http://www.flighttapasathens.com/
225 North Lumpkin Street
Athens, GA 30601
Katy and I wanted to visit my brother and sister-in-law in Athens for something new. April recommended Flight because she knew one of our favorite ways to dine was with an abundance of tapas and scores of wine. This bar allows diners to enjoy "flights" of wine, which are your choice of three generous samples to compliment your tapas preferences.
To accompany our bold flights of red wine, we selected the edamame, tempura fried rock shrimp, steak tartare, and the spring rolls among others. Never having tried steak tartare, I curiously ordered it and was pleasantly surprised by the immense flavors...although, the spring rolls trumped the various contenders.
The exposed brick walls were a rustic background to the local art that hung for sale, which was as pleasing to the eyes as the food was to the palate. Located next to what remains of the original Georgia Theater, Flight brings metropolitan character to this small college town.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Farm Burger
http://www.farmburger.net/
410b W. Ponce de Leon
Decatur, GA 30030
Anxious to return to Decatur for what I knew would be a fabulous dining experience, I remembered someone recommending Farm Burger. Realizing this was a sister restaurant to Farm 255 (in Athens), where my brother's rehearsal dinner was held, I was confident I would walk away 100% satisfied. Both restaurant's mission is to serve local, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients.
This earthy atmosphere focuses mainly on providing its patrons with unique burgers accompanied with traditional "snacks" including french fries, onion rings, and fried chicken livers to name a few. The menu presents diners with six standard burger options, but be sure to check out the daily chalkboard specials. You might find that you've adopted the nonconformist mentality of the locals and decide to build your own.
After perusing the menu, Katy and I opted for two burgers that caught our eyes from the chalkboard. The bright yellow heirloom tomato and goat cheese burger ranks #1 as Katy's favorite burger in Atlanta, where gourmet burgers are all the rage. My marinated mushroom and arugula burger was exceptional as well.
Ready for a Farm Burger but don't have time to graze in house? No worries, call it in for pick-up 404.378.5077.
410b W. Ponce de Leon
Decatur, GA 30030
Anxious to return to Decatur for what I knew would be a fabulous dining experience, I remembered someone recommending Farm Burger. Realizing this was a sister restaurant to Farm 255 (in Athens), where my brother's rehearsal dinner was held, I was confident I would walk away 100% satisfied. Both restaurant's mission is to serve local, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients.
This earthy atmosphere focuses mainly on providing its patrons with unique burgers accompanied with traditional "snacks" including french fries, onion rings, and fried chicken livers to name a few. The menu presents diners with six standard burger options, but be sure to check out the daily chalkboard specials. You might find that you've adopted the nonconformist mentality of the locals and decide to build your own.
After perusing the menu, Katy and I opted for two burgers that caught our eyes from the chalkboard. The bright yellow heirloom tomato and goat cheese burger ranks #1 as Katy's favorite burger in Atlanta, where gourmet burgers are all the rage. My marinated mushroom and arugula burger was exceptional as well.
Ready for a Farm Burger but don't have time to graze in house? No worries, call it in for pick-up 404.378.5077.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Pozole Restaurant
http://www.pozolerestaurant.com/
1044 Greenwood Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA. 30306
Situated at Virginia Highlands in Atlanta, this haven for Mexican food brings a kick. Its casual scene quickly turns into a party as the tequila and happy hour(s) extend through the night. They are particularly known for their fifteen or so different margaritas at hand, but when I visit, only one is on my mind....the Jalapeno Margarita. Made with real jalapeno juice, it encompasses all that you look for in an award winning margarita with some heat; although, if you're going to have more than just two or three, you'd better bring the Pepcid AC.
The food at Pozole is what you would expect from a latino nuevo restaurant, good...but nothing that will blow your mind, albeit I have only tried the tacos (pork, beef, chicken, and Tilapia). Here is your warning though, ALL TACOS COME IN CORN TORTILLAS! I know it may be more "authentic", but I can't help it, flour tortillas taste superior.
For me, Pozole Restaurant is a place to dine for a late dinner and drinks with a group before going out somewhere else in the Highlands (Blind Willie's for live blues). It is fun and they have specials most nights of the week. If you don't feel like walking around the Highlands, stay at Pozole, they are open until 2:30am and I'm sure you can keep busy trying to tackle the 50+ tequilas...bottoms up!
1044 Greenwood Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA. 30306
Situated at Virginia Highlands in Atlanta, this haven for Mexican food brings a kick. Its casual scene quickly turns into a party as the tequila and happy hour(s) extend through the night. They are particularly known for their fifteen or so different margaritas at hand, but when I visit, only one is on my mind....the Jalapeno Margarita. Made with real jalapeno juice, it encompasses all that you look for in an award winning margarita with some heat; although, if you're going to have more than just two or three, you'd better bring the Pepcid AC.
The food at Pozole is what you would expect from a latino nuevo restaurant, good...but nothing that will blow your mind, albeit I have only tried the tacos (pork, beef, chicken, and Tilapia). Here is your warning though, ALL TACOS COME IN CORN TORTILLAS! I know it may be more "authentic", but I can't help it, flour tortillas taste superior.
For me, Pozole Restaurant is a place to dine for a late dinner and drinks with a group before going out somewhere else in the Highlands (Blind Willie's for live blues). It is fun and they have specials most nights of the week. If you don't feel like walking around the Highlands, stay at Pozole, they are open until 2:30am and I'm sure you can keep busy trying to tackle the 50+ tequilas...bottoms up!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Treehouse Restaurant and Pub
http://www.treehouseatlanta.com/
7 Kings Circle
Atlanta, GA 30305
Tucked away in Peachtree Hills, Treehouse has got to be one of Buckhead's best kept secrets. Whether it be for Date Night, Sunday brunch, or Happy Hour, Treehouse is bound to satisfy your craving. Newcomers welcome, however you'll soon find you've become one of the regulars...and don't forget to bring your canine companions who are invited to relax with you on the expansive front porch. Definitely one of the best in town.
For those who decide to skip church and make it to brunch, the Eggs Sardou is an unparalleled breakfast dish. The South of the Border Frittata served in your personal iron skillet is a savory breakfast treat as well! The brunch potatoes round out the meal, but no Sunday morning here is complete without the White Peach Mimosa.
Lunch and Dinner menus extend ordinary pub options executed with extraordinary taste. If forced to choose, brunch is my favorite dining experience but nothing compares to a Summer night, sharing a drink on the Treehouse porch with friends.
7 Kings Circle
Atlanta, GA 30305
Tucked away in Peachtree Hills, Treehouse has got to be one of Buckhead's best kept secrets. Whether it be for Date Night, Sunday brunch, or Happy Hour, Treehouse is bound to satisfy your craving. Newcomers welcome, however you'll soon find you've become one of the regulars...and don't forget to bring your canine companions who are invited to relax with you on the expansive front porch. Definitely one of the best in town.
For those who decide to skip church and make it to brunch, the Eggs Sardou is an unparalleled breakfast dish. The South of the Border Frittata served in your personal iron skillet is a savory breakfast treat as well! The brunch potatoes round out the meal, but no Sunday morning here is complete without the White Peach Mimosa.
Lunch and Dinner menus extend ordinary pub options executed with extraordinary taste. If forced to choose, brunch is my favorite dining experience but nothing compares to a Summer night, sharing a drink on the Treehouse porch with friends.
The Real Chow Baby
http://www.therealchowbaby.com/
1016 Howell Mill Road Suite A
Atlanta GA 30318
This is one of those places where there is nothing fine dining about it, yet I can't say enough to give it justice. The concept is genius...all you can eat stir fry bar! It's no wonder why this place is always booming and has been previously voted Best First Date Restaurant in Atlanta, among other awards. $12.00 to choose from a plethora of fresh vegetables, sauces, meats, seafood, and seasonings on top of your desired rice or noodles. Want it as a soup? Done. How about a wrap? No problem. You pick it, they fix it. No such thing as a picky eater here, even vegetarians can't complain!
If you get something and it isn't your favorite, don't fret...put it aside and grab a new plate, it's still All You Can Eat and still $12.00! Just remember, if you visit this visionary restaurant for the first time (or many times as I have) and you somehow walk away not satisfied...you only have yourself to blame.
1016 Howell Mill Road Suite A
Atlanta GA 30318
This is one of those places where there is nothing fine dining about it, yet I can't say enough to give it justice. The concept is genius...all you can eat stir fry bar! It's no wonder why this place is always booming and has been previously voted Best First Date Restaurant in Atlanta, among other awards. $12.00 to choose from a plethora of fresh vegetables, sauces, meats, seafood, and seasonings on top of your desired rice or noodles. Want it as a soup? Done. How about a wrap? No problem. You pick it, they fix it. No such thing as a picky eater here, even vegetarians can't complain!
If you get something and it isn't your favorite, don't fret...put it aside and grab a new plate, it's still All You Can Eat and still $12.00! Just remember, if you visit this visionary restaurant for the first time (or many times as I have) and you somehow walk away not satisfied...you only have yourself to blame.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Iberian Pig
www.iberianpigatl.com
121 Sycamore Street
Decatur, GA 30030
About a week after Via, I asked Katy out on a second date, fortunately, she agreed. She had the genius idea to eat at Iberian Pig, recommended by her brother. THANK YOU RUSTY! In the heart of the Decatur restaurant scene, this place definitely sets itself apart with its unique Spanish influenced tapas. Enjoying our seasonal Sangria Blanca, we gazed upon the menu and pondered how to choose the best meal for us.
Here's what we came up with:
-Tocino con Manzana - As an avid watcher and wannabe Top Chef, last season's Atlanta native Kevin Gillespie was praised and noted for his pork belly (we'll get to his later). I had never tried pork belly, but after tonight's meal, it is my favorite food; now I have to order it wherever I see it. The huge flavor is packed in two bites that melt in your mouth and leave you craving like a junkie.
-Pork Cheek Tacos- If I were to go back and could have only 1 item on the menu this would be the one. Crunchy shell, tender pork, cool avocado, corn with a kick, and refreshing lime juice make this a reason in itself to stop.
-Albondigas- Wild boar meatballs with a kick...exhilarating!
-Braised Veal Shank Ravioli-Normally, not something I would order but took the chance and am glad I did.
-Esperragos con Moscatel- With all these meat dishes, we had to get veggies and what better than asparagus in moscatel wine, shaved cheese, and of course....ham.
I recommend this restaurant and will surely venture back here in the future. The Decatur atmosphere is fun, staff was very friendly and prices manageable. 4 Stars.
121 Sycamore Street
Decatur, GA 30030
About a week after Via, I asked Katy out on a second date, fortunately, she agreed. She had the genius idea to eat at Iberian Pig, recommended by her brother. THANK YOU RUSTY! In the heart of the Decatur restaurant scene, this place definitely sets itself apart with its unique Spanish influenced tapas. Enjoying our seasonal Sangria Blanca, we gazed upon the menu and pondered how to choose the best meal for us.
Here's what we came up with:
-Tocino con Manzana - As an avid watcher and wannabe Top Chef, last season's Atlanta native Kevin Gillespie was praised and noted for his pork belly (we'll get to his later). I had never tried pork belly, but after tonight's meal, it is my favorite food; now I have to order it wherever I see it. The huge flavor is packed in two bites that melt in your mouth and leave you craving like a junkie.
-Pork Cheek Tacos- If I were to go back and could have only 1 item on the menu this would be the one. Crunchy shell, tender pork, cool avocado, corn with a kick, and refreshing lime juice make this a reason in itself to stop.
-Albondigas- Wild boar meatballs with a kick...exhilarating!
-Braised Veal Shank Ravioli-Normally, not something I would order but took the chance and am glad I did.
-Esperragos con Moscatel- With all these meat dishes, we had to get veggies and what better than asparagus in moscatel wine, shaved cheese, and of course....ham.
I recommend this restaurant and will surely venture back here in the future. The Decatur atmosphere is fun, staff was very friendly and prices manageable. 4 Stars.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
VIA
www.viarestaurant.net
262 Pharr Road
Atlanta, GA 30305
A friend recommended Via as a trendy restaurant and a fun atmosphere for a first date...with brick oven pizza. Sold on the idea of gourmet pizza, this is exactly where we went. Because we went during the week, we were dining earlier than usual and walked in to this local spot to be greeted by loud, Jersey-Shore music, a dark ambiance, and MAYBE two other diners. Embarrassed, yet hungry, we took our seats and scoured the menu.
Knowing immediately that we were going to split the Spicy Coppa Ham and Pineapple pizza-her favorite-we decided to start with the lemon and jalapeño glazed Fried Calamari, which was superb. Our pizza came out arousing the senses: with an array of colors it was not only visually appealing, the aroma and taste were noteworthy as well. While the flavors were reminiscent of Hawaii, the evening soundtrack brought us right back to the Jersey Shore.
With the buffalo mozzarella cheese still bubbling and the crispy crust lathered in San Marzano Tomato sauce, the combination of pineapple and spicy ham cooked in a massive brick oven takes Via's 'Hawaiian Pizza' to new levels.
262 Pharr Road
Atlanta, GA 30305
A friend recommended Via as a trendy restaurant and a fun atmosphere for a first date...with brick oven pizza. Sold on the idea of gourmet pizza, this is exactly where we went. Because we went during the week, we were dining earlier than usual and walked in to this local spot to be greeted by loud, Jersey-Shore music, a dark ambiance, and MAYBE two other diners. Embarrassed, yet hungry, we took our seats and scoured the menu.
Knowing immediately that we were going to split the Spicy Coppa Ham and Pineapple pizza-her favorite-we decided to start with the lemon and jalapeño glazed Fried Calamari, which was superb. Our pizza came out arousing the senses: with an array of colors it was not only visually appealing, the aroma and taste were noteworthy as well. While the flavors were reminiscent of Hawaii, the evening soundtrack brought us right back to the Jersey Shore.
With the buffalo mozzarella cheese still bubbling and the crispy crust lathered in San Marzano Tomato sauce, the combination of pineapple and spicy ham cooked in a massive brick oven takes Via's 'Hawaiian Pizza' to new levels.
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