretense, an evening at McKendrick’s Steak House serves as the ultimate reminder that dining out can be a memorable and majestic event.

sample menu selections appetizers::

salads::

French Onion Soup 7.95

Vine-Ripened Beefsteak Tomato 7.95

Maine Lobster Bisque 10.95

Baby Iceberg 7.95

Baked with smoked mozzarella and provolone Sherry cream

Maryland Jump Lump Blue Crab Cake 14.95 Garlis tomato beurre blanc and crispy capers

“Prime Sirloin” Steak Tartare 12.95 Brioche toast points

Oysters Rockefeller 11.95 Spinach, Pernod, and glaçage

Baked Escargot 9.95 Herb garlic butter

chilled shellfish and raw bar::

Sweet onion and Maytag blue cheese or fresh mozzarella Tomatoes, Maytag blue cheese dressing, and crisp applewood-smoked bacon

McKendrick’s House Salad 8.50

Tomato, hearts of palm, Maytag blue cheese, and cucumber

Baby Spinach Salad 7.95

Pine nuts and warm applewood-smoked bacon dressing

prime steaks and chops:: aged USDA prime midwestern beef

Filet—Center Cut 8oz 29.95; 12oz 36.95

Chef’s Cut Bone-In Rib-Eye 46.95 24oz

Veal Chop 35.95 14oz

Lamb Loin Chops 35.95 20oz

lobster and shrimp:: south african cold water lobster tails broiled or lightly fried with drawn butter

Twin Lobster Tails 54.95 Jumbo Shrimp 24.95 Grilled or lightly fried

seafood::

Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail 12.95 Seared Rare Pacific “Big Eye” Tuna 14.95

New York Strip 12oz 34.95; 16oz 39.95

oak-grilled with choice of sauce: tomato-garlic beurre blanc, ginger-soy sauce, spicy chile sauce, or garlic butter

Kansas City Strip 41.95

Atlantic Salmon Fillet 23.95

Wasabi, pickled ginger, and ginger-soy sauce

14oz

18oz

Rib-Eye 29.95 16oz

68

24oz

Bone-In Filet 42.95

Cocktail and Louis sauces

68

Porterhouse 44.95

www.diningout.com

Swordfish Steak—Center Cut 25.95 Gulf Black Grouper Fillet 26.95 Mero Sea Bass Steak 34.95


THE MILL KITCHEN & BAR

Roswell

themillkitchenandbar.com

590 Mimosa Boulevard Roswell, GA 30075 PH: 770.817.9345 Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11am-3pm

Where traditional Southern hospitality meets modern Southern fare. What makes Mill Kitchen & Bar tick? Grandma’s fried chicken. A juicy peach in July. A dining experience that churns out memories like fresh butter. The precise nature of the experience you have here is up to you—choose from the elegant dining room, the cozy bar, or the expansive patio to begin. Mill also serves lunch, brunch, and dinner— we recommend trying all three. Of course, the fine wines and incredible house cocktails merit coming in just for a drink, too. From the Spiked Apple Cider, to the Tipsy Pig with Savannah 88 bourbon, sweet vermouth, bacon-brown sugar syrup, and bitters garnished with local candied bacon, choosing a beverage is no easy feat. For dinner, Executive Chef Ben Castro will bowl you over with his brilliant renditions of Southern classics. For example, he serves Shrimp and Grits with Tasso ham and blistered tomatoes; Country Fried Steak with

Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday 5-10pm Sunday 5-9pm Closed Monday Brunch: Sunday 10am-3pm Reservations Accepted Daily Specials Family-Friendly Full Bar Outdoor Patio Dining Free Parking

an amber ale-peppercorn gravy; and Georgia Trout with herb-roasted hakurei turnips. All of the ingredients here—from surf and turf to cheese, to veggies—come from local farms in Georgia and North Carolina.

sample menu selections small plates:: Fried Pickle Chips 6

The mill’s horseradish sauce

Nashville Fired Chicken Sliders 12

Fried chicken breast, pickles, lettuce, King’s Hawaiian bread, and house hot sauce

Short Rib Poutine 11

Wedge 7

Red Snapper 30

The Mill House 7

Sea Bass 34

Baby iceburg, chives, roasted cipollini onions, bacon, tomato, and house blue cheese dressing Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, Gruyère cheese, brioche croutons, and house ranch

large plates::

Shredded braised short rib, house-cut fries, Gruyère cheese, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw

Out of the Garden 17

Pulled Pork Tacos 14

Southern Fried Chicken 21

Pimento cheese-stuffed flower tortillas, citrusbraised shredded pork, house salsa, lime crema, and cilantro

Crab Cake 15

Pan-seared “blue crab” crab cake, crab boil emulsion, roasted corn salsa, and charred spring onion aïoli

The Mill’s Sampler 26

Pimento cheese fritters, fried green tomatoes, black-eyed pea hummus, and deviled eggs

salads:: Beet and Watermelon 10

Golden beets, watermelon, goat cheese fritters, arugula, balsamic reduction, and basil oil

Chef selection of the best local and seasonal vegetables Two fried chicken breasts, Yukon gold mashed potatoes, and grilled asparagus topped with black pepper country gravy

Shrimp and Grits 21

Gulf Coast red snapper, blue crab crust, Cajun-style dirty rice, and Louisiana crawfish crème sauce Pan-seared Chilean sea bass, Louisana squash risotto, tomatoes, summer squash, baby zucchini, spring onion, cucumbers, and cilantro coulis

Crab Cakes 29

Pan-seared blue crab cakes, confit fingerling potatoes, Haywood’s andouille sausage, roasted corn salsa, crab boil emulsion, and charred spring onion aïoli

Baked Lobster Mac ’n’ Cheese 22

Fresh lobster, five cheese béchamel sauce, cheddar crust, and truffle oil

GA coastal shrimp, Tasso ham, andouille sausage, tomatoes, and Vidalia onions served in a low-country sauce over Tim and Alice’s “Red Mule” Gouda grits

enhancements::

Mill Burger 16

Sautéed Vidalia Onions 5

8oz house ground prime Angus burger, pimento cheese, bacon marmalade, tomato, arugula, and fried onions; served on a local brioche bun

Diver Scallops 31

Sautéed Mushroons 5 Butter-Poached Lobster Tail 15 Seared Lump Crab Cake 15

U-10 pan-seared scallops, pea and spring onion risotto, braised pork belly, lobster and asparagus salad, and tarragon vinaigrette

www.diningout.com

69

69


RED SKY

Marietta

redskytapas.com

1255 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta, GA 30068 PH: 770.973.0100 Dinner Daily at 4pm Reservations Recommended Dueling Pianos Private Lounge Up To 20 Live Entertainment Four Nights A Week With No Cover Full Bar Free Parking Gluten-Free Menu Options

To enjoy an evening at Red Sky is to have an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you walk into this East Cobb venue, you are enveloped by warmth, as red hues, and colorful artwork instantly create an inviting, lively ambience. It is an atmosphere that is brilliantly enhanced by Red Sky’s intriguing array of eclectic entertainment, ranging from the soothing charms of acoustic tunes to the rollicking whimsy of dueling pianos every Friday and Saturday. This superb vibe is all tied together through Red Sky’s amazing cuisine—a blissful collage of Southern and globally influenced tapas pairs with an enticing arrangement of world-class wines and luscious hand-crafted cocktails. Additionally, Red Sky’s private room is the perfect destination for your next special function, be it for business or for pleasure. Regardless of party size, Red Sky’s combination of spectacular ambience and sumptuous food and beverage is sure to entrance you time and again.

sample menu selections tapas:: Roasted Corn and Lobster Dip 10

Lobster, roasted corn, jalapeños, and onions

Parmesan-Crusted Romaine Heart 6

Chargrilled with raspberry balsamic vinaigrette

Fried Green Tomatoes 5.50

With goat cheese and chipotle aïoli

Calamari 6.50

Lightly floured with mango salsa and cilantro-jalapeño aïoli

Buffalo Calamari 6.50

Tossed in hot sauce and served with blue cheese crumbles and dressing

Tomatillo Braised Pork Nachos 8

Slow-roasted pulled pork and melted pepper Jack cheese over corn tortilla chips

Blackened Tilapia Tacos 7.50

With jicama slaw and cilantro-jalapeño aïoli

Bacon-Wrapped Jumbo Sea Scallops 10 With roasted corn salsa

Blackened Ahi Tuna 10

Sashimi-grade tuna seared and served on sliced cucumber with pineapple soy and Sriracha mayo

Spicy Chicken Egg Rolls 7

Pepper Jack cheese, black bean and corn salsa, and spicy Southwest sauce

Shrimp and Filet Medallions 10

Grilled and served with Forty Creek whisky sauce

Citrus Barbecue Ribs 10 With jicama slaw

alternate items:: Chicken Artichoke Dip 7

Chicken, artichokes, spinach, and spicy cream cheese sauce

Baked Spanish Cheese 9

With toasted pita chips and fresh zucchini

Black Bean Hummus 5

Iberico cheese wrapped in prosciutto, baked and served with flatbread and spicy marinara

Good and Evil 8

Grilled Jerk Chicken Wings 6

Lobster Macaroni and Cheese 10

Grilled with jerk seasoning and avocado ranch

70

With roasted tomatoes, grilled asparagus, pepper Jack cheese, and red onions

Grilled Asparagus 6

With shaved Manchego cheese and a balsamic reduction

70

Vegetarian Pizza 7

www.diningout.com

Oreo crumb crust and dark and white chocolate mousse layers With bacon


REEL SEAFOOD

Woodstock

reel-seafood.com

8670 Main Street Suite A Woodstock, GA 30188

For a taste of real, quality seafood in Woodstock, dine out at Reel Seafood. Located in Downtown Woodstock, Reel Seafood brings a fresh approach to seafood with its casual ambience and dedication to quality. Decorated in a subtle nautical theme with whites, blues, and reds, the casual dining room is warm and welcoming, and the open-air patio is perfect for enjoying cool nights with views of Main Street. Owner/Chef David Silverman cooks everything to order, while his wife and partner Karen Silverman manages the front-of-the-house. Popular dishes include the savory Crab Cakes and Shrimp and Grits (with local Logan Turnpike grits), while fresh Oysters on the Half Shell make a perfect

PH: 770.627.3006 FAX: 770.726.9568 Daily 11:30am-11pm Bar Scene Family-Friendly Full Bar Outdoor Patio Dining Private Dining Free Parking

chilled appetizer or shareable snack. The full bar offers an array of wines by the bottle and glass, and the house cocktails are a smash (try the Reel Margarita with Cabo Wabo Reposado and Cointreau, or the SKYY Peach with vodka, Georgia peaches, orange juice, and Champagne). Reel offers a fresh take on seafood with a casual yet high-quality dining experience in Woodstock.

sample menu selections starters:: Seafood Gumbo 4.50; 8 Crawfish, andouille, and rice

Shrimp and Lobster Fondue 13

BLT 6

Iceberg wedge, pecans, smoked bacon, grape tomatoes, and crumbled bleu cheese

Hearts of Romaine 7

Smoked Gouda and fontina

Caesar, aged Parmesan, chile-garlic croutons, and anchovies

Crab and Goat Cheese Fritters 10

Greek Salad 8

Red pepper jelly

Steamed Mussels 11

Garlic lobster cream, leeks, basil, and baguette

Flash-Fried Calamari 8

Pickled jalapeños, aïoli, and marinara

Grilled Thai Shrimp 12

Hearts of Bibb, red onion, cabbage, rice powder, and mint

Tuna Tartare 12

Sesame, crushed peanuts, scallions, shallots, and cilantro

Half Shell East Coast Oysters 11; 20 Horseradish, mignonette, and cocktail sauce

salads:: Spinach and Arugula 7

Sundried cranberries, local goat cheese, Marcona almonds, and cider vinaigrette

Olives, cucumber, red onions, peppers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and oregano dressing

entrées:: Shrimp Tagliatelle 16

Roast corn, black beans, julienned peppers, chipotle cream, and aged Parmesan

Shrimp Po’boy 11

Shredded lettuce, tomato, and spicy rémoulade

Old Bay Fish Fry 14

Blue cod, cabbage slaw fries, and jalapeño tartar

Pan-Fried Trout 16

Pan-Seared Sea Scallops 22

Lobster corn succotash, poblanos, okra, and butter beans

Pan-Sautéed Flounder 18

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes, thin green beans, and lemon-caper butter

Logan Turnpike Shrimp ‘n’ Grits 16 Andouille, spinach, and tomatoes

Lobster Boil 20

Red potatoes, corn, saffron lobster broth, vermouth, and red pepper rouille

tired of the sea:: Chargrilled Marinated Skirt Steak 20 Chipotle mashed with salsa verde

Ground Short Rib Brisket Burger 12

Cheddar, smoked bacon, and grilled onions on toasted brioche

Au Poivre New York Strip 28

Soft polenta, grilled asparagus, and red pepper coulis

Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and shallot-brandy cream

Pepper Seared Tuna 22

Tortilla Fried Chicken 10

Jerk Grilled Salmon 17

Coffee-Crusted Rib-Eye 28

Steamed rice, young spinach, and hoisin-chile broth Saffron rice and black bean-mango relish

Ancho chile and chipotle mashed potatoes Garlic mashed and veal jus

Sweet Chile-Glazed Swordfish Steak 19 Ginger risotto, edamame, and shiitakes

www.diningout.com

71

71


SECRETO KITCHEN AND BAR

Alpharetta

secretokitchen.com

6195 Winward Parkway Suite 102 Alpharetta, GA 30005 PH: 770.752.0922 Monday-Thursday 11am-9:30pm Friday 11am-10:30pm Saturday 5-10:30pm Closed Sunday

The secret to Secreto is simple: Thoughtfully crafted, hearty food made with recipes handed down through generations, founded on local and seasonal ingredients. Tucked away in Alpharetta, Secreto is serving what Zagat has hail as “smart, updated Southern classics.” No flash-in-the-pan culinary magic here; just fixtures that call on memories of when you were a kid—like the

Reservations Accepted via OpenTable.com

Grilled Apple Brined Pork Chop with bacon braised greens, or the Charleston-Style Crab Cakes and Bourbon-

Bar Scene Dailly Specials Family-Friendly Free Parking Outdoor Patio Dining Signature Cocktails

Braised Short Ribs. At the bar, spirited classics hold sway—like the all-time favorite Old Fashioned—alongside a dozen wines, and craft brews that marry brilliantly with Chef Boyd Rose’s kitchen creations, all of which hold true to the secret of simplicity. So settle into the wood-rich dining room for some delicious, leisurely Southern hospitality, or sidle up to the bar for a drink and conversation. Whether making a friend or celebrating with family, Secreto offers you the chance to make new memories over an unforgettable meal—or several.

sample menu selections soups and salads::

entrées::

Baby Gem Salad 7

Grilled Apple Brined Pork Chop 26

Roasted tomatoes, garlic croutons, Asiago cheese, and lemon-thyme dressing

Arugula Beet Salad 8

Roasted beets, toasted pistachios, goat cheese crumbles, and truffleChampagne vinaigrette

Roasted Red Pepper Crab Bisque 7 Basil oil and golden Sherry drizzle

Soup of the Day 7

appetizers::

Double cheddar grit melt cakes, garlic green beans, and wild mushroombourbon sauce

Chef Boyd’s Southern Fried Chicken 22

Buttermilk mash, green beans, and smoked bacon-jalapeño gravy

North Coast Salmon 26

Roasted butternut squash mash, brown butter-bacon Brussels, and beurre rouge

Pan-Seared Diver Sacllops 32

Red Chile-Glazed “Bang Bang” Shrimp 12

desserts::

Sesame, ginger, and cucumber salad

Bourbon-Braised Short Ribs 15

Truffle sweet potato purée and Cajun shoestring onions

Charleston-Style Carb Cake 17

Spicy rémoulade, Secreto flatbread, and petite arugula salad

72

Grilled Hanger Steak 29

Crispy Seared Lamb Belly 14

Lemon-goat cheese grits, spicy tomato jam, and star anise demi

72

Bacon braised greens, Calvados pork jus, truffle-sweet potato purée, and spiced apples

www.diningout.com

Lemon-garlic asparagus, shrimp risotto, and red wine honey syrup

Warm Buttermilk Carrot Cake 7 Orange cream cheese icing

White Chocolate Raspberry Crème Brûlée 7


SMOKEJACK BBQ

Alpharetta

smokejackbbq.com

29 South Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009 PH: 770.410.7611

You want the best from-scratch barbecue in Atlanta. You want it in a relaxed and cozy setting. Welcome to Smokejack BBQ. Since 2004, this Alpharetta restaurant has been winning awards for its barbecue, and captivating the hearts of local diners. In a 180-year-old historic building, Smokejack charms with time-tested techniques. Based on the owner’s “barbecue tour” of the U.S., the menu spans traditions across the South, from Kansas City to Alabama. Start with an order of Fried Pickles served

Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm Sunday 11am-9pm Catering Takeout Delivery Group Dining Outdoor Seating

with spicy dipping sauce. If you like your “Q” served between bread, there are plenty of options, from the ultra-traditional Pulled Pork with Carolina barbecue sauce, to the new age “Tex Reubenstein” with brisket, Swiss, slaw, and Thousand Island. Smoked meats run the gamut from “Bama-style” chicken, to brisket, to burnt ends, and the kitchen smokes ribs twice daily. Having a party? Smokejack provides catering for all manner of occasions. Or, throw your party at Jack’s Attic, Smokejack’s upstairs private event space that can accommodate upwards of 80 with a full bar, flatscreens, and the world’s friendliest bartender.

sample menu selections appetizers:: Fried Pickles 5.75

Served with spicy dipping sauce

Fried Green Tomatoes 5.75

Field Greens Salad 5.95

Hickory-Smoked Turkey Melt 11.95

soups::

The Big Gunn 11.50

Cucumber, tomatoes, feta cheese, red onions, and lemon-oregano vinaigrette

Fried green tomatoes served with Creole mayo

Brunswich Stew cup 3.75; bowl 4.75

Smokejack Queso Dip 5.75

Chicken and Sausauge Gumbo cup 3.75; bowl 4.75

Pork or Chicken Nachos 10

Fresh salsa, sour cream, smoked jalapeño, and lettuce

Hand-Breaded Onion Rings 5.75

Hand-breaded and served with ranch dressing

Triple Bypass Fries pork 8.95; brisket 10.95

Smoked pork or brisket, Kansas City sauce, queso, cheddar and Jack cheeses, bacon, sour cream, and scallions

salads:: Pit Master Salad 10.95

Chicken or pork, romaine, cheddar and Jack cheeses, wonton strips, tomatoes, cucumbers, Kansas City barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing

Smoked Chicken Cobb Salad 11.95

Romaine, bacon, avocado, cheddar cheese, egg, tomato, and ranch dressing

sandwiches:: Pulled Pork 8.95

Carolina barbecue sauce

Smoked Pork Sausage 8.95

Pickled onions, jalapeños, and pasilla sauce on Texas toast

Chopped Beef Brisket Texas-Style 10.50 Pasilla barbecue sauce on Texas toast

“Cue” Bano 9.50

Pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and mayo

The “Tex Reubenstein” 11.95

Brisket, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Thousand Island dressing

Triple “B” 12.95

Angus beef patty, smoked beef brisket, applewoodsmoked bacon, horseradish mayo, lettuce, and pasilla sauce

Thick-cut turkey, fontina cheese, avocado, and scallion mayo on honey wheat bread Buttermilk fried chicken breast, smoked provolone, Carolina country ham, roasted pepper mayo, lettuce, and tomato

from the smoker:: Pulled Pork Shoulder 12.75 Substitute pulled chicken

Smoked Roasted Chicken quarter 10.75; half 13.50 Bama-Style Chicken quarter 10.75; half 13.50

Bone-in chicken that’s been smoked, flash-fried, and smothered in white barbecue sauce

Mojo Smoke Combo 19.75

Choose three: pulled pork shoulder, smoked sausage, smoke roasted chicken, sliced beef brisket, burnt ends, smoked turkey breast, or smoked wings

The Jack 36.95

1/4lb pulled pork, 1/4lb burnt ends, 1/4 roasted chicken, 1/4 rack pork spare ribs, 1/4 rack baby back ribs, and choice of four sides

www.diningout.com

73

73


Village Tavern features a scratch kitchen, where artisan recipes are prepared to order with top quality ingredients. The restaurant’s talented chefs use aged, hand-cut certified Angus beef, fresh seafood, and all-natural poultry and ground chuck to create a sure-to-please menu with delicious choices for everyone. Their craft bar offers patrons skillfully prepared cocktails with a remarkable wine and craft beers selection. Village Tavern was voted #1 Best Happy Hour, Best All-Around Restaurant, Best Fine Dining, Best Casual Dining, Best Family Dining, Best Patio Dining, and Best Business Lunch in Appen Media Group’s 2015 “Best of the Best” Contest.

74

74

www.diningout.com


VILLAGE TAVERN

Alpharetta

villagetavern.com

11555 Rainwater Drive Alpharetta, GA 30004 PH: 770.777.6490 FAX: 770.777.6492 Hours: Sunday and Monday 11am-9pm Tuesday-Thursday 11am-10pm Friday and Saturday 11am-11pm

sample menu selections

appetizers and small plates::

New York Strip 14oz 29.95

Ahi Tuna Sashimi 12.95

8oz filet, asparagus, jumbo lump crabmeat, and béarnaise

Seasame seared, with wasabi, soy, and sesameginger sauce

Thai Chicken Nachos 9.50

Spicy chicken, Thai peanut sauce, sweet peppers, snow peas, cilantro, scallions, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses

Hot Crab Dip 10.95

Blackfin crab meat, toasted garlic bread

Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs 9.95

Southern-style with our signaure tavern applewoodsmoked bacon

flatbreads:: Margherita 9.95

Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil

Mushroom and Goat Cheese 12.95

Herb oil, San Marzano tomatoes, goat cheeses, and sautéed cremini mushrooms

Brunch: Saturday and Sunday 11am-3pm Reservations Accepted

Stock Yards Certified Angus beef

Award-Winning

Steak Oscar 29.95

Daily Specials

fish market:: Grilled Tilapia 17.95

Mango-avocado salsa, rice pilaf, and green beans

Hong Kong-Style Chilean Sea Bass 28.95

Family-Friendly Large Parties Notable Wine List Outdoor Patio Dining Weekend Brunch

Line-caught, steamed in sweet ginger-soy and sesame oil; served with wilted spinach and sticky rice

Grouper Hemingway market price

White wine, lemon, tomatoes, capers, and angel hair pasta

pasta and chicken:: Cajun Seafood Fettuccine 19.95

Sautéed jumbo shrimp and New Bedford jumbo sea scallops tossed in Cajun cream sauce with andouille sausage and green and red peppers

Blackened Chicken Alfredo 16.95

Fettuccine, broccoli, tomatoes, and Asiago sauce

entrée salads:: Thai Chicken 12.50

Mixed cabbages, cucumbers, edamame, fried wontons, and lime-cilantro dressing; drizzled with Thai peanut dressing

Asian Tuna 14.95

Fresh center cut ahi tuna, carrots, snow peas, edamame, and sesame-ginger dressing

Grilled Chicken Spinach 13.95; substitute grilled Atlantic salmon 15.95 Bacon, tomatoes, apples, cranberries, candied pecans, sliced egg, blue cheese, and poppyseed dressing with grilled chicken

steakhouse steaks and prime rib::

Shrimp Scampi 16.50

White wine butter sauce, oregano, parsley, tomatoes, garlic, and angel hair pasta

burgers and sandwiches:: Pimiento Cheese Bacon Burger 13.50

Irish Kerrygold Dubliner cheese with pimientos, caramelized onions, and sugared applewood-smoked bacon

Blackened Salmon Sandwich 12.25

Lettuce, tomato, onion, Creole aïoli, and sesame seed bun

Reuben turkey 10.95; corned beef 11.95

Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Thousand Island, and rye bread

Tavern Burger 12.50

the “All Amercan” leaf lettuce, red onion, tomato, american cheese, and our “secret sauce”

Prime Rib with Au Jus 12oz 24.95; 16oz 27.95

house made desserts::

Filet Mignon 8oz 25.75; 10oz 28.95

Warm Butter Cake 7.50

Rib-Eye 14oz 26.75

Double-Decker Cheese Cake 7.75

Stock Yards Certified Angus beef Certified Angus beef

Stock Yards Certified Angus beef

Top Sirloin 10oz 22.50

Very Best Carrot Cake 7.25 St Barth’s Chocolate Torte 6.95

Executive Chef Mary Grace Viado Executive Chef Mary Grace Viado has worked at Village Tavern for nearly 15 years. Prior to joining the Village Tavern team, Viado fine-tuned her culinary skills by stage training at several top New York restaurants including: Restaurant Daniel, Aquavit, Le Cirque 2000, Aureole, Payard Patisserie and Bistro, Café des Artistes and Le Bernadin. Additional culinary experience includes working at several high-end hotels such as the Hotel Sainte Claire in San Jose and the Four Seasons in both New York City and Atlanta. A native of the Philippines, Viado graduated cum laude with a degree in hotel and restaurant administration from the University of the Philippines. She went on to attend the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) where she was awarded numerous scholarships during her time, including the prestigious James Beard Foundation Scholarship as well as the Culinary Institute of America Service Award, Culinary Institute of America President’s Scholarship, Guest Services Endowed Scholarship, Katharine Angell Scholastic Achievement Award and International Student Scholarship.

Certified Angus beef

www.diningout.com

75

75


TARAHUMATA MEXICAN GRILLE

Roswell

tarahumata.com

North Atlanta 12050 Windward Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30005 PH: 770.772.4540 FAX: 770.772.4584 Monday-Thursday 11am-10:30pm Friday and Saturday 11am-Midnight Sunday 11am-10pm

Tarahumata has become one of Atlanta’s favorite places to go and celebrate anything from a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or business lunch to dinners, corporate meetings, drinks after work, or just nice gatherings with your friends or family.

Reservations Accepted for Parties of Six or More

The restaurant is lauded for its architecture and style, carrying a distinct flair—bathed in the warm glow

Live Music and Entertainment Family-Friendly Catering and Takeout Available

of low-hanging lamps over very distinct colonial furniture. At the same time, the space is casual, fun, and festive. The signature dish is the Molcajete Texano, made with grilled cactus (yes, cactus), grilled steak, grilled chicken, grilled shrimp, grilled onions, molcajete salsa, black beans, Mexican sausage, and fresh tortillas. It takes 10-20 minutes to prepare to perfection, but it’s completely worth the wait. While you’re waiting, try one of the signature drinks—the Organic Margarita, made with fresh lime juice and organic agave nectar; the Jose Margarita, made with premium tequila and a secret recipe; or just one 150 tequilas from the modern, fully loaded bar.

sample menu selections antojitos y tapas::

enchiladas::

pollo::

Tarahumata Tapas Sampler

Enchiladas en Mole Verde o Rojo

Pollo Relleno

Grilled Hanger Steak

carnes::

del mar::

Molcajete de Arrachera

Salmon

Hanger steak, fried calamari aïoli, lamb chops, mini tosatadas, and camarones enteros; serves two or more Roasted potatoes, sautéed onions, queso fresco, and chimichurri sauce

Queso Fundido

Mexican cheese melted, chorizo, poblano peppers, and flour tortillas

Calamares

Fried calamari served with zucchini and red onions in a chipotle reduction

Lamb Chops

Mashed potatoes, chimichurri sauce, and balsamic vinaigrette

ensaladas:: Tarahumata Salad

Fresh romaine and homemade seasonal dressing; add steak, chicken, or shrimp

Smoked Salmon Salad

Hearts of romaine, onions, and tomatoes tossed in avocado sauce with spicy chipotle aïoli and crispy tortillas

76

76

www.diningout.com

Chicken enchilada basted in mole sauce; topped with Mexican cheese, onions, and sour cream

Sizzling grilled marinated steak, grilled cactus, green onions, Mexican cheese, and tomatillo sauce; served with Mexican sausage, black beans, and your choice of corn or flour tortillas

Arrachera

Outside skirt steak topped with green onions and served with a cheese-stuffed poblano pepper, charro beans, rice, and flour or corn tortillas

Alambres

Two skewers of your choice: seasoned skirt steak or chicken basted with tequila-chile ancho marinade; served on a bed of rice

Butterfly chicken breast filled with spinach, mushrooms, and Mexican cheese; covered with lemon sauce

With creamy lobster sauce, Mexican chorizo sausage, mashed potatoes, and spinach

Camarones del Delirio

Shrimp filled with smoked salmon, wrapped in bacon, and served with grilled pineapple and our special sauce

cerdo:: Cochinita Pibil

Slowly cooked pork in pibil sauce with red onion and habanero; served over a banana leaf with rice and beans

Chile Verde

Slowly cooked pork covered with green tomatillo sauce

Poblano de Carnitas

Fire-roasted poblano pepper filled with carnitas and served with charro beans


ZEAL RESTAURANT

Marietta

zealrestaurant.com

1255 Johnson Ferry Road #42 Marietta, GA 30068 PH: 678.401.7142

Marietta is host to some delicious eateries, but Zeal Restuarant definitely tops the list. Tucked away in East Cobb, Zeal is both modern and comfortable—a meeting place for friends,

Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30am-3pm Dinner: Monday-Thursday 3-10pm Friday and Saturday 3-11pm Sunday 3-9pm

family, and business folk. In the kitchen, the classics are updated with a twist or two, as evidenced by the

Weekend Brunch: 11am-3pm

delectable Duck Poutine, Fried Green Tomatoes with fig goat cheese, and Pistachio-Crusted Lamb Loin.

Reservations Can Be Made Online

Local and seasonal are, of course, the catch words here, and drive everything from first bites to dessert and everything in between. The wines are certainly no exception to the rule of quality, and run the gamut from easy-drinking whites to deep-charactered reds. There’s also an impressive bar program that tempts, and a healthy selection of craft beers to quench your thirst. Drop by for a snack, dinner, or weekend brunch and bring a crowd. You might even catch some live music—the perfect accompaniment for the happy, hungry buzz of the dining room.

Superb Lunches—Business, Casual, and Ladies Day Out Date Night—Pair Zeal’s Romantic Share Plates with an Extraordinary Bottle of Wine Ladies Night Out—Enjoy Yummy Hand-Crafted Cocktails with Delectable Flatbreads and Amazing Salads Gentlemen’s Night—Quench Your Thirst with Cold Craft Beer While Munching Chicken Lollipops and Saturday Burgers Monday-Wednesday—Wide Selection of Fine Wines for Only $25 per Bottle Thursdays—All Draught Craft Beers Only $5 Saturday and Sunday—Gourmet Brunch Choices in Addition to the Lunch Menu

sample menu selections starters::

rustic naan flatbreads::

Chicken Lollipops (GF) 9.50

Margherita 11

Coconut Curry PEI Mussels 12

Thai Ginger Chicken 12

Mango-chile sauce

Garlic buttered crostini

Duck Poutine (GF) 12

Marinara, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil Peanut sauce, daikon, red onion, carrots, red peppers, and cilantro

Grilled Pork Chop (GF) 25

Cider Dijon, herb roasted fingerling potatoes, and crispy leeks

Blue Cheese Tenderloin (GF) 22

Topped with blue cheese butter and wild mushroom risotto

Mediterranean Pasta 12

Duck Confit 14

Truffle mascarpone, leeks, and cranberries

Cavatappi pasta, squash, zucchini, sundried tomatoes, capers, red onion, goat cheese, and lemon cream sauce

bourbon burgers::

share plates::

served with your choice of french fries or seasonal slaw; upgrade to a zeal salad 2, zucchini fries 3

Pistachio-Crusted Lamb Lion 23

Old Fashion 11

Porter Short Ribs 17

Carrots, cucumber, red onion, apples, beets, cranberries, blue cheese, spiced walnuts, avocado, and creamy basil dressing

Saturday Burger 12

Shrimp ‘n’ Grits (GF) 17

Summer Asian Salad with SesameCrusted Ahi Tuna (GF) 12

Modern Burger 14

Duck confit, fries, gravy, and mozzarella

Tandoori Chicken and Lamb Skewers (GF) 11 Mint raita

salads:: add chicken 4, flatiron steak 7, shrimp 6, salmon 6, sesame-crusted ahi tuna 7

Kale Salad (GF) 9

Mixed greens, carrots, daikon radish, red peppers, red onion, jicama, sesame seeds, and wasabi vinaigrette

Black and Blue Salad (GF) 12

Mixed greens, balsamic-glazed flatiron steak, red ppepers, tomatoes, and red onion-white balsamic dressing

Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle Jalapeños, caramelized onions, mushrooms, provolone cheese, tomatoes, bacon, and herb mayo Arugula, fried green tomatoes, and fig goat cheese

entrées:: Georgia Trout 12

White balsamic couscous and honey-beet purée Mashed potatoes

Tasso and spicy tomato sauce

bar bites:: Curried Onion Rings (GF) 7 Spicy rémoulade

Garden Hummus 7

White balsamic couscous, golden raisins, and arugula

Roasted red peppers and garlic with carrots, celery, and lavosh

Grilled Salmon (GF) 20

Market Tacos market price

Honey Dijon sauce, sautéed squash, and zucchini

Market fish, vegetable slaw, spicy rémoulade, and flour tortilla www.diningout.com

77

77


|

restaurant index by amenity

AMENITY AWARD-WINNING ::

30 38 41 43 68 47 70 58 76 74 59

Antico Pizza Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse Red Sky Silver Skillet Restaurant Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

BAR SCENE :: 62 36 38 39 63 40 41 43 46 68 48 70 71 72 76 69 74

Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Cosmopolitan Crispina The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern McKendrick’s Steak House Nancy’s Chicago Pizza Red Sky Reel Seafood Secreto Kitchen and Bar Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern

BB’s Bronx Bagels No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Silver Skillet Restaurant Village Tavern

BREAKFAST :: 61 50 58 74

CATERING :: 34 62 35 63 41 43 65 67 70 73 54 76 59

Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar Cafe Circa Cosmopolitan The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar IPP’S Pastaria Bar Kouzina Christos Red Sky Smokejack BBQ Sun in My Belly Tarahumata Mexican Grille Wahoo! Grill

40 68 56

Crispina McKendrick’s Steak House Varuni Napoli

63 64 68 47 48 51 70 76 59

Cosmopolitan Grace 1720 McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse Nancy’s Chicago Pizza The Oceanaire Seafood Room Red Sky Tarahumata Mexican Grille Wahoo! Grill

COAL OR WOOD-FIRED OVEN ::

CORPORATE MEETING SPACE ::

78

D AILY SPECIALS :: 32 29 61 34 62 36 35 38 39 40 41 64 46 65 68 48 70 71 52 72 58 76 69 74 59 77

Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar BB’s Bronx Bagels Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Crispina The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar McKendrick’s Steak House Nancy’s Chicago Pizza Red Sky Reel Seafood Sear Secreto Kitchen and Bar Silver Skillet Restaurant Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill Zeal Restaurant

43 46 73

Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern Smokejack BBQ

Bellwoods Social House BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa City Winery Atlanta The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Grace 1720 Red Sky Tarahumata Mexican Grille

DELIVERY ::

ENTERTAINMENT :: 34 36 35 39 41 64 70 76

FAMILY-FRIENDLY :: 28 30 29 61 34 62 36 35 38 39 63 40 41 42 43 64 46 65 66 67 48 71 52 72 58 73 76 69 56 74

Anis Café & Bistro Antico Pizza Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar BB’s Bronx Bagels Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Cosmopolitan Crispina The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge EATS Atlanta Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar Keegan’s Public House Kouzina Christos Nancy’s Chicago Pizza Reel Seafood Sear Secreto Kitchen and Bar Silver Skillet Restaurant Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Varuni Napoli Village Tavern

59 77

Wahoo! Grill Zeal Restaurant

Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Varuni Napoli

FIREPLACE :: 34 62 64 56

PRIX-FIXE MENU AVAILABLE :: 64 68 52 76

Grace 1720 McKendrick’s Steak House Sear Tarahumata Mexican Grille

28 32 29 34 62 36 35 38 39 63 41 43 64 46 65 66 68 47 48 50 70 71 52 72 76 69 74 59 77

Anis Café & Bistro Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Cosmopolitan The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar Keegan’s Public House McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse Nancy’s Chicago Pizza No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Red Sky Reel Seafood Sear Secreto Kitchen and Bar Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill Zeal Restaurant

62 35 41 43 65 68 47 70 52 58 76 69 74 59

Bite Bistro & Bar Cafe Circa The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar IPP’S Pastaria Bar McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse Red Sky Sear Silver Skillet Restaurant Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

32 62 35 46 47 51 70 73 74 59

Atlantis Bite Bistro & Bar Cafe Circa Henry’s Midtown Tavern Morton’s The Steakhouse The Oceanaire Seafood Room Red Sky Smokejack BBQ Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

FULL BAR ::

GIFT CERTIFICATES ::

HAPPY HOUR ::

HEALTHY OPTIONS :: 29 35 41 42 46 67 70 71 52 58 69 74 59

Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Cafe Circa The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge EATS Atlanta Henry’s Midtown Tavern Kouzina Christos Red Sky Reel Seafood Sear Silver Skillet Restaurant The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

BB’s Bronx Bagels Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 IPP’S Pastaria Bar Red Sky Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

KIDS’ MENU :: 61 43 64 65 70 73 76 74 59

LARGE PARTIES :: 29 36 35 39 63 40 43 46 65 68 47 48 51 70 71 52 72 73 76 56 74 59

Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa City Winery Atlanta Cosmopolitan Crispina Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse Nancy’s Chicago Pizza The Oceanaire Seafood Room Red Sky Reel Seafood Sear Secreto Kitchen and Bar Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille Varuni Napoli Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

L ATE-NIGHT DINING :: 32 62 36 35 63 70

Atlantis Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Cosmopolitan Red Sky

28 32 34 62 36 35 39 41 64 70 73 76 77

Anis Café & Bistro Atlantis Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa City Winery Atlanta The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Grace 1720 Red Sky Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille Zeal Restaurant

LIVE MUSIC ::


restaurant index by amenity/cuisine OCALLY SOURCED/SEASONAL :: L 34 Bellwoods Social House 43 Eclectic Bistro & Bar 64 Grace 1720 68 McKendrick’s Steak House 51 The Oceanaire Seafood Room 72 Secreto Kitchen and Bar 58 Silver Skillet Restaurant 69 The Mill Kitchen & Bar 77 Zeal Restaurant

LOUNGE ATMOSPHERE :: 32 36 35

Atlantis BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa

76 74 77

Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern Zeal Restaurant

36 50 70 72 76 74

BQE Restaurant and Lounge No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Red Sky Secreto Kitchen and Bar Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern

62 35 41 76

NOTABLE BEER LIST ::

NOTABLE SPIRITS ::

NOTABLE VIEWS ::

Bite Bistro & Bar Cafe Circa The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Tarahumata Mexican Grille

NOTABLE WINE LIST :: 28 62 38 39 64 68 51 52 72 76 74 77

Anis Café & Bistro Bite Bistro & Bar Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Grace 1720 McKendrick’s Steak House The Oceanaire Seafood Room Sear Secreto Kitchen and Bar Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern Zeal Restaurant

OUTDOOR DINING: PATIO :: 28 29 34 62 38 39 63 40 41 43 64 46 65 66 70 71 72 73 76 69 74 59

Anis Café & Bistro Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Cosmopolitan Crispina The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar Keegan’s Public House Red Sky Reel Seafood Secreto Kitchen and Bar Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern Wahoo! Grill

OUTDOOR DINING: ROOFTOP :: 34 62 35

Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar Cafe Circa

28 32 29 39 68 50 51 52

Anis Café & Bistro Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar City Winery Atlanta McKendrick’s Steak House No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café The Oceanaire Seafood Room Sear

34 38 46 69

Bellwoods Social House Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern The Mill Kitchen & Bar

34 35 43 65 56

PARKING: VALET PARKING ::

PET-FRIENDLY ::

PRE OR POST-THEATER DINING :: Bellwoods Social House Cafe Circa Eclectic Bistro & Bar IPP’S Pastaria Bar Varuni Napoli

PRICING SPECIALS :: 70

Red Sky

63 40 64 48 50 71 76

Cosmopolitan Crispina Grace 1720 Nancy’s Chicago Pizza No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Reel Seafood Tarahumata Mexican Grille

63 40 43 64 48 50 71

Cosmopolitan Crispina Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Nancy’s Chicago Pizza No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Reel Seafood

68 47 50 51 52

McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café The Oceanaire Seafood Room Sear

62 36 35 63 46 65 51 70 72 76 74

Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Cosmopolitan Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar The Oceanaire Seafood Room Red Sky Secreto Kitchen and Bar Tarahumata Mexican Grille Village Tavern

PRIVATE DINING: UP TO TEN ::

PRIVATE DINING: TEN TO FIFTY ::

PRIVATE DINING: OVER FIFTY ::

SIGNATURE DRINKS ::

SPECIAL DIETARY OPTIONS AVAILABLE ::

64 65 70 74

Grace 1720 IPP’S Pastaria Bar Red Sky Village Tavern

TAKEOUT :: 29 61 34 62 36 35 63 40 41 42 43 64 46 65 66 67 48 50 70 58 73 76 69

Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar BB’s Bronx Bagels Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa Cosmopolitan Crispina The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge EATS Atlanta Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern IPP’S Pastaria Bar Keegan’s Public House Kouzina Christos Nancy’s Chicago Pizza No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Red Sky Silver Skillet Restaurant Smokejack BBQ Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar

28 35 63 42 64 65 50 70 58 76

Anis Café & Bistro Cafe Circa Cosmopolitan EATS Atlanta Grace 1720 IPP’S Pastaria Bar No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café Red Sky Silver Skillet Restaurant Tarahumata Mexican Grille

VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY ::

WEEKEND BRUNCH :: 32 29 34 36 38 43 46 50 69 74

Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Bellwoods Social House BQE Restaurant and Lounge Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern

CUISINE AMERICAN BISTRO ::

34 62 41 43 46 69 74

Bellwoods Social House Bite Bistro & Bar The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern The Mill Kitchen & Bar Village Tavern

AMERICAN GRILL :: 52 58 74

Sear Silver Skillet Restaurant Village Tavern

|

BARBECUE :: 73

Smokejack BBQ

35 42

Cafe Circa EATS Atlanta

35

Cafe Circa

28 61 63 43 64 46 69

Anis Café & Bistro BB’s Bronx Bagels Cosmopolitan Eclectic Bistro & Bar Grace 1720 Henry’s Midtown Tavern The Mill Kitchen & Bar

28

Anis Café & Bistro

Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Cafe Circa City Winery Atlanta Eclectic Bistro & Bar Red Sky Wahoo! Grill

CARIBBEAN ::

CENTRAL/LATIN AMERICAN :: CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN ::

FRENCH ::

FUSION/ECLECTIC/ WORLD CUISINE :: 29 35 39 43 70 59

GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS :: 70

Red Sky

GREEK :: 41 67

The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge Kouzina Christos

66

Keegan’s Public House

30 38 40 65 67 48 56

Antico Pizza Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar Crispina IPP’S Pastaria Bar Kouzina Christos Nancy’s Chicago Pizza Varuni Napoli

32 32 29 39 77

Atlantis Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar City Winery Atlanta Zeal Restaurant

IRISH ::

ITALIAN ::

MEDITERRANEAN ::

M EXICAN :: 50 No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café 76 Tarahumata Mexican Grille NUEVO SOUTHERN :: 36

BQE Restaurant and Lounge

Antico Pizza IPP’S Pastaria Bar Kouzina Christos Nancy’s Chicago Pizza

PIZZA :: 30 65 67 48

www.diningout.com

79


|

restaurant index by cuisine/location

SEAFOOD ::

35 51 71 59

Cafe Circa The Oceanaire Seafood Room Reel Seafood Wahoo! Grill

SOUTH AMERICAN :: 35

Cafe Circa

SOUTHERN ::

36 35 42 70 72 58 73

BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa EATS Atlanta Red Sky Secreto Kitchen and Bar Silver Skillet Restaurant Smokejack BBQ

59 77

Wahoo! Grill Zeal Restaurant

35 70

Cafe Circa Red Sky

68 47

McKendrick’s Steak House Morton’s The Steakhouse

SPANISH ::

STEAKHOUSE ::

80

TAPAS/SMALL PLATES :: 29 35 70

THAI ::

Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar Cafe Circa Red Sky

77

Zeal Restaurant

35

Cafe Circa

VEGAN/VEGETARIAN :: LOCATION ALPHARETTA ::

61 62 72 73 74

BB’s Bronx Bagels Bite Bistro & Bar Secreto Kitchen and Bar Smokejack BBQ Village Tavern

B ROOKHAVEN :: 41

The Downwind Restaurant & Lounge

28 32 29

Anis Café & Bistro Atlantis Basil’s Restaurant & Tapas Bar

50

No Mas! Cantina/Adios Café

BUCKHEAD ::

CASTLEBERRY ::

D ECATUR :: 54 59

Sun in My Belly Wahoo! Grill

36 35 44 47 48 52

BQE Restaurant and Lounge Cafe Circa The League Tavern Morton’s The Steakhouse Nancy’s Chicago Pizza Sear

68

McKendrick’s Steak House

63 67

Cosmopolitan Kouzina Christos

70 77

Red Sky Zeal Restaurant

30 34 38 39 40 42 43 46

Antico Pizza Bellwoods Social House Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar City Winery Atlanta Crispina EATS Atlanta Eclectic Bistro & Bar Henry’s Midtown Tavern

DOWNTOWN ::

DUNWOODY/PERIMETER :: MARIETTA ::

MIDTOWN ::

51 58 56

The Oceanaire Seafood Room Silver Skillet Restaurant Varuni Napoli

64

Grace 1720

66 76 69

Keegan’s Public House Tarahumata Mexican Grille The Mill Kitchen & Bar

65 71

IPP’S Pastaria Bar Reel Seafood

PEACHTREE CORNERS :: ROSWELL ::

WOODSTOCK ::


THE

SPICE

lastbite OF

ATLANTA LIVING How THE SHED’S JUSTIN DIXON found his inspiration—and his notoriety

When Justin Dixon talks about his past, it’s laced with an attractive humility—a simple collection of stories and happenstances that led, ultimately, to his place at the helm of The Shed in Glenwood. But Dixon’s story paints a picture not just of his own journey, but of Atlanta and its dynamic culinary growth through the years. DiningOut sat down with the veteran chef recently for a little of our own inspiration—and a peak into the future. DININGOUT: Some chefs claim that they found the kitchen as infants before they could learn to walk. Is that your story? CHEF DIXON: [Laughs] Not quite. I started cooking when I was seven, largely because I grew up in a family of cooks—my mom, my dad, my aunt. My mom would cook daily meals, but my aunt was the one in charge of big feasts like those for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I started washing dishes and chopping vegetables for her early on.

What was the first complete meal you made by yourself? I dabbled in breakfast before any other meal. So, my first creation was scrambled eggs, sausage, and Eggo waffles. And after you had moved on to other meals, what was your repertoire? Well, as it turns out, my mom worked two shifts, so I began cooking for the family out of necessity when I was about 11 or 12. And my meals weren’t gourmet—canned veggies, pasta, macaroni and cheese. Stuff a 12-year-old could handle. When did you finally venture out into restaurant kitchens? I started off at Subway in high school, but after graduating and moving on to the Art Institute of Atlanta, I took a job at Pano’s and Paul’s—a French restaurant with a loyal following. I’m assuming you moved beyond sandwich making there? Eventually. I started making sandwiches and desserts, then eventually moved up to the fry station, where I fried lobster tails. Lots and lots of lobster tails. Did you eventually move to a different station? Actually, I moved to a different restaurant. I

needed new challenges. So, I started at Spice Market in the W Hotel. It was an Asian fusion concept, and I was able to work every station. The whole restaurant was completely different; Pano’s and Paul’s was French, and Spice Market was this medley of Thai, Vietnamese, Cantonese, and Indian cuisines. It was a 180-degree shift. Was there something in particular about that experience that spoke to you? We were cooking Asian cuisine, but we were using a lot of the French techniques I learned at Pano’s and Paul’s. I enjoyed that combination. I also got a good sense of cleanliness and organization. And while I loved it, they let me go in 2010 because the economy was tanking. What did you do to get yourself back on your feet? At that time in Atlanta, there were probably 100 cooks for every job. And as I didn’t have much experience, things were really tough. So I bounced around casual restaurants until I finally started working at Yeah! Burger. At that time, burger joints were all the range—Yeah! even had a line out the door when they first opened. One thing I learned there was that food doesn’t have to be so serious. You can still put out top-notch food without sending it out to white tablecloth dining rooms with tuxedo servers. From there, I moved to Alabama for a bit to get away, and to find some new inspiration. I worked at a restaurant called Roux—a Cajun-Creole concept. It reinvigorated me so much—the fresh ingredients, the culinary creativity—that I decided to move back to Atlanta and pursue my dream of being a chef in my own kitchen. At this point, you had enough experience to land some serious positions in Atlanta, I imagine. Yeah, I was much more experienced. I started

www.diningout.com

81


lastbite

working at a restaurant called Local 3. I think every chef has that one restaurant in their careers where they experience an “ah-hah” moment about cooking—the revelation that you’re no longer a cook, but a chef. For me, that was Local 3. I couldn’t tell you what it was, but that’s when it happened. So I got serious about food and immersed myself—I read books, visited different restaurants. I ate, slept, and breathed food. The trouble was, I couldn’t climb the ladder at Local 3. So, through a series of events, I ended up briefly at a restaurant called Spence run by a former chef of mine. When he left and the owners reconcepted the restaurant, I decided to move on again. This time, landing at The Shed. Yep. But I didn’t know Cindy [the owner]. I actually posted my resume on Craigslist, and she called me the next day. I started in November 2015, and the rest is history. Tell us about the concept. Our guiding goal is to be a neighborhood restaurant, so I just try to cook food that I think people will enjoy. I want this place to be a meeting place for friends, a showcase of true Atlanta food, a home away from home. That said, it’s important to know that everyone in my kitchen has a seat at the table and contributes to the menu. All our names are on the menus we print, because everybody has a say in what we create. Would you say, loosely, that the food is American comfort fare? It’s a hodgepodge. I’m still trying to figure out exactly how to define our cuisine, to be honest. So far, we’re just focused on making good food. I mean, there are at least six different cuisines represented on our menu at any given time, so I guess it’s a global menu? [Laughs] That’s fair. But if you’re not pulling from a specific tradition, then what’s your inspiration? What’s in season, what’s cool, what I eat. Sometimes, I’m inspired by food trends or what other restaurants are doing. Or, maybe it’s a dish I made at 82

another restaurant and I want to reintroduce it with my own spin. Or it’s a meal from a TV show or cookbook. Sometimes, we even make dishes that are suggestions from guests. Does that mean the menu is constantly changing? Oh yes. We have a new menu every day. But not everything changes—we have four or five core dishes that remain because diners love them. For example, we have a Steak and Eggs feature that’s a new take on deviled eggs—beef tartare tucked in a hard-cooked egg white topped with whipped yolk. Then, of course, we have our Burger, the Kale Caesar, and for dessert, the Chocolate Ding-Dong with cream filling. They’re all popular. And what does the future look like at The Shed? How do you build on these signatures? We just started a housemade charcuterie program, actually. It’s in its maiden voyage, so we’ll be building that up over time. One of my line cooks is also starting to make batches of fresh pasta in house. And we have a new pastry chef on board, so there’s lots happening. Oh, and we’re also going to be launching a pantry program on our website, where people can order typical kitchen pantry items—like chicken stock, soup, cookie dough, pie crusts, and so on—and pick them up at the restaurant. With such a hectic schedule and constantly changing culinary offerings, do you get any time away from the kitchen? I have Mondays off, and I usually spend those days at other restaurants—trying food that’s new and different. There are a lot of smaller restaurants opening in the city now, which I think is pretty cool. They’re casual, but the food is outstanding—Michelin-quality in some cases. Plus, Atlanta is going through a generational change. Our well-known, older chefs are leaving the kitchen, and younger chefs are taking over. It’ll be exciting to see how that plays out.

You can visit The Shed online at THESHEDATGLENWOOD.COM, or take a peak at its sister concept, The Pig & the Pearl, at THEPIGANDTHEPEARL.COM.




Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.