We usually pick up a large order of their divine garlic knots for parties, and decided to give their pizza a try. Disguisting. The sauce was flat with no flavor or bite and the cheese was greasy. Almost like they add a cheap cheese to stretch the dollar. The crust was good, but my mushroom piece was so oily, I could not eat it. The Greek salad was great. The restaurant carpet is filthy and they had friends who brought in a bag of beer and were standing around drinking it. We won’t be back for pizza, but will for takeout garlic knots. The best pizza in Marietta is Rosa’s (location downtown Atlanta & Sandy Plains/Shallowford). In Atlanta, Fellini’s is the best on most days. Funny this place is getting an article when there is so much better and cleaner in Atlanta.
Have you tried the Cabot Dairies’ Greek-style yogurts? The flavored, whole-milk ones? Bangin’. I love the vanilla the best; it’s flecked with vanilla beans and just….guh.
I also enjoy the same variety you have pictured above, with either a local kudzu honey, or (don’t laugh) lingonberry concentrate from Ikea.
PT has been raving about him for a while now; she finally invited me to one of his tastings which seem to be so much fun. Looking forward to going and biting the hell out of his pizza!!!
I agree the place isn’t much to look at, and the pizza gets oily. It does have an admirable crust. I’m not sure it’s worth a long excursion, but definitely one to try if you live nearby.
The other businesses in that part of Inman Park seem to be doing well so I’m kind of surprised. I’ve been to the cigar bar there and there’s always a good crowd, but the Grape always looked empty.
Please let them realize they need to take down those hideous awnings or surely they’ll gain the moniker “Purple Taqueria.” Concerned Inman Park citizen.
That is great! I used to work in alpharetta and the ONLY thing I miss is eating at Pure Taqueria. They have some great mexican food. Yes, really almost true mexican, not tex-mex. The Original El Taco better watch out….
Terry – Agreed. That purple awning says Grape soda more than wine. It was really funny when the place opened and I went to sit down and have a glass of wine with Usher for the story and everything was purple — the walls, the furniture, even Usher’s clothes. It felt a little like wandering onto the set of HR Pufnstuf…
[...] dinners held throughout the city and featuring meals from the nation’s top chefs, including Scott Peacock. Daniel Boulud and Lidia Bastianich were also in attendance. According to one eyewitness report, [...]
[...] Givenchi Antonio wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptThough no local Japanese restaurants currently advertise themselves as izakaya per se, a few do have appealing menus that tilt in that direction. The new menu at Sushi House Hayakawa in Doraville has a lengthy selection of “appetizers” … [...]
Thanks for the post Jeff. The BBQ Boys had a great time in Atlanta. Prior to our journey, we researched the BBQ meccas of the South..Memphis, The Carolinas, and other random spots. Unforunately, Atlanta did not come up. But after our journey and a visit to Fox Bros Bar-B-Q, it should be among that list of heavyweights. Fox Bros is a fairly new joint that guarantees unique dishes (I suggest the Tominator) with a friendly, life is good attitude. The Ribs were amazing, the Mac and Cheese was better than your momma’s, and the banana pudding sinfully pleases the palate. If I had to make any suggestion from this 17 day journey, I would instruct any person who thinks they love ‘Cue to check out Fox Bros. I think this is their link: http://www.foxbrosbbq.com/
Also, our journey is almost over but we are still taking recommendations for a possible second trip and any BBQ fanatic will enjou our reviews of each BBQ Boys stop. Check it out at http://www.southernbbqboys.com Happy Eating! BSC BBQ Boys
You can get this just about anywhere these days at Hispanic or Asian supermarkets. I’ve tried the samples and it’s sweeter but refreshing than you’d expect.
I find it strange that anyone would make a cocktail with Aloe juice. Aloe juice is often used to relieve constipation. Laxatives are the last thing people need when they’ve been drinking.
Yes, Mr. Kessler, have been an avid reader of your restaurant reviews in the past. Hopefully I will be one of the suppliers to Josh when The Abattoir comes to life. Lee Farms is in Lamar County and is the home of Epicuristic Southern Veal. I have had the pleasure of working with Ford Fry, Linton Hopkins, Patrick Gebrayel and Ron Eyster and their help has been invaluable to me. Please email me, I would like to send you some further information about our very, very small business. I am 72 years old and this is a labor of love for me, I grew up in Oklahoma and breaded veal cutlets with white cream gravy and real mashed potatoes was a mainstay in our home and all really good restaurants. We just harvested our first animal from our new Mennonite abattoir and I would be proud to sample you with some cutlets for your family. They are not tenderized and are cut from both the chuck and the round. I look forward to hearing from you. Please forgive the length of the email, but old men do like to ramble…. Best regards Elliott Shimley
Looks great, it’s added to the list! I’ve been really eager to eat some Korean food lately. Where else do you like to go? Chow Down Atlanta tells me she knows all the bomb Korean places!
She’s your best hook-up for Korean…that girl really seems to know her stuff. But anyhow, here’s my list:
BCD Well-Bean Tofu: next to Bonjuk…good soon dubu, but they have an amazing version of kimchijjin — kind of a hot pot with pork belly, tofu, dried mushrooms and a huge honking piece of chinese cabbage kimchi (like a whole half cabbage) that they cut into the broth…i dream of this dish…
So Kong Dong (BuHi) and Book Chang Dong (Duluth): sisters restaurants that serve the best soon dubu in my opinion. love the fried fish that come with the panchan
Place in Nukoa Plaza (Duluth): Decorated with movie posters, specializes in sulung tang (beef bone soup)…really off the chart…
Hanil Kwan: Probably the best overall Korean spot on BuHi…Jen at Blissful Glutton turned me on to this one…
Chosun Ok: Our family favorite for barbecue…love the way the back barbecue room is so cold and you only unthaw when they bring the live coals…so many of our kids have had parties here it’s like the Kessler version of Chuck E Cheese…super nice staff…
Tairyou: Korean sushi bar on BuHi…I go there only for hwe dup bop, the sashimi salad
Chung Dam (Duluth): new owners have really brought good cooking to this fancy spot in the Super H plaza…don’t know the name, but stewed, bone-in mackeral dish, jap chae (clear noodle stir fry) and yuk hwe (raw beef with garlic and pear) are great…
Wow, Pure Taqueria is fun and funky with really great Mexican food and a MUCH better fit for the neighborhood than the Grape. Looking forward to those margaritas!
Despite what anyone might say or think, you need to spend an hour or two at the hottest spot for cocktails in Atlanta…THE CHOCOLATE BAR on Ponce de Leon in downtown Decatur! Outside of being a favorite out-of-the-ordinary quaint little place to relax for celebrities like Outkast’s Andre 3000, several Falcon’s players & several business executives; it is also a popular spot for common everyday people! Their one-of-a-kind specialty drinks & homemade sweets are a perfect combination for topping off a romantic evening with a special person. THE CHOCOLATE BAR is also a great place to meet fun & interesting new people!
We actually introduced this product in the Fall, and sales are going very well. We were waiting for retail distribution to build before spreading the word, and given the many questions that arose surrounding which PB products were safe and which weren’t, we decided to address that issue (that we’re safe) within the context of the new product announcement. So yes, please enjoy one. While it does have 170 calories (worth every one of them in my sort-of-biased opinion), it actually has no trans fats.
Thanks for responding, Tory. Your dated press release suggests that the product was introduced on the 26th, so please forgive my misunderstanding. I’ll edit the text above.
I’m confused about the trans fats: the ingredients list “partially hydrogenated vegetable oils” and “partially hydrogenated palm kernel & cottonseed oils.” Are not hydrogenated fats trans fats by their very nature?
[...] salmonella cases from tainted peanut butter mostly in Northeast Ohio at blog.cleveland.com. Talk about lousy timing at blogs.ajc.com. Share This [...]
This sort of thing drives me BATTY, though sometimes the typos are quite funny. Think I could make a living by offering my editing services to local chefs?
Tofu Village in Marietta has become a recent fav of mine. Their name makes them sound like a Soon-Dubu Jip but it’s actually an all encompassing traditional Korean restaurant. They make their own tofu and everything I have had here is delicious…
Along Buford highway it can be endemic. Looking at the entries for “gilled chicken,” “pork vittles” and other gaffes can be entertaining and sometimes more accurate than the correct spelling. My friends and I are usually more amused by these types of bad spell checks.
Sounds like a vegetarian reviewing a new steak house. I love dirty martinis and have only heard good things about Dirty Sue. Will have to try it for sure!
Indeed. A dirty-martini-loving colleague at the paper told me the same thing, so I gave her the other bottle to try out. She says she’ll post a comment here.
Oops! I’ll change that right away! Thanks for the catch, Julie. And if anyone can supply me with photographic proof of a funny menu misspelling (i.e., a cell pic is fine), I’d love to keep this going as a regular feature.
John’s dirty-martini-loving colleague here. And my verdict is … not bad at all. I made mine with vodka. The aroma was olive, but to me, the taste itself was predominantly salty. Hmm …. or maybe that’s always the case with my dirty martinis; I had just never been asked to analyze one before. Would I buy Dirty Sue? I wouldn’t rule it out, especially as John said, for a party. Bottom line: MY drink didn’t get poured down the drain!
This isn’t a misspelling, but for some reason it triggered a menu misunderstanding. Several years ago, while reciting the dinner specials to a table, I gave a description of the diver scallops. After my spiel, one of the diners very ernestly asked, ” What about the scallops make them so diverse?”
At the risk of making one of my favorite hideouts too popular, I’d have to add The Book House Pub on Ponce to this list. The beautiful natural wood creates a cozy setting that’s perfect for enjoying the great collection of high-octane brews on tap and in bottles. The eclectic menu includes duck confit and even collard green eggrolls. Now where can you find that? Definitely worth a visit.
I can’t begin to say how wonderful Nantucket Bay scallops are ….. they make regular, daily scallops taste like paste …. I know that sounds insane, but there is such a distinct taste between the two.
That’s funny, Shannon. Here are my two favorites. A menu at Sfuzzi (remember that place?) misspelled “haricots verts” as “hairy coverts.” Another Italian restaurant in Denver offered “fresh Italian prostitute.” The manager blamed it on the spell checker…
Glorified fern bars. With the loss of Peeler’s Inman Park Delicatessen (does anybody remember Peeler’s?) and the joint that used to face across Seminole in L5P (not the L5P Pub, but the old one with the big picture window and the guy at the bar smoking cigarettes through his tracheotomy tube and the pool tables in the back), the last place to get a beer and not be bothered by the 20th Century, much less the 21st, is Moe’s & Joes.
I enjoy 5 Seasons. Simple as that. The food and the beers are right up my alley.
And I don’t feel like I’m trapped in some trendy “anti-trendy” place full of folks who find obscurity to be some requisite partner to quality.
Brick Store on the Decatur square is the perfect pub. Simple menu, fresh and very good beers on draft, proper glassware, and a proud staff which knows their beer. Add all that to a space of old brick and exposed wood with no TVs, neon, and obnoxious noisy music and you have a perfect local for pints after work.
I’m kind of into good restaurants that put some thought into the beer list — places like Cakes & Ale in Decatur and Muss & Turner’s in Smyrna. But I really want to check out the Book House Pub…
Muss & Turner didn’t make the list? Can’t really respect it if this gem isn’t on it. Quantity of beers pales in comparison to a well-honed menu AND a staff of “beer sommeliers” who can accurately describe the selections and make complementary menu selections. Hooray for M&T!
Manuel’s Tavern is listed in my will for where to hold my wake. For over 30 years, I have enjoyed the hustle of waiters, the excellent selection of pub grub, the friendly and open seating, the availability of private party areas,and the laughter, smiles, happiness and good will of the crowd, while being with friends. Everything good, and nothing else. There’s nothing like the pitchers of beer slammed down on the heavy wood traditional pub furniture, and the ability to pull up a few more chairs. Good times.
Have you heard of a new restaurant at Johns Creek? It’s a pizza restaurant but with a new spin… It’s great tasting but healthy… organic sauce and crust, low fat cheese, reduce fat pepperoni and msg free sausage. It’s trying to take pizza to a new frontier…
[...] other Leon’s news…the AJC is now following the the first pint auction story and John Kessler’s new food blog even gave me a hat tip for it! Still nothing in the print article, but I’ll take what I can [...]
After they moved Meredith (the McDonald’s of food critics) into the evening edge well…..I just don’t even bother with the food section. SO GLAD that I noticed this story tonight. I bookmarked you. It will be wonderful to read ya again.
Haha, I started to ask what kind of sausage you use, then realized it doesn’t make the slightest difference. Even if you live long enough to prepare this a second time, you won’t notice whether it’s Jimmy Dean or some highfalutin foodie specialty.
I have been a fan since JK was undercover with his “unfortunate” hair. I still love him despite his direct responsibility for my addiction to Greek yogurt. So happy to have stumbled upon this blog.
John Kessler has been my go-to columinist in the AJC food section since he arrived, and since he is not doing that any more I miss his recipes and comments each week. I do read and enjoy his new weekly column now, but it’s not quite the same as it was before the AJC shrunk all their best features in the past couple months.
What I’d like is a recommendation for a good restaurant to take French friends who will be visiting us in the next 2 weeks. They have 3 kids, ages 18, 15, 13; we will be a group of 11 (our own children and grandchildren) and don’t want a long drawn out dinner, but a place that would be a good ATL memory for them. We live in Stone Mtn. and Decatur, Midtown, Downtown would all be ok…no Marietta, Alpharetta, etc. Can anyone suggest a spot?
What I would like to ask is this: we are hosting a family from Paris (mother, father (mid forties) and 3 teenagers (18, 15, 13). We are know them well (the mom was an exchange student in ‘79 staying with our family; she was in our daughter’s wedding here in ATL; our daughter was in her wedding in Brittany ; they have come to visit us in in the summer of ‘02). We want to take them to a good, comfortable Atlanta restaurant on a Saturday night (Feb. 21) and we will be a group of 11…what can you recommend? We don’t want it to be a long drawn out event; we’d like good food, good service with no attitude, a good ATL experience with the ambience
So glad to have found you here, JK!…I, like the others above, truly miss your restaurant reviews but have continued to enjoy your weekly articles (even if the AJC insists on moving you every 5 minutes) and “assorted stupidities.” Still so weird seeing your picture…:-) Write on, my friend!
i would have to agree with the list,these bars push the boundarys of beer and offer customers something thats outside of the box rather then the usual suspects,respect that owners of bars are educating the customer base and help keep bringing new beers into the georgia market.
Thanks, all, for the nice comments…glad you found me here. (Colly, it’s still very weird for me to see my picture.)
Rosey, I can totally relate, having been an exchange student in France in the early 80’s and hosting my French family here.
Here’s what I would do: Take them to a restaurant that gives them a sense of place but doesn’t hit them over the head with huge portions and American excess. I think Cakes & Ale in Decatur would fit the bill — I think it’s as close in spirit to a neighborhood bistro as any restaurant in town. Convivial, honest, and a great sense of what contemporary Southern American food is all about.
Other thoughts are Floataway Cafe (more expensive, but more refined) and Rathbun’s (very friendly atmosphere and a real sense of Atlanta). Please email me if you want to discuss further. Thanks, JK
Lovely article. I grew up in Bethesda, Md. But don’t remember a French restaurant. I waitressed at Maison de Crepe on Wisconsin Ave. while attending American U. I remember Au Pied du Cochon further on down the road in Georgetown….some wonderful food there.
It depends! If it’s really rustic food and there is a local beer, I go with that! But I also like wine. Beer and Mexican food, Indian food. Wine with Italian and French. American.. eh…
The head Peep sent them to us at the AJC hoping to get some ink (but not imagining that the writer likes to microwave cute things). I would think they’d be available wherever fine Peeps are sold.
I’ve been told that if stand two of the chick peeps up in the microwave and turn it on that they will grow and likely not at the same rate so it looks like a they are having a little duck war; have fun.
[...] Claims Two James Beard Nominees 13 02 2009 The AJC’s John Kessler posted the Atlanta-area finalists for this year’s James Beard awards and two work their magic right [...]
Y’all who stick in Atlanta are missing a good experience at Five & Ten in Athens. The place won’t get a nomination for best service (though the best of their staff are very professional) but the food, my my my. Hugh Acheson came here from Canada (he was recently naturalized a U.S. citizen if I remember correctly) but quickly figured out that what makes a restaurant good in these parts–seasonal menu, local producers, regional style–is also what makes for enthusiastic and faithful customers.
[...] unknown wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptJust about a year after opening MF Buckhead, owner/chef Chris Kinjo opened his upstairs omakase room — an 8-seat sushi bar where he prepares a special menu of his choosing. (”Omakase” is the term guests in Japanese restaurants use to … [...]
Masa (where I’ve eaten once) follows a different format. There, you start with 6-8 plated dishes, some hot and some cold. Then you get sushi, piece by piece, handed to you. If I recall, I had 6 or 8 dishes, about 20 pieces of sushi, one handroll filled with toro, and then dessert. Before dessert, they ask you if you’d like one more piece of anything else. It is more a traditional sushi bar in that regard.
Thanks, Rose.
Kopp – Very different. Soto had such a unique p.o.v. and palate. Chris (with lots of input from Ito-san) showcases ingredients. There’s a lot more conversation with Chris…
An excellent review of an undoubtably delicious and unforgetable meal, or should I say, “experience”. Your descriptions of the dishes was so detailed I believe I gained a pound or two just reading them.I have been a daily reader of the Constitution (now AJC) for over 50 years, and for many of those years your informative and accurate reviews have weighed very heavily on my choice of restaurant. Regards,Bob Porter
That’s so interesting to find this today because just a few days ago I bought the “green” version of this sofrito on the advice of a Puerto Rican girlfriend of mine. With a name like Alien Stomach Rice, how could I not serve this to my loved ones?
Colly
thanks, Colly! The green one is really good, too. It’s made with cilantro and culantro — the sawtooth leaf herb that you see served as a garnish for pho in Vietnamese cooking.
[...] While the location isn’t quite stellar (on Peachtree across from Equifax in an unmarked office building), and the empty space from the previous restaurant is off-putting, put this on your list. Atlanta could use another good Italian option, especially now that Allegro closed this past weekend. [...]
“alien stomach rice” – it almost sounds like something you’d see on a Chinese menu, kind of like the “loofah with sponge gourd” I saw on a menu in NYC.
Joking aside, my boys would totally snarf something called “alien stomach rice”. It’s on my short list.
Sounds a litle gimicky such as the politicians a couple of years ago who tried to live on $100 or the equivalent of food stamps for a month. One guy admitted having to go to the local food cupboard. Another said the worst was going to the complimentary political benefits and ignoring the shrimp and roast beef so he could go home and eat his government cheese.
Interestingly, all reported that they lost weight.
As one of the participants in this challenge I can tell you that it’s not necessarily a gimmick as we have nothing really to gain other than the understanding of what it takes to live on $30 this week. I will admit that I doubt any of us will maintain this lifestyle beyond this week, a luxury most of those receiving Federal assistance do not have. Therefore, “suffering” for one week is just that, suffering for one week.
I agree that one can only eat so much rice and beans. However, you may be surprised at what you can eat for $30 / week.
[...] Oh, if only Sonny would come to town and we could ask him our questions! Actually that raises an interesting point….Has anyone ever seen Sonny Perdue inside the Decatur city limits? Has he ever snuck in for some fried chicken at Watershed? (I wouldn’t think Scott Peacock would be as willing to hand-deliver fried chicken to the Gov as he was for Martha Stewart at the aquarium!) [...]
Come on, outside of the Michelin starred/ $30 entrée stops, there is nothing special to eat in NYC. I would argue outside of these wallet busting gems NYC has worse food than most mid major cities, and overpriced at that.
Whats that song “If you can make their you can make it any where in Old NY Newwwwww Yorkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk” Joel didn’t make it
Went Joel’sAtl 2 X mas’s Ago it totally s_cked.
Mark, run your commentary through spell check before posting your comments. I wonder why it is that so many people delight when other people are knocked?
[...] in all walks of life, as far as the NYC dining scene goes – he may be just that. As John Kessler has noted, Antunes has joined the rank and file of the [...]
Michelin $30.00 entree stops? There are plenty of GREAT restaurants in NYC! I can tell you (Michael) make frequent visits to the Big Apple. You probably have not even stepped out of Podunk, Georgia. Many restaurants in NYC have great food and surroundings, many just have great food, while others have “good” food but is a place to be seen and to see. If you ever decide to venture out of your double wide leave a note and I will be more than happy to give to you a list of great restaurants with great food and great surroundings in NYC!
Wow Jim…..easy brother. That was Michael’s opinion. Is he not entitled to his own opinion????? Would it have not sufficed to say that you disagreed with him and mention a few good or great resturants??? I do not see the necessity of all the mean comments. But if you are from NYC then you are probably used to people being rude.
Joel’s Atlanta restaurant was 90% FABRICATED HYPE. The artistic garnishments of the meals were emphasized instead of taste. The authentic French dining experience was aptly delivered by a staff who perfected the brusque and rude waiter role. The piece du resistance was always the inexplicably outrageous prices.
Successful businesses put the customer first, Joel believes his own fabricated hype and puts himself first. Customers vote with their wallets.
Sounds like there are some NY homers in the crowd, in fact I am seeing more and more Ny license plates every year. Come to think of it, NY is a great place to visit but I wouldn’t want to live there either. Welcome to the south, enjoy it or get the hell out.
The current Joel restaurant is about as far removed from Joel Antunes as the moon is from the earth. The fare offered at Joel is significantly improved from that of the old regime IMHO. Let’s keep in perspective that Joel restaurant was just recently awarded 4 stars from the AAA and 5 stars from the AJC. The detractors that have taken the opportunity to bash this establishment based on it’s old namesake must have an axe to grind. Joel’s is a fine establishment and provides its diners with an exemplary culinary experience from the quality of menu to the excellent service provided by its staff.
The current chef at Joël, Cyrille Holata, is really a fine chef in his own right and is putting his mark on the restaurant. I think we’re lucky to have him in this town.
Also, I’m chasing down a rumor that Antunes has another job lined up, and it’s not in Atlanta. I really wish him well. Whatever any of us thought of his cooking, he certainly added a dimension to the local restaurant scene that left a mark.
I have an original menu from the “glory days” of the Plaza hotel.
The self-centered cuisine of Joel Antunes does not even come close to the culinary dining experience enjoyed by my grandparents back in the days when it was “real food”, not a fabricated designer looking dish.
I agree with John Kessler, Joel Antunes is a great chef who helped elevate the Atlanta dining scene. I hate that things didn’t work out in New York, but I wish him well. And Joel is still a wonderful restaurant.
The bottom line is that NYC is a tough town. Many (but not all) Atlanta restaurants that are lauded would receive 1-2 stars from this same reviewer. I also imagine that the meal he gave 0 stars would get at least 3/4 if it was served here in Atlanta.
My issue with dining in Atlanta is that all the “nice” restaurants serve nearly the exact same food—some kind of “farm fresh twist on new southern cuisine”. Give me a break. How many different takes on shrimp and grits do we need? How many $12 cocktails? I feel like I could write the menu blind at these places and be correct 80% of the time.
For my money, the best, most authentic food still remains in Buford Highway with only a few exceptions.
I just have to say I find it quite sad that anonymous posters feel the need to kick the chef while he is down. Imagine if someone mocked you after you got fired from your job. I know he is public figure, but whatever happened to showing a little class and restraint?
As for Joel’s future, I am positive the chef will land on his feet. I had some truly wonderful meals at his restaurant before and after the renovation. I wish him the best of luck.
I agree with Jennifer (Blissful Glutton), why is it that people enjoy when others fail?
Joel Antunes is a great Chef with many years of success under his Toque, it is normal for everyone to encounter a situation in their career where things just don’t work out. I imagine only great things for Chef Joel in his future.
Joel Antunes is one of the best chefs this city has ever seen — gifted at both procuring excellent ingredients and creating astounding, dazzling dishes. Bruni actually had plenty of good things to say about Antunes’ cooking in the review. Just because the fit at the Oak Room wasn’t right doesn’t mean he can’t cook. Whereever he ends up — and I doubt it will be Atlanta — I wish him well.
I have known Joel for several years and have been lucky enough to call him a Client. Joel is a hard-charging individual that is very determined. It is disapointing to see this misfortune for Joel, but knowing his character and determination I’d say that he’ll bounce back from this like the other challenges he has faced in times past.
You won’t find a harder working more dedicated individual.
He’ll soon be smothering and covering and cookin’ ‘em hash brown pertaters. Waffle House food always gets good reviews, so he’d better study up on sunny-side up and scramblin’ and all that. “Mornin’.
Well it appears that I did jerk a few chains! BTW, I am not a New Yorker but am from the South and have always lived in the South. I have traveled extensively however and do happen to know (my opionon) a good restaurant from a bad restaurant and good food from great food. I did live in NYC for three years and found virtually 100% of “real” NYers to be very nice and not rude as some of you are saying. I did get a little discussion going and that is a good thing – right CUZ?
If you would like to make a donation for Mr. Antune you may do so through UNICHEF. Please keep in mind the displaced practitioners of the culinary arts. Remember, a mime is a terrible thing to taste.
Jim, i’ve never lived in New York but I’ve visited many times. The people I’ve met there are, by and large, very nice, friendly, helpful people. That’s certainly more than I can say for this over-hyped cow town. Atlanta is full of the pretentious and ephemeral. It picks up on a trend from New York, tries to emulate it (usually badly and hokily) and pretends it’s on equal standing with New York. It isn’t! Atlanta is a town full of hicks, transplanted failures, natives who now hate it, bimbos, bozos, fruit merchants and neanderthalic twits. As for cuisine, most of these morons think of french toast as a culinary delight.
“…natives who now hate it…” is exactly right. There was a time when the Atlanta and metro areas were nice places to live and raise a family. Then, we were “fortunate” enough to be infused with transplants from every state, borough and country on this green earth. They were and are determined to bring “culture” to our little town. You now see the result.
As for a fine meal, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I hate Ruth Criss but really enjoy Stoney River. That does not mean RC is swill. And, yes, I’m aware most serious food critics would not set foot in SRG.
We are glad to have you and you are welcome to stay. However, we have never really appreciated being told how bad off we are and how much we need y’all.
I still prefer Old Hickory House. New Yorkers can brag about their pizzas but they can’t come close with BBQ and Brunswick stew. Most of these “chefs” fool around with food too much, anyway. Cornbread with sugar and sage? Gimme a break!! Leave that stuff in NY.
I didn’t grow up here but I’ve lived here thirty-one years. I loved living here for a long time but not so much in recent years. If real estate ever elevates from the gutter, I’m going to sell and leave. The area is filled with rejects from other places now and it’s intolerable. Think I’m exaggerating? Watch any newscast any day.
The Plaza has issues in general – the reviews of the Palm Court were so horrible that they had to close down to regroup. One criticism was about these awful boxy high-backed chairs, which are now sprinkled throughout the hotel – guess they couldn’t afford to throw them out!
I visited Joel when Mnsr. Antunes was still in residence, and I was underwhelmed, to say the least. I’ve had better meals at FAB, for less $$. With very few exceptions, I’ve found that chefs who start to believe their own hype quickly fade to mediocrity. NYC, having a plethora of fabulous restaurants, will not stand a mediocre celebrity chef for long (see, e.g., the drubbing Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant took afre it had been open a couple of months). It isn’t “kicking someone when they’re down” to simply point out the truth, and the truth is that Joel Antunes is simply overhyped for his actual abilities.
I’ve heard from several sources that the food at the Oak Room never really got into its super-luxurious groove. Not only was the timing horrible but the fit may have been awkward. Antunes certainly had experience at the super-high end, having been chef at the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and the Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead. But I remember interviewing him just after he opened Joël, and at the time he said he was looking forward to preparing a more casual, brasserie-style menu. It sounds funny now, but he then described his intent as something “between Bacchanalia and Bluepointe.” He has always had a gift for redefining rustic preparations — pastas, braises — in a refined context. His technique always shines in the context of his playfulness. From what I’ve read about the decor at the Oak Room, it wasn’t a very playful environment.
We in GA are not above a bit of self doubt now and then. Having lived in Manhatten and raised here,(Grady High)Atlanta is now a wonderful food city and can compete with any city, inculding NYC! And yes, most people in NYC are very nice, but don’t like BS or fools, and yes downtown Atlanta has gotten rude, but there are almost no Georgians living there. Dollar for dollar Atlanta eating is great, and Buford Hwy is the bomb.
Everyone who is bending over backwards to laud the praise of Joel has no credibility. The facts are simple:
a) He was fired.
b) The review gave zero stars—and it wasnt the only bad review.
So either all the food critics in questions dont know what they are talking about (unlikely) or those in priase of Joel dont know what they are talking about (seems likely).
Joel Antunes is one of the most gifted chefs that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I think it is a disgrace that so many people take so much pleasure in anothers misfortune, and then not have the decency to put their name on their own blog. We should all hope that that such a gifted cook would return to Atlanta.
“So either all the food critics in questions dont know what they are talking about (unlikely) or those in priase of Joel dont know what they are talking about (seems likely).”
And if I was a spelling and grammar critic I would give you 0 stars as well.
Fat Man people like you are the reason abortion is till legal.
So Joel’s replacement was announced today, it’s the Chef of Fishtail who also was poorly reviewed in the same article that gave the Oak Room 0 stars……………………….
Something tells me the Oak Room is managed by morons.
I’m telling all you morons out there it had nothing to do with the freaking food. I think he tried to give the Colonel a watered-down Jack Daniels. It aint got nothing to do with the freaking food. You mess with colonel and you are asking for it. The Colonel had been going to the Oak Room since his days with Lyndon.
Check this out..a play by play of the MF Sushi experience. Would you two be interested in this? What month will you be free? They do this on Thursdays…
Joel the restaurant is a hard place to acquire a job at they get atlantas best line cooks. I imagine Joel didn’t get to pick his own Staff at the Oak Room or worse could have been stuck with Union staff. Without a good staff even the best will fail. Joel has been and will always be a professional hero of mine as I continue to cook for all of you when you come to the restaurants I cook my heart out in.
John,
We enjoyed your piece on our special ‘Wild Red’ watercress variety. We have actually submitted a patent application for this unique variety.
We are B&W Quality Growers, based in Florida, and our family has been growing watercress since 1870.
If you ever need any watercress, or our famous ‘wild roquette’ baby arugula, please contact me and we’ll overnight you whatever you need.
We also invite you to visit our website at http://www.watercress.com for a wealth of information about watercress nutrition and its’ cancer fighting properties.
We pride ourselves on our sustainable farming pracices that include reducing chemical use by over 50% in the past 20 years. In addition, we are GlobalGap certified, quality for the world renown ‘Marks & Spencer’ Field-to-Fork food safety program, and are Primus Food Safety audited (with Superior ratings). We have grown to become the world’s largest watercress company by always being the best at what we do.
We thank you again for the article on Mother Nature’s version of the multi-vitamin…Wonderful Watercress.
Missive from the red watercress growers (condensed):
John,
We enjoyed your piece on our special ‘Wild Red’ watercress variety. We have actually submitted a patent application for this unique variety.
We are B&W Quality Growers, based in Florida, and our family has been growing watercress since 1870.
…
We also invite you to visit our website at http://www.watercress.com for a wealth of information about watercress nutrition and its’ cancer fighting properties.
We pride ourselves on our sustainable farming pracices that include reducing chemical use by over 50% in the past 20 years. In addition, we are GlobalGap certified, quality for the world renown ‘Marks & Spencer’ Field-to-Fork food safety program, and are Primus Food Safety audited (with Superior ratings). We have grown to become the world’s largest watercress company by always being the best at what we do.
Joel Antunes was a “train wreck waiting to happen”!! Chef Cyrille Holota, the current chef at Joel in Atlanta and the former sous-chef and Joel’s “right hand man” for the past 14 years, is and always has been the brains and talent behind the operation. There are countless rumors of Joel’s mean spirited behavior towards staff while at Joel’s in Atlanta resulting in a very high staff turnover there. Something happened in Atlanta. Joel did not just voluntarily leave his “namesake” restaurant, sell his home (in a bad economy), move to New York on a risky start-up venture. My guess is that he was fired from Joel’s in Atlanta (theft perhaps?). He was sure gone from the Atlanta scene in a hurry….almost overnight! Without Cyrille at his side (covering for the fact that Joel is an over-hyped “no talent”), the end was sure to come.
I’ve always wondered, why do restaurants open up in a space where the previous restaurant failed with the same genre/focus/plan? Does it become more cost effective because the initial upfit is cheaper? I don’t get it.
I have eaten at Joel’s on three occasions in the past. None of those visits were enjoyable and on one occasion the food was downright awful. What was the Oak Room thinking when they hired this guy in the first place?
There are excellent chefs in Atlanta, but I would agree that there are more in NY. Paris probably has more fine chefs than NY. So what? I enjoy trying different restaurants and am typically more impressed by getting an excellent meal at a lesser known and less expensive restaurant than I am by getting a great meal at a renowned restaurant where diner for two can run upwards of $500.00.
I’m turning 80 next month, and will soon be looking for someone to take over Toulouse. Perhaps an opportunity for Joel. Check the reviews in Yelp, OpenTable, Rewards Network, etc.
George
Happy Birthday, George! Do you know that when my wife and I looked into moving to Atlanta 12 years ago, her prospective boss took us to eat at Toulouse? He also brought along a future colleague of my wife’s who ended up becoming our best friend in Atlanta.
It was an evening of great food, wine and company that convinced us Atlanta might be a nice place to raise our kids. I owe you thanks.
I don’t know I heard he was hard but just expected results out of his staff. I have worked with and for some of his former employees and none of them have ever complained about him to me.
Mike, I’m not sure that accepting one of the top jobs in your field as the result of an international search qualifies as leaving Atlanta “like a thief.” I’m just sayin’…
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I’m with the Sicilian eggplant on this one…funny how the city has morphed from having interesting activity on the high end to having more going on in the mid-range…I’m all for the latter (because I can afford it), but I think once Atlanta can demonstrate a range of excellent contenders at every price point, then there will that synergy of an honestly vibrant restaurant scene.
i love this stuff. i first had it at Dynamic Dish and David made a wonderful salad with it and combined granny smith apple, pistachios and a slice of toasty goat cheese. heaven.
The White House has released its official portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama. In the portrait, Mrs. Obama is wearing a sleeveless black dress designed by Michael Kors. Michelle Obama’s Portrait Design aficionados will note that this is the … Read >
As a libertarian…wow…excellent…she truly is a beauty.
I think they anticipated more business from the condo they are located in – that did not materialize as I was told – I think price point may have been an issue also -
OK Monkey’s listen up…Joel Antunes is a BEAST in the kitchen, a true rare talent. I am not sure what happened at the Oak Room. To tell you the truth I wasn’t so impressed with what I saw their either. But make no mistake Joel can cook as good, if not better than any other chef in NYC. Whether it’s Daniel, Jean-Georges, Thomas Keller, Gordon Ramsay, Joel Robuchon, or any other chef you can think of. Unless you have worked in the kitche with Joel or any of these other chef’s you have no place to question his talent. Lucky for me, I have. I know what he is capable of and I can’t wait to see him land on his feet. Anyone that has a negative comment is has a “shoe maker” palette.
I’m definitely not a hen and have eaten at the Pen quite a few times already. All the food is excellent and freshly made. They are getting a well justified rep for the quality of the desserts but the daily fare is worth the trip.
Most of you writing here are morons. Joel is one of the most talented chefs in the world, not just NYC, not just ATL, the world. He came from Troisgros and the Oriental, Bangkok (for any of you that even know what those are). If any of you who actually read the reviews, you would realize that its the incompitent staff that sucks at the Oak Room and the Chef always takes the blame (as he should). It is also evident that Joel just made the wrong choice ever going to the Oak Room where he did’nt have total control. Also you idiots that think 30 or 40 dollars for an entree is expensive are just ignorant and have no clue how much great ingredients cost. I can’t wait to see Joels comeback. You all don’t deserve it in Atlanta. Look at the BS menu at JOEL now. Its a shame Chef Cyrille has to be reduced to cooking this silly bistro food because of the lack of sophistication in your city.
Kevin, I have cooked with Joel, and you are absolutely right. He is the best cook maybe ever, I bet if you ask Eric Ripert or Thomas Keller or Jean Georges or Daniel they would agree as well. Its wasy to write. Harder to cook.
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
I really miss the Globe — that was one of my favorite Atlanta restaurants. Any news about the former owners of the Globe opening a new place somewhere in town?
Thanks for the info on Kozmo. I’m not sure I’ll make it up to Alpharetta any time soon, but it’s good to know he’s still in the restaurant business. Here’s me hoping they open a second location in midtown
I’m sorry but joel deserves a lot more respect, just look at his culinary history! some people say that the prices of the food in atlanta are too high but believe me I used to work for him in ATL, a lot of the food was inported. Why?? because how can you experience french cuisine with american products?!?! all of the ingrediënts are top quality.
he’s a man with a passion. It’s this passion that you see in the food, he’s a very good chef. everybody who knows him will tell you so!
Ha! I actually was once walking through Times Square and heard someone say, “Omigod, I think that’s Jerry Springer.” Guess it’s better than looking like Regis…
Cafe Lapin is a true gem in Buckhead. I cannot get enough of the place. The dinner menu seems to change nightly and always has something new and delicious! You may want to make reservations to assure yourself a table. A+
Chima was a great place to work at. Too bad they closed and let the employees know on the very same night. Moving trucks were already waiting outside the door when they told us. It was “a little” messed up.
We will be called, “d.b.a. Barbecue”. We will be a neighborhood restaurant featuring barbecue and Southern comfort food with a full bar and full service. “d.b.a. Barbecue” will be open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Look for us in late May 2009.
Okay: Can someone please explain why Joel would “voluntarily” leave his “namesake” restaurant in Atlanta, sell his house in a bad market, and move to New York to head up a risky venture at the Oak Room? I might have been born on a weekend, but it wasn’t “last” weekend! What happened in Atlanta? Was Joel fired here too? My guess would be “Yes” and the Joel “illusion” cam completely unraveled once in New York and having to go it alone!
I love Holeman & Finch, but I am a little bit sorry to see the distinction between the two places disappear. And I loved the Sunday Night Suppers – will that disappear to?
Way to put your writing down, John! I didn’t find the article “boring.” It was actually quite informative as I find the liquor laws in this city/state fascinating (while at the same time, ridiculous!!)
Jen – I would be very surprised to see Sunday Suppers disappear. I’d bet the two places keep very distinct personalities.
AJ – Thanks. I’m always my own worst critic.
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I was lucky enough to work with Steven at Watershed. In addtion to being immensely talented, he brings quiet calm and intentioned thought to the kitchen. Atlanta will be a better place and a better restaurant community when Miller Union opens its doors!
Steven, Tricia Mahany sent me this news of your new restaurant. I congratulate you on the new situation and hope to visit the restaurant the next time I’m in Atlanta (which won’t be soon, however, as I have to wait to have someone drive me up!)
It is always fun to hear of former WFHS student doing well. Keep up the great work.
Congratulations, Steven. (Thanks to Tricia for keeping us Windsor folks informed.) Since I am in NE Georgia, you can look for me when you open Miller Union. I’ll bet Joey will accompany me. I can hardly wait!
John, thanks for the great news! I just left Steven, our great friend and “Young Lion”, a voice message of congratulations and booked a table for six (6) on Opening Night. We can’t wait!!!
Steven, I remember that you were always so kind — and that’s saying a lot for anyone in the middle school years. Your success in life does not surprise me at all. I cannot wait to try out your restaurant. Much love, Anna
Congratulations! I hope we can get up that way to try out your restaurant. My son thinks it is so cool to know a chef. He loves to cook….just not popular when you are a 12 year old boy. can’t wait to try it out!
That’s fantastic, Steven! I’m really excited for you and wish you tremendous success. I’ll be keeping up with it and hope to get to ATL someday soon to try out the new place! Good luck with EVERYTHING!
Suzan posted the link on Facebook. This sounds great! I look forward to visiting – and we don’t get out often. Please post again when you’re about to open!
My brother,I am so proud of u and always knew this project would go thru!It may b a little early, but I’m celebrating rite now. I truly believe this will b a major sucess! xoxo
Wishing “full tables, mouths and wineglasses” to you both! You’re in my heart Steven! I just know you’ll succeed – you always had that talent “in the bag”!
Hi Steven – Congrats! I am looking forward to trying out your restaurant. I also think it’s great that a former WFHS student has done so well. Best of luck!!!
John, as most every single reference I have seen in the past two years is exclusively about wither confit of duck or duck confit, I had to Wiki to see what you meant by “confit apricots” – is this correct?:
“Fruits confit are candied fruits (whole fruits, or pieces thereof) preserved in sugar. The fruit must be fully infused with sugar, to its core; larger fruits take considerably longer than smaller ones to candy. Thus, while small fruits such as cherries are confites whole, it is quite rare to see whole large fruits, such as melons, confits, and when they are available, large fruits confits are quite expensive.”
Aww, you didn’t like Saison Dupont? That’s one of my favorites. I really prefer the way the beers like this that aren’t as hop-heavy go with food, rather than the monster hoppy things that have become so popular in recent years. I tried the Smuttynose IPA a couple of weeks ago and it was so intensely bitter I felt like my tongue was being assaulted.
It looks like I’m in the minority within the world of beer geekdom, where hop-forward brews are definitely the most popular. I’m more impressed with the bright, slightly tart, citrus flavors of saisons and wheat beers and they way they match a variety of food types from sweet to spicy.
Aww, you didn’t like Saison Dupont? That’s one of my favorites. I really prefer the way that the bright, slightly tart, citrus flavors of saisons, wheat beers and some others go with foods rather than the hop-heavy brews like IPAs.
I know I’m in the minorty with my beer tastes, though, especially now with the mega hoppy beers being so popular.
I agree with you, though, that many of the very malty belgian ales are too sweet.
Steven- all the luck to you! Look at you and your list of WFHS groupies… I know that you will continue to be successful. I will certainly dine at Miller Union and wear my stretchy pants. Congrads in your new endeavor!
Michael – That’s correct. Confit is a French word that applies to different ways of preserving food. In fact, the French word for fruit preserves is “confiture.”
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Narion and I are the proud parents of “Chef Steven”. Even though the restaurant will be on the other side of town, we will eat there often.
We know how great he has been at Watershed and we invite our friends at Central Presbyterian Church and elsewhere. You are in for a special
dining experience.
Congratulations Steven!!!! I am so glad to see you are doing something so creative and innovative….I cannot wait to try the restaurant…..I know it will be out of this world!!!! Keep up the good work!!
[...] post: Douglasville Retail Meats and Smokehouse | Food and More with John … | « Jersey Bites, A quest for food with attitude: The Best Irish Pubs … Meat [...]
just like to say hello and hope that you can all one day benefit from the wonderful game of golf some new and exciting golf tournaments to be played in.
Whenever I’m asked about my favorite restaurant, I don’t hesitate when I say Highlands in Birmingham. I moved to Atlanta from Birmingham in 1999, but still find time to make it to Highlands Bar & Grill at least once a year. Frank Stitt is a great guy and still remembers me when I walk through the door.
I heard Frank Stitt speak at a function and he encouraged the group to make the trek to Athens to dine at Five And Ten, so that speaks volumes. I live in Alabama and have visited Highlands and Bottega (both Stitt establishments). You won’t go wrong with either!
Congrats to Hugh, Mike, Linton, Sean, Frank and of course John T! I sense an SFA connection Maybe the Southern Foodways Alliance is to James Beard nominations as Scientology is to the Acadamy Award nominations?
All I can say is WOW! This is totally crazy to me. Being a former Ritz Dining Room Chef during the same years as Joel, I can say from a JD Power and Associates rating system for overall guest satisfaction within the company, Joel always did very well. This is mind blowing to me. Joel is an incredibly passionate Chef and I know when speaking with him at last years Culinary Vegetable Institute Event in Milan Ohio, he was pumped about going to NY and showcasing his skills in a most respectful manner.
I hope that the perception that “You are only as good as your last meal, does not totally hold true with Joel”. Nobody is perfect and everyone deserves a second chance. Every restaurant has its own mystique, atmosphere and overall feel. Its not fair to compare, but the overall experience is what matters. Either you like it or you don’t, bottom line. But I can say this, Joel’s Trenettes with Jerusalem Artichoke Mascarpone Cheese Puree and Perigord Black Truffles compares to Gray Kunes Capellinni Pasta with Fresh Black Truffles when at the St Regis Hotel.
Overall, everyone has memories good and bad. In this current economy, we should be asking ourselves how we can help each other during these difficult times vs crushing a person that maybe had a bad day.
Yikes! I’m not a squeamish eater but the thought of that dog’s head actually being a cake that will be eaten is kinda weird. Great work on that cake though! Can’t wait until I hit Varasano’s. From what I hear, he’s been at the restaurant perfecting the new oven for a few months now.
Really…if you want good biscuits you need to go to Pastries A Go Go! When we lived in Decatur that was our #1 biscuit spot! We live in east Cobb and every once in a while make the trek back to Pastries…it is that good…The staff are all very friendly, service is fast and the eggs benedict on Sunday’s is to die for.
Manuel’s is a fine option for weekend breakfast. The pancakes are excellent and you can pretty much count on getting a table right away unlike J. Christopher or Thumbs Up. Prices are a bit lower than some of the hipster hangouts, too.
I enjoy Goldberg’s on occasion. Salty nova and scrambled eggs (or salami and eggs), an everything bagel, a potato latke, apple sauce, and sour cream. Yum.
Decatur’s “Pastries a Go Go” makes moist, cheddary scrambled eggs and fluffy pancakes that are absolutely stuffed with blueberries. And if you’re at Java Jive near Va-Highland, try their very good scrambled eggs with fresh herbs and cream cheese.
The best Saturday breakfast is the Silver Grill Midtown on Monroe and 8th Street. The pancakes and warm syrup are delicious and their specialty omelets are generous and tasty. Great value for the meal in this economy. Excellent service as well.
Totally agree about Pastries a Go Go – it’s one of the best hidden gems in all of Atlanta. Their cat-head biscuits are by far, the best biscuits I’ve ever had.
Thumbs Up Diner mainly because they have chicken sausage and bagging pancakes! American Roadhouse on N Highlands is a close second for their FRESH strawberry and blueberry pancakes!
The Social House has me completely enraptured, right now. It’s my goal to keep going until i’ve tried EVERYTHING on the menu…5 down and many more to go, with not a single disappointment as of yet to report.
For forty-plus years it’s been the Majestic Diner on Ponce for me. The food is just greasy enough and the wait staff just snippy enough to ensure a satisfying breakfast.
I live next to Cumming so where is Mr Swiss located?
I like breakfast at Biscuit Barn John’s Creek, Dillards in Buford and Suwanee – (can’t beat their grits!), and J Christophers in Duluth.
I have to second the Highland Bakery…I’ve never been disappointed yet! Cafe di Sol near Highland and North has a great brunch with awesome blueberry pancakes!
The chicken sausage at ThumbsUp is really good and I go to the East Point location but I do go to Pot N Pan on Piedmont often as well. More for the gays and grays and the service then the food.
I may lose my Decatur residency papers for saying this but: I don’t really like the biscuits at Pastries a Go Go. I find them too soft and crumbly. (But am a fan of the other baked goods.) Interesting how in Decatur we have so many distinct visions of biscuit in such close proximity — the bready, hard-shelled ones at Thumbs Up, the crumbly catheads at Pastries a Go Go, and the two versions, cream and lard, at Watershed. Watershed lard biscuits get my vote…
Stone Soup in Grant Park. All the food is great. The staff are superfriendly. Reasonable prices. Open until 3:00 for those weekends when you sleep in and wake up wanting breakfast.
Hands down… Highland Bakery. That place is fantastic. The shrimp and grits are to die for. I crave them on a regular basis. The sweet potato pancakes are heavenly. Well worth the trip.
The West Egg on Howell Mill is good. Thumbs Up is really good too with its heaps (potato dish served in a sizzling hot skillet), non-pork meat options and great French Toast.
Stone Soup Kitchen right between Cabbagetown and Grant Park has atmosphere as well as yummy food. The service is excellent too. Whole wheat biscuits and yellow (stone ground) grits with bacon my faves.
Definitely…Thumbs up!!! I have eaten at three of the four locations…not sure about the Decatur local. I love the fact that they have consistent staff who know what I want!! Please they have nice vegan dishes.
Gwinnett county has limited choices when it comes to breakfast… However there are a few places that offer delicious options… JR’s, J.Christophers, MiMi’s, and Einstein bagels are my favorites…
Cracker Barrel is always a trusty stand-by when all else fails….
Douceur de France, corner of Glover Street and Atlanta Rd in smyrna. small blue house, French place, pastries to die for, cant beat the ham and swiss omelet and they have these parmesan scallion hashbrown pancake things. YUM
You can also find gourmet breakfast at Tea Cakes Bed and Breakfast in Atlanta. Imagine waking up to the delicious smell of buttermilk blueberry and ricotta pancakes, spinach and feta frittatas, sweet potatoand ginerbread waffles topped with bananas and pecans. They don’t call them B&Bs for nothing. You can find other great breakfast options at nearby inns or recipes at http://www.bnbfinder.com.
Hopefully folks will differntiate between Breakfast and Brunch. My favorite breakfast used to be the Dutch Baby at the Original Pancake House in East Cobb – I don’t care for the surviving locations as much. Now, I pretty much go nuts on a Heap (pictured above, I take it?) at Thumb’s Up on Edgewood. Great folks working there, excellent food, and (if you get there before 8:30)usually a quick breakfast.
My favorites: McDonald’s (McGriddles are awesome and you never have to wait for a table), Chick Fil-A (breakfast burros are to die for), Burger King (Sausage, Egg N Cheese croissant is a great way to start the weekend), Waffle House (scrambled eggs and hash browns smothered covered and diced). So many great options here in Atlanta!! I can’t believe it!
West Egg. Great food. Most of the staff is good (including the host, who is great), but you occasionally have to deal with some bad service (of the VW driving, mac elitist variety). All in all, nothing starts a day off like their food — I haven’t had a dish yet that I would let anyone even try a taste of because it would take away from what I got to eat.
I had a great time at Tea Cakes B&B in Atlanta! My hosts, Karcheik & Joel were friendly and very accommodating. They were able to handle serving a ‘gluten-free’ b’fast and provided juices and snacks as well.
I have been eating at J.R.’s Log House in Norcross for 25 years and it just keeps getting better. Chicken and gravy biscuits are AMAZING and my kids eat for free.
Copelands on cobb pkwy’s french toast is to die for and Crescent Moon in Downtown Decatur has the best wheat pancakes and chicken sausage. bt my old reliable for something quick is Waffle House…love those waffles
I’m with Pete: to Tybee’s Breakfast Club!!!! Amazing food, get there early or you will stand in line out the door and down the block! There is a bonus too: get a seat at the counter and watch the cute guys doing their thang at the grill! (well for us girls, anyway)
I love Highland Bakery. The sweet potatoe pancakes are ridiculous! The shrimp and grits with the faccocia bread are awesome as well. The entire menu is fabulous! Just like me!
Oh and if you are looking for an all you can eat brunch, try Gilbert’s on 10th Street. It is right across from the Flying Biscuit(yuck!) and there is hardly ever a wait. The menu is all you can eat, but cooked to order so it ain’t buffet style(yuck, gross and disgusting!).
And I think Sarah meant Chequers Seafood Grill by Perimeter Mall. They do have a fabulous brunch. Kind of pricey for those of us that like to brunch every weekend, but great for special ocassions. Easter and mother’s Day it is always crowded!
TBizzle, I need you to get out more. You can’t eat fast food all of your life! That food WILL kill you…
Breakfast is the best meal of the day. I can eat breakfast food all day if I could. Other than my own kitchen, i’d have to vote Thumbs Up one of the best places to go for hot plate of breakfast.
Try the shrimp and grits! Mmmm.
Now, I’ve only been to the Marietta Street location and my only issue is the place isn’t big enough for the amount of people that try to jam into the place on a Saturday morning. OMG!
There are lots of good places, but one of my favorites is the Marietta Diner on Hwy 41 south of the Big Chicken. Not only is the food good, but the quantities are almost to much and the price is very good. If you go during the week, a glass of juice is included. Weekends are crowded.
Ok, I’m fairly new to Georgia – -where is there a REALLY good and a REAL bakery in Towne Lake Area – or within 5 miles?? And Cracker Barrell is “standard blah”.. but GOOD! Where around Towne Lake is there a non-francised breakfast place??? I’d very much like to support/shop in my community!
Ria’s Bluebird is my favorite breakfast/brunch spot! The country fried tempeh is off the meter! My 2nd favorite is Highland Bakery. The sweet potato pancakes make me wanna thump my momma upside her forehead! LOL
American Roadhouse has the worst service. Rude and in a place with a lot of competition. Try Java Jive during the week and Food 101 or Murphys on the weekends. Goldbergs is great too.
“PawPaw’s” he makes the best biscuts. I keep bees and bring the honey. Paw also makes his own fig and blueberry preserves. Breakfest with my family, sisters, and grand kids is the best time of the week.
Souper Jenny is fantastic, but doesn’t open until brunch.
Thumbs Up is tasty but nowhere near worth the wait. Expect 45 minutes to an hour to sit down on weekends. Their food isn’t worth that kind of delay just to sit.
The Original Pancake House beats all hands down! Only problem, NOT IN ATLANTA! Theose in Atlanta cannot come close to the ones in Miami, Columbia or Charlotte!!!
If you’re ever out in Athens, Mama’s Boy (just past downtown off Oconee Street) has amazing breakfast and brunch options. Their cheese grits are incredible, and the biscuits are easily the best ones this side of 316.
Every weekend, I wake up missing the late, lamented Three Bears Cafe on Marietta Square, which was another casualty of last year’s economic downturn. I didn’t mind eating healthy at that place. Now, I guess it’s Waffle House for me – there’s just nothing else decent on this side of town any more.
Pastries a Go Go in beautiful Downtown Decatur is our favorite.
Only went to Crescent Moon onces. Biscuits were cold, grits were like that paste you use in elementary school (only didn’t taste as good) and service was awful.
Funny isn’t it, how many people a bad wait crew can run off and the restaurant owner doesn’t even know it.
Not trying to take over, but I just saw a question about bakeries. Try the Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery. Great weekend brunch and the German fare is outstanding. And don’t miss that German beer. Very unique place. We’ve gone there for over 30 years.
Loren’s cafe in Alpharetta, Bob the owner his breakfast combinations are to die for. Everything is cooked to order. Such as The Usual, The Contractor, The Ocee Park or The Contractor. plenty of fresh hot coffee. the Homemade herb potatoes are excellent, i eat there almost everyday, excellent prices and great company await you
I can’t believe no one has mentioned Evan’s Fine Foods on N. Decatur and Clairemont! They aren’t open Sundays which is a drawback, But many Saturdays got a great start there when we lived in Decatur. Eggs prefect every time, decent grits, good panckes and the no-frills diner coffee. MMMmmm….
I went to Radial on Dekalb Ave just today and it was not my idea of good food however service was excellant. I ordered Eggs Benedict. Eggs were almost hard boiled and there was no sause.
Thumbs Up (Decatur), Sweet Mellisa’s , Pastries A Go Go all good places to eat. J.R. Christopher’s (Decatur) I have had some orders not done correctly.
I miss la peep too. Hickory House used to be good and I just found one in Dunwoody I will try again. Hate J Chris, though its a fav of my children and parents. Marietta Diner is good anytime (especially cake time—cake for breakfast works too!).
IHOP and Waffle House do rule for somethings. (don’t judge me either)
No one has mentioned World Peace Cafe in Sandy Springs. We’ve enjoyed it for dinner on a few occasions, went for breakfast yesterday for the first time. It was yum–orange cranberry pancakes for me were better than the pancakes I had last time I went to the Flying Biscuit (in Norcross), and my wife had an omelet with zucchini and other vegetables, it was nice and fluffy. The music is soothing, the staff are friendly, and the menu makes us want to come back for more.
Best breakfast by far is at D.J.’s on Brown Bridge Road in Covington. There biscuits are to die for. They absolutely can not be beat! Waffle Houses, etc. cannot touch the breakfasts here.
The best breakfast in Atlanta is served at The Original Pancake House on Memorial Drive. Their heavy cream makes their coffee wonderful. Oatmeal is served with cream, brown sugar, raisins… mmmmm; pancakes are excellent… service by Cookie compares to any five star resturant!
The Unity on MLK Jr. Dr. across the street from the cemetery over there. It is right next to the casket store. No joke. . . this place has the most amazing breakfast. The grits here are an amazing treat. Take some cash and enjoy yourself.
John, the cover image of the French Toast with berries got my attention. Great image! I see no mention of the restaurant. Did I miss something? Thanks for the articles.
From ajc “best of” I discovered Barkers Red Hots are being served again in town. Stopped by the Windy Hill location for two chargrilled original dogs. Heavenly. Kudos to the ajc staff.
I’m an Athenian seconding the plug for Mama’s Boy. I’m lucky it’s a short stroll from my home. favorite dish – the salmon benedict – a poached egg over a very fleshy salmon croquet.
when in Atlanta, Stone Soup is yummy, easy, comfy, and very accommodating regarding my gluten intolerance.
Ria’s is all about great food, but can be a bit of a scene – as in, you’ll see folks there who will know you’re still wearing last night’s duds! that walk of shame can be brutal!
The Porter in L5P has a scrumptious salmon scramble and an extensive menu from which one can select their hair of the dog.
a Mexican place on Highland somewhere between Boulevard and Elizabeth St. (name???) has dynamite, sublime migas, a rare treat outside of Tejas.
It would be The Flying Bisquit on McClendon and the one on 10th St. and Thumbs Up on Edgewood and on Marietta st. They are the best. But then there is also the Sunday brunch at the Waverly.
Evans Fine Foods in Decatur has very good pancakes; Rise & Dine just down N. Decatur Road has sweet potato pancakes from heaven. But the best overall breakfast for food and value is Old Hickory House at Northlake. The eggs, biscuits, gravy & creamy grits can’t be beat. Great pancakes & French toast, also.
THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE ON CHESHIRE BRIDGE!! THEY HAVE AWESOME BREAKFAST!!! STAWBERRY PANCAKES, HOME FRIES, BACON, CRAPES, OMLETS OH THAT HAVE SO MANY GOOD THINGS!!!!
the flying biscuit on peachtree parkway…turkey bacon and eggs,with oatmeal panckes are the best…then there are the bean cakes…glad they came to my area in Norcross…midtown in the “burbs”…
For breakfast to go – love Chic-Fil-A chicken biscuits. Yum! Even better, the Saturday breakfast buffet at the Dwarf House is awesome. KC – there’s a Dwarf House on 92 close to 575.
Bobby Flay has a show called Throwdown where he finds people that make 1 dish really well, ie ribs, then he makes the dish in the test kitchen, then goes and challenges the “mark” to a whatever dish throwdown. A cookoff if you will. Fun hearted show but a little dull after awhile.
[...] John Kessler put an intriguing blog post on Buford Highway Tour of Restaurants | Food and More with John KesslerHere’s a quick excerptNot only did the most recent tour give me fodder for this week’s Restaurant Stories column, but it gave me an opportunity to check out some new places and look into old favorites. Here’s how our day went: … [...]
Another good spot to try is the White Windmill bakery/cafe on Buford Highway near Oakcliff Rd. It is a smaller version of cafe maum, but I’ve found I like their baked goods better. Their baguettes and whole wheat sandwich breads are terrific. Plus they have the chestnut buns, black and red bean buns and many cream filled desserts. The cakes are gorgeous. The lunch sandwiches are delicious and they are one of the few places left that sells soft serve frozen yogurt!
[...] The Land of Plenty cookbook has put me in a Buford Highway state of mind, and it appears that Besha from Creative Loafing and John Kessler from the AJC are as well. They both have posts up chronicling their sojourns up into this food-fun filled area of Atlanta. Destinations include Plaza Fiesta, Ranch 99 Market, Sushi House Hayakawa, and Delicious Kabob. (CL link here | AJC link here) [...]
If you are doing the Buford Highway tour, make sure you stop at Sushi House Hayakawa http://www.atlantasushibar.com for the BEST sushi in the city. Fresh fresh fish, meticulously made sushi rolls and a delightful staff transport you to a wonderful place!
[...] Cary placed an observative post today on Atlanta Food News: Joël downscales, juke joint comes to downtown,…Here’s a quick excerptIn other food news: The former Macy’s building at 180 Peachtree will house two new restaurants. [...]
Enter your comments here Truly deserving. Linton and Restaurant Eugene always leaves me craving for more, even, before I depart his place. He is truly a gem on the ATL dining scene, I have recently relocated (to the Twin Cities, MN) and, ironically, have noted Restaurant Eugene in foodie conversations during the past two weeks. If you have not experienced Eugene, Go!
JK-
thank you so much for all of your BH adventures. We live at Dresden & Clairmont and thanks to blogs such as yours and watching Travel Channel (Zimmern & Bourdain), we’ve really stepped out of our comfort zone and tried some of the best food in town. I still can’t get in to the bean curd and some other things, but we take your recommendations and give them a try!! So thank you for continuing to clue us in! :>) Looking forward to trying Rincon Latino soon!
I’d like to second the Gato Bizco love. No pretense, just good food. Their tofu scramble is the best vegan breakfast I know of. I miss Bakers Cafe in Little 5; the French toast was fantastic!
Can’t speak for Eugene, however, Holeman & Finch is the worst waste of money in ATL. How do you call yourself a “gastropub” and only have like 5 beers? I enjoy the entrails and mystery-meats, but it’s nothing special. Communal tables suck too. Sat next to Steak Shapiro and listened to him drone on and on to his friends about how great he is and how awesome he is at picking wine. Never going to Eugene because H&F sucks.
I like Holeman & Finch a lot when it’s not packed, but I definitely think you bring up an interesting point. So many of these new “gastropubs” either favor the gastro or the pub part, but don’t perform both functions at the same level of expertise.
PJ – Gastropubs are about food nothing to do with beer. There are Gastropubs in England (were they originated) that don’t serve any beer at all only wine.
Nice piece, John. FYI–Your readers may be interested Atlanta’s only Asian Market Tour & Lunch with Chinese Southern Belles – Saturday, April 18, 10am-1pm! Shop, learn and eat on a fun, interactive fieldtrip and full teaching lunch (Do you have the Americanized or authentic Chinese menu?). $40 includes full lunch. Space is limited. Register by Thur 4/16 through “Contact” form at http://www.chinesesouthernbelle.com, email info@chinesesouthernbelle.com or call 770-405-8826 for more information.
My Saturday consists of $3 Mango Mimosas and killer Biscuits & Gravy (cause this southern boy knows his B & G) at the 10th and Piedmont Flying Biscuit and a lazy afternoon in Piedmont Park. Get right!
The new Flying Biscuit in Sandy Springs is my new FAVORITE breakfast place. The food is amazing (especially their organic oatmeal pancakes – YUM!), the decor is really hip & cool, and the service has been terrific. And, to top it all off, their general mgr is an absolute sweetheart.
Lee’s Bakery very near the intersection of Buford/Clairmont has WONDERFUL baked goods and breads, plus top notch Vietnamese pho’s and noodle dishes. YUM! Their sandwiches ($2.50) just can’t be beat … I just make sure I take off the slice of REALLY hot pepper before I bite into it. (Ask for extra mayo, they make it there.)
There’s a reason why I’ve dined at the original Flying Biscuit almost every weekend for the past 15 years— it’s the best! The organic pancakes rock and their coffee is the best I’ve found in the ATL. Funky decor, great food, friendly service and cheap breakfast– why would anyone go elsewhere?
Java Jive on Ponce- Truly the best biscuits in town and killer egg dishes in one of the most original decors I’ve encountered. I like their gingerbread waffle, too.
I was so excited to see this article in the paper in February. It’s so cool to see some fellow food bloggers who have a local focus! Plus, now I have you to follow along with, too!
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Restaurant Eugene is a gem, and as most everyone has said, go if you haven’t.
As for PJ’s comments about H&F, I don’t disagree that sitting next to Steak Shapiro would probably be an annoying experience (very loud statements along the lines of “…enough about how great I am, why don’t you tell me about how great I am”), but the false advertising type comments seem misplaced. H&F calls itself a “public house” not a gastropub, and to my knowledge has never emphasized beer selection or billed itself as a great beer place like Brick Store Pub or Taco Mac (to name two different approaches). I believe that the Hopkins own H&F with some of the bartenders from Restaurant Eugene (and now H&F), and at H&F have always emphasized fresh seasonal food (as does RE), curing their own meats (they are big fans of Benton hams operation in Tennessee), and creative cocktails, which are also seasonal. It was never about a huge beer selection. Now, if your criteria for a great restaurant is a huge beer selection, then by all means stay away from Restaurant Eugene, but don’t do it because H&F alleged misrepresented what they are all about.
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
John, I’m heading to Charleston for the first time next week. I’ll only be there for the day, but any good places for lunch that you’d recommend? Doesn’t appear that FIG or McCrady’s are open for lunch.
Stan – I should have made a note when we cancelled our papers and got someone to come by and feed the guinea pigs.
Jenn – If you haven’t been to Hominy Grill, that’s a great choice. Get there on the early side to avoid the crowds and definitely save room for dessert. Also, Monza serves very nice pizza — not especially local, but worthwhile.
My favorite in Charleston: Stono Cafe 1956 Maybank Hwy
Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 762-4478
Went years ago when I was touring Johnson & Wales (no longer in Charleston I know) w/then boyfriend. Said friend is now graduated from J & W and out in Sonoma, CA.
Anyway, we asked the guide (the Johnson & Wales one) that if they had one last meal to eat in Charleston, where would they go….they told us Stono Cafe. We went and had the best meal of our lives. That is STILL where I go when we are in the area and it is still some of the best food I ever put in my mouth.
Wow, that sounds good. I have only had black squid ink once, with a risotto dish as well, and we did not have the dyed teeth issue. I actually had the dish at La Pietra Cucina. I will have to try this out, looks great and my mouth is watering.
Cool, I love bi bim bap and I also love the Broad Street strip of lunch places. I’ve never been tempted enough to try out this one, but I’ll put it on my list. My favorite place to get bi bim bap was a Korean place on BuHi about a mile south of 285 behind Chef Liu, but they closed last year. Any suggestions for a substitute Korean place in that ITP BuHi area would be welcome
Speaking of Broad St., anyone looking for a good lunch there should try the Eastsider sandwich at Reuben’s. Best. Sandwich.Ever.
[...] sightings at Patel Brothers, the Indian supermarket, in Chicago, New York’s Jackson Heights, and Decatur, Georgia. For seventeen years, Indian mangoes (such as Alphonso, Kesar and Banganpa) were barred from the [...]
Hey JK,
On an unrelated matter (from mangoes): what’s up with the Incredible Shrinking Food & Drink section? Barely covers 3 pages today…times are indeed tough?
I just went by and got a box of mangoes this evening. (They are marked down to $20.) One of the mangoes seems past its prime but the others look/taste good. I also got some seriously spicy Indian corn nuts and the mango helped tame the fire. Yum. Thanks for the heads up!
[...] They’re sticky, they’re sweet, they’re incredibly fragrant—and they’re pricey as hell. But, apparently, getting less so. The much-ballyhooed Indian mangoes have landed in the United States for the first time this season, with confirmed sightings at Patel Brothers, the Indian supermarket, in Chicago, New York’s Jackson Heights, and Decatur, Georgia. [...]
[...] with a “chef driven menu of contemporary American fare,” is scheduled to open in mid-May. According to the information out there, the restaurant is set to be a farm to table concept in a casual [...]
Steven, congratulations! That is great news. I’m sure this is going to be brilliant. Make sure to put a smoked trout appetizer on the menu for me so that I can make a scene again!
John, I’m not sure who at the AJC I should share this with, but since I always read your Column, I thought I’d start with a “green egg person.” Brenau University and its many friends and volunteers, invite talented cookers and fans of Earth shattering barbeque and bluegrass music to a Memphis Barbecue Network sanctioned contest May 28-30. Professional Cook teams will begin arriving on the 28th. The 29th finds public activities of a cooking school by Bill Morris, aka: Billy Bob Billy, “Doctor Que” of Holy Smokers Too, while all cooking crews kick their tires and light their fires. The 30th has top flight regional Bluegrass music, and to die for BBQ competition and refreshments. Upscale vendors will also be displaying their goods on Saturday for all your summer cookout needs, from quality sauces and rubs, to cookbooks and smokers costing more than your first car. Gate admission is $5 and all monies raised from corporate sponsors and associated revenue streams go to benefit the local student scholarship fund. The public gate on Saturday opens at 10 a.m. John, obviously, we would love to host you and/or another lover of all things barbecue. cell: 770-654-3600
He has a column in the Sunday paper now. And I saw his byline in the paper yesterday. An article about Big Green Eggs. Maybe he’s too busy for us bloggers. Sniff, sniff..
I heard recently that mangos imported from India will soon be the fasted growing food import to the USA. A mango from India… who’d a thunk? So You Want To Be a Banquet Manager? You think being a banquet manager is glamorous? You try dealing with cranky chefs and bitchy waiters all day – and that’s without the nasty customers. Visit my blog and see what it’s REALLY like in this crazy profession.
I think they took the beer guy and the wine guy with him. And the rest of the Food Section. The Food section has become a wrapper for the ads. The end is near…
Aak. Just check in on these comments. Forgive the long delay…there’s been a lot of re-orging going down here and a blog hiatus seemed like the best course of action. But — cross fingers for you, me and the planet — I’ve just filed my last Swine Flu story. Thanks very much for reading and dealing with both my muddy iPhone pictures and odd food passions. Totally had to go cold turkey on Indian mangoes…
Was it “bacon salt” perhaps? “Pork salt” sounds more soignee….whereas “bacon salt” conjures up images of pickup trucks, Budweiser, and pork rinds. http://www.baconsalt.com/
(I admit I had to giggle at “Operation Bacon Salt”.)
My husband is from Northern Italy too. He enjoys simple fish dishes and this looks great. What i would like to know is if anyone knows where to buy rhubarb (frozen, canned, fresh) other than farmers markets and frozen kosher vendors, Vermont country store. Not to my husbands liking, but i enjoy it.
If you want true, hand rolled New York bagels,this is what you do. Take Ga. 400 to exit 12b,west.Go approx.1 mile and on your left you will come upon BB’S Bagel and Diner. There is where you will find the best bagels in the south. A vast variety of cream cheeses too.
I thought it was Bacon Salt at first, but no…salt pork. HerbK: Have you tried the soup? It is weirdly made in the Boston commissary and shipped here, but I do think it’s the real deal. Haven’ tried the lobster roll…can’t bring myself to spend $22 for a sandwich.
I believe that John’s thumb is covering what comes after “horse”…maybe a misspelling like “house special”….I don’t think we’re talking Black Beauty here or Mine that Bird.
I know! It is Yakitori Jinbei on Cobb Pky across from Best Buys. Good restaurant. Never tried the horse though. John, you should at least buy me lunch!
Victoria wins! This is indeed the menu from Yakitori Jinbei (address and phone number in the AccessAtlanta listings). It is one of my favorite restaurants in the metro area for an honest Japanese lunch. I had a bowl of kitsune soba — buckwheat noodles in a seasoned dashi broth topped with sheets of fried tofu. My friend had a toro rice bowl — a big mound of minced fatty tuna and raw quail egg over rice with slivers of nori, which was an incredible deal for $10 and change.
Do they serve horse. Um, nooooo….they serve “horse mackerel,” also known as aji. (Gene called that one.) I was covering up the menu. So, please, don’t go looking for Trigger fingers.
Horsemeat, however, is eaten in Japan. I once tried thin curls of freshly slivered frozen raw horse loin, called “basashi,” to be dipped in ponzu sauce. I don’t recall the flavor as much as the singular sensation of the raw meat melting on the tongue.
Victoria: I have your choice of these fabulous gift prizes:
1. A set of measuring spoons with a Perdue (chicken, not Sonny) logo.
2. A scented candle with a Levitra logo. (I don’t believe it actually contains the drug, but then I’ve never tried to light the candle.)
Please send me an email and we can arrange shipment.
Thanks for all your guesses. We have to play this game again.
John — I meant to compliment your article in Cooking Light a few months ago, on Belle Chevre in Alabama. And I was reminded to, this weekend, because I found the goat cheese in CostCo of all places.
I now live in Hawaii and the cost of living here is really expensive, so I am going to say you’re shopping at Safeway! My husband once paid $15 for a canteloupe and $20 for a watermelon.
Bruce called it right off the bat. The Buford Highway Farmers Market is really the only place that comes to mind when I want to buy the ingredients for both watermelon and feta salad as well as gado gado — both dishes on the menu for a huge graduation party that I put together with a bunch of my daughter’s parents.
Super Titi Crackers are just like Indonesian shrimp crackers, except they’re flavored with garlic rather than shrimp paste. They are made with tapioca flour and look like little chips of glossy plastic — that is, until you put them in hot oil and they turn pale and porous, and swell to many times their size in a flash.
I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day filled with as many Super Titi Crackers as you can eat.
Hey John, Michael Smalls here. I handle media for the Gladys Knight restaurants. Let me know when we can have you for lunch or dinner again at the Johns Creek location. I’d like to see what you think. My cell is 678-358-8460.
BTW- I’m from Schenectady, NY. lots of Kesslers. Any relation?
Shoya is open! It was wonderful. We tried many little dishes, most notable was the mushrooms with tofu in a brown sauce. I really enjoyed it. We feasted on sushi and sashmi and a few kushiyaki selections like chicken balls and bacon wrapped asparagus. I tried Cassis with soda, it’s sort of a fruity liquour and enjoyed it very much. Staff was wonderful and friendly. Will definately go back!
Enter your comments here maybe you should think about naples fl..chef fabrizio aielli just opened sea salt here..he was one of the featured chefs along with you the year you were here for the naples wine festival…we are a little more relaxed here and an hour trip to miami will get you on a plane to wherever you need to go..I was the event designer that put your dinner together and I wish you all the best..you are a very talented and kind man..all that matters in this world is your truth
[...] hirby wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptA few local Japanese restaurants function as de facto izakayas — i.e., pubs that serve a nice variety of small plates. Go to Sushi Yoko in Norcross, Hashiguchi, Jr., in Buckhead or Sushi House Hayakawa in Doraville, and you will find a … [...]
You’re good, Bruce.
Halal Pizza & Cafe is in Campus Plaza at the corner of Indian Trail and Rockbridge. For years I’ve wanted to go in and see just what Halal Pizza could be. As it turns out: A slice of long-heated veggie or cheese that appeared to be Domino’s. But there were some good Somali stews served with big squares of focaccia-like flatbread. Most of the guys there were drinking espressos and hanging out. The menu also listed “Italian baklava.” That’s a new one to me.
Anyhow, curiosity (if not appetite) sated.
Sad to see this happening. My main concern, though, among the Ullio places is Fritti — Dear Jeebus, don’t let anything happen to my precious Fritti! My wife and I love that place.
I wonder what the problem is with this area that makes it ‘iffy’ for a restaurant like this? It seems like a pretty cool spot to me with a lot of residents packed in near by.
It was a cool spot, but parking was a pain. I love Chocolate Pink, too, but feel the same way. Do I really want to deal with all the driving/parking drama for a chichi cocktail and some tapas, or a fancy cupcake?
Very depressing. I don’t see anything wrong with the location either, except the parking was a little ambiguous. Good looking place too. Atlantans need to get out and support their favorite places soon or there won’t be any. Local restaurateurs are already calling this summer the “summer of death”!
Parking??? I don’t get it. You mean if there isn’t a sea of empty spaces in front of the Wal-Mart, there is no sense in going? It’s frigging Atlanta. How hard is it to find a free parking space!
That corner has weird traffic karma, with the one-way street heading downtown and the parking lot in a place where you have to cross two streets. Cuerno would have worked much better on Crescent Ave., which is really coming into its own with the new roster of 1010 Midtown restaurants — Noon, RA Sushi, Ri Ra — opening.
Darin, when I spoke with Riccardo, he very clearly said that Fritti was going great guns and having one of its best years even. Long live the pie.
[...] last month to a good bit of fan fare. I’ve been once (but haven’t chatted it up yet), Kessler dropped in, and Eat, Drink, Man quickly shared his thoughts. Shoya has already given Miso Izakaya more [...]
I went during restaurant week. I don’t want to drop $120 for 2 people on tapas. I’ve lived in Spain, and the beauty of dining there was that you could get a little of this and a little of that, some wine, and not feel like you’ve spent a lot. A good tapas restaurant would be better as a small, local joint, not somewhere where you feel you need to have a full dinner. Perhaps with a bigger, informal bar area with high tables.
Oh, and parking was simple — wasn’t it in a garage across the street, “free”?
Went for the closing last night. Very sad to see this restaurant go. I was wondering last night if Atlanta has embraced true Spanish food, or something that is “very close” to spanish food. As Ricardo stated, it is hard to duplicate the food without a true Spanish chef. I loved the place however, and it had a lot to add to the city as far as cuisine goes.
The place was packed last night, and the food was tops as usual. I think the restaurant was small enough to mirror a Spanish tapas bar, but would agree more small plates would be desirable.
Thanks for sharing. Once the mixture cooled, I ended up with a rhubarb compote that tasted neither sweet nor savory, but someone poised between the two. The berry flavor was bright but not brassy, and its vegetable essence didn’t struggle with the sugar.
I’m not sure I’ll try the recipe, but I really enjoyed reading your description. Long live JKessler!
[...] an awesome experience. While I work on the posts, check out Kessler’s thoughts on one such meal from a few months ago. Technorati Tags: myung ga won,korean barbecue,omakase,mf buckhead,chris kinjo,john kessler Tell [...]
Orderered their 1/2 rack of baby back ribs…last 6-6-09 night
The wrere the very very very dry……if there was quality control or a kitchen manager
overseeing the quality of their ribs… I don’t believe they wern’t doing their job..
For this restaurant to survive it better kick up their quality control many nothches..
Frankly totaly disapointed with the ribs that were sold to me.
I hope they didn.t try to pass this stuff off on a “to go” customer to save money instead of throwing out these ribs to save money.
Where is Chef Ramsey (Hell’s Kitchen) when we need him?
What is your email address? Rather than those amazing gifts that you would have to package up to send, how about giving me a recipe? When I was a kid in Indiana, a neighbor mom made the most wonderful cheesecake. It was not creamy as in loaded with cream cheese. It was dryer like maybe she used ricotta? Any suggestions? Thanks!
Who in God’s name is this Varasano’s guy paying. It’s not even the best pizza ITP let alone the country. Give me a break! The crust is soggy and the sauce is under seasoned…his multi-year media relations effort has really paid off.
Been here two times now. Nice room and good food. I’ve done the beer in the cool pitcher and glasses both times (6$ w 4 glasses worth). True there are so many different things to try. They have a Mushroom dish that is just looks like a plain mushroom on a stick (you can get it with terriaki or salt) but the way they cook it the flavor is amazing.
While the new Super H center is still just a large strip mall it is nicely done with numerous and large trees planted through out the parking lot that sits in the middle of the circular shaped center. It stands in sharp contrast to the hideous Brands Mart and its barren parking lot that is next door.
[...] and spoke a bit to the manager about the Shoya Izakawa – Haru Ichiban connection (noted by John Kessler and Gene Lee). He said that Shoya was opened by the ex-owner of Haru, and that Haru Ichiban has [...]
Stan – We’re no longer running any print edition pages for any sections. I agree it’s kind of a bummer for the food section, but I also think they’re making more of an effort to expand the online content. In progress, so stay tuned.
Thanks, Virginia! Hope you event in Philadelphia is loads of fun. I know the food will be great.
Barbara — My daughter became a rösti expert in Switzerland. She had to order them everywhere.
My boyfriend took me on a date here one evening. I lived behind the restaurant on Piedmont and there was always plenty of parking in the garage, which is free. No need to valet or park across the street…not sure why people couldn’t figure that out. The food was terrible, the service subpar and the place was nearly empty all evening. The food was overpriced and certainly not Spanish tapas. The dishes were too large in portion size for tapas but not large enough for a dinner entree. Nothing against the restaurant, but we never went back, even though I lived on the same block. The pulled cutains always made it appear as though the place was closed. Although, I did love interior the bull was a bit much.
Get Real – you have no idea how close to the mark you are. I had some very long meetings with people at the locally based company that makes their version of your dehydrated water beverage. The bottle states “minerals added for flavor” (which would be your pouch). Upon learning how long the meeting would be, employees of said company, advised us all not to drink the bottled water as the “flavor enhancers” act as a diuretic and the resultant trips to the lavatory that would result would slow things down.
resevoirDAWG – what, you recognized him as your boss?
Since you have sent me on so many excellent food adventures over the years, I will direct you to one of the funniest food things I have ever seen. There are some expletives used, so Cox probably won’t let you go there. It is a collection of 1974 Weight Watcher recipe cards with commentary. Painfully funny.
[...] There exist preview and reviews by John Kessler, Gene Lee of Eat Drink Man, and Foodie Buddha, and Chow Down Atlanta has also weighed in on this [...]
A restaurant similar to La Relais de l’Entrecote just opened in NYC. Named LE RELAIS DE VENISE- L’ENTRECôTE, it just opened at Lex & 52nd. $24 fixe prix. l’Entrecote in random Paris bistros beats almost every steak that I have had in the U.S. The meat has so much flavor. It will be interesting if this concept can catch on over here. It’s not the typical big steakhouse steak.
Keep up the great work, John. Come see us in Dallas.
bill
We are a local restaurant located at the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. We have been a staple of the Gainesville community for 12 years. Our restaurant sits in the historic downtown area. Chef Tim Roberts creates all sauces, breads & sausages in house along with using organic veggies from a local farm in Lula. Chef Roberts dubs his food “Rustic European Soul Food”. We strive for a fresh different choice that isn’t too pricy or too scary for our locals.
The lunch menu boast sandwiches, salads & quesadillas which come with your choice of a side. Our sides change daily according to the fresh produce we receive. Each day is a surprise for our customers.
The dinner specials change monthly along with the evening’s lasagna & sides. We do have staples on the menu such as the House Specialty, BBQ Shrimp & Grits, the Skirt Steak & a fabulous “Build Your Own” menu where our diners may pick their base, sauce & fresh toppings.
We also strive to keep a wonderful seasonal beer & wine list! Our patio is a great place to enjoy the summer breeze with any of our selections. Starting this July we will host acoustic music on the patio for an evening of good food, good bread & good music!
We are just a hop, skip & a jump from the downtown Atlanta area & would like to have you join us for lunch or dinner! We understand that your schedule is busy but if you head our way we are sure to provide a dining experience & dishes that are sure to feed your soul!
Thank you for your time & we will look forward to seeing you soon!
Hi! It looks like one of Japanese rice bowl, KATSU DON. $6.50 sounds very reasonable even in Japan for KATSU DON… I’m not sure but it might be Sushi Yoko or Umezono.
As a lover of great food we would like you to enjoy the fare of Chef R. L. Holmes who trained under Chef Paul at K- Pauls for 18 years. We were initially set to be Tibbs at the corner of Pharr and Grandview with Paul and AFC but that fell through and we struck out on our own.We are now @1113 Floyd St. in Covington Ga. So if you are looking for the best gumbo, greens,ettouffee,jambalaya, or ribs we promise it will be worth the trip.
Forgive my slackage. This pile of yum business is indeed katsudon — fried pork cutlet over rice in a sauce made of onions, eggs and broth. This particular version comes from Sushi Avenue in Decatur. It isn’t bad — and not a bad deal at all, for $6.50). My complaint is that the pork cutlet is so thoroughly coated in sauce that it gives up any bit of crunch. When it’s sopped with sauce and still a little crisp at the edges? Hoo mama.
When I lived in Japan I used to go to a katsudon specialty shop where the owner had an old dresser that he filled with breadcrumbs. Just before service, he packed the pork cutlets in the breading and then fried them to order. It was fantastic.
My favorite place for solo bar dining is Social downtown. Great staff and food and I don’t feel too weird reading the NY Times on my iPod while I wait for my order. They make some really good cocktails there.
I agree that H&F is a great place for dining at the bar, too. I think I even prefer the bar there to a table — though the food is great either way.
One more: the food is only good not great, but I’ve really enjoyed eating at the bar at Cypress Street Pint & Plate. Nice beer selection and I like the feel and look of the space.
Social downtown has a nice bar for dining. Great food and service too.
I also like the bar at Holeman & Finch, though it gets crowded quickly. Cypress Street Pint & Plate certainly doesn’t have food of the same quality as those two, but I love the feel and look of that place and have enjoyed eating at the bar.
Kevin Rathbun Steak has a great bar area where you can almost always get a table when the restaurant is booked. It’s a comfortable way to dine there. You’ll quickly become uncomfortable if you eat the entire portion of any of their sides, which are meant for sharing. But who can keep from devouring their fantastic jalapeno creamed corn?
That’s why I like to read your work John. You rave like about the simple pleasures with more feeling than you do the $35 dinner for one at the bar. (I almost choked at the thought of dinner for one costing more than ~$10 tops)
Note: I could not eat a raw tomato if my life depended on it. Cooked I’m fine with.
Two words. Duke’s rules. John, I’m headed for the Jersey shore this weekend. I intend to stop at the first farmstand I see, buy me one of them yankee ‘maters and check it out to see if it stands up to the ‘maters ripening in our garden back home in Atlanta. One hitch. I forgot to pack my jar of Duke’s in with my book-siging equipment.
During the first weekend in May, you must come try our Ruskin tomatoes at the Ruskin Tomato Festival. Every visitor gets free, sliced tomatoes and tomato sandwiches are sold to benefit charity. Each year, around 2,000 visitors get fully grown tomato plants, as well.
In disagreement with the Duke’s comment, I’d note that the reasons I like Duke’s are a) it’s really cheap, and sometimes the cheapest one on the shelf and b) it doesn’t contain sugar, which means you can have it if you’re low-carbing, in which case you couldn’t eat this as a sammich anyway, but I find it to be less sweet than other mayos, and certainly much less sweet than the Miracle Whip my mother prefers.
At any rate, my incredible stinginess usually brings me to make this sandwich with generic white bread (or banh mi bread, since that’s cheap too), generic mayo and roma tomatoes, if I must have one off-season. In-season, anything goes, but sometimes you just gotta have it.
We have some Rutger’s tomatoes on our deck. I am watching to see when they will be ripe enough for a ‘mater sammie. I am a yankee gal and I LOVE them. Don’t care a whit about adding bacon BUT I do require Hellman’s. Duke’s is too sweet and watery to me. Again, I am a yankee. Still waiting for my tomatoes..
I SERIOUSLY beg to disagree with anyone claiming Duke’s is too sweet. Duke’s has had the same recipe for 100 years, and it’s never involved adding sugar, as it clearly says on the label. “Contains no sugar.” Anyone claiming Duke’s is too sweet has never actually tried Duke’s. It’s a rural myth. I have eaten tomato sandwiches most of my 49 years, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. And I insist on Duke’s. When I lived outside the south, I brought jars with me, or had them sent. Hellman’s, Kraft, Blue Plate, etc….they’re like the Zima of mayonnaise.
Regarding “alternative ingredients….” Lou Reed once said “If it has more than three chords, it’s jazz.” Country music is called “three chords and the truth.” (Well, it used to be, anyway.) So if it’s got anything besides tomatoes, mayonnaise and bread, with a little salt & pepper, it ain’t a tomato sandwich.
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C Foss
January 9th, 2009
8:48 am
I have been eating there since they opened. I have told anyone who would listen that is was the best pizza in town.
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Sam
January 9th, 2009
9:40 am
The best pizza I have in a long time is at Pies On Pizza in Fayetteville and Lovejoy. Great crust and toppings. Gotta try it!
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Just went there
January 9th, 2009
9:44 am
We usually pick up a large order of their divine garlic knots for parties, and decided to give their pizza a try. Disguisting. The sauce was flat with no flavor or bite and the cheese was greasy. Almost like they add a cheap cheese to stretch the dollar. The crust was good, but my mushroom piece was so oily, I could not eat it. The Greek salad was great. The restaurant carpet is filthy and they had friends who brought in a bag of beer and were standing around drinking it. We won’t be back for pizza, but will for takeout garlic knots. The best pizza in Marietta is Rosa’s (location downtown Atlanta & Sandy Plains/Shallowford). In Atlanta, Fellini’s is the best on most days. Funny this place is getting an article when there is so much better and cleaner in Atlanta.
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rebelliousrose
January 9th, 2009
4:20 pm
I, for one, am very excited about any possibility of a Kessler’s Cat blog.
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rebelliousrose
January 9th, 2009
4:23 pm
Have you tried the Cabot Dairies’ Greek-style yogurts? The flavored, whole-milk ones? Bangin’. I love the vanilla the best; it’s flecked with vanilla beans and just….guh.
I also enjoy the same variety you have pictured above, with either a local kudzu honey, or (don’t laugh) lingonberry concentrate from Ikea.
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Bren
January 9th, 2009
9:20 pm
PT has been raving about him for a while now; she finally invited me to one of his tastings which seem to be so much fun. Looking forward to going and biting the hell out of his pizza!!!
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jkessler
January 11th, 2009
1:38 pm
I’ll give it a try….Thanks for the tip!
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jkessler
January 11th, 2009
1:40 pm
I agree the place isn’t much to look at, and the pizza gets oily. It does have an admirable crust. I’m not sure it’s worth a long excursion, but definitely one to try if you live nearby.
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Tom Stanley
January 14th, 2009
6:15 pm
I was on Yahoo and found your blog. Read a few of your other posts. Good work. I am looking forward to reading more from you in the future.
Tom Stanley
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Timothy in Atlanta
January 15th, 2009
5:32 pm
*BLINK* I just went in there a week or two ago for the first time. No one else was there, but I have to say, it was a nice experience. Go figure.
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bettyjoan
January 15th, 2009
6:05 pm
That’s so great that your kids wanted seconds! I love serving fish simply, without too many flavor-maskers. I want to TASTE the little buggers!
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jkessler
January 15th, 2009
6:15 pm
I agree. My test for any fish preparation in a restaurant is to ask myself: would it just be better with lemon and butter?
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jkessler
January 15th, 2009
6:16 pm
It always seemed kind of empty when I drove by. Let’s hope Pure puts some more life on that block.
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Heather
January 16th, 2009
9:24 am
The other businesses in that part of Inman Park seem to be doing well so I’m kind of surprised. I’ve been to the cigar bar there and there’s always a good crowd, but the Grape always looked empty.
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Heather
January 16th, 2009
9:31 am
That is too bad. Inman Park has really come alive with new businesses recently. I hope others have better fate.
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Terry Sagedy
January 16th, 2009
9:35 am
Please let them realize they need to take down those hideous awnings or surely they’ll gain the moniker “Purple Taqueria.” Concerned Inman Park citizen.
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brian
January 16th, 2009
10:30 am
That is great! I used to work in alpharetta and the ONLY thing I miss is eating at Pure Taqueria. They have some great mexican food. Yes, really almost true mexican, not tex-mex. The Original El Taco better watch out….
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jkessler
January 16th, 2009
11:39 am
Terry – Agreed. That purple awning says Grape soda more than wine. It was really funny when the place opened and I went to sit down and have a glass of wine with Usher for the story and everything was purple — the walls, the furniture, even Usher’s clothes. It felt a little like wandering onto the set of HR Pufnstuf…
Brian — Nothing else good in Alpharetta?
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Tom Colicchio performs Heimlich maneuver, saving famous food writer’s life | Food and More with John Kessler
January 19th, 2009
10:52 pm
[...] dinners held throughout the city and featuring meals from the nation’s top chefs, including Scott Peacock. Daniel Boulud and Lidia Bastianich were also in attendance. According to one eyewitness report, [...]
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heather
January 20th, 2009
9:21 am
another Taqueria del Sol Knock-off. We will see how long they last
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Izakaya restaurants in Atlanta | Food and More with John Kessler | Sushi Restaurants
January 20th, 2009
4:28 pm
[...] Givenchi Antonio wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptThough no local Japanese restaurants currently advertise themselves as izakaya per se, a few do have appealing menus that tilt in that direction. The new menu at Sushi House Hayakawa in Doraville has a lengthy selection of “appetizers” … [...]
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Broderick
January 20th, 2009
7:40 pm
This is awesome news!!
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Dirty
January 21st, 2009
10:56 am
Awesome story about the cabbage! I saw several photos of it and was amazed.
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John Kessler
January 21st, 2009
11:50 am
thanks! still kick myself for not buying it…
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John Kessler
January 21st, 2009
11:55 am
Yeah…I think Shoya will be the real deal…
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bettyjoan
January 22nd, 2009
2:48 pm
That actually looks and sounds delicious.
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BSC BBQ Boys
January 23rd, 2009
3:32 pm
Thanks for the post Jeff. The BBQ Boys had a great time in Atlanta. Prior to our journey, we researched the BBQ meccas of the South..Memphis, The Carolinas, and other random spots. Unforunately, Atlanta did not come up. But after our journey and a visit to Fox Bros Bar-B-Q, it should be among that list of heavyweights. Fox Bros is a fairly new joint that guarantees unique dishes (I suggest the Tominator) with a friendly, life is good attitude. The Ribs were amazing, the Mac and Cheese was better than your momma’s, and the banana pudding sinfully pleases the palate. If I had to make any suggestion from this 17 day journey, I would instruct any person who thinks they love ‘Cue to check out Fox Bros. I think this is their link: http://www.foxbrosbbq.com/
Also, our journey is almost over but we are still taking recommendations for a possible second trip and any BBQ fanatic will enjou our reviews of each BBQ Boys stop. Check it out at http://www.southernbbqboys.com Happy Eating! BSC BBQ Boys
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Kar
January 23rd, 2009
3:40 pm
You can get this just about anywhere these days at Hispanic or Asian supermarkets. I’ve tried the samples and it’s sweeter but refreshing than you’d expect.
I can understand why it would go with grapefruit.
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Kar
January 23rd, 2009
3:49 pm
As tea it’s great for a cold night but the rinds are a bit tiresome when you’re getting near the bottom of the cup.
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jkessler
January 23rd, 2009
4:08 pm
I’m kinda thinking one would sure taste good right about now…
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Dirty South Wine
January 23rd, 2009
7:15 pm
I find it strange that anyone would make a cocktail with Aloe juice. Aloe juice is often used to relieve constipation. Laxatives are the last thing people need when they’ve been drinking.
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John
January 23rd, 2009
9:48 pm
If you have not had the chance to go to “PURE” in Alpharetta, you are missing out! I’m excited that they are coming to this area….It’s really great.
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Elliott Shimley
January 26th, 2009
12:02 pm
Yes, Mr. Kessler, have been an avid reader of your restaurant reviews in the past. Hopefully I will be one of the suppliers to Josh when The Abattoir comes to life. Lee Farms is in Lamar County and is the home of Epicuristic Southern Veal. I have had the pleasure of working with Ford Fry, Linton Hopkins, Patrick Gebrayel and Ron Eyster and their help has been invaluable to me. Please email me, I would like to send you some further information about our very, very small business. I am 72 years old and this is a labor of love for me, I grew up in Oklahoma and breaded veal cutlets with white cream gravy and real mashed potatoes was a mainstay in our home and all really good restaurants. We just harvested our first animal from our new Mennonite abattoir and I would be proud to sample you with some cutlets for your family. They are not tenderized and are cut from both the chuck and the round. I look forward to hearing from you. Please forgive the length of the email, but old men do like to ramble…. Best regards Elliott Shimley
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jimmy
January 26th, 2009
12:37 pm
Looks great, it’s added to the list! I’ve been really eager to eat some Korean food lately. Where else do you like to go? Chow Down Atlanta tells me she knows all the bomb Korean places!
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jkessler
January 26th, 2009
12:59 pm
She’s your best hook-up for Korean…that girl really seems to know her stuff. But anyhow, here’s my list:
BCD Well-Bean Tofu: next to Bonjuk…good soon dubu, but they have an amazing version of kimchijjin — kind of a hot pot with pork belly, tofu, dried mushrooms and a huge honking piece of chinese cabbage kimchi (like a whole half cabbage) that they cut into the broth…i dream of this dish…
So Kong Dong (BuHi) and Book Chang Dong (Duluth): sisters restaurants that serve the best soon dubu in my opinion. love the fried fish that come with the panchan
Place in Nukoa Plaza (Duluth): Decorated with movie posters, specializes in sulung tang (beef bone soup)…really off the chart…
Hanil Kwan: Probably the best overall Korean spot on BuHi…Jen at Blissful Glutton turned me on to this one…
Chosun Ok: Our family favorite for barbecue…love the way the back barbecue room is so cold and you only unthaw when they bring the live coals…so many of our kids have had parties here it’s like the Kessler version of Chuck E Cheese…super nice staff…
Tairyou: Korean sushi bar on BuHi…I go there only for hwe dup bop, the sashimi salad
Chung Dam (Duluth): new owners have really brought good cooking to this fancy spot in the Super H plaza…don’t know the name, but stewed, bone-in mackeral dish, jap chae (clear noodle stir fry) and yuk hwe (raw beef with garlic and pear) are great…
hope this helps…JK
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JGraham
January 26th, 2009
3:47 pm
Wow, Pure Taqueria is fun and funky with really great Mexican food and a MUCH better fit for the neighborhood than the Grape. Looking forward to those margaritas!
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Handsome Jenkins
January 26th, 2009
5:28 pm
Despite what anyone might say or think, you need to spend an hour or two at the hottest spot for cocktails in Atlanta…THE CHOCOLATE BAR on Ponce de Leon in downtown Decatur! Outside of being a favorite out-of-the-ordinary quaint little place to relax for celebrities like Outkast’s Andre 3000, several Falcon’s players & several business executives; it is also a popular spot for common everyday people! Their one-of-a-kind specialty drinks & homemade sweets are a perfect combination for topping off a romantic evening with a special person. THE CHOCOLATE BAR is also a great place to meet fun & interesting new people!
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Gladys Knight Chicken and Waffles | Food and More with John Kessler
January 26th, 2009
6:17 pm
[...] have already reported on Weezy’s Movin’ on Up Cafe Jazz & BBQ opened by Isabel Sanford’s son, Sanford [...]
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rebelliousrose
January 26th, 2009
7:36 pm
I’ve eaten fresh Yuzu in Japan, and the reason it’s so all-fired expensive is the fruit is incredibly seed-stuffed. But delicious…….
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Dave
January 26th, 2009
8:14 pm
How can you go wrong with Limerick Junction? Best drinks in town, fashionable upscale atmosphere, what else could you ask for?
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Mike
January 26th, 2009
9:16 pm
I love Limerick! But… “fashionable” and “upscale”? Surely, you jest!
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Dave
January 26th, 2009
9:44 pm
Come on, Limerick is the only place in Atlanta you can live out champagne times on beer pockets…..
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jkessler
January 27th, 2009
10:06 am
Champagne Times on Beer Pockets — I think you’ve got a blog name.
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Dirty
January 27th, 2009
11:15 am
Handome Jenkins wins comment of the week. I don’t even know where to start with that one.
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John Kessler
January 27th, 2009
12:23 pm
Don’t take much to win comment of the week around here…
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John Kessler
January 27th, 2009
12:25 pm
Yep…there are even seeds to watch for in the Korean tea.
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John Kessler
January 27th, 2009
12:31 pm
eww….visuals….
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Tory Johnston
January 27th, 2009
5:14 pm
We actually introduced this product in the Fall, and sales are going very well. We were waiting for retail distribution to build before spreading the word, and given the many questions that arose surrounding which PB products were safe and which weren’t, we decided to address that issue (that we’re safe) within the context of the new product announcement. So yes, please enjoy one. While it does have 170 calories (worth every one of them in my sort-of-biased opinion), it actually has no trans fats.
Thank you.
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jkessler
January 27th, 2009
5:30 pm
Thanks for responding, Tory. Your dated press release suggests that the product was introduced on the 26th, so please forgive my misunderstanding. I’ll edit the text above.
I’m confused about the trans fats: the ingredients list “partially hydrogenated vegetable oils” and “partially hydrogenated palm kernel & cottonseed oils.” Are not hydrogenated fats trans fats by their very nature?
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jane
January 27th, 2009
6:33 pm
They most certainly are, jkessler…
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Peanut Butter Contamination Found? | THE WEEKLY POINT
January 28th, 2009
7:47 am
[...] salmonella cases from tainted peanut butter mostly in Northeast Ohio at blog.cleveland.com. Talk about lousy timing at blogs.ajc.com. Share This [...]
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bettyjoan
January 28th, 2009
11:03 am
This sort of thing drives me BATTY, though sometimes the typos are quite funny. Think I could make a living by offering my editing services to local chefs?
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Gene
January 28th, 2009
11:15 am
Tofu Village in Marietta has become a recent fav of mine. Their name makes them sound like a Soon-Dubu Jip but it’s actually an all encompassing traditional Korean restaurant. They make their own tofu and everything I have had here is delicious…
http://eatdrinkman.blogspot.com/2009/01/tofu-village-old-fashioned-korean.html
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Kar
January 28th, 2009
11:49 am
Along Buford highway it can be endemic. Looking at the entries for “gilled chicken,” “pork vittles” and other gaffes can be entertaining and sometimes more accurate than the correct spelling. My friends and I are usually more amused by these types of bad spell checks.
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Joseph
January 28th, 2009
5:52 pm
Sounds like a vegetarian reviewing a new steak house. I love dirty martinis and have only heard good things about Dirty Sue. Will have to try it for sure!
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jkessler
January 29th, 2009
10:54 am
Indeed. A dirty-martini-loving colleague at the paper told me the same thing, so I gave her the other bottle to try out. She says she’ll post a comment here.
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Julie
January 29th, 2009
1:41 pm
Talk about misspelling. The Chef is “Ginsberg” not “Ginsburg”
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jkessler
January 29th, 2009
2:18 pm
Oops! I’ll change that right away! Thanks for the catch, Julie. And if anyone can supply me with photographic proof of a funny menu misspelling (i.e., a cell pic is fine), I’d love to keep this going as a regular feature.
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Lynn
January 29th, 2009
9:38 pm
John’s dirty-martini-loving colleague here. And my verdict is … not bad at all. I made mine with vodka. The aroma was olive, but to me, the taste itself was predominantly salty. Hmm …. or maybe that’s always the case with my dirty martinis; I had just never been asked to analyze one before. Would I buy Dirty Sue? I wouldn’t rule it out, especially as John said, for a party. Bottom line: MY drink didn’t get poured down the drain!
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John Kessler
January 30th, 2009
12:14 pm
Thanks, Lynn!
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carolyn
January 31st, 2009
6:05 pm
i would like to send Johnan incredible new chutney that has been on the market for only 5 months.
What is the appropiate address?
Thank you
Carolyn Johnson
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eatwords
February 2nd, 2009
2:15 pm
I ate one of these! I don’t think I can say how good it was without using expletives.
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sablinha
February 2nd, 2009
2:44 pm
I’m embarassed to say that I licked the paper. Not a crumb was wasted. I want to hug the chef. I’m now addicted to Star Provisions po boy sandwiches.
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jkessler
February 2nd, 2009
6:44 pm
Glad you all took the suggestion. So delicious it’s almost surreal…
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Raymond Hook
February 2nd, 2009
7:07 pm
I like it when you write about good cheese!
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Shannon
February 3rd, 2009
4:56 am
This isn’t a misspelling, but for some reason it triggered a menu misunderstanding. Several years ago, while reciting the dinner specials to a table, I gave a description of the diver scallops. After my spiel, one of the diners very ernestly asked, ” What about the scallops make them so diverse?”
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Ken
February 3rd, 2009
9:45 am
At the risk of making one of my favorite hideouts too popular, I’d have to add The Book House Pub on Ponce to this list. The beautiful natural wood creates a cozy setting that’s perfect for enjoying the great collection of high-octane brews on tap and in bottles. The eclectic menu includes duck confit and even collard green eggrolls. Now where can you find that? Definitely worth a visit.
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Kenny
February 3rd, 2009
9:53 am
I can’t begin to say how wonderful Nantucket Bay scallops are ….. they make regular, daily scallops taste like paste …. I know that sounds insane, but there is such a distinct taste between the two.
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jkessler
February 3rd, 2009
10:00 am
That’s funny, Shannon. Here are my two favorites. A menu at Sfuzzi (remember that place?) misspelled “haricots verts” as “hairy coverts.” Another Italian restaurant in Denver offered “fresh Italian prostitute.” The manager blamed it on the spell checker…
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jkessler
February 3rd, 2009
10:01 am
Hey, cheese guy! So did I? (Write about good cheese, that is…)
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Joe
February 3rd, 2009
11:21 am
Glorified fern bars. With the loss of Peeler’s Inman Park Delicatessen (does anybody remember Peeler’s?) and the joint that used to face across Seminole in L5P (not the L5P Pub, but the old one with the big picture window and the guy at the bar smoking cigarettes through his tracheotomy tube and the pool tables in the back), the last place to get a beer and not be bothered by the 20th Century, much less the 21st, is Moe’s & Joes.
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MD
February 3rd, 2009
12:59 pm
I enjoy 5 Seasons. Simple as that. The food and the beers are right up my alley.
And I don’t feel like I’m trapped in some trendy “anti-trendy” place full of folks who find obscurity to be some requisite partner to quality.
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CBL
February 3rd, 2009
1:34 pm
Brick Store on the Decatur square is the perfect pub. Simple menu, fresh and very good beers on draft, proper glassware, and a proud staff which knows their beer. Add all that to a space of old brick and exposed wood with no TVs, neon, and obnoxious noisy music and you have a perfect local for pints after work.
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jkessler
February 3rd, 2009
3:24 pm
I’m kind of into good restaurants that put some thought into the beer list — places like Cakes & Ale in Decatur and Muss & Turner’s in Smyrna. But I really want to check out the Book House Pub…
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AJ
February 3rd, 2009
3:47 pm
Has anyone cooked this a way other than smoking it? I want to try it, but don’t have a smoker (or any other outdoor type of cooking vessel)
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ags
February 3rd, 2009
9:35 pm
I 2nd Moe’s and Joe’s!
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Dawgpound
February 3rd, 2009
10:30 pm
I’m a big fan of Kramers in Buckhead. Great beer selection, low-key place to enjoy a cold one. Definitely my favorite place to quaff a quaff.
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Ben
February 4th, 2009
6:00 am
The vortex. Both locations.
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Lauren
February 4th, 2009
9:10 am
I think we’re all forgetting good ol’ Manuel’s Tavern!
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Cindy
February 4th, 2009
9:19 am
Charlie Mopps Public House in Sandy Springs. The House that Beer Built. http://www.charliemoppspub.com
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Hoppy McHopster
February 4th, 2009
10:21 am
Muss & Turner didn’t make the list? Can’t really respect it if this gem isn’t on it. Quantity of beers pales in comparison to a well-honed menu AND a staff of “beer sommeliers” who can accurately describe the selections and make complementary menu selections. Hooray for M&T!
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hardmanb
February 4th, 2009
10:35 am
Manuel’s Tavern is listed in my will for where to hold my wake. For over 30 years, I have enjoyed the hustle of waiters, the excellent selection of pub grub, the friendly and open seating, the availability of private party areas,and the laughter, smiles, happiness and good will of the crowd, while being with friends. Everything good, and nothing else. There’s nothing like the pitchers of beer slammed down on the heavy wood traditional pub furniture, and the ability to pull up a few more chairs. Good times.
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Shrimpee's doesn't want any counter scratching | Food and More with John Kessler
February 4th, 2009
1:19 pm
[...] Me, if I can’t scratch the counters, I’m going back to flipping salads. [...]
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jkessler
February 4th, 2009
1:28 pm
I like Manuel’s for its Simpsons pinball machine…
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Danny Kim
February 5th, 2009
9:35 pm
Have you heard of a new restaurant at Johns Creek? It’s a pizza restaurant but with a new spin… It’s great tasting but healthy… organic sauce and crust, low fat cheese, reduce fat pepperoni and msg free sausage. It’s trying to take pizza to a new frontier…
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CONFIRMED: Leon’s Full Service Opens Monday « Decatur Metro
February 5th, 2009
9:56 pm
[...] other Leon’s news…the AJC is now following the the first pint auction story and John Kessler’s new food blog even gave me a hat tip for it! Still nothing in the print article, but I’ll take what I can [...]
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Patrick
February 6th, 2009
12:29 pm
Leaving out Charlie Mopps Pub means this list has little validity.
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FCM
February 6th, 2009
10:37 pm
WOOO HOOO
After they moved Meredith (the McDonald’s of food critics) into the evening edge well…..I just don’t even bother with the food section. SO GLAD that I noticed this story tonight. I bookmarked you. It will be wonderful to read ya again.
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Mr. Hong
February 8th, 2009
10:42 am
Haha, I started to ask what kind of sausage you use, then realized it doesn’t make the slightest difference. Even if you live long enough to prepare this a second time, you won’t notice whether it’s Jimmy Dean or some highfalutin foodie specialty.
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kayla
February 8th, 2009
7:32 pm
that sign made me think of this hilarious blog of passive-aggressive (or just aggressive) notes:
http://www.passiveaggressivenotes.com/
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rebelliousrose
February 9th, 2009
12:49 am
oh, man, this is so mean. I’m unemployed and poor, Kez, and you with the food porn!
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DBM
February 9th, 2009
8:15 am
I have been a fan since JK was undercover with his “unfortunate” hair. I still love him despite his direct responsibility for my addiction to Greek yogurt. So happy to have stumbled upon this blog.
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Rosey
February 9th, 2009
8:15 pm
John Kessler has been my go-to columinist in the AJC food section since he arrived, and since he is not doing that any more I miss his recipes and comments each week. I do read and enjoy his new weekly column now, but it’s not quite the same as it was before the AJC shrunk all their best features in the past couple months.
What I’d like is a recommendation for a good restaurant to take French friends who will be visiting us in the next 2 weeks. They have 3 kids, ages 18, 15, 13; we will be a group of 11 (our own children and grandchildren) and don’t want a long drawn out dinner, but a place that would be a good ATL memory for them. We live in Stone Mtn. and Decatur, Midtown, Downtown would all be ok…no Marietta, Alpharetta, etc. Can anyone suggest a spot?
What I would like to ask is this: we are hosting a family from Paris (mother, father (mid forties) and 3 teenagers (18, 15, 13). We are know them well (the mom was an exchange student in ‘79 staying with our family; she was in our daughter’s wedding here in ATL; our daughter was in her wedding in Brittany ; they have come to visit us in in the summer of ‘02). We want to take them to a good, comfortable Atlanta restaurant on a Saturday night (Feb. 21) and we will be a group of 11…what can you recommend? We don’t want it to be a long drawn out event; we’d like good food, good service with no attitude, a good ATL experience with the ambience
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Colly Mitchell
February 9th, 2009
9:07 pm
So glad to have found you here, JK!…I, like the others above, truly miss your restaurant reviews but have continued to enjoy your weekly articles (even if the AJC insists on moving you every 5 minutes) and “assorted stupidities.” Still so weird seeing your picture…:-) Write on, my friend!
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road too
February 9th, 2009
9:52 pm
i would have to agree with the list,these bars push the boundarys of beer and offer customers something thats outside of the box rather then the usual suspects,respect that owners of bars are educating the customer base and help keep bringing new beers into the georgia market.
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jkessler
February 10th, 2009
11:05 am
Thanks, all, for the nice comments…glad you found me here. (Colly, it’s still very weird for me to see my picture.)
Rosey, I can totally relate, having been an exchange student in France in the early 80’s and hosting my French family here.
Here’s what I would do: Take them to a restaurant that gives them a sense of place but doesn’t hit them over the head with huge portions and American excess. I think Cakes & Ale in Decatur would fit the bill — I think it’s as close in spirit to a neighborhood bistro as any restaurant in town. Convivial, honest, and a great sense of what contemporary Southern American food is all about.
Other thoughts are Floataway Cafe (more expensive, but more refined) and Rathbun’s (very friendly atmosphere and a real sense of Atlanta). Please email me if you want to discuss further. Thanks, JK
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jkessler
February 10th, 2009
11:06 am
What a hilarious site!
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bettyjoan
February 10th, 2009
11:08 am
What a lovely post!
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Green Olive
February 10th, 2009
12:08 pm
You’ve ‘gone molecular?’
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Tavolini
February 10th, 2009
4:52 pm
LOL, did you eat it post melt?
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jkessler
February 10th, 2009
7:46 pm
you should try my foie gras Peeps
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vaoihugp zyiaerxv
February 11th, 2009
9:17 am
kulticogj slzurbyi nqsbuy dprxgveh pocqik kixat fptmyud
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charlotte wilson
February 11th, 2009
11:03 am
Lovely article. I grew up in Bethesda, Md. But don’t remember a French restaurant. I waitressed at Maison de Crepe on Wisconsin Ave. while attending American U. I remember Au Pied du Cochon further on down the road in Georgetown….some wonderful food there.
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Hermster
February 11th, 2009
11:45 am
Where did you find these John? I need to get them for my peeps!
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Lisa Cubbon
February 11th, 2009
11:48 am
I must save this in case I get to Quebec…
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Lisa Cubbon
February 11th, 2009
11:50 am
Wrong. Just wrong!!! Peeps are little yellow chicks available ONLY just before Easter. I think I battle this alone. And I need to find some too!!!
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Lisa Cubbon
February 11th, 2009
11:53 am
It depends! If it’s really rustic food and there is a local beer, I go with that! But I also like wine. Beer and Mexican food, Indian food. Wine with Italian and French. American.. eh…
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jkessler
February 11th, 2009
3:13 pm
The head Peep sent them to us at the AJC hoping to get some ink (but not imagining that the writer likes to microwave cute things). I would think they’d be available wherever fine Peeps are sold.
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jkessler
February 11th, 2009
3:18 pm
I remember the crepe place! In my mind’s eye, Michel’s was in downtown Bethesda, around the corner from the Tastee Diner.
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rebelliousrose
February 11th, 2009
10:24 pm
Did you stay at the cool (pardon the pun) ice hotel?
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rebelliousrose
February 11th, 2009
10:29 pm
A way back at a restaurant I was managing in Alabama, insted of giving me the menu to proof like he was supposed to, the GM sent it to the printer.
It returned with a fine course of “Buffalo Boogers”. Sadly, not the best-selling burger he had expected it to be.
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MeLikeyCuuute
February 12th, 2009
4:09 am
those are cute little peeps. And, in the micro… hot melty goey peeps. Mmmm
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laura
February 12th, 2009
10:03 am
I’ve been told that if stand two of the chick peeps up in the microwave and turn it on that they will grow and likely not at the same rate so it looks like a they are having a little duck war; have fun.
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Mr. Hong
February 13th, 2009
10:19 am
The DK Farmers’ Market is the only place I have ever seen three varieties of kohlrabi for sale. It is an extraordinary spot.
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Decatur Claims Two James Beard Nominees « Decatur Metro
February 13th, 2009
3:59 pm
[...] Claims Two James Beard Nominees 13 02 2009 The AJC’s John Kessler posted the Atlanta-area finalists for this year’s James Beard awards and two work their magic right [...]
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Dirty
February 13th, 2009
4:14 pm
Congrats to the nominees!
It is awesome to see Kevin from Woodfire on there!
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jkessler
February 13th, 2009
5:06 pm
Has Kevin done a lot to change the menu at Woodfire?
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jkessler
February 13th, 2009
6:24 pm
It really is a local treasure.
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Cameron Smith
February 14th, 2009
1:44 pm
Props to Holeman and Finch!!!!!
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Losing Weight…Yeah Right! » Blog Archive » Restaurant Stories By John Kessler | Food and More with John Kessler
February 14th, 2009
2:22 pm
[...] The cafeteria at Your DeKalb Farmers Market serves Second Lunch.Continue Reading [...]
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Mr. Hong
February 14th, 2009
3:52 pm
Y’all who stick in Atlanta are missing a good experience at Five & Ten in Athens. The place won’t get a nomination for best service (though the best of their staff are very professional) but the food, my my my. Hugh Acheson came here from Canada (he was recently naturalized a U.S. citizen if I remember correctly) but quickly figured out that what makes a restaurant good in these parts–seasonal menu, local producers, regional style–is also what makes for enthusiastic and faithful customers.
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C Brooks
February 16th, 2009
9:55 am
This is great. I can’t wait until they open. We needed a soul food restaurant out here so bad!!!
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jkessler
February 16th, 2009
1:03 pm
We did stay at the ice hotel. It was kind of like really expensive camping. Fun tho’…
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Drew
February 16th, 2009
4:58 pm
Wow! Thanks for biting the cash bullet on that one for us!
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James O
February 16th, 2009
5:29 pm
Now this is the type of reporting that we all know and love(and expect from you). Outstanding!
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Epic Omakase in the Upstairs Room at MF Buckhead | Food and More … | Sushi Restaurants
February 16th, 2009
5:55 pm
[...] unknown wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptJust about a year after opening MF Buckhead, owner/chef Chris Kinjo opened his upstairs omakase room — an 8-seat sushi bar where he prepares a special menu of his choosing. (”Omakase” is the term guests in Japanese restaurants use to … [...]
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Josh
February 16th, 2009
7:16 pm
Kessler, this is great! I really miss your take on restaurants. You’re the best in the city and the best reason to read the AJC.
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Swiss miss
February 17th, 2009
8:42 am
Looks awesome! Thanks for the report.
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Tavolini
February 17th, 2009
10:35 am
Potato chips, eh? That’s a new one!
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Mike H
February 17th, 2009
10:43 am
That looks awesome! Any idea how it compares to Masa in NYC? Given the tough economic times, is it hard to score a seat?
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jkessler
February 17th, 2009
10:47 am
I know, really. At least it’s not Flamin’ Hot Cheetos…
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jimmy
February 17th, 2009
11:31 am
bummer! i really enjoyed allegro and was looking forward to my next visit.
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jimmy
February 17th, 2009
11:35 am
i want to be there.
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Dirty
February 17th, 2009
1:26 pm
Wow. That wasn’t open very long.
Scary times.
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jkessler
February 17th, 2009
3:11 pm
Masa (where I’ve eaten once) follows a different format. There, you start with 6-8 plated dishes, some hot and some cold. Then you get sushi, piece by piece, handed to you. If I recall, I had 6 or 8 dishes, about 20 pieces of sushi, one handroll filled with toro, and then dessert. Before dessert, they ask you if you’d like one more piece of anything else. It is more a traditional sushi bar in that regard.
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Tavolini
February 18th, 2009
10:47 am
….but it’s a 2 for $5 special! Surely you can’t eat both
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FoodieBuddha
February 18th, 2009
1:00 pm
yes I can … and did! muu haa!
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jkessler
February 18th, 2009
1:11 pm
Hey, my watermelon-eating habits are personal.
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kopp
February 19th, 2009
1:56 pm
How does it compare with Soto’s omakase (while he was still in Atl.)?
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Bren
February 19th, 2009
2:16 pm
i would have been a dork too, no, a totally unassuming nerd… kewl stuff. i wish i would have known..
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rebelliousrose
February 19th, 2009
3:18 pm
All I can think about now are “personal appliances”- does this now apply to my toaster?
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rebelliousrose
February 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
I miss your reviews even more passionately than I thought I did.
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Margaret Mattson
February 19th, 2009
6:28 pm
This is fabulous!!
(And hello there! — love your blog.)
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Broderick
February 20th, 2009
9:02 am
What a cool find, I’ll have to try it
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jkessler
February 20th, 2009
2:43 pm
Thanks, Rose.
Kopp – Very different. Soto had such a unique p.o.v. and palate. Chris (with lots of input from Ito-san) showcases ingredients. There’s a lot more conversation with Chris…
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jkessler
February 20th, 2009
2:43 pm
Good stuff!
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jkessler
February 20th, 2009
2:44 pm
Thank you!
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Bob Porter Sr.
February 21st, 2009
3:00 pm
An excellent review of an undoubtably delicious and unforgetable meal, or should I say, “experience”. Your descriptions of the dishes was so detailed I believe I gained a pound or two just reading them.I have been a daily reader of the Constitution (now AJC) for over 50 years, and for many of those years your informative and accurate reviews have weighed very heavily on my choice of restaurant. Regards,Bob Porter
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Tavolini
February 23rd, 2009
11:19 am
Wow–great find! Thanks for sharing
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Colly Mitchell
February 23rd, 2009
4:19 pm
That’s so interesting to find this today because just a few days ago I bought the “green” version of this sofrito on the advice of a Puerto Rican girlfriend of mine. With a name like Alien Stomach Rice, how could I not serve this to my loved ones?
Colly
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jkessler
February 23rd, 2009
5:02 pm
thanks, Colly! The green one is really good, too. It’s made with cilantro and culantro — the sawtooth leaf herb that you see served as a garnish for pho in Vietnamese cooking.
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Quick Bite: La Pietra Cucina | Eat It, Atlanta
February 23rd, 2009
5:34 pm
[...] While the location isn’t quite stellar (on Peachtree across from Equifax in an unmarked office building), and the empty space from the previous restaurant is off-putting, put this on your list. Atlanta could use another good Italian option, especially now that Allegro closed this past weekend. [...]
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kayla
February 23rd, 2009
6:35 pm
“alien stomach rice” – it almost sounds like something you’d see on a Chinese menu, kind of like the “loofah with sponge gourd” I saw on a menu in NYC.
Joking aside, my boys would totally snarf something called “alien stomach rice”. It’s on my short list.
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Tavolini
February 24th, 2009
10:09 am
hahaha–I can see Alien Stomach Rice as being quite tasty. 5 stars for name originality
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carlton c.
February 24th, 2009
10:49 am
Enter your comments here
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carlton c.
February 24th, 2009
10:50 am
pizzah
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jkessler
February 24th, 2009
11:15 am
it it quite tasty, with an appearance that could make a forensic scientist queasy…
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Alien-Stomach Rice
February 25th, 2009
12:07 am
[...] me up, here’s the recipe, bring it on [...]
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Kar
February 25th, 2009
11:32 am
You can only eat so much beans and rice.
Sounds a litle gimicky such as the politicians a couple of years ago who tried to live on $100 or the equivalent of food stamps for a month. One guy admitted having to go to the local food cupboard. Another said the worst was going to the complimentary political benefits and ignoring the shrimp and roast beef so he could go home and eat his government cheese.
Interestingly, all reported that they lost weight.
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Paulie [eatl/ga]
February 25th, 2009
1:19 pm
Kar:
As one of the participants in this challenge I can tell you that it’s not necessarily a gimmick as we have nothing really to gain other than the understanding of what it takes to live on $30 this week. I will admit that I doubt any of us will maintain this lifestyle beyond this week, a luxury most of those receiving Federal assistance do not have. Therefore, “suffering” for one week is just that, suffering for one week.
I agree that one can only eat so much rice and beans. However, you may be surprised at what you can eat for $30 / week.
If you’d like to see how my week is going, you can check out http://www.SevenDayProject.com
ps – I too am hoping that I can report a weight loss at week’s end.
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Kelly
February 25th, 2009
2:50 pm
The Thai side of the menu at Thaicoon used to proudly advertise “crap meat.”
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CSD Legislative Forum - Tomorrow Night 6:30p « Decatur Metro
February 25th, 2009
5:40 pm
[...] Oh, if only Sonny would come to town and we could ask him our questions! Actually that raises an interesting point….Has anyone ever seen Sonny Perdue inside the Decatur city limits? Has he ever snuck in for some fried chicken at Watershed? (I wouldn’t think Scott Peacock would be as willing to hand-deliver fried chicken to the Gov as he was for Martha Stewart at the aquarium!) [...]
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Colly Mitchell
February 25th, 2009
7:59 pm
Ouch. Poor Joel! It’s incredible how far his shiny star has fallen….wonder if he’ll return to ATL?
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ofcourse
February 25th, 2009
10:37 pm
his no star cuisine will be right at home in atlanta
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ChrisR
February 25th, 2009
10:41 pm
“his no star cuisine will be right at home in atlanta”
You are correct!!!
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michael
February 25th, 2009
10:52 pm
Come on, outside of the Michelin starred/ $30 entrée stops, there is nothing special to eat in NYC. I would argue outside of these wallet busting gems NYC has worse food than most mid major cities, and overpriced at that.
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Mark
February 25th, 2009
11:40 pm
Whats that song “If you can make their you can make it any where in Old NY Newwwwww Yorkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk” Joel didn’t make it
Went Joel’sAtl 2 X mas’s Ago it totally s_cked.
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Lt. Col. Frank Slade
February 26th, 2009
12:02 am
The OAK ROOM!!
Whoooo-AHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
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A.S.
February 26th, 2009
12:40 am
Welcome back to ATL!
When I ate at Joel during December I was not so impressed. The food was solid but the service was so-so.
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howard stern
February 26th, 2009
12:50 am
taco bell will take you
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Jim
February 26th, 2009
2:43 am
Mark, run your commentary through spell check before posting your comments. I wonder why it is that so many people delight when other people are knocked?
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Atlanta’s Next Big Foodie Topic: Joël Antunes Gets The Boot | Atlanta Restaurant Reviews | Atlanta Food Blogs | Dining in Atlanta
February 26th, 2009
2:54 am
[...] in all walks of life, as far as the NYC dining scene goes – he may be just that. As John Kessler has noted, Antunes has joined the rank and file of the [...]
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Jim
February 26th, 2009
6:22 am
Michelin $30.00 entree stops? There are plenty of GREAT restaurants in NYC! I can tell you (Michael) make frequent visits to the Big Apple. You probably have not even stepped out of Podunk, Georgia. Many restaurants in NYC have great food and surroundings, many just have great food, while others have “good” food but is a place to be seen and to see. If you ever decide to venture out of your double wide leave a note and I will be more than happy to give to you a list of great restaurants with great food and great surroundings in NYC!
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Cuz Tom
February 26th, 2009
8:13 am
Wow Jim…..easy brother. That was Michael’s opinion. Is he not entitled to his own opinion????? Would it have not sufficed to say that you disagreed with him and mention a few good or great resturants??? I do not see the necessity of all the mean comments. But if you are from NYC then you are probably used to people being rude.
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g
February 26th, 2009
8:26 am
If you think New York is so great then go back!!!
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chris
February 26th, 2009
8:51 am
Joel’s Atlanta restaurant was 90% FABRICATED HYPE. The artistic garnishments of the meals were emphasized instead of taste. The authentic French dining experience was aptly delivered by a staff who perfected the brusque and rude waiter role. The piece du resistance was always the inexplicably outrageous prices.
Successful businesses put the customer first, Joel believes his own fabricated hype and puts himself first. Customers vote with their wallets.
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Big Wheel
February 26th, 2009
9:08 am
Sounds like there are some NY homers in the crowd, in fact I am seeing more and more Ny license plates every year. Come to think of it, NY is a great place to visit but I wouldn’t want to live there either. Welcome to the south, enjoy it or get the hell out.
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Matt M.
February 26th, 2009
9:16 am
The current Joel restaurant is about as far removed from Joel Antunes as the moon is from the earth. The fare offered at Joel is significantly improved from that of the old regime IMHO. Let’s keep in perspective that Joel restaurant was just recently awarded 4 stars from the AAA and 5 stars from the AJC. The detractors that have taken the opportunity to bash this establishment based on it’s old namesake must have an axe to grind. Joel’s is a fine establishment and provides its diners with an exemplary culinary experience from the quality of menu to the excellent service provided by its staff.
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jkessler
February 26th, 2009
9:31 am
The current chef at Joël, Cyrille Holata, is really a fine chef in his own right and is putting his mark on the restaurant. I think we’re lucky to have him in this town.
Also, I’m chasing down a rumor that Antunes has another job lined up, and it’s not in Atlanta. I really wish him well. Whatever any of us thought of his cooking, he certainly added a dimension to the local restaurant scene that left a mark.
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Thursday food links: Joel fired, Blais and others on ‘Top Chef’ | Omnivore Atlanta
February 26th, 2009
9:46 am
[...] Kessler reports on the firing of Joel Antunes from the Oak Room. (Thanks to foodieman for the tip, [...]
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Paulette
February 26th, 2009
10:01 am
I have an original menu from the “glory days” of the Plaza hotel.
The self-centered cuisine of Joel Antunes does not even come close to the culinary dining experience enjoyed by my grandparents back in the days when it was “real food”, not a fabricated designer looking dish.
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M. Johnson
February 26th, 2009
10:04 am
I agree with John Kessler, Joel Antunes is a great chef who helped elevate the Atlanta dining scene. I hate that things didn’t work out in New York, but I wish him well. And Joel is still a wonderful restaurant.
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Fat Man
February 26th, 2009
10:09 am
The bottom line is that NYC is a tough town. Many (but not all) Atlanta restaurants that are lauded would receive 1-2 stars from this same reviewer. I also imagine that the meal he gave 0 stars would get at least 3/4 if it was served here in Atlanta.
My issue with dining in Atlanta is that all the “nice” restaurants serve nearly the exact same food—some kind of “farm fresh twist on new southern cuisine”. Give me a break. How many different takes on shrimp and grits do we need? How many $12 cocktails? I feel like I could write the menu blind at these places and be correct 80% of the time.
For my money, the best, most authentic food still remains in Buford Highway with only a few exceptions.
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Joe
February 26th, 2009
10:27 am
The BrewHouse is looking for a chef!
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Happy to be Here
February 26th, 2009
10:29 am
Perhaps a few of you should take yourselves to some place more deserving of you. We simple southerners will do our best to adjust to your absence.
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Jennifer Zyman
February 26th, 2009
10:52 am
I just have to say I find it quite sad that anonymous posters feel the need to kick the chef while he is down. Imagine if someone mocked you after you got fired from your job. I know he is public figure, but whatever happened to showing a little class and restraint?
As for Joel’s future, I am positive the chef will land on his feet. I had some truly wonderful meals at his restaurant before and after the renovation. I wish him the best of luck.
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Bill
February 26th, 2009
11:19 am
Who?
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Nicolas Bour
February 26th, 2009
11:52 am
I agree with Jennifer (Blissful Glutton), why is it that people enjoy when others fail?
Joel Antunes is a great Chef with many years of success under his Toque, it is normal for everyone to encounter a situation in their career where things just don’t work out. I imagine only great things for Chef Joel in his future.
Nic
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RW
February 26th, 2009
12:14 pm
Fat man is right on. Buford Hwy food is off the chain.
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kam
February 26th, 2009
12:17 pm
Hey, Happy to be here. I’m so happy to read that. So funny. Right on the money. I am rollin’ !!!!!!!!!!
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Meridith Ford Goldman
February 26th, 2009
12:23 pm
Joel Antunes is one of the best chefs this city has ever seen — gifted at both procuring excellent ingredients and creating astounding, dazzling dishes. Bruni actually had plenty of good things to say about Antunes’ cooking in the review. Just because the fit at the Oak Room wasn’t right doesn’t mean he can’t cook. Whereever he ends up — and I doubt it will be Atlanta — I wish him well.
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RAT MAN
February 26th, 2009
12:31 pm
I have known Joel for several years and have been lucky enough to call him a Client. Joel is a hard-charging individual that is very determined. It is disapointing to see this misfortune for Joel, but knowing his character and determination I’d say that he’ll bounce back from this like the other challenges he has faced in times past.
You won’t find a harder working more dedicated individual.
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Algonquin J. Calhoun
February 26th, 2009
12:41 pm
He’ll soon be smothering and covering and cookin’ ‘em hash brown pertaters. Waffle House food always gets good reviews, so he’d better study up on sunny-side up and scramblin’ and all that. “Mornin’.
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Jim
February 26th, 2009
12:54 pm
Well it appears that I did jerk a few chains! BTW, I am not a New Yorker but am from the South and have always lived in the South. I have traveled extensively however and do happen to know (my opionon) a good restaurant from a bad restaurant and good food from great food. I did live in NYC for three years and found virtually 100% of “real” NYers to be very nice and not rude as some of you are saying. I did get a little discussion going and that is a good thing – right CUZ?
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Algonquin J. Calhoun
February 26th, 2009
1:00 pm
If you would like to make a donation for Mr. Antune you may do so through UNICHEF. Please keep in mind the displaced practitioners of the culinary arts. Remember, a mime is a terrible thing to taste.
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Algonquin J. Calhoun
February 26th, 2009
1:21 pm
Jim, i’ve never lived in New York but I’ve visited many times. The people I’ve met there are, by and large, very nice, friendly, helpful people. That’s certainly more than I can say for this over-hyped cow town. Atlanta is full of the pretentious and ephemeral. It picks up on a trend from New York, tries to emulate it (usually badly and hokily) and pretends it’s on equal standing with New York. It isn’t! Atlanta is a town full of hicks, transplanted failures, natives who now hate it, bimbos, bozos, fruit merchants and neanderthalic twits. As for cuisine, most of these morons think of french toast as a culinary delight.
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Right On Time
February 26th, 2009
1:40 pm
Algonquin.
“…natives who now hate it…” is exactly right. There was a time when the Atlanta and metro areas were nice places to live and raise a family. Then, we were “fortunate” enough to be infused with transplants from every state, borough and country on this green earth. They were and are determined to bring “culture” to our little town. You now see the result.
As for a fine meal, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I hate Ruth Criss but really enjoy Stoney River. That does not mean RC is swill. And, yes, I’m aware most serious food critics would not set foot in SRG.
We are glad to have you and you are welcome to stay. However, we have never really appreciated being told how bad off we are and how much we need y’all.
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Devildog
February 26th, 2009
2:46 pm
I still prefer Old Hickory House. New Yorkers can brag about their pizzas but they can’t come close with BBQ and Brunswick stew. Most of these “chefs” fool around with food too much, anyway. Cornbread with sugar and sage? Gimme a break!! Leave that stuff in NY.
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Algonquin J. Calhoun
February 26th, 2009
2:48 pm
I didn’t grow up here but I’ve lived here thirty-one years. I loved living here for a long time but not so much in recent years. If real estate ever elevates from the gutter, I’m going to sell and leave. The area is filled with rejects from other places now and it’s intolerable. Think I’m exaggerating? Watch any newscast any day.
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Mike
February 26th, 2009
2:55 pm
The Plaza has issues in general – the reviews of the Palm Court were so horrible that they had to close down to regroup. One criticism was about these awful boxy high-backed chairs, which are now sprinkled throughout the hotel – guess they couldn’t afford to throw them out!
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qman
February 26th, 2009
3:14 pm
I went to a restaurant in Florida that advertised on the outside, “Seafood at Best.”
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cubalibre
February 26th, 2009
4:26 pm
I visited Joel when Mnsr. Antunes was still in residence, and I was underwhelmed, to say the least. I’ve had better meals at FAB, for less $$. With very few exceptions, I’ve found that chefs who start to believe their own hype quickly fade to mediocrity. NYC, having a plethora of fabulous restaurants, will not stand a mediocre celebrity chef for long (see, e.g., the drubbing Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant took afre it had been open a couple of months). It isn’t “kicking someone when they’re down” to simply point out the truth, and the truth is that Joel Antunes is simply overhyped for his actual abilities.
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jkessler
February 26th, 2009
4:32 pm
I’ve heard from several sources that the food at the Oak Room never really got into its super-luxurious groove. Not only was the timing horrible but the fit may have been awkward. Antunes certainly had experience at the super-high end, having been chef at the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and the Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead. But I remember interviewing him just after he opened Joël, and at the time he said he was looking forward to preparing a more casual, brasserie-style menu. It sounds funny now, but he then described his intent as something “between Bacchanalia and Bluepointe.” He has always had a gift for redefining rustic preparations — pastas, braises — in a refined context. His technique always shines in the context of his playfulness. From what I’ve read about the decor at the Oak Room, it wasn’t a very playful environment.
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tfrad
February 26th, 2009
4:39 pm
We in GA are not above a bit of self doubt now and then. Having lived in Manhatten and raised here,(Grady High)Atlanta is now a wonderful food city and can compete with any city, inculding NYC! And yes, most people in NYC are very nice, but don’t like BS or fools, and yes downtown Atlanta has gotten rude, but there are almost no Georgians living there. Dollar for dollar Atlanta eating is great, and Buford Hwy is the bomb.
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tfrad
February 26th, 2009
4:41 pm
Enter your comments here
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Fat Man
February 26th, 2009
9:12 pm
Everyone who is bending over backwards to laud the praise of Joel has no credibility. The facts are simple:
a) He was fired.
b) The review gave zero stars—and it wasnt the only bad review.
So either all the food critics in questions dont know what they are talking about (unlikely) or those in priase of Joel dont know what they are talking about (seems likely).
I am fat.
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Drew Belline
February 26th, 2009
10:26 pm
Joel Antunes is one of the most gifted chefs that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I think it is a disgrace that so many people take so much pleasure in anothers misfortune, and then not have the decency to put their name on their own blog. We should all hope that that such a gifted cook would return to Atlanta.
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W.R. Slade
February 27th, 2009
2:03 am
Did he try to slip the Colonel a watered down Jack Daniels?
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P:
February 27th, 2009
9:17 am
“So either all the food critics in questions dont know what they are talking about (unlikely) or those in priase of Joel dont know what they are talking about (seems likely).”
And if I was a spelling and grammar critic I would give you 0 stars as well.
Fat Man people like you are the reason abortion is till legal.
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Hmmmmm
February 27th, 2009
7:23 pm
So Joel’s replacement was announced today, it’s the Chef of Fishtail who also was poorly reviewed in the same article that gave the Oak Room 0 stars……………………….
Something tells me the Oak Room is managed by morons.
I think Cartman should manage it.
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W.R. Slade
February 27th, 2009
9:15 pm
I’m telling all you morons out there it had nothing to do with the freaking food. I think he tried to give the Colonel a watered-down Jack Daniels. It aint got nothing to do with the freaking food. You mess with colonel and you are asking for it. The Colonel had been going to the Oak Room since his days with Lyndon.
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Dirty
March 1st, 2009
9:58 am
Roppongi Hills meets 1997?
http://www.rasushi.com/video2.html
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RA Sushi to open soon in Midtown | Food and More with John Kessler | Sushi Restaurants
March 1st, 2009
11:09 am
[...] nobody@flickr.com (Adrián Pérez) wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptRA Sushi coming to Midtown. 9:35 am March 1, 2009, by jkessler. RA Sushi — a national chain of sushi/bar/restaurant/bam-bam-oramas — will soon open its first Atlanta branch at 11th and Peachtree in the new 1010 Midtown development. … [...]
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Kim Plafcan and Neil Olliges
March 1st, 2009
8:44 pm
Ben and Becky –
Check this out..a play by play of the MF Sushi experience. Would you two be interested in this? What month will you be free? They do this on Thursdays…
Kim and Neil
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The Rudy
March 1st, 2009
8:52 pm
Joel the restaurant is a hard place to acquire a job at they get atlantas best line cooks. I imagine Joel didn’t get to pick his own Staff at the Oak Room or worse could have been stuck with Union staff. Without a good staff even the best will fail. Joel has been and will always be a professional hero of mine as I continue to cook for all of you when you come to the restaurants I cook my heart out in.
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Andy Brown
March 2nd, 2009
4:09 pm
John,
We enjoyed your piece on our special ‘Wild Red’ watercress variety. We have actually submitted a patent application for this unique variety.
We are B&W Quality Growers, based in Florida, and our family has been growing watercress since 1870.
If you ever need any watercress, or our famous ‘wild roquette’ baby arugula, please contact me and we’ll overnight you whatever you need.
We also invite you to visit our website at http://www.watercress.com for a wealth of information about watercress nutrition and its’ cancer fighting properties.
We pride ourselves on our sustainable farming pracices that include reducing chemical use by over 50% in the past 20 years. In addition, we are GlobalGap certified, quality for the world renown ‘Marks & Spencer’ Field-to-Fork food safety program, and are Primus Food Safety audited (with Superior ratings). We have grown to become the world’s largest watercress company by always being the best at what we do.
We thank you again for the article on Mother Nature’s version of the multi-vitamin…Wonderful Watercress.
Live Longer…Eat More Watercress
Warmest Regards,
Andy Brown
B&W Quality Growers, Inc.
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jkessler
March 2nd, 2009
8:13 pm
Missive from the red watercress growers (condensed):
John,
We enjoyed your piece on our special ‘Wild Red’ watercress variety. We have actually submitted a patent application for this unique variety.
We are B&W Quality Growers, based in Florida, and our family has been growing watercress since 1870.
…
We also invite you to visit our website at http://www.watercress.com for a wealth of information about watercress nutrition and its’ cancer fighting properties.
We pride ourselves on our sustainable farming pracices that include reducing chemical use by over 50% in the past 20 years. In addition, we are GlobalGap certified, quality for the world renown ‘Marks & Spencer’ Field-to-Fork food safety program, and are Primus Food Safety audited (with Superior ratings). We have grown to become the world’s largest watercress company by always being the best at what we do.
…
Warmest Regards,
Andy Brown
B&W Quality Growers, Inc.
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jkessler
March 2nd, 2009
8:15 pm
Dirty: exactly….
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randy
March 3rd, 2009
9:00 am
Enter your comments here
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Tuesday food links: Cafe Intermezzo gets wings, homemade beef jerky, eating cheaply and more | Omnivore Atlanta
March 3rd, 2009
2:45 pm
[...] John Kessler reports on his blog that Cafe Intermezzo will be opening a branch at Atlanta Harstfield-Jackson International Airport. [...]
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Mike Owen
March 3rd, 2009
4:51 pm
Joel Antunes was a “train wreck waiting to happen”!! Chef Cyrille Holota, the current chef at Joel in Atlanta and the former sous-chef and Joel’s “right hand man” for the past 14 years, is and always has been the brains and talent behind the operation. There are countless rumors of Joel’s mean spirited behavior towards staff while at Joel’s in Atlanta resulting in a very high staff turnover there. Something happened in Atlanta. Joel did not just voluntarily leave his “namesake” restaurant, sell his home (in a bad economy), move to New York on a risky start-up venture. My guess is that he was fired from Joel’s in Atlanta (theft perhaps?). He was sure gone from the Atlanta scene in a hurry….almost overnight! Without Cyrille at his side (covering for the fact that Joel is an over-hyped “no talent”), the end was sure to come.
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Wednesday food links: Get rid of the kids; Joel speaks;CA chard; Fat Duck | Omnivore Atlanta
March 4th, 2009
10:29 am
[...] Joel Antunes speaks to John Kessler about his recent career changes. [...]
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jimmy
March 4th, 2009
1:41 pm
I’ve always wondered, why do restaurants open up in a space where the previous restaurant failed with the same genre/focus/plan? Does it become more cost effective because the initial upfit is cheaper? I don’t get it.
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Ed Mc
March 4th, 2009
2:15 pm
I have eaten at Joel’s on three occasions in the past. None of those visits were enjoyable and on one occasion the food was downright awful. What was the Oak Room thinking when they hired this guy in the first place?
There are excellent chefs in Atlanta, but I would agree that there are more in NY. Paris probably has more fine chefs than NY. So what? I enjoy trying different restaurants and am typically more impressed by getting an excellent meal at a lesser known and less expensive restaurant than I am by getting a great meal at a renowned restaurant where diner for two can run upwards of $500.00.
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George Tice
March 4th, 2009
4:29 pm
I’m turning 80 next month, and will soon be looking for someone to take over Toulouse. Perhaps an opportunity for Joel. Check the reviews in Yelp, OpenTable, Rewards Network, etc.
George
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jkessler
March 4th, 2009
4:50 pm
Happy Birthday, George! Do you know that when my wife and I looked into moving to Atlanta 12 years ago, her prospective boss took us to eat at Toulouse? He also brought along a future colleague of my wife’s who ended up becoming our best friend in Atlanta.
It was an evening of great food, wine and company that convinced us Atlanta might be a nice place to raise our kids. I owe you thanks.
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jkessler
March 4th, 2009
5:25 pm
Nor I, my friend…I find it interesting how much loyalty people have to Fogo de Chao.
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Joel and Catherall, sitting in a… | Omnivore Atlanta
March 4th, 2009
6:13 pm
[...] what’s-next-for-Joel saga continues. Overseen at Lola today. Bookmark [...]
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The Rudy
March 4th, 2009
7:05 pm
I don’t know I heard he was hard but just expected results out of his staff. I have worked with and for some of his former employees and none of them have ever complained about him to me.
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honest in Atlanta
March 4th, 2009
10:21 pm
went once, the place sucked … glad to see that the market works
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mike5420
March 4th, 2009
10:42 pm
joel left atlanta like a thief now is back …and we are supposed to thank the lord for him….
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jkessler
March 5th, 2009
8:07 am
Mike, I’m not sure that accepting one of the top jobs in your field as the result of an international search qualifies as leaving Atlanta “like a thief.” I’m just sayin’…
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jkessler
March 5th, 2009
8:12 am
Yeah, I went once and definitely had a “jury’s still out” meal there…
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caponata
March 5th, 2009
9:04 am
Bring the big guys back!We need the diversity at the high end if we want to be respected as a culinary destination.
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Three ATL Things for Today | Eat It, Atlanta
March 5th, 2009
9:21 am
[...] in a major way. I just need to find someone else who is willing to spend $300 on a sushi dinner. Check out John Kessler’s “epic” omakase meal here. Braised lotus root stuffed with lobster mousse. Braised burdock root wrapped with anago. Real [...]
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jkessler
March 5th, 2009
9:49 am
I’m with the Sicilian eggplant on this one…funny how the city has morphed from having interesting activity on the high end to having more going on in the mid-range…I’m all for the latter (because I can afford it), but I think once Atlanta can demonstrate a range of excellent contenders at every price point, then there will that synergy of an honestly vibrant restaurant scene.
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tami h.
March 5th, 2009
12:37 pm
i love this stuff. i first had it at Dynamic Dish and David made a wonderful salad with it and combined granny smith apple, pistachios and a slice of toasty goat cheese. heaven.
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tom catherall
March 5th, 2009
12:46 pm
wouldnt you like to know what Joel and Tom were talking about ……stay tuned
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Dirty
March 5th, 2009
4:38 pm
I hope not. That space has weird mojo…
Shout could use a change of name and concept– and is strategically located within yards of my intergalactic HQ.
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John Kessler
March 5th, 2009
4:44 pm
That would be far too close to the Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary. Patrons on the patio would be safe from, um, flying objects.
http://www.dirtysouthwine.com/my_weblog/2008/08/dirty-birds-lov.html
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Dirty
March 5th, 2009
5:25 pm
Doh! Foiled again!!!
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AngelinaAkerman
March 5th, 2009
7:43 pm
The White House has released its official portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama. In the portrait, Mrs. Obama is wearing a sleeveless black dress designed by Michael Kors. Michelle Obama’s Portrait Design aficionados will note that this is the … Read >
As a libertarian…wow…excellent…she truly is a beauty.
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BTP
March 6th, 2009
2:46 am
Hi John: I know–I’ve been hitting Refresh since Tuesday! Looks like they went live on their website late afternoon today: http://www.omnivoracious.com/2009/03/cookbook-awards-iacp-finalists.html
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CySmith
March 6th, 2009
8:54 pm
I saw the ad, so where is it?
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Rick Falis
March 7th, 2009
8:46 am
Where do you buy it in Atlanta?
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joe somerville
March 7th, 2009
3:05 pm
I think they anticipated more business from the condo they are located in – that did not materialize as I was told – I think price point may have been an issue also -
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Kevin Sbraga
March 8th, 2009
9:44 pm
OK Monkey’s listen up…Joel Antunes is a BEAST in the kitchen, a true rare talent. I am not sure what happened at the Oak Room. To tell you the truth I wasn’t so impressed with what I saw their either. But make no mistake Joel can cook as good, if not better than any other chef in NYC. Whether it’s Daniel, Jean-Georges, Thomas Keller, Gordon Ramsay, Joel Robuchon, or any other chef you can think of. Unless you have worked in the kitche with Joel or any of these other chef’s you have no place to question his talent. Lucky for me, I have. I know what he is capable of and I can’t wait to see him land on his feet. Anyone that has a negative comment is has a “shoe maker” palette.
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jkessler
March 8th, 2009
11:29 pm
Interesting comments, Kevin. By the way, my wife just ate at Tinto and loved it!
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jkessler
March 9th, 2009
5:56 pm
Hey, Joe! It seem seem like a “special night out” meal vis à vis pricing…
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jkessler
March 9th, 2009
5:58 pm
As far as I know it’s mail order only. You can click the link to find out how.
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palmer fralick
March 9th, 2009
8:46 pm
I’m definitely not a hen and have eaten at the Pen quite a few times already. All the food is excellent and freshly made. They are getting a well justified rep for the quality of the desserts but the daily fare is worth the trip.
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Charles
March 9th, 2009
10:11 pm
Most of you writing here are morons. Joel is one of the most talented chefs in the world, not just NYC, not just ATL, the world. He came from Troisgros and the Oriental, Bangkok (for any of you that even know what those are). If any of you who actually read the reviews, you would realize that its the incompitent staff that sucks at the Oak Room and the Chef always takes the blame (as he should). It is also evident that Joel just made the wrong choice ever going to the Oak Room where he did’nt have total control. Also you idiots that think 30 or 40 dollars for an entree is expensive are just ignorant and have no clue how much great ingredients cost. I can’t wait to see Joels comeback. You all don’t deserve it in Atlanta. Look at the BS menu at JOEL now. Its a shame Chef Cyrille has to be reduced to cooking this silly bistro food because of the lack of sophistication in your city.
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Charles
March 9th, 2009
10:17 pm
Kevin, I have cooked with Joel, and you are absolutely right. He is the best cook maybe ever, I bet if you ask Eric Ripert or Thomas Keller or Jean Georges or Daniel they would agree as well. Its wasy to write. Harder to cook.
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Alessandra
March 10th, 2009
7:05 am
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
Alessandra
http://www.craigslisttool.info
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Swiss Miss
March 10th, 2009
7:40 am
Kess-ler! Kess-ler! Kess-ler!
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Stan
March 10th, 2009
10:11 am
I never woulda caught that had it not been pointed out. That is awesome!!
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Darin
March 10th, 2009
4:05 pm
I really miss the Globe — that was one of my favorite Atlanta restaurants. Any news about the former owners of the Globe opening a new place somewhere in town?
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John Kessler
March 10th, 2009
6:14 pm
Yes, you’re in luck! Oswald Morgan has opened Kozmo Gastro Pub in Alpharetta.
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Rudy
March 10th, 2009
11:34 pm
All I know is if Joel is coming back to atlanta I would love to work for him.
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Adam Shultz
March 11th, 2009
10:39 am
It looks like the new A&M may already be on the way out…
http://shumacher.com/images/agnes2/agnes2.html
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Darin
March 11th, 2009
10:50 am
Thanks for the info on Kozmo. I’m not sure I’ll make it up to Alpharetta any time soon, but it’s good to know he’s still in the restaurant business. Here’s me hoping they open a second location in midtown
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Jake
March 11th, 2009
12:20 pm
Damn A&M looks like a real dump! In fact it looks like a “Private Booth” strip place. Nasty dirty kitchen too.
Good luck selling that.
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yannick heyndrickx
March 11th, 2009
2:45 pm
I’m sorry but joel deserves a lot more respect, just look at his culinary history! some people say that the prices of the food in atlanta are too high but believe me I used to work for him in ATL, a lot of the food was inported. Why?? because how can you experience french cuisine with american products?!?! all of the ingrediënts are top quality.
he’s a man with a passion. It’s this passion that you see in the food, he’s a very good chef. everybody who knows him will tell you so!
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John Kessler
March 11th, 2009
3:20 pm
Thanks for the sleuthing, Adam.
Jake: you said it, not me….
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John Kessler
March 11th, 2009
3:32 pm
Ha! I actually was once walking through Times Square and heard someone say, “Omigod, I think that’s Jerry Springer.” Guess it’s better than looking like Regis…
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James
March 11th, 2009
4:33 pm
Cafe Lapin is a true gem in Buckhead. I cannot get enough of the place. The dinner menu seems to change nightly and always has something new and delicious! You may want to make reservations to assure yourself a table. A+
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judi bartels
March 11th, 2009
4:35 pm
Love the food….everything tastes like you went home for lunch that mom made…………and she can cook!!!!!!!!!!!! I could eat there everyday.
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jkessler
March 11th, 2009
4:46 pm
I really look forward to trying dinner but am afraid I won’t be able to go back without gorging on brownies.
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Broderick
March 11th, 2009
7:26 pm
I’ve been following them on twitter! I’ll look out for the article
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Marcela
March 12th, 2009
12:37 am
Chima was a great place to work at. Too bad they closed and let the employees know on the very same night. Moving trucks were already waiting outside the door when they told us. It was “a little” messed up.
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Mo
March 12th, 2009
9:46 am
I see a lot of fat on those bacon strips. Where’s the meat?
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DB
March 12th, 2009
10:10 am
What an insult to my favorite food writer. Your hair is NOT unfortunate either, do not understand where that came from.
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jimmy
March 12th, 2009
1:00 pm
Sounds awesome! It’s a sold 24 miles from my house, but looks like I may need to pack a cooler and do a Douglasville/Patak journey some time soon!
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Lisa
March 12th, 2009
2:48 pm
Sounds like a trip to Douglasville is in order. Thanks.
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Restaurant News Around Atlanta | Food and More with John Kessler
March 12th, 2009
3:23 pm
[...] major Midtown restaurant announced from San Francisco’s Puccini Group, the folks behind Livingston in the Georgian [...]
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Steven Josovitz
March 12th, 2009
5:49 pm
John, It is actually going to be Low County BBQ. Slight variation of BBQ.
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JD
March 13th, 2009
5:23 pm
If someone could ever make something to counter the bad stuff in bacon so we could eat it that’s be ideal. http://www.barackberry.biz
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jkessler
March 14th, 2009
10:06 am
Just tried the hickory smoked bacon — very nice, porky flavor with little sweetness.
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Matt
March 14th, 2009
9:09 pm
We will be called, “d.b.a. Barbecue”. We will be a neighborhood restaurant featuring barbecue and Southern comfort food with a full bar and full service. “d.b.a. Barbecue” will be open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Look for us in late May 2009.
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rebelliousrose
March 15th, 2009
1:26 pm
You are much, much classier than Jerry Springer. Never, in one of your reviews, was someone beaten with a folding chait.
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rebelliousrose
March 15th, 2009
1:31 pm
Did you like John Kennedy? His accent is charming.
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Mike Owen
March 15th, 2009
2:48 pm
Okay: Can someone please explain why Joel would “voluntarily” leave his “namesake” restaurant in Atlanta, sell his house in a bad market, and move to New York to head up a risky venture at the Oak Room? I might have been born on a weekend, but it wasn’t “last” weekend! What happened in Atlanta? Was Joel fired here too? My guess would be “Yes” and the Joel “illusion” cam completely unraveled once in New York and having to go it alone!
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John Kessler
March 16th, 2009
11:21 am
It ain’t the meat, it’s the bac-otion…
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MJ
March 16th, 2009
2:34 pm
No pets were harmed in the preparation of this meal.
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Pgagolf
March 17th, 2009
3:17 am
just like to say hello and hope that you can all one day benefit from the wonderful game of golf.
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Gene
March 17th, 2009
2:13 pm
I’ve got one of those Jaccards. I refer to it as my “iron maiden.”
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Tavolini
March 17th, 2009
3:26 pm
Great job, Tessa!!
(and the food looks tasty, too) I like any veg dish that can be prepared in advance and eaten throughout the week.
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jkessler
March 17th, 2009
4:19 pm
Thanks. It’s a good dish.
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Dirty
March 18th, 2009
7:40 am
I excited about the new menu / approach at Eugene. I enjoyed the old food, but it was limited to special occasion for me.
The force is strong with H&F. That formula can’t be denied.
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Jen
March 18th, 2009
9:43 am
I love Holeman & Finch, but I am a little bit sorry to see the distinction between the two places disappear. And I loved the Sunday Night Suppers – will that disappear to?
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Wednesday food links | Omnivore Atlanta
March 18th, 2009
10:08 am
[...] Kessler reports on the new menu format at Restaurant Eugene, plus [...]
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AJ
March 18th, 2009
1:06 pm
Way to put your writing down, John! I didn’t find the article “boring.” It was actually quite informative as I find the liquor laws in this city/state fascinating (while at the same time, ridiculous!!)
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jimmy
March 18th, 2009
2:55 pm
Looking forward to it – I will be more likely to eat at Eugene with this new format
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John Kessler
March 18th, 2009
2:59 pm
Jen – I would be very surprised to see Sunday Suppers disappear. I’d bet the two places keep very distinct personalities.
AJ – Thanks. I’m always my own worst critic.
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John Kessler
March 18th, 2009
3:02 pm
Gene – Do you make bacon? And, if not, I’m not sure I really want to know what you do with your Jaccard.
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MF SHOWCASE « MFSushibar’s Blog
March 18th, 2009
3:29 pm
[...] target=”blank” MF’s exclusive Omakase Room target=”blank” Bon Appétit ranks MF top 10 National Sushi Spots target=”blank” The Atlanta-Journal Constitution: NAM target=”blank” BBA presents Buckhead Business of the Year Award to MF Buckhead target=”blank” MF Buckhead’s 5 Star Rating target=”blank” Wall Street Journal Review: MF Sushi Bar NAM Restaurant MF Sushi Bar MF Buckhead [...]
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Liz Lorber
March 18th, 2009
10:45 pm
I was lucky enough to work with Steven at Watershed. In addtion to being immensely talented, he brings quiet calm and intentioned thought to the kitchen. Atlanta will be a better place and a better restaurant community when Miller Union opens its doors!
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Nancy Shea
March 19th, 2009
7:55 am
Steven, Tricia Mahany sent me this news of your new restaurant. I congratulate you on the new situation and hope to visit the restaurant the next time I’m in Atlanta (which won’t be soon, however, as I have to wait to have someone drive me up!)
It is always fun to hear of former WFHS student doing well. Keep up the great work.
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Beckie Todd
March 19th, 2009
9:04 am
Congratulations, Steven. (Thanks to Tricia for keeping us Windsor folks informed.) Since I am in NE Georgia, you can look for me when you open Miller Union. I’ll bet Joey will accompany me. I can hardly wait!
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Joe Todd
March 19th, 2009
9:04 am
Congrats Steven!! I can’t wait to try it out.
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Angie Mosier
March 19th, 2009
9:24 am
Hooray! Can’t wait to taste and see. Congratulations Chef Steven!
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Susan Parham
March 19th, 2009
9:54 am
So excited! Can’t wait to try it out!
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Diane Ricks
March 19th, 2009
10:15 am
Can’t wait to come up and try it! Huzzah
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John Kessler
March 19th, 2009
11:08 am
Steven, your fans are out in force!
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"Rathead" Riley
March 19th, 2009
11:29 am
John, thanks for the great news! I just left Steven, our great friend and “Young Lion”, a voice message of congratulations and booked a table for six (6) on Opening Night. We can’t wait!!!
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Joe Ferris
March 19th, 2009
11:44 am
Matt, Congrats!! I can’t wait till May.
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Anna Itoi
March 19th, 2009
1:47 pm
Steven, I remember that you were always so kind — and that’s saying a lot for anyone in the middle school years. Your success in life does not surprise me at all. I cannot wait to try out your restaurant. Much love, Anna
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Neal McCarthy
March 19th, 2009
2:41 pm
Maybe I can get some love
Thanks John
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John Kessler
March 19th, 2009
2:47 pm
Let’s hear it for Neal!
Are you going to ask Steven to put any English dishes on the menu?
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Neal McCarthy
March 19th, 2009
3:34 pm
Maybe I will make fish and chip friday
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Mindy Elms
March 19th, 2009
3:52 pm
This will be the best restaurant in Atlanta. Neal and Steven have put a lot of thought and hard work into this. Can’t wait until they open.
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Bridget Lieb
March 19th, 2009
4:33 pm
We can’t wait make a special trip to try Atlanta’s best restaurant.
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Dee Hudson
March 19th, 2009
5:01 pm
Congratulations! I hope we can get up that way to try out your restaurant. My son thinks it is so cool to know a chef. He loves to cook….just not popular when you are a 12 year old boy. can’t wait to try it out!
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John Kessler
March 19th, 2009
5:20 pm
Neal: you had better have mushy peas with it.
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Nicolas Bour
March 19th, 2009
7:29 pm
Congratulations to both of you, I know you will have a great place. Can’t wait to make a trip down to Atl. after you open.
Best of luck!
Nic
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Rochelle Matthews
March 19th, 2009
8:32 pm
Congrats Steven! I always knew you would be a success at whatever you did!
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Stephanie Burnsed Ritzert
March 19th, 2009
8:44 pm
That’s fantastic, Steven! I’m really excited for you and wish you tremendous success. I’ll be keeping up with it and hope to get to ATL someday soon to try out the new place! Good luck with EVERYTHING!
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Susan Dugan
March 19th, 2009
9:56 pm
Suzan posted the link on Facebook. This sounds great! I look forward to visiting – and we don’t get out often. Please post again when you’re about to open!
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Scott Satterfield
March 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
My brother,I am so proud of u and always knew this project would go thru!It may b a little early, but I’m celebrating rite now. I truly believe this will b a major sucess! xoxo
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Tiffanie McHale
March 19th, 2009
10:07 pm
Congratulations Steven and Neal!!! Can’t wait…it all sounds amazing. Tiffanie
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Erin Smith
March 20th, 2009
12:23 am
YES!!!!!!
Congrats and then some. Supersmacks.
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Leighel snyder
March 20th, 2009
10:35 am
Wishing “full tables, mouths and wineglasses” to you both! You’re in my heart Steven! I just know you’ll succeed – you always had that talent “in the bag”!
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Jeff
March 20th, 2009
10:39 am
Construction on the HMart seems to have stalled, does anybody know what’s up with that?
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Maya Heller
March 20th, 2009
12:40 pm
Hi Steven – Congrats! I am looking forward to trying out your restaurant. I also think it’s great that a former WFHS student has done so well. Best of luck!!!
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Michael Scharff
March 20th, 2009
2:14 pm
John, as most every single reference I have seen in the past two years is exclusively about wither confit of duck or duck confit, I had to Wiki to see what you meant by “confit apricots” – is this correct?:
“Fruits confit are candied fruits (whole fruits, or pieces thereof) preserved in sugar. The fruit must be fully infused with sugar, to its core; larger fruits take considerably longer than smaller ones to candy. Thus, while small fruits such as cherries are confites whole, it is quite rare to see whole large fruits, such as melons, confits, and when they are available, large fruits confits are quite expensive.”
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Darin
March 20th, 2009
2:27 pm
Aww, you didn’t like Saison Dupont? That’s one of my favorites. I really prefer the way the beers like this that aren’t as hop-heavy go with food, rather than the monster hoppy things that have become so popular in recent years. I tried the Smuttynose IPA a couple of weeks ago and it was so intensely bitter I felt like my tongue was being assaulted.
It looks like I’m in the minority within the world of beer geekdom, where hop-forward brews are definitely the most popular. I’m more impressed with the bright, slightly tart, citrus flavors of saisons and wheat beers and they way they match a variety of food types from sweet to spicy.
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Darin
March 20th, 2009
2:52 pm
Aww, you didn’t like Saison Dupont? That’s one of my favorites. I really prefer the way that the bright, slightly tart, citrus flavors of saisons, wheat beers and some others go with foods rather than the hop-heavy brews like IPAs.
I know I’m in the minorty with my beer tastes, though, especially now with the mega hoppy beers being so popular.
I agree with you, though, that many of the very malty belgian ales are too sweet.
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Kat Shreve
March 20th, 2009
3:29 pm
Steven- all the luck to you! Look at you and your list of WFHS groupies… I know that you will continue to be successful. I will certainly dine at Miller Union and wear my stretchy pants. Congrads in your new endeavor!
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John Kessler
March 20th, 2009
4:36 pm
Michael – That’s correct. Confit is a French word that applies to different ways of preserving food. In fact, the French word for fruit preserves is “confiture.”
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Clodatusagold
March 20th, 2009
5:55 pm
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Neil Satterfield
March 20th, 2009
10:59 pm
Narion and I are the proud parents of “Chef Steven”. Even though the restaurant will be on the other side of town, we will eat there often.
We know how great he has been at Watershed and we invite our friends at Central Presbyterian Church and elsewhere. You are in for a special
dining experience.
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Neil Satterfield
March 20th, 2009
10:59 pm
Enter your comments here
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Suzy Cox Heffner
March 21st, 2009
9:18 am
Congratulations Steven!!!! I am so glad to see you are doing something so creative and innovative….I cannot wait to try the restaurant…..I know it will be out of this world!!!! Keep up the good work!!
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Dirty
March 21st, 2009
9:54 am
Is that like storming the beach at Normandy memorable?
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Douglasville Retail Meats and Smokehouse | Food and More with John … | Hunger Hut
March 21st, 2009
10:43 am
[...] post: Douglasville Retail Meats and Smokehouse | Food and More with John … | « Jersey Bites, A quest for food with attitude: The Best Irish Pubs … Meat [...]
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Pgagolfer
March 24th, 2009
1:55 am
just like to say hello and hope that you can all one day benefit from the wonderful game of golf some new and exciting golf tournaments to be played in.
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I Miss Birmingham
March 24th, 2009
8:25 am
Whenever I’m asked about my favorite restaurant, I don’t hesitate when I say Highlands in Birmingham. I moved to Atlanta from Birmingham in 1999, but still find time to make it to Highlands Bar & Grill at least once a year. Frank Stitt is a great guy and still remembers me when I walk through the door.
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Chris Heisel
March 24th, 2009
10:13 am
I “met” Shirley on Alton Brown’s TV show and I _adore_ her — I’ve got the book but haven’t yet had a chance to try any of her recipes.
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globeflyer
March 24th, 2009
10:53 am
I heard Frank Stitt speak at a function and he encouraged the group to make the trek to Athens to dine at Five And Ten, so that speaks volumes. I live in Alabama and have visited Highlands and Bottega (both Stitt establishments). You won’t go wrong with either!
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RK
March 24th, 2009
11:55 am
Too bad Waggoner isn’t there anymore…
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IRISH25
March 24th, 2009
1:02 pm
+1 FOR Highlands!!!
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steven satterfield
March 24th, 2009
6:38 pm
Congrats to Hugh, Mike, Linton, Sean, Frank and of course John T! I sense an SFA connection Maybe the Southern Foodways Alliance is to James Beard nominations as Scientology is to the Acadamy Award nominations?
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Kenny Gilbert
March 24th, 2009
11:29 pm
All I can say is WOW! This is totally crazy to me. Being a former Ritz Dining Room Chef during the same years as Joel, I can say from a JD Power and Associates rating system for overall guest satisfaction within the company, Joel always did very well. This is mind blowing to me. Joel is an incredibly passionate Chef and I know when speaking with him at last years Culinary Vegetable Institute Event in Milan Ohio, he was pumped about going to NY and showcasing his skills in a most respectful manner.
I hope that the perception that “You are only as good as your last meal, does not totally hold true with Joel”. Nobody is perfect and everyone deserves a second chance. Every restaurant has its own mystique, atmosphere and overall feel. Its not fair to compare, but the overall experience is what matters. Either you like it or you don’t, bottom line. But I can say this, Joel’s Trenettes with Jerusalem Artichoke Mascarpone Cheese Puree and Perigord Black Truffles compares to Gray Kunes Capellinni Pasta with Fresh Black Truffles when at the St Regis Hotel.
Overall, everyone has memories good and bad. In this current economy, we should be asking ourselves how we can help each other during these difficult times vs crushing a person that maybe had a bad day.
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Drew
March 25th, 2009
12:48 pm
Yikes! I’m not a squeamish eater but the thought of that dog’s head actually being a cake that will be eaten is kinda weird. Great work on that cake though! Can’t wait until I hit Varasano’s. From what I hear, he’s been at the restaurant perfecting the new oven for a few months now.
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Becky
March 25th, 2009
3:17 pm
Really…if you want good biscuits you need to go to Pastries A Go Go! When we lived in Decatur that was our #1 biscuit spot! We live in east Cobb and every once in a while make the trek back to Pastries…it is that good…The staff are all very friendly, service is fast and the eggs benedict on Sunday’s is to die for.
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FoodieBuddha
March 25th, 2009
4:01 pm
EatItAtlanta is great! Super friendly guy and everyone should check out his Atlanta Pizza Days! Good reading …
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Dave
March 25th, 2009
6:40 pm
Happy Birthday, Sir Elton!
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FM Fats
March 26th, 2009
9:21 pm
Manuel’s is a fine option for weekend breakfast. The pancakes are excellent and you can pretty much count on getting a table right away unlike J. Christopher or Thumbs Up. Prices are a bit lower than some of the hipster hangouts, too.
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jimmy
March 27th, 2009
8:56 am
I enjoy Goldberg’s on occasion. Salty nova and scrambled eggs (or salami and eggs), an everything bagel, a potato latke, apple sauce, and sour cream. Yum.
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T
March 27th, 2009
10:46 am
Dude, Flying Biscuit’s oatmeal pancakes are unique, unexpected and unblievably delicious with either fruit compote or yummy syrup.
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Jeez
March 27th, 2009
10:51 am
Silver Skillet…….That’s it – That’s all!
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Puggie Mama
March 27th, 2009
10:53 am
Highland Bakery
J. Christopher’s
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DecaturCyn
March 27th, 2009
10:56 am
Decatur’s “Pastries a Go Go” makes moist, cheddary scrambled eggs and fluffy pancakes that are absolutely stuffed with blueberries. And if you’re at Java Jive near Va-Highland, try their very good scrambled eggs with fresh herbs and cream cheese.
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Ho Slap
March 27th, 2009
10:56 am
Your mom’s.
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HRK
March 27th, 2009
10:58 am
It’s all about RIa’s Bluebird across from Oakland Cemetery. Mmmmmm…I can taste the omlette and pancakes now!
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Kassie
March 27th, 2009
10:59 am
R.Thomas has the greatest french toast…also the Original Pancake House on Memorial is really ood!
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Ga Peach
March 27th, 2009
11:00 am
The best Saturday breakfast is the Silver Grill Midtown on Monroe and 8th Street. The pancakes and warm syrup are delicious and their specialty omelets are generous and tasty. Great value for the meal in this economy. Excellent service as well.
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reservoirDAWG
March 27th, 2009
11:05 am
Hardee’s biscuits and sausage gravy.
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DayDay
March 27th, 2009
11:07 am
Radial Cafe and Stone Soup Kitchen!
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Michelle
March 27th, 2009
11:07 am
Rise N’ Dine. It’s right by Emory.
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Gary
March 27th, 2009
11:08 am
At Mr Swiss in Cumming it’s hard to beat a hot biscuit, filled with butter and strawberry jelly.
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Slothtosser
March 27th, 2009
11:09 am
Totally agree about Pastries a Go Go – it’s one of the best hidden gems in all of Atlanta. Their cat-head biscuits are by far, the best biscuits I’ve ever had.
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Ivy McAllister
March 27th, 2009
11:12 am
The best breakfast is at “the social house”
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Lea
March 27th, 2009
11:16 am
Thumbs Up Diner mainly because they have chicken sausage and bagging pancakes! American Roadhouse on N Highlands is a close second for their FRESH strawberry and blueberry pancakes!
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reservoirDAWG
March 27th, 2009
11:16 am
I thought Mr. Swiss closed?
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Cindy
March 27th, 2009
11:17 am
Silver Grill and Landmark Diner are always good. I also love Waffle House and IHOP (don’t judge me).
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Grad
March 27th, 2009
11:21 am
The Social House has me completely enraptured, right now. It’s my goal to keep going until i’ve tried EVERYTHING on the menu…5 down and many more to go, with not a single disappointment as of yet to report.
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Richard H. Bradford
March 27th, 2009
11:22 am
For forty-plus years it’s been the Majestic Diner on Ponce for me. The food is just greasy enough and the wait staff just snippy enough to ensure a satisfying breakfast.
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ihorizon
March 27th, 2009
11:27 am
I live next to Cumming so where is Mr Swiss located?
I like breakfast at Biscuit Barn John’s Creek, Dillards in Buford and Suwanee – (can’t beat their grits!), and J Christophers in Duluth.
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ihorizon
March 27th, 2009
11:28 am
Oh! And don’t forget Cracker Barrel!!!
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pnorth
March 27th, 2009
12:18 pm
The Original Pancake House on Memorial Drive. Still packed on Saturday and Sunday mornings, despite the somewhat decrepit surroundings.
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CH
March 27th, 2009
12:21 pm
SOLSTACE in Grant Park has the most creative and delicious breakfast offerings I’ve yet experienced!!
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Amy
March 27th, 2009
12:30 pm
I have to second the Highland Bakery…I’ve never been disappointed yet! Cafe di Sol near Highland and North has a great brunch with awesome blueberry pancakes!
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ken
March 27th, 2009
12:34 pm
MiMi’s near Perimeter…..without a doubt!
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James B
March 27th, 2009
12:35 pm
The chicken sausage at ThumbsUp is really good and I go to the East Point location but I do go to Pot N Pan on Piedmont often as well. More for the gays and grays and the service then the food.
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John Kessler
March 27th, 2009
12:36 pm
I may lose my Decatur residency papers for saying this but: I don’t really like the biscuits at Pastries a Go Go. I find them too soft and crumbly. (But am a fan of the other baked goods.) Interesting how in Decatur we have so many distinct visions of biscuit in such close proximity — the bready, hard-shelled ones at Thumbs Up, the crumbly catheads at Pastries a Go Go, and the two versions, cream and lard, at Watershed. Watershed lard biscuits get my vote…
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Fred
March 27th, 2009
12:37 pm
Original Pancake House on Cheshire Bridge. Mmm… Bacon Pancakes!
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Meaghan
March 27th, 2009
12:37 pm
West Egg on Howell Mill. Creative dishes and a really nice atmosphere.
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Amanada
March 27th, 2009
12:37 pm
West Egg on Howell Mill is fantastic. The grits are amazing
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Tori
March 27th, 2009
12:42 pm
Stone Soup in Grant Park. All the food is great. The staff are superfriendly. Reasonable prices. Open until 3:00 for those weekends when you sleep in and wake up wanting breakfast.
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JenWins
March 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
Hands Down, Thumbs Up Diner
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hyde
March 27th, 2009
12:47 pm
thumb’s up for the food, Goldberg’s for the bagels, Silver Skillet for the ambiance and OK Cafe for business breakfast.
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Angela
March 27th, 2009
12:48 pm
Hands down… Highland Bakery. That place is fantastic. The shrimp and grits are to die for. I crave them on a regular basis. The sweet potato pancakes are heavenly. Well worth the trip.
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MC
March 27th, 2009
12:50 pm
I like Pastries A Go Go in Decatur as well. Their Biscuits and Sausage Gravy on the weekends is great.
Thumbs Up is solid.
But my favorite that has not been mentioned is Sweet Melissa’s in Decatur. The waitstaff is awesome, and they have great tofu offerings.
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sammy
March 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
Rexall diner in Duluth..yummy bisquits and pancakes
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gail tison
March 27th, 2009
12:54 pm
JR’s Bar-b-que in Norcross. Try Leonard’s favorite – HUGE pancakes, eggs, bacon. YUMMY
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cynthia
March 27th, 2009
1:11 pm
2 thumbs up to the East Point Thumbs Up!
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Leigh
March 27th, 2009
1:12 pm
Stone Soup on Woodward Way rocks and the art is good.
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Mrs. W
March 27th, 2009
1:13 pm
The West Egg on Howell Mill is good. Thumbs Up is really good too with its heaps (potato dish served in a sizzling hot skillet), non-pork meat options and great French Toast.
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HCS
March 27th, 2009
1:15 pm
ANYTIME I’M IN ATLANTA BREAKFAST AT AMERICAN ROADHOUSE ON HIGHLAND IS A MUST. MENU, SERVICE, AND COFFEE CAN’T BE MATCHED AT ANY OTHER PLACE.
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Trae
March 27th, 2009
1:17 pm
American Roadhouse in Virgina Highland
Carroll St Cafe in Cabbagetown
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Bill
March 27th, 2009
1:26 pm
I LOVE the Brisket Breakfast at Ria’s. The tofu scramble is very good, too, and I’m no vegetarian….
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Garrett
March 27th, 2009
1:31 pm
Flying Biscuit!
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tammy
March 27th, 2009
1:33 pm
The iron skillet on Donald Lee Howell is the best breskfast ever.
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Jon
March 27th, 2009
1:34 pm
I didn’t know that breakfast was served anywhere in Atlanta but at The Skillet on 14th Street. Is it?
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imjustduckie
March 27th, 2009
1:40 pm
Surprised that Gato Bizco in Candler Park not on here. That’s OK – ya’ll keep going to those other places and I’ll keep the crosseyed cat to myself!!
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Magellan
March 27th, 2009
1:41 pm
Stone Soup Kitchen right between Cabbagetown and Grant Park has atmosphere as well as yummy food. The service is excellent too. Whole wheat biscuits and yellow (stone ground) grits with bacon my faves.
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Why???
March 27th, 2009
1:47 pm
Definitely…Thumbs up!!! I have eaten at three of the four locations…not sure about the Decatur local. I love the fact that they have consistent staff who know what I want!! Please they have nice vegan dishes.
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Phil
March 27th, 2009
1:47 pm
Main Street Resturant in Snellville, ” Great breakfast at a Great Price”
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Reign
March 27th, 2009
1:49 pm
I enjoy Mimi’s Cafe in Dunwoody. The ambiance of the restaurant is nice, the food is good and I love their french toast…
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Jason Kayen
March 27th, 2009
1:52 pm
Gwinnett county has limited choices when it comes to breakfast… However there are a few places that offer delicious options… JR’s, J.Christophers, MiMi’s, and Einstein bagels are my favorites…
Cracker Barrel is always a trusty stand-by when all else fails….
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IC Atlanta
March 27th, 2009
1:53 pm
My favorites:
Watershed on Sundays – all is good pancakes, grits
Gato Bizco – for casual
Ria’s
Pastries A go-go
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pete
March 27th, 2009
1:56 pm
I know it’s not Atlanta,but,The Breakfast Club on Tybee is my all time
Favorite.The owner is a CIA grad and has the best Omelets and shrimp an grits.
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janis
March 27th, 2009
1:56 pm
Douceur de France, corner of Glover Street and Atlanta Rd in smyrna. small blue house, French place, pastries to die for, cant beat the ham and swiss omelet and they have these parmesan scallion hashbrown pancake things. YUM
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Christy
March 27th, 2009
1:57 pm
The Clifton omelet and french toast at the Flying Biscuit are awesome!
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BnBFinder
March 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
You can also find gourmet breakfast at Tea Cakes Bed and Breakfast in Atlanta. Imagine waking up to the delicious smell of buttermilk blueberry and ricotta pancakes, spinach and feta frittatas, sweet potatoand ginerbread waffles topped with bananas and pecans. They don’t call them B&Bs for nothing. You can find other great breakfast options at nearby inns or recipes at http://www.bnbfinder.com.
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Theresa
March 27th, 2009
2:00 pm
Palace Bakery (Jewish Deli) in the Toco Hills shopping center.
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Heather
March 27th, 2009
2:04 pm
No question about it…. The Flying Biscuit
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EltonFan
March 27th, 2009
2:09 pm
Happy Birthday Elton. Would love to be there just for the food.lol
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kopp
March 27th, 2009
2:09 pm
Hopefully folks will differntiate between Breakfast and Brunch. My favorite breakfast used to be the Dutch Baby at the Original Pancake House in East Cobb – I don’t care for the surviving locations as much. Now, I pretty much go nuts on a Heap (pictured above, I take it?) at Thumb’s Up on Edgewood. Great folks working there, excellent food, and (if you get there before 8:30)usually a quick breakfast.
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Sherry
March 27th, 2009
2:16 pm
Thomas Restaurant in Forest Park has one of the best down home breakfasts that you can get anywhere. The biscuits are better than Mamas.
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TBizzle
March 27th, 2009
2:18 pm
My favorites: McDonald’s (McGriddles are awesome and you never have to wait for a table), Chick Fil-A (breakfast burros are to die for), Burger King (Sausage, Egg N Cheese croissant is a great way to start the weekend), Waffle House (scrambled eggs and hash browns smothered covered and diced). So many great options here in Atlanta!! I can’t believe it!
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N
March 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
West Egg. Great food. Most of the staff is good (including the host, who is great), but you occasionally have to deal with some bad service (of the VW driving, mac elitist variety). All in all, nothing starts a day off like their food — I haven’t had a dish yet that I would let anyone even try a taste of because it would take away from what I got to eat.
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Carrie
March 27th, 2009
2:45 pm
I had a great time at Tea Cakes B&B in Atlanta! My hosts, Karcheik & Joel were friendly and very accommodating. They were able to handle serving a ‘gluten-free’ b’fast and provided juices and snacks as well.
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LS
March 27th, 2009
2:54 pm
Scattered, smothered, and covered. Where else but Waffle House!
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Sami
March 27th, 2009
2:55 pm
Definitely Sweet Melissa’s. It’s a little pricey, but he food is to die for. The yogurt pancakes, omelets, etc. It’s a great place.
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Amanda
March 27th, 2009
2:56 pm
I have been eating at J.R.’s Log House in Norcross for 25 years and it just keeps getting better. Chicken and gravy biscuits are AMAZING and my kids eat for free.
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Sekou K. Smith
March 27th, 2009
2:58 pm
Thumps up, Highland Bakery and Canoe or Ray’s on the River for Sunday Brunch!
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SexyCool
March 27th, 2009
3:01 pm
West Egg gets my vote for the atmosphere and the originality of the eclectic decor. And the food is REALLY GOOD too.
When I don’t feel like making the trek, Dennys, it is.
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Ada
March 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
Gotta love the Java Jive on Ponce. Worth the wait if you have the time, the coffee’s good, and the pb&j french toast is amazing!!
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Nana T
March 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
GRITS on the Square in McDonough!
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Sarah
March 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
Checkers..They have a great Sunday Brunch
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Kris
March 27th, 2009
3:24 pm
Radial (on DeKalb Ave.) is our current favorite breakfast spot; we go there almost every Sunday for brunch.
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John Kessler
March 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
Yes, that’s a Thumbs Up “Heap” pictured, kopp. Would love to hear more about GRITS in McDonough, Nana T…
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JR
March 27th, 2009
3:41 pm
Pastries a Go Go in downtown Decatur. Absolutely delicious!!!
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MM
March 27th, 2009
3:41 pm
Copelands on cobb pkwy’s french toast is to die for
and Crescent Moon in Downtown Decatur has the best wheat pancakes and chicken sausage. bt my old reliable for something quick is Waffle House…love those waffles
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MOT
March 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
I’m with Pete: to Tybee’s Breakfast Club!!!! Amazing food, get there early or you will stand in line out the door and down the block! There is a bonus too: get a seat at the counter and watch the cute guys doing their thang at the grill! (well for us girls, anyway)
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Miche
March 27th, 2009
4:02 pm
I love Highland Bakery. The sweet potatoe pancakes are ridiculous! The shrimp and grits with the faccocia bread are awesome as well. The entire menu is fabulous! Just like me!
Oh and if you are looking for an all you can eat brunch, try Gilbert’s on 10th Street. It is right across from the Flying Biscuit(yuck!) and there is hardly ever a wait. The menu is all you can eat, but cooked to order so it ain’t buffet style(yuck, gross and disgusting!).
And I think Sarah meant Chequers Seafood Grill by Perimeter Mall. They do have a fabulous brunch. Kind of pricey for those of us that like to brunch every weekend, but great for special ocassions. Easter and mother’s Day it is always crowded!
TBizzle, I need you to get out more. You can’t eat fast food all of your life! That food WILL kill you…
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Mel
March 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
Breakfast is the best meal of the day. I can eat breakfast food all day if I could. Other than my own kitchen, i’d have to vote Thumbs Up one of the best places to go for hot plate of breakfast.
Try the shrimp and grits! Mmmm.
Now, I’ve only been to the Marietta Street location and my only issue is the place isn’t big enough for the amount of people that try to jam into the place on a Saturday morning. OMG!
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Kitty
March 27th, 2009
4:12 pm
There is no better white gravy on the planet than the sawmill gravy at Cracker Barrel … eaten over a biscuit plastered with butter. Yum-o-licious!!
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gapine
March 27th, 2009
4:12 pm
Agnes and Muriel’s or the Bagel Palace in Toco Hills
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A. Teesman
March 27th, 2009
4:23 pm
LePeep in Dunwoody.
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Destin
March 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
Have none of you ever been to Sun in My Belly? The bacon is amazing.
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Gymnasium
March 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
There are lots of good places, but one of my favorites is the Marietta Diner on Hwy 41 south of the Big Chicken. Not only is the food good, but the quantities are almost to much and the price is very good. If you go during the week, a glass of juice is included. Weekends are crowded.
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A. Teesman
March 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
That wasn’t really the AJC editor, it was just me funning with either the real or fake Hawks beat writer.
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SheStartedIt
March 27th, 2009
4:36 pm
J. Christopher’s is fantastic! They have THE BEST berry crepes…it’s a must try
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veghead
March 27th, 2009
4:43 pm
RIAS!!!!!!!!!! Hands down, there is no better place in the city for brunch.
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KC
March 27th, 2009
4:52 pm
Ok, I’m fairly new to Georgia – -where is there a REALLY good and a REAL bakery in Towne Lake Area – or within 5 miles?? And Cracker Barrell is “standard blah”.. but GOOD! Where around Towne Lake is there a non-francised breakfast place??? I’d very much like to support/shop in my community!
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KT2
March 27th, 2009
4:58 pm
What about Landmark Diner on Roswell, the best breakfast with great service!
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Joanie
March 27th, 2009
5:04 pm
Artisan Foods Bakery & Cafe – Canton Street, Roswell, GA. Great breakfast & lunches. Everything homemade – Beignets (french doughnuts), breads, pancakes, eggs, etc.
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I.V. Boyd
March 27th, 2009
5:20 pm
Ria’s Bluebird is my favorite breakfast/brunch spot! The country fried tempeh is off the meter! My 2nd favorite is Highland Bakery. The sweet potato pancakes make me wanna thump my momma upside her forehead! LOL
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Jennifer
March 27th, 2009
6:15 pm
i miss Le Peep’s skillets… they make a pretty good one at J. Christophers… but…
I do like how you can customize your skillet any way at J. Christopers, though – and their egg white omlettes are very tasty
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Mikey
March 27th, 2009
6:43 pm
American Roadhouse has the worst service. Rude and in a place with a lot of competition. Try Java Jive during the week and Food 101 or Murphys on the weekends. Goldbergs is great too.
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Frani Ze
March 27th, 2009
6:54 pm
Ain’t no place like the Waffle House on Holcomb Bridge and Miss Wanda’s grits with butter. Waffle House grits are a Georgia legacy!
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dervish
March 28th, 2009
2:53 pm
The food and waitstaff at Sun in My Belly are both wonderful.
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Pi$$onaDAWG
March 29th, 2009
9:17 am
“PawPaw’s” he makes the best biscuts. I keep bees and bring the honey. Paw also makes his own fig and blueberry preserves. Breakfest with my family, sisters, and grand kids is the best time of the week.
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Rose
March 29th, 2009
9:25 am
Thumbs Up Diner is the winner. I like the one in East Point.
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Kevin
March 29th, 2009
9:44 am
Original Pancake House, hands down. I love the pumpkin pancakes!
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djf
March 29th, 2009
9:54 am
Original House of Pancakes on Memorial Drive………fast and cheap, but also great food
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Robert
March 29th, 2009
10:01 am
The Pot’n Pan on Cheshire Bridge is the best place for a good, reasonably priced breakfast. Attentive staff and great management.
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Charles H
March 29th, 2009
10:35 am
Souper Jenny is fantastic, but doesn’t open until brunch.
Thumbs Up is tasty but nowhere near worth the wait. Expect 45 minutes to an hour to sit down on weekends. Their food isn’t worth that kind of delay just to sit.
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zeke
March 29th, 2009
10:47 am
The Original Pancake House beats all hands down! Only problem, NOT IN ATLANTA! Theose in Atlanta cannot come close to the ones in Miami, Columbia or Charlotte!!!
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Shawn
March 29th, 2009
10:55 am
Thumbs up , catfish and eggs, without a doubt!
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Rachel
March 29th, 2009
11:01 am
If you’re ever out in Athens, Mama’s Boy (just past downtown off Oconee Street) has amazing breakfast and brunch options. Their cheese grits are incredible, and the biscuits are easily the best ones this side of 316.
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Jon
March 29th, 2009
11:59 am
Every weekend, I wake up missing the late, lamented Three Bears Cafe on Marietta Square, which was another casualty of last year’s economic downturn. I didn’t mind eating healthy at that place. Now, I guess it’s Waffle House for me – there’s just nothing else decent on this side of town any more.
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Devildog
March 29th, 2009
12:03 pm
Pastries a Go Go in beautiful Downtown Decatur is our favorite.
Only went to Crescent Moon onces. Biscuits were cold, grits were like that paste you use in elementary school (only didn’t taste as good) and service was awful.
Funny isn’t it, how many people a bad wait crew can run off and the restaurant owner doesn’t even know it.
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Devildog
March 29th, 2009
12:09 pm
Not trying to take over, but I just saw a question about bakeries. Try the Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery. Great weekend brunch and the German fare is outstanding. And don’t miss that German beer. Very unique place. We’ve gone there for over 30 years.
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david Bernk
March 29th, 2009
12:15 pm
no debate. Sunshine in my Belly. great food. great prices. good service
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Dave
March 29th, 2009
12:58 pm
**JR’s – Norcross**
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astsat
March 29th, 2009
1:15 pm
Loren’s cafe in Alpharetta, Bob the owner his breakfast combinations are to die for. Everything is cooked to order. Such as The Usual, The Contractor, The Ocee Park or The Contractor. plenty of fresh hot coffee. the Homemade herb potatoes are excellent, i eat there almost everyday, excellent prices and great company await you
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Alabamastan
March 29th, 2009
1:24 pm
I can’t believe no one has mentioned Evan’s Fine Foods on N. Decatur and Clairemont! They aren’t open Sundays which is a drawback, But many Saturdays got a great start there when we lived in Decatur. Eggs prefect every time, decent grits, good panckes and the no-frills diner coffee. MMMmmm….
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boomer1ga
March 29th, 2009
1:37 pm
The best breakfast in Atlanta is at The Red Hen in Alpharetta! http://www.theredhencafe.com/
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JP
March 29th, 2009
1:40 pm
Elliott Street’s breakfast, on those rare Sundays when they open up, is unrivaled.
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Kim
March 29th, 2009
2:33 pm
Thumbs Up Diner in East Point is the answer to my breakfast question every Sunday.
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Beth
March 29th, 2009
5:24 pm
I went to Radial on Dekalb Ave just today and it was not my idea of good food however service was excellant. I ordered Eggs Benedict. Eggs were almost hard boiled and there was no sause.
Thumbs Up (Decatur), Sweet Mellisa’s , Pastries A Go Go all good places to eat. J.R. Christopher’s (Decatur) I have had some orders not done correctly.
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RiceChrispies
March 30th, 2009
9:57 am
Broadway Diner in Stockbridge on 138 (for all you northsiders). Biscuits and gravy – divine! Eggs Benedict – three on a plate!
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LAH
March 30th, 2009
11:54 am
Definitely The Flying Biscuit! The Southern Scramble is amazing!
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John Jacobs
March 30th, 2009
12:04 pm
I like the one in East Point … Excellent customer service… Great!!!
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Dirty
March 30th, 2009
12:42 pm
Love the title!
Also- I thought you might like this version-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv-Yx-vZCGE
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John Kessler
March 30th, 2009
4:23 pm
This video is terrifying. And, oddly sweet…
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FCM
March 30th, 2009
5:36 pm
I miss la peep too. Hickory House used to be good and I just found one in Dunwoody I will try again. Hate J Chris, though its a fav of my children and parents. Marietta Diner is good anytime (especially cake time—cake for breakfast works too!).
IHOP and Waffle House do rule for somethings. (don’t judge me either)
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paulp
March 30th, 2009
8:27 pm
No one has mentioned World Peace Cafe in Sandy Springs. We’ve enjoyed it for dinner on a few occasions, went for breakfast yesterday for the first time. It was yum–orange cranberry pancakes for me were better than the pancakes I had last time I went to the Flying Biscuit (in Norcross), and my wife had an omelet with zucchini and other vegetables, it was nice and fluffy. The music is soothing, the staff are friendly, and the menu makes us want to come back for more.
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John
March 30th, 2009
8:31 pm
Loretta’s in Oakwood. Best sausage gravy in history.
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Adam
March 30th, 2009
8:38 pm
FLYING BISCUIT CAFE! Without a doubt. The original, or the new one at Peachtree & Piedmont.
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Bill Berry
March 30th, 2009
8:43 pm
Best breakfast by far is at D.J.’s on Brown Bridge Road in Covington. There biscuits are to die for. They absolutely can not be beat! Waffle Houses, etc. cannot touch the breakfasts here.
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Patty
March 30th, 2009
8:46 pm
I like Thumbs Up on Edgewood but Ria’s had me at the fried eggs on a blue corn tortilla with salsa verde. Ai yi yi!
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Professor
March 30th, 2009
9:20 pm
The best breakfast in Atlanta is served at The Original Pancake House on Memorial Drive. Their heavy cream makes their coffee wonderful. Oatmeal is served with cream, brown sugar, raisins… mmmmm; pancakes are excellent… service by Cookie compares to any five star resturant!
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Joseph
March 30th, 2009
9:24 pm
The Unity on MLK Jr. Dr. across the street from the cemetery over there. It is right next to the casket store. No joke. . . this place has the most amazing breakfast. The grits here are an amazing treat. Take some cash and enjoy yourself.
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Charlie
March 30th, 2009
11:26 pm
John, the cover image of the French Toast with berries got my attention. Great image! I see no mention of the restaurant. Did I miss something? Thanks for the articles.
From ajc “best of” I discovered Barkers Red Hots are being served again in town. Stopped by the Windy Hill location for two chargrilled original dogs. Heavenly. Kudos to the ajc staff.
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Elizabeth
March 30th, 2009
11:57 pm
Douceur de France and Sugar Cakes Patisserie in Marietta. YUMMY!
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grrtch
March 31st, 2009
12:23 am
I’m an Athenian seconding the plug for Mama’s Boy. I’m lucky it’s a short stroll from my home. favorite dish – the salmon benedict – a poached egg over a very fleshy salmon croquet.
when in Atlanta, Stone Soup is yummy, easy, comfy, and very accommodating regarding my gluten intolerance.
Ria’s is all about great food, but can be a bit of a scene – as in, you’ll see folks there who will know you’re still wearing last night’s duds! that walk of shame can be brutal!
The Porter in L5P has a scrumptious salmon scramble and an extensive menu from which one can select their hair of the dog.
a Mexican place on Highland somewhere between Boulevard and Elizabeth St. (name???) has dynamite, sublime migas, a rare treat outside of Tejas.
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Marty
March 31st, 2009
1:08 am
Duh!! Marietta Diner.
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Henry C
March 31st, 2009
3:00 am
It would be The Flying Bisquit on McClendon and the one on 10th St. and Thumbs Up on Edgewood and on Marietta st. They are the best. But then there is also the Sunday brunch at the Waverly.
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suzy Q
March 31st, 2009
3:37 am
THE SOCIAL HOUSE ON HOWELL MILL HANDS DOWN.
Second place is Highland bakery.
Third place is Thumbs up.
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Gary Bradford
March 31st, 2009
4:02 am
Silver Skillet is the best. A little hard to get to with the bridge construction, however, always worth the trip.
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Jerald
March 31st, 2009
5:49 am
Curt’s buffet at the Oakwood Exit in Gainesville. Great tenderloin and gravy biscuits.
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Diana
March 31st, 2009
6:33 am
The brunch buffet at Ray’s Killer Creek in Alpharetta.
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Tim P
March 31st, 2009
6:41 am
Marty said it — Marietta Diner! Their french toast is the best.
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HJones
March 31st, 2009
6:49 am
I still dream of Melvin’s on Northside Drive from the 70’s. People used to have his biscuits overnighted to NYC. Here is an AJC link to the picture from 1979:
http://projects.ajc.com/gallery/view/metro/70s-scenes/38.html
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Dana
March 31st, 2009
7:14 am
You aren’t southern if you don’t say Waffle House!!! But as far as homemade good southern, Rexall in Duluth!
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beckyboo
March 31st, 2009
7:30 am
Evans Fine Foods in Decatur has very good pancakes; Rise & Dine just down N. Decatur Road has sweet potato pancakes from heaven. But the best overall breakfast for food and value is Old Hickory House at Northlake. The eggs, biscuits, gravy & creamy grits can’t be beat. Great pancakes & French toast, also.
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ELIZABETH
March 31st, 2009
7:31 am
THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE ON CHESHIRE BRIDGE!! THEY HAVE AWESOME BREAKFAST!!! STAWBERRY PANCAKES, HOME FRIES, BACON, CRAPES, OMLETS OH THAT HAVE SO MANY GOOD THINGS!!!!
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deegee
March 31st, 2009
9:17 am
Couldn’t you have given the kids chicken fingers? You can get the whole chicken foot at the international farmers market in Doraville.
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lauren
March 31st, 2009
10:32 am
The blueberry pancakes at social house rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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david herman
March 31st, 2009
10:44 am
the flying biscuit on peachtree parkway…turkey bacon and eggs,with oatmeal panckes are the best…then there are the bean cakes…glad they came to my area in Norcross…midtown in the “burbs”…
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Stan
March 31st, 2009
11:05 am
Sounds like a “Throwdown” if you ask me
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Amanda
March 31st, 2009
11:41 am
I smell a Throwdown!
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Lissa
March 31st, 2009
1:13 pm
For breakfast to go – love Chic-Fil-A chicken biscuits. Yum! Even better, the Saturday breakfast buffet at the Dwarf House is awesome. KC – there’s a Dwarf House on 92 close to 575.
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John Kessler
March 31st, 2009
3:00 pm
Please forgive my Food Network illiteracy. What’s a “throwdown?”
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Stan
March 31st, 2009
4:12 pm
Bobby Flay has a show called Throwdown where he finds people that make 1 dish really well, ie ribs, then he makes the dish in the test kitchen, then goes and challenges the “mark” to a whatever dish throwdown. A cookoff if you will. Fun hearted show but a little dull after awhile.
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Stan
March 31st, 2009
4:13 pm
Then again “free food” on April 1st???
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John Kessler
March 31st, 2009
4:32 pm
Thanks, Stan! Appreciate it….my TV viewing doesn’t go much beyond “Lost.”
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dsm
March 31st, 2009
8:06 pm
Definitely a throwdown!
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John Kessler
March 31st, 2009
9:56 pm
What happens if someone throws up at a throwdown?
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Topics about Restaurants » Buford Highway Tour of Restaurants | Food and More with John Kessler
April 1st, 2009
12:16 am
[...] John Kessler put an intriguing blog post on Buford Highway Tour of Restaurants | Food and More with John KesslerHere’s a quick excerptNot only did the most recent tour give me fodder for this week’s Restaurant Stories column, but it gave me an opportunity to check out some new places and look into old favorites. Here’s how our day went: … [...]
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Noble
April 1st, 2009
5:30 am
Hi! The babes are here! This is my sexiest site to visit. I make sure I am alone in case I get too hot. Post your favorite link here.
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LK
April 1st, 2009
8:14 am
Another good spot to try is the White Windmill bakery/cafe on Buford Highway near Oakcliff Rd. It is a smaller version of cafe maum, but I’ve found I like their baked goods better. Their baguettes and whole wheat sandwich breads are terrific. Plus they have the chestnut buns, black and red bean buns and many cream filled desserts. The cakes are gorgeous. The lunch sandwiches are delicious and they are one of the few places left that sells soft serve frozen yogurt!
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ATL Misc: Buford Highway + Chef Demos + 15 Mins of Fame | Eat It, Atlanta
April 1st, 2009
8:35 am
[...] The Land of Plenty cookbook has put me in a Buford Highway state of mind, and it appears that Besha from Creative Loafing and John Kessler from the AJC are as well. They both have posts up chronicling their sojourns up into this food-fun filled area of Atlanta. Destinations include Plaza Fiesta, Ranch 99 Market, Sushi House Hayakawa, and Delicious Kabob. (CL link here | AJC link here) [...]
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LMK
April 1st, 2009
2:46 pm
If you are doing the Buford Highway tour, make sure you stop at Sushi House Hayakawa http://www.atlantasushibar.com for the BEST sushi in the city. Fresh fresh fish, meticulously made sushi rolls and a delightful staff transport you to a wonderful place!
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JS
April 1st, 2009
3:29 pm
You forgot to get your hour long $25 foot massage at the end of the day!
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John Kessler
April 1st, 2009
3:53 pm
Thanks for the tip, the link and the idea!
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Topics about Restaurants » Atlanta Food News: Joël downscales, juke joint comes to downtown,…
April 1st, 2009
4:51 pm
[...] Cary placed an observative post today on Atlanta Food News: Joël downscales, juke joint comes to downtown,…Here’s a quick excerptIn other food news: The former Macy’s building at 180 Peachtree will house two new restaurants. [...]
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MM
April 1st, 2009
5:22 pm
Enter your comments here Truly deserving. Linton and Restaurant Eugene always leaves me craving for more, even, before I depart his place. He is truly a gem on the ATL dining scene, I have recently relocated (to the Twin Cities, MN) and, ironically, have noted Restaurant Eugene in foodie conversations during the past two weeks. If you have not experienced Eugene, Go!
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hollie
April 1st, 2009
6:30 pm
JK-
thank you so much for all of your BH adventures. We live at Dresden & Clairmont and thanks to blogs such as yours and watching Travel Channel (Zimmern & Bourdain), we’ve really stepped out of our comfort zone and tried some of the best food in town. I still can’t get in to the bean curd and some other things, but we take your recommendations and give them a try!! So thank you for continuing to clue us in! :>) Looking forward to trying Rincon Latino soon!
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hawesg
April 1st, 2009
6:59 pm
Linton old buddy, here’s hoping for more laurels.
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LAW
April 1st, 2009
10:11 pm
I have heard raves about this reataurant…I MUST GO! What an honor to have such a wonderful chef in our city!
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Linton Hopkins Is A 2009 Food And Wine Best New Chef | Atlanta Restaurant Reviews | Atlanta Food Blogs | Dining in Atlanta
April 2nd, 2009
12:53 am
[...] this wasn’t a big secret to everyone, it is great to see another Atlanta chef pushing the envelope while here in the [...]
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BeezieB
April 2nd, 2009
8:11 am
I’d like to second the Gato Bizco love. No pretense, just good food. Their tofu scramble is the best vegan breakfast I know of. I miss Bakers Cafe in Little 5; the French toast was fantastic!
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Kenny Powers
April 2nd, 2009
9:02 am
Fried Chicken and Bacon; sounds like heaven.
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PJ
April 2nd, 2009
9:49 am
Can’t speak for Eugene, however, Holeman & Finch is the worst waste of money in ATL. How do you call yourself a “gastropub” and only have like 5 beers? I enjoy the entrails and mystery-meats, but it’s nothing special. Communal tables suck too. Sat next to Steak Shapiro and listened to him drone on and on to his friends about how great he is and how awesome he is at picking wine. Never going to Eugene because H&F sucks.
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John Kessler
April 2nd, 2009
10:50 am
I like Holeman & Finch a lot when it’s not packed, but I definitely think you bring up an interesting point. So many of these new “gastropubs” either favor the gastro or the pub part, but don’t perform both functions at the same level of expertise.
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Mike H
April 2nd, 2009
12:21 pm
Organ meats is nothing special, really? Where else do you get that kind of stuff?
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PS
April 2nd, 2009
8:12 pm
PJ – Gastropubs are about food nothing to do with beer. There are Gastropubs in England (were they originated) that don’t serve any beer at all only wine.
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Chinese Southern Belle
April 2nd, 2009
9:06 pm
Nice piece, John. FYI–Your readers may be interested Atlanta’s only Asian Market Tour & Lunch with Chinese Southern Belles – Saturday, April 18, 10am-1pm! Shop, learn and eat on a fun, interactive fieldtrip and full teaching lunch (Do you have the Americanized or authentic Chinese menu?). $40 includes full lunch. Space is limited. Register by Thur 4/16 through “Contact” form at http://www.chinesesouthernbelle.com, email info@chinesesouthernbelle.com or call 770-405-8826 for more information.
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Pam & Rick Burton
April 3rd, 2009
9:12 pm
We knew you would be excellent when we read the minature menu your Dad carried around in his wallet. Congratulations. Pam & Rick
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Peaza.com - Its Pizza Time » Blog Archive » Atlanta Food News | Food and More with John Kessler
April 4th, 2009
6:54 am
[...] See original here: Atlanta Food News | Food and More with John Kessler [...]
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Chef Jessica
April 4th, 2009
8:54 am
John,
we would like for you to be our guest during one of our wonderful cooking classes.
Please contact me so we can chat
Chef Jessica Ray
Cooking School Director
The Viking Store
404 745 9065
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bmac
April 4th, 2009
12:39 pm
Flying Biscuit has the best grits ever fool!
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Steve O
April 4th, 2009
12:40 pm
There is only one place for me- Flying Biscuit baby
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Mayor of Midtown
April 4th, 2009
5:42 pm
My Saturday consists of $3 Mango Mimosas and killer Biscuits & Gravy (cause this southern boy knows his B & G) at the 10th and Piedmont Flying Biscuit and a lazy afternoon in Piedmont Park. Get right!
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Allen
April 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
The new Flying Biscuit in Sandy Springs is my new FAVORITE breakfast place. The food is amazing (especially their organic oatmeal pancakes – YUM!), the decor is really hip & cool, and the service has been terrific. And, to top it all off, their general mgr is an absolute sweetheart.
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JDJ
April 6th, 2009
4:32 pm
Lee’s Bakery very near the intersection of Buford/Clairmont has WONDERFUL baked goods and breads, plus top notch Vietnamese pho’s and noodle dishes. YUM! Their sandwiches ($2.50) just can’t be beat … I just make sure I take off the slice of REALLY hot pepper before I bite into it. (Ask for extra mayo, they make it there.)
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Christopher B.
April 6th, 2009
6:07 pm
There’s a reason why I’ve dined at the original Flying Biscuit almost every weekend for the past 15 years— it’s the best! The organic pancakes rock and their coffee is the best I’ve found in the ATL. Funky decor, great food, friendly service and cheap breakfast– why would anyone go elsewhere?
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Jim
April 6th, 2009
10:49 pm
Java Jive on Ponce- Truly the best biscuits in town and killer egg dishes in one of the most original decors I’ve encountered. I like their gingerbread waffle, too.
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Paige Bradshaw
April 7th, 2009
6:53 am
Flying Biscuit Grits!!!!
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Paige
April 7th, 2009
6:54 am
Enter your comments here
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Ellie
April 7th, 2009
1:14 pm
I was so excited to see this article in the paper in February. It’s so cool to see some fellow food bloggers who have a local focus! Plus, now I have you to follow along with, too!
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Ellie
April 7th, 2009
1:24 pm
Flavored air? With a tough of smog perhaps?
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Joe Remling
April 8th, 2009
8:05 pm
Well deserved Chef! Not only a leader in the restaurant world but in our community! Keep up the great work, I look forward to the next adventure.
As for the PJ’s H&F comment, more for us!
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Kathleen
April 8th, 2009
10:49 pm
Flying Biscuit has the best selection of scrambles and omelets of any breakfast place in Atlanta. Always great food and service
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FruckinFill
April 9th, 2009
12:50 pm
Just a test.
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Pork & Cork
April 9th, 2009
6:54 pm
Restaurant Eugene is a gem, and as most everyone has said, go if you haven’t.
As for PJ’s comments about H&F, I don’t disagree that sitting next to Steak Shapiro would probably be an annoying experience (very loud statements along the lines of “…enough about how great I am, why don’t you tell me about how great I am”), but the false advertising type comments seem misplaced. H&F calls itself a “public house” not a gastropub, and to my knowledge has never emphasized beer selection or billed itself as a great beer place like Brick Store Pub or Taco Mac (to name two different approaches). I believe that the Hopkins own H&F with some of the bartenders from Restaurant Eugene (and now H&F), and at H&F have always emphasized fresh seasonal food (as does RE), curing their own meats (they are big fans of Benton hams operation in Tennessee), and creative cocktails, which are also seasonal. It was never about a huge beer selection. Now, if your criteria for a great restaurant is a huge beer selection, then by all means stay away from Restaurant Eugene, but don’t do it because H&F alleged misrepresented what they are all about.
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Joannah
April 10th, 2009
3:13 am
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
Joannah
http://windscreensite.com
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noel
April 12th, 2009
5:51 pm
Had a horrible experience at A&M. Probably the worst restaurant experience that I have had in Atlanta. (15 years).
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Stan
April 14th, 2009
9:10 am
Glad you are back. I was starting to wonder if this thing was broken…how about a heads up that your on vacation next time.
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Jenn
April 14th, 2009
1:13 pm
John, I’m heading to Charleston for the first time next week. I’ll only be there for the day, but any good places for lunch that you’d recommend? Doesn’t appear that FIG or McCrady’s are open for lunch.
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Amanda
April 14th, 2009
4:15 pm
Did anyone ever find out if this was a throwdown?
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John Kessler
April 14th, 2009
4:38 pm
Stan – I should have made a note when we cancelled our papers and got someone to come by and feed the guinea pigs.
Jenn – If you haven’t been to Hominy Grill, that’s a great choice. Get there on the early side to avoid the crowds and definitely save room for dessert. Also, Monza serves very nice pizza — not especially local, but worthwhile.
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FCM
April 15th, 2009
9:00 pm
My favorite in Charleston: Stono Cafe 1956 Maybank Hwy
Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 762-4478
Went years ago when I was touring Johnson & Wales (no longer in Charleston I know) w/then boyfriend. Said friend is now graduated from J & W and out in Sonoma, CA.
Anyway, we asked the guide (the Johnson & Wales one) that if they had one last meal to eat in Charleston, where would they go….they told us Stono Cafe. We went and had the best meal of our lives. That is STILL where I go when we are in the area and it is still some of the best food I ever put in my mouth.
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Sara
April 15th, 2009
9:59 pm
for brunch, Fado in Buckhead and Atkins Park are great…West Egg too…
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Stephanie
April 16th, 2009
2:51 pm
Wow, that sounds good. I have only had black squid ink once, with a risotto dish as well, and we did not have the dyed teeth issue. I actually had the dish at La Pietra Cucina. I will have to try this out, looks great and my mouth is watering.
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Stan
April 16th, 2009
4:49 pm
I am curious as to the taste of the pasta? How, if at all does the tatse differ from regular pasta?
Sounds intriging…
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Darin
April 17th, 2009
9:03 am
Cool, I love bi bim bap and I also love the Broad Street strip of lunch places. I’ve never been tempted enough to try out this one, but I’ll put it on my list. My favorite place to get bi bim bap was a Korean place on BuHi about a mile south of 285 behind Chef Liu, but they closed last year. Any suggestions for a substitute Korean place in that ITP BuHi area would be welcome
Speaking of Broad St., anyone looking for a good lunch there should try the Eastsider sandwich at Reuben’s. Best. Sandwich.Ever.
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Joy
April 17th, 2009
12:14 pm
If you’re looking for a good dol sol bi bim bap (stone bowl), the best is at Han Il Kwan. All of my Korean friends go there just to eat that.
5458 Buford Highway
Doraville, GA 30340
(770) 457-3217
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Gaizixapags
April 18th, 2009
8:04 pm
Good morning.
My employee just now installed a discussion forum same as this
skoede nyt
but we have pan making it to work.
discusssion board established on BBBS ?
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D
April 22nd, 2009
3:50 pm
I am very curious as to how you get your children to try all of these exotic fruits, dishes etc. Lucky you, healthy kids !!!
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dh
April 23rd, 2009
9:15 am
Remember, no state defines a marriage as “a union between a man and a mango”… you just need to cut yourself off… and soon by the sounds of it…
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linkfeedr » Blog Archive » The Indian Mangoes Have Landed at Patel Brothers - RSS Indexer (beta)
April 23rd, 2009
3:11 pm
[...] sightings at Patel Brothers, the Indian supermarket, in Chicago, New York’s Jackson Heights, and Decatur, Georgia. For seventeen years, Indian mangoes (such as Alphonso, Kesar and Banganpa) were barred from the [...]
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Colly Mitchell
April 23rd, 2009
8:39 pm
Hey JK,
On an unrelated matter (from mangoes): what’s up with the Incredible Shrinking Food & Drink section? Barely covers 3 pages today…times are indeed tough?
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BeezieB
April 23rd, 2009
9:04 pm
I just went by and got a box of mangoes this evening. (They are marked down to $20.) One of the mangoes seems past its prime but the others look/taste good. I also got some seriously spicy Indian corn nuts and the mango helped tame the fire. Yum. Thanks for the heads up!
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The Indian Mangoes Have Landed at Patel Brothers : Easy Idiot - get better knowledge
April 23rd, 2009
9:25 pm
[...] They’re sticky, they’re sweet, they’re incredibly fragrant—and they’re pricey as hell. But, apparently, getting less so. The much-ballyhooed Indian mangoes have landed in the United States for the first time this season, with confirmed sightings at Patel Brothers, the Indian supermarket, in Chicago, New York’s Jackson Heights, and Decatur, Georgia. [...]
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WaterHaven Restaurant To Take The Place Of The Globe In Midtown | Atlanta Restaurant Reviews | Atlanta Food Blogs | Dining in Atlanta
April 26th, 2009
1:59 pm
[...] with a “chef driven menu of contemporary American fare,” is scheduled to open in mid-May. According to the information out there, the restaurant is set to be a farm to table concept in a casual [...]
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RK
April 29th, 2009
5:26 pm
I had to google your name to find your blog — no shoutout box in the restaurant section any more?
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Lisa
April 30th, 2009
6:17 am
Hey, John! Where are you? the new Food section in today’s paper is very skimpy indeed. Please start posting again.
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Jon-David Headrick
April 30th, 2009
8:48 pm
Steven, congratulations! That is great news. I’m sure this is going to be brilliant. Make sure to put a smoked trout appetizer on the menu for me so that I can make a scene again!
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Jim Barco
May 4th, 2009
11:45 am
John, I’m not sure who at the AJC I should share this with, but since I always read your Column, I thought I’d start with a “green egg person.” Brenau University and its many friends and volunteers, invite talented cookers and fans of Earth shattering barbeque and bluegrass music to a Memphis Barbecue Network sanctioned contest May 28-30. Professional Cook teams will begin arriving on the 28th. The 29th finds public activities of a cooking school by Bill Morris, aka: Billy Bob Billy, “Doctor Que” of Holy Smokers Too, while all cooking crews kick their tires and light their fires. The 30th has top flight regional Bluegrass music, and to die for BBQ competition and refreshments. Upscale vendors will also be displaying their goods on Saturday for all your summer cookout needs, from quality sauces and rubs, to cookbooks and smokers costing more than your first car. Gate admission is $5 and all monies raised from corporate sponsors and associated revenue streams go to benefit the local student scholarship fund. The public gate on Saturday opens at 10 a.m. John, obviously, we would love to host you and/or another lover of all things barbecue. cell: 770-654-3600
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Biruk
May 4th, 2009
1:59 pm
I cann’t wait , Am sure there will be beef !…Matt Congra.. Keep it Up
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D
May 4th, 2009
2:31 pm
I am beginning to wonder if JK has overdosed on mangoes.Or has the AJC sent into exile my only remaining reason to read this paper at all.
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Lisa
May 4th, 2009
7:40 pm
He has a column in the Sunday paper now. And I saw his byline in the paper yesterday. An article about Big Green Eggs. Maybe he’s too busy for us bloggers. Sniff, sniff..
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Lisa
May 5th, 2009
7:44 am
Maybe this will get his interest. Shirley Corriher won a James Beard award. Best book on Baking and Deserts. Yeah Hometown Gal!
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banquet manager
May 5th, 2009
10:25 pm
I heard recently that mangos imported from India will soon be the fasted growing food import to the USA. A mango from India… who’d a thunk?
So You Want To Be a Banquet Manager? You think being a banquet manager is glamorous? You try dealing with cranky chefs and bitchy waiters all day – and that’s without the nasty customers. Visit my blog and see what it’s REALLY like in this crazy profession.
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Stan
May 6th, 2009
4:09 pm
I’m thinking Kessler ran off with the Food Godess, They are having a baby mango together
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Lisa
May 7th, 2009
8:00 am
I think they took the beer guy and the wine guy with him. And the rest of the Food Section. The Food section has become a wrapper for the ads. The end is near…
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Quoc Huong, Doraville GA « Food Near Snellville
May 7th, 2009
1:50 pm
[...] John Kessler’s Buford Highway tour also has a review of Quoc Huong. The commentary on Mr. Kessler’s AJC article is also well [...]
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Lisa
May 7th, 2009
8:05 pm
Great to see you posting again! I Hope you, the Food Goddess, the Wine Guy and the Beer Guy had a great time. Seriously, you are missed. L
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Mo.
May 7th, 2009
9:19 pm
Boy, have I missed you!!!!!!! But the recipe and description more than suffice!
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John Kessler
May 7th, 2009
11:14 pm
Thanks, guys! Let me see if I can’t do an incantation to raise the Goddess.
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Stan
May 8th, 2009
10:09 am
Welcome back, got boring there for awhile.
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bl
May 8th, 2009
12:01 pm
Given that the blog hasn’t been updated in weeks, I wonder why they linked to it from the home page?
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John Kessler
May 8th, 2009
12:03 pm
Aak. Just check in on these comments. Forgive the long delay…there’s been a lot of re-orging going down here and a blog hiatus seemed like the best course of action. But — cross fingers for you, me and the planet — I’ve just filed my last Swine Flu story. Thanks very much for reading and dealing with both my muddy iPhone pictures and odd food passions. Totally had to go cold turkey on Indian mangoes…
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kayla
May 8th, 2009
4:09 pm
Was it “bacon salt” perhaps? “Pork salt” sounds more soignee….whereas “bacon salt” conjures up images of pickup trucks, Budweiser, and pork rinds.
http://www.baconsalt.com/
(I admit I had to giggle at “Operation Bacon Salt”.)
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Tex
May 8th, 2009
10:25 pm
Was starting to wonder if you were coming back . . . Very glad to hear from you again!
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Liz Lorber
May 9th, 2009
5:41 pm
Hey John, welcome back! I got tired of checking your blog only to keep finding five fantastic things about mangoes!
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MissM
May 10th, 2009
10:26 am
Was it pork,salt, or cream?
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Denise
May 10th, 2009
8:13 pm
My husband is from Northern Italy too. He enjoys simple fish dishes and this looks great. What i would like to know is if anyone knows where to buy rhubarb (frozen, canned, fresh) other than farmers markets and frozen kosher vendors, Vermont country store. Not to my husbands liking, but i enjoy it.
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Martica
May 11th, 2009
5:18 pm
salt pork
Function: noun
Date: 1708
: fat pork cured in salt or brine
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ned
May 11th, 2009
6:23 pm
If you want true, hand rolled New York bagels,this is what you do. Take Ga. 400 to exit 12b,west.Go approx.1 mile and on your left you will come upon BB’S Bagel and Diner. There is where you will find the best bagels in the south. A vast variety of cream cheeses too.
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herbK
May 11th, 2009
7:30 pm
crap for $6. No question, don’t buy it.
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tanline
May 12th, 2009
1:38 pm
Japanese Restaurant?
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Stan
May 12th, 2009
1:40 pm
The Asian joint at the Equestrian (sp?) center in Covington?
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D
May 12th, 2009
2:12 pm
Somewhere in Chambodia.
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zadi
May 12th, 2009
2:51 pm
sounds delicious. i will definitely be making this.
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John Kessler
May 12th, 2009
3:16 pm
I’ll send a piece of useless food reporter swag to the first person who correctly guesses the whereabouts of deep fried horse….
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John Kessler
May 12th, 2009
3:19 pm
I thought it was Bacon Salt at first, but no…salt pork. HerbK: Have you tried the soup? It is weirdly made in the Boston commissary and shipped here, but I do think it’s the real deal. Haven’ tried the lobster roll…can’t bring myself to spend $22 for a sandwich.
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Drew
May 12th, 2009
3:53 pm
My guess is Canada… perhaps Montreal? Toronto?
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Sunny
May 12th, 2009
4:13 pm
you can now buy them online at yummangoes.com
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Stan
May 12th, 2009
4:34 pm
MF?
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Stan
May 12th, 2009
4:34 pm
though a little lower on the foood chain would be my better guess
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D
May 12th, 2009
6:45 pm
Zuma Sushi ?
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Robert Givens
May 12th, 2009
7:48 pm
The Dark Horse Tavern OR somewhere on Buford Highway
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John Kessler
May 12th, 2009
9:33 pm
Hint: Japanese restaurant in greater Atlanta. And, yes, that’s the real menu…
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Stephanie
May 13th, 2009
7:42 am
Better make sure Atlanta PETA members don’t find out about this place.
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Drew
May 13th, 2009
8:59 am
Haru Ichiban in Duluth?
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Gene
May 13th, 2009
9:45 am
Now John, are you covering up the “Mackerel”?
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Alex
May 13th, 2009
10:35 am
Haru Ichiban?
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Drew
May 13th, 2009
11:32 am
Now Alex, don’t try to steal my thunder.
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D
May 13th, 2009
11:49 am
Okay, I give up.
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Edward
May 13th, 2009
12:04 pm
Holeman & Finch?
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Computerblue
May 13th, 2009
12:33 pm
zuma sushi?
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John Kessler
May 13th, 2009
12:59 pm
No one’s gotten it yet…going to start rummaging through press releases for tempting doodads….
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w
May 13th, 2009
2:07 pm
Yasu?
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Steve
May 13th, 2009
2:09 pm
Since when was it legal to serve “horse” or “dog” in Atlanta????? That makes me sick.
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JD
May 13th, 2009
2:09 pm
Haru Ichiban in Duluth
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donkey200
May 13th, 2009
2:12 pm
Taka’s – Sushi & Passion>
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babygirl1975
May 13th, 2009
2:12 pm
Is it Haru Ichiban?
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Thack Haines
May 13th, 2009
2:13 pm
Haru Ichiban is the answer
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JoeGa
May 13th, 2009
2:13 pm
The Varsity?
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Becky
May 13th, 2009
2:15 pm
Canton House?
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Dianne
May 13th, 2009
2:22 pm
John, you should let it be known. I want to make sure I don’t go to this restuarant. This is really funky…
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Karl Rove
May 13th, 2009
2:22 pm
At a stable…horse? Are you kidding me????????
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Dan
May 13th, 2009
2:26 pm
Sushi Huku?
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Max
May 13th, 2009
2:26 pm
Tomo?
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Kristin
May 13th, 2009
2:29 pm
Soto?
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GeoffDawg
May 13th, 2009
2:31 pm
Maybe it’s seahorse tempura.
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bibi
May 13th, 2009
2:33 pm
Sushi Yoko?
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s.bass
May 13th, 2009
2:34 pm
Are you related to John Kessler the newspaperman from Miami?
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Kermit
May 13th, 2009
2:41 pm
Mo-Mo-Ya?
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southern hope
May 13th, 2009
2:41 pm
I believe that John’s thumb is covering what comes after “horse”…maybe a misspelling like “house special”….I don’t think we’re talking Black Beauty here or Mine that Bird.
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JL
May 13th, 2009
2:41 pm
Yoko Ono?
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reservoirDAWG
May 13th, 2009
2:43 pm
Taco Bell!
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Gene
May 13th, 2009
2:44 pm
I know where this is. They’ve got deep-fried lion, tiger and bear there too on their special Japanese menu. Oh my..
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Becky
May 13th, 2009
3:00 pm
Nakato?
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CJ
May 13th, 2009
3:10 pm
Umezono?
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mDm
May 13th, 2009
3:11 pm
Noodles in Midtown or Downtown Decatur?
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Lisa
May 13th, 2009
3:57 pm
This is so entertaining! Thanks for the yuks – yuk yuk and yuck. LOL
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Angie
May 13th, 2009
4:04 pm
MoMo Ya ??
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Lisa
May 13th, 2009
4:04 pm
Don Quixote?
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LP
May 13th, 2009
4:04 pm
Isn’t that Deep Fried Horseshoe Crab?
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Lisa
May 13th, 2009
4:05 pm
Wait… I got it! Haru Ichiban!
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Needabailout,too!
May 13th, 2009
4:28 pm
Nam on Monroe Drive…
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Kathy B
May 13th, 2009
4:30 pm
I say Soto and maybe that’s Horse Mackerel???
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Victoria Elder
May 13th, 2009
4:35 pm
I know! It is Yakitori Jinbei on Cobb Pky across from Best Buys. Good restaurant. Never tried the horse though. John, you should at least buy me lunch!
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Needabailout,too!
May 13th, 2009
4:38 pm
Miso Izakaya on Edgewood…
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Hugh Jeffries
May 13th, 2009
4:45 pm
Sushi Yoko
7124 Peachtree Industrial Blvd
Norcross, GA 30071
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Green Olive
May 14th, 2009
9:50 am
I’ll go half on that lobster roll with you.
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John Kessler
May 14th, 2009
11:26 am
Victoria wins! This is indeed the menu from Yakitori Jinbei (address and phone number in the AccessAtlanta listings). It is one of my favorite restaurants in the metro area for an honest Japanese lunch. I had a bowl of kitsune soba — buckwheat noodles in a seasoned dashi broth topped with sheets of fried tofu. My friend had a toro rice bowl — a big mound of minced fatty tuna and raw quail egg over rice with slivers of nori, which was an incredible deal for $10 and change.
Do they serve horse. Um, nooooo….they serve “horse mackerel,” also known as aji. (Gene called that one.) I was covering up the menu. So, please, don’t go looking for Trigger fingers.
Horsemeat, however, is eaten in Japan. I once tried thin curls of freshly slivered frozen raw horse loin, called “basashi,” to be dipped in ponzu sauce. I don’t recall the flavor as much as the singular sensation of the raw meat melting on the tongue.
Victoria: I have your choice of these fabulous gift prizes:
1. A set of measuring spoons with a Perdue (chicken, not Sonny) logo.
2. A scented candle with a Levitra logo. (I don’t believe it actually contains the drug, but then I’ve never tried to light the candle.)
Please send me an email and we can arrange shipment.
Thanks for all your guesses. We have to play this game again.
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D
May 14th, 2009
1:37 pm
Cute game, let’s do it again soon !!!
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Colly Mitchell
May 14th, 2009
2:53 pm
In the hospital recovering from the heart attack you had from eating all of that fried food?
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MP
May 14th, 2009
4:18 pm
You are NYC applying for Frank Bruni’s(former) position.
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Tavolini
May 15th, 2009
11:36 am
Eesh! Um, somewhere in rural Georgia?
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Tavolini
May 15th, 2009
11:44 am
I just read the above comments–I eat there all the time! How did I miss this menu item? Is it on the lunch menu?
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RK
May 18th, 2009
11:10 am
John — I meant to compliment your article in Cooking Light a few months ago, on Belle Chevre in Alabama. And I was reminded to, this weekend, because I found the goat cheese in CostCo of all places.
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John Kessler
May 19th, 2009
5:27 pm
Thanks, RK! How great for them that they got the product in Costco.
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Bruce Miller
May 19th, 2009
6:06 pm
Buford Highway Farmers Market?
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Tim
May 19th, 2009
7:12 pm
Fresh Market on Peachtree across from Harrison’s, I mean near Benny-ha-ha.
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Diann Jackson
May 19th, 2009
7:12 pm
Whole Foods Store?
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Mattie
May 19th, 2009
7:24 pm
I have no idea, but please post the name of the place that would charge $41.94 for seedless watermelon!
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Sarah Watton
May 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
Agreed that you’re at The Fresh Market
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Tesha
May 19th, 2009
7:48 pm
I now live in Hawaii and the cost of living here is really expensive, so I am going to say you’re shopping at Safeway! My husband once paid $15 for a canteloupe and $20 for a watermelon.
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kayla
May 19th, 2009
7:51 pm
LOL at “super titi cracker”….is that an edible item or an implement?
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Eat it Atlanta
May 19th, 2009
8:38 pm
Hrm, if I HAD to guess, I’d say the party is at your house. Will check my spam filter for the invite.
But yeah, I’d go with BHFM.
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Soouthern foodie
May 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
Assi market on Old Peachtree Rd. Got to be there!
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joe
May 19th, 2009
9:19 pm
BHFM on Buford Highway. Love dem Titi crackers!
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Diner
May 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Radial Cafe — Vege gravy with rosemary and biscuits; pancake specials.
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D
May 20th, 2009
5:45 am
Where/What is the cheesy ( pun intended ) prize ? Whadya got JK ?
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Drew
May 20th, 2009
10:18 am
No one has mentioned Super H Mart, so I’ll take that one. I can’t remember a large selection of Bulgarian Feta on my last visit though…
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Amanda
May 20th, 2009
10:55 am
Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market
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Stephanie
May 20th, 2009
12:09 pm
I am thinking it is in the little eatern european market over by Desta on Clairmont and Briarcliff.
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Phillip
May 20th, 2009
2:00 pm
I’m stumped but YDFM wouldn’t charge $41 for any produce unless maybe they carry black truffles.
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Drew
May 20th, 2009
3:58 pm
Just an idea for some of the watermelon guessers… perhaps it was a small case of melons? As in more than one?
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DB
May 20th, 2009
8:25 pm
Fresh Market?
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Edward
May 21st, 2009
10:46 am
I agree with Bruce. Looks like stuff you would find at BHFM.
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Karen
May 21st, 2009
11:53 am
Harry’s
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veronica sciacca
May 21st, 2009
12:59 pm
I forget the name of this deli, but its in the shopping center at the corner of briarcliff and clairmont right next to Poyeyes.
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GR
May 21st, 2009
7:55 pm
Super H Mart !
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jay
May 22nd, 2009
1:16 pm
I’m thinking toronto. there’s lot if greeks there
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John Kessler
May 22nd, 2009
3:32 pm
So:
Bruce called it right off the bat. The Buford Highway Farmers Market is really the only place that comes to mind when I want to buy the ingredients for both watermelon and feta salad as well as gado gado — both dishes on the menu for a huge graduation party that I put together with a bunch of my daughter’s parents.
Super Titi Crackers are just like Indonesian shrimp crackers, except they’re flavored with garlic rather than shrimp paste. They are made with tapioca flour and look like little chips of glossy plastic — that is, until you put them in hot oil and they turn pale and porous, and swell to many times their size in a flash.
I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day filled with as many Super Titi Crackers as you can eat.
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Michael Smalls
May 24th, 2009
10:47 am
Hey John, Michael Smalls here. I handle media for the Gladys Knight restaurants. Let me know when we can have you for lunch or dinner again at the Johns Creek location. I’d like to see what you think. My cell is 678-358-8460.
BTW- I’m from Schenectady, NY. lots of Kesslers. Any relation?
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Jeff
May 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
Shoya is open, and it’s goooooooooooood.
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Dena
May 25th, 2009
9:31 am
Shoya is open! It was wonderful. We tried many little dishes, most notable was the mushrooms with tofu in a brown sauce. I really enjoyed it. We feasted on sushi and sashmi and a few kushiyaki selections like chicken balls and bacon wrapped asparagus. I tried Cassis with soda, it’s sort of a fruity liquour and enjoyed it very much. Staff was wonderful and friendly. Will definately go back!
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beth carr
May 25th, 2009
11:44 am
Enter your comments here maybe you should think about naples fl..chef fabrizio aielli just opened sea salt here..he was one of the featured chefs along with you the year you were here for the naples wine festival…we are a little more relaxed here and an hour trip to miami will get you on a plane to wherever you need to go..I was the event designer that put your dinner together and I wish you all the best..you are a very talented and kind man..all that matters in this world is your truth
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Shoya, a Japanese izakaya, opens in Doraville | Food and More with … | Sushi Restaurants
May 26th, 2009
5:52 am
[...] hirby wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptA few local Japanese restaurants function as de facto izakayas — i.e., pubs that serve a nice variety of small plates. Go to Sushi Yoko in Norcross, Hashiguchi, Jr., in Buckhead or Sushi House Hayakawa in Doraville, and you will find a … [...]
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Trey
May 26th, 2009
10:33 am
Thank you for the tip! These places have great food and I look forward to trying them out.
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Robert Givens
May 26th, 2009
3:29 pm
Mosaic Mediterranean Grill on 14th St.
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Mort Merkel
May 26th, 2009
6:06 pm
Iraq?
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Bruce Miller
May 26th, 2009
10:16 pm
Well… Halal Pizza in Clarskton?
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John Kessler
May 27th, 2009
11:38 am
You’re good, Bruce.
Halal Pizza & Cafe is in Campus Plaza at the corner of Indian Trail and Rockbridge. For years I’ve wanted to go in and see just what Halal Pizza could be. As it turns out: A slice of long-heated veggie or cheese that appeared to be Domino’s. But there were some good Somali stews served with big squares of focaccia-like flatbread. Most of the guys there were drinking espressos and hanging out. The menu also listed “Italian baklava.” That’s a new one to me.
Anyhow, curiosity (if not appetite) sated.
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Lisa
May 27th, 2009
4:16 pm
My Italian club is heading to Varasano’s on the 13th. Can’t wait.. And I am thrilled with your Sunday columns!!! Lisa
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Bill Bounds
May 27th, 2009
11:24 pm
Sounds like a great place, too bad I’m out in Dallas. Is that your daughter? What a good time to share with her.
Miss you guys.
come out to TX.
bill
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Darin
May 29th, 2009
5:18 pm
Sad to see this happening. My main concern, though, among the Ullio places is Fritti — Dear Jeebus, don’t let anything happen to my precious Fritti! My wife and I love that place.
I wonder what the problem is with this area that makes it ‘iffy’ for a restaurant like this? It seems like a pretty cool spot to me with a lot of residents packed in near by.
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MJ
May 29th, 2009
5:36 pm
It was a cool spot, but parking was a pain. I love Chocolate Pink, too, but feel the same way. Do I really want to deal with all the driving/parking drama for a chichi cocktail and some tapas, or a fancy cupcake?
Sorry, it’s not worth the effort.
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jay
May 29th, 2009
7:00 pm
Very depressing. I don’t see anything wrong with the location either, except the parking was a little ambiguous. Good looking place too. Atlantans need to get out and support their favorite places soon or there won’t be any. Local restaurateurs are already calling this summer the “summer of death”!
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Marcia
May 30th, 2009
11:57 pm
Parking??? I don’t get it. You mean if there isn’t a sea of empty spaces in front of the Wal-Mart, there is no sense in going? It’s frigging Atlanta. How hard is it to find a free parking space!
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stranger
May 31st, 2009
7:45 pm
The parking is too much trouble, and nobody wants to pay for valet. I saw on the schumaucher group that chocolate pink is up for sale.
That area is just not a food distination. More and more people are heading over to highlands or inman park.
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John Kessler
June 1st, 2009
11:23 am
That corner has weird traffic karma, with the one-way street heading downtown and the parking lot in a place where you have to cross two streets. Cuerno would have worked much better on Crescent Ave., which is really coming into its own with the new roster of 1010 Midtown restaurants — Noon, RA Sushi, Ri Ra — opening.
Darin, when I spoke with Riccardo, he very clearly said that Fritti was going great guns and having one of its best years even. Long live the pie.
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Shoya Izakaya: No Lunch Yet & More Info In A Bit | Atlanta Restaurant Reviews | Atlanta Food Blogs | Dining in Atlanta
June 1st, 2009
12:15 pm
[...] last month to a good bit of fan fare. I’ve been once (but haven’t chatted it up yet), Kessler dropped in, and Eat, Drink, Man quickly shared his thoughts. Shoya has already given Miso Izakaya more [...]
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Lisa
June 1st, 2009
1:52 pm
yuck!
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Drew
June 1st, 2009
3:08 pm
Glad to see the ‘handle’ is made of… wood.
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RK
June 1st, 2009
3:19 pm
I went during restaurant week. I don’t want to drop $120 for 2 people on tapas. I’ve lived in Spain, and the beauty of dining there was that you could get a little of this and a little of that, some wine, and not feel like you’ve spent a lot. A good tapas restaurant would be better as a small, local joint, not somewhere where you feel you need to have a full dinner. Perhaps with a bigger, informal bar area with high tables.
Oh, and parking was simple — wasn’t it in a garage across the street, “free”?
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John Kessler
June 1st, 2009
3:51 pm
cymbal crash…
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David
June 1st, 2009
3:54 pm
Went for the closing last night. Very sad to see this restaurant go. I was wondering last night if Atlanta has embraced true Spanish food, or something that is “very close” to spanish food. As Ricardo stated, it is hard to duplicate the food without a true Spanish chef. I loved the place however, and it had a lot to add to the city as far as cuisine goes.
The place was packed last night, and the food was tops as usual. I think the restaurant was small enough to mirror a Spanish tapas bar, but would agree more small plates would be desirable.
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DX
June 1st, 2009
4:23 pm
Our ghetto ice cream man does not carry these on the southside.
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Jason Greene
June 3rd, 2009
1:09 pm
How about a Brad Pitt popsicle!
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Shonali Bhowmik
June 3rd, 2009
7:19 pm
I want to eat at Miller Union now!!
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MJ
June 5th, 2009
9:15 am
Thanks for sharing.
Once the mixture cooled, I ended up with a rhubarb compote that tasted neither sweet nor savory, but someone poised between the two. The berry flavor was bright but not brassy, and its vegetable essence didn’t struggle with the sugar.
I’m not sure I’ll try the recipe, but I really enjoyed reading your description. Long live JKessler!
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On The Burner: Myung Ga Won And Omakase At MF Buckhead | Atlanta Restaurant Reviews | Atlanta Food Blogs | Dining in Atlanta
June 5th, 2009
3:53 pm
[...] an awesome experience. While I work on the posts, check out Kessler’s thoughts on one such meal from a few months ago. Technorati Tags: myung ga won,korean barbecue,omakase,mf buckhead,chris kinjo,john kessler Tell [...]
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Fred
June 7th, 2009
10:39 am
Orderered their 1/2 rack of baby back ribs…last 6-6-09 night
The wrere the very very very dry……if there was quality control or a kitchen manager
overseeing the quality of their ribs… I don’t believe they wern’t doing their job..
For this restaurant to survive it better kick up their quality control many nothches..
Frankly totaly disapointed with the ribs that were sold to me.
I hope they didn.t try to pass this stuff off on a “to go” customer to save money instead of throwing out these ribs to save money.
Where is Chef Ramsey (Hell’s Kitchen) when we need him?
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Victoria Elder
June 10th, 2009
2:29 pm
What is your email address? Rather than those amazing gifts that you would have to package up to send, how about giving me a recipe? When I was a kid in Indiana, a neighbor mom made the most wonderful cheesecake. It was not creamy as in loaded with cream cheese. It was dryer like maybe she used ricotta? Any suggestions? Thanks!
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RAK
June 11th, 2009
2:47 pm
Who in God’s name is this Varasano’s guy paying. It’s not even the best pizza ITP let alone the country. Give me a break! The crust is soggy and the sauce is under seasoned…his multi-year media relations effort has really paid off.
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Stan
June 11th, 2009
4:44 pm
Any idea what happened to the Food section of the paper? I see they took down the “print edition” link from the front page…
This blows big time
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Brightlight
June 12th, 2009
3:08 am
I welcome. Has seen here a lot of helpful information. I wish to share the which is to this address http://auto-toplist.ru/
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Eric
June 12th, 2009
12:02 pm
Been here two times now. Nice room and good food. I’ve done the beer in the cool pitcher and glasses both times (6$ w 4 glasses worth). True there are so many different things to try. They have a Mushroom dish that is just looks like a plain mushroom on a stick (you can get it with terriaki or salt) but the way they cook it the flavor is amazing.
While the new Super H center is still just a large strip mall it is nicely done with numerous and large trees planted through out the parking lot that sits in the middle of the circular shaped center. It stands in sharp contrast to the hideous Brands Mart and its barren parking lot that is next door.
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Mid June 2009 food and boonie notes « Food Near Snellville
June 14th, 2009
1:24 pm
[...] and spoke a bit to the manager about the Shoya Izakawa – Haru Ichiban connection (noted by John Kessler and Gene Lee). He said that Shoya was opened by the ex-owner of Haru, and that Haru Ichiban has [...]
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Mac
June 15th, 2009
5:57 pm
John Kessler is the best food writer ever. Knows his stuff and his writing is music.
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John Kessler
June 16th, 2009
5:03 pm
Sorry for the delay. Just back from vaca.
Stan – We’re no longer running any print edition pages for any sections. I agree it’s kind of a bummer for the food section, but I also think they’re making more of an effort to expand the online content. In progress, so stay tuned.
Mac – Thanks so much!
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John Kessler
June 16th, 2009
5:03 pm
Oops, hit return too soon. Meant to thank you, too, MJ!
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virginia willis
June 17th, 2009
10:21 am
John, My mouth is watering for those steak frites. Have fun! Best VA
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barbara
June 17th, 2009
5:09 pm
Nothing reminds me of Swiss food more than Rosti, the Swiss version of really, really good hash browns.
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Melissa
June 17th, 2009
7:57 pm
Ew.
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MJ
June 18th, 2009
12:03 pm
Ewww. What’s the Dasani water lip balm like? Does the Cheetos balm leave you with orange lips? If so, might as well eat the real thing.
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John Kessler
June 18th, 2009
12:45 pm
Thanks, Virginia! Hope you event in Philadelphia is loads of fun. I know the food will be great.
Barbara — My daughter became a rösti expert in Switzerland. She had to order them everywhere.
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Becky
June 18th, 2009
2:56 pm
I have a Reeces flavored lip balm..Doesn’t have that much of a taste, but it does give you a light brown lip color..
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GetReal
June 18th, 2009
3:06 pm
Dasani flavored lip balm? Maybe there is a market for my “Dehydrated Water”. Add 1 gallon of water to 1 pouch & it makes 1 gallon of water.
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reservoirDAWG
June 18th, 2009
3:14 pm
Good one GetReal.
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Melissa
June 18th, 2009
3:16 pm
My boyfriend took me on a date here one evening. I lived behind the restaurant on Piedmont and there was always plenty of parking in the garage, which is free. No need to valet or park across the street…not sure why people couldn’t figure that out. The food was terrible, the service subpar and the place was nearly empty all evening. The food was overpriced and certainly not Spanish tapas. The dishes were too large in portion size for tapas but not large enough for a dinner entree. Nothing against the restaurant, but we never went back, even though I lived on the same block. The pulled cutains always made it appear as though the place was closed. Although, I did love interior the bull was a bit much.
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Atlanta Native
June 18th, 2009
3:40 pm
Get Real – you have no idea how close to the mark you are. I had some very long meetings with people at the locally based company that makes their version of your dehydrated water beverage. The bottle states “minerals added for flavor” (which would be your pouch). Upon learning how long the meeting would be, employees of said company, advised us all not to drink the bottled water as the “flavor enhancers” act as a diuretic and the resultant trips to the lavatory that would result would slow things down.
resevoirDAWG – what, you recognized him as your boss?
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reservoirDAWG
June 18th, 2009
3:42 pm
I think not Native.
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Atlanta Native
June 18th, 2009
4:12 pm
Couldn’t turn it down rD. As a native I have known many UGA fans. A few even went there. (Like half my family)
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Horndog
June 18th, 2009
4:23 pm
I’d like some woman flavored lip balm. Seriously.
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John Kessler
June 18th, 2009
4:31 pm
Tried the Dasani lip balm. Can’t remember the taste…but I do love the smell of lip balm in the morning…
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Atlanta Native
June 18th, 2009
4:42 pm
Mr. Kessler,
Since you have sent me on so many excellent food adventures over the years, I will direct you to one of the funniest food things I have ever seen. There are some expletives used, so Cox probably won’t let you go there. It is a collection of 1974 Weight Watcher recipe cards with commentary. Painfully funny.
http://www.candyboots.com/wwcards.html
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BiteMe
June 18th, 2009
5:19 pm
Atlanta Native, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! I just laughed my butt off for about 20 mins and started crying from laughing so hard
CLASSIC
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Shoya Izakawa, Doraville GA « Food Near Snellville
June 19th, 2009
8:55 am
[...] There exist preview and reviews by John Kessler, Gene Lee of Eat Drink Man, and Foodie Buddha, and Chow Down Atlanta has also weighed in on this [...]
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rebelliousrose
June 19th, 2009
1:14 pm
I didn’t know you were in Japan. My best friend’s there now, teaching in Miyazaki in Kyushu. I loved that country when I went- all that great food!
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Bill Bounds
June 20th, 2009
12:29 pm
A restaurant similar to La Relais de l’Entrecote just opened in NYC. Named LE RELAIS DE VENISE- L’ENTRECôTE, it just opened at Lex & 52nd. $24 fixe prix. l’Entrecote in random Paris bistros beats almost every steak that I have had in the U.S. The meat has so much flavor. It will be interesting if this concept can catch on over here. It’s not the typical big steakhouse steak.
Keep up the great work, John. Come see us in Dallas.
bill
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2 Dog
June 23rd, 2009
1:32 pm
John:
We are a local restaurant located at the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. We have been a staple of the Gainesville community for 12 years. Our restaurant sits in the historic downtown area. Chef Tim Roberts creates all sauces, breads & sausages in house along with using organic veggies from a local farm in Lula. Chef Roberts dubs his food “Rustic European Soul Food”. We strive for a fresh different choice that isn’t too pricy or too scary for our locals.
The lunch menu boast sandwiches, salads & quesadillas which come with your choice of a side. Our sides change daily according to the fresh produce we receive. Each day is a surprise for our customers.
The dinner specials change monthly along with the evening’s lasagna & sides. We do have staples on the menu such as the House Specialty, BBQ Shrimp & Grits, the Skirt Steak & a fabulous “Build Your Own” menu where our diners may pick their base, sauce & fresh toppings.
We also strive to keep a wonderful seasonal beer & wine list! Our patio is a great place to enjoy the summer breeze with any of our selections. Starting this July we will host acoustic music on the patio for an evening of good food, good bread & good music!
We are just a hop, skip & a jump from the downtown Atlanta area & would like to have you join us for lunch or dinner! We understand that your schedule is busy but if you head our way we are sure to provide a dining experience & dishes that are sure to feed your soul!
Thank you for your time & we will look forward to seeing you soon!
2 Dog
317 Spring Street SE
Gainesville, GA 30501
http://www.2DogRestaurant.com
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Coco
June 23rd, 2009
7:28 pm
<a href=”http://dictionary.reference.com”
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Coco
June 23rd, 2009
7:28 pm
href=”http://dictionary.reference.com
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FKJ
June 24th, 2009
6:00 pm
Hi! It looks like one of Japanese rice bowl, KATSU DON. $6.50 sounds very reasonable even in Japan for KATSU DON… I’m not sure but it might be Sushi Yoko or Umezono.
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Jennifer Zyman
June 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Looks like some porky and runny egg goodness over rice to me. Katsu donburi?
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Lisa
June 24th, 2009
8:50 pm
I think the photo looks much better. No comment on the food.
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Kit
June 25th, 2009
9:23 am
katsudon – shoya!
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barb
June 29th, 2009
8:46 pm
oyaka don (chicken with egg over rice)
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bibi
June 30th, 2009
8:48 am
Is that Okonomiyaki from Shoya?
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decaturwineandfooddude
July 2nd, 2009
1:06 pm
Ha! My nine year old plays CookingMama all the time on her DS.
Drives me crazy, but it could be worse.
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asybeatepaw
July 3rd, 2009
6:48 am
This totally new cimpany site byhus is damaged. Please suppokrt our community
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DX
July 3rd, 2009
7:47 pm
Daaaaang that is ugly …………….. please take it away.
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Tricia Martin
July 5th, 2009
10:34 pm
As a lover of great food we would like you to enjoy the fare of Chef R. L. Holmes who trained under Chef Paul at K- Pauls for 18 years. We were initially set to be Tibbs at the corner of Pharr and Grandview with Paul and AFC but that fell through and we struck out on our own.We are now @1113 Floyd St. in Covington Ga. So if you are looking for the best gumbo, greens,ettouffee,jambalaya, or ribs we promise it will be worth the trip.
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Chooch
July 7th, 2009
7:41 am
Egg foo yong?
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Green Olive
July 8th, 2009
1:34 pm
Nacho Supreme @ Taco Bell!
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John Kessler
July 8th, 2009
5:39 pm
Forgive my slackage. This pile of yum business is indeed katsudon — fried pork cutlet over rice in a sauce made of onions, eggs and broth. This particular version comes from Sushi Avenue in Decatur. It isn’t bad — and not a bad deal at all, for $6.50). My complaint is that the pork cutlet is so thoroughly coated in sauce that it gives up any bit of crunch. When it’s sopped with sauce and still a little crisp at the edges? Hoo mama.
When I lived in Japan I used to go to a katsudon specialty shop where the owner had an old dresser that he filled with breadcrumbs. Just before service, he packed the pork cutlets in the breading and then fried them to order. It was fantastic.
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Michael Erickson
July 8th, 2009
5:51 pm
I’m a little biased since I work for the company, but I love to sit at the bar at Ecco.
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Dee
July 8th, 2009
7:27 pm
John, I also enjoy bar dining @ H&F and Shaun’s. I’ll add Agave to the list for good bar dining. Dynamic Dish is great solo or with groups.
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jimmy
July 9th, 2009
8:09 am
The Monday-Thursday night deal at repast is great. The 3 course meal is $15, then add an app for $6-12 to make it 4 courses.
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Darin
July 9th, 2009
9:34 am
My favorite place for solo bar dining is Social downtown. Great staff and food and I don’t feel too weird reading the NY Times on my iPod while I wait for my order. They make some really good cocktails there.
I agree that H&F is a great place for dining at the bar, too. I think I even prefer the bar there to a table — though the food is great either way.
One more: the food is only good not great, but I’ve really enjoyed eating at the bar at Cypress Street Pint & Plate. Nice beer selection and I like the feel and look of the space.
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al
July 9th, 2009
9:41 am
SCK- Vinnings; Muss and Turners
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Darin
July 9th, 2009
11:00 am
This is cute. I have to try this out.
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Darin
July 9th, 2009
11:04 am
Social downtown has a nice bar for dining. Great food and service too.
I also like the bar at Holeman & Finch, though it gets crowded quickly. Cypress Street Pint & Plate certainly doesn’t have food of the same quality as those two, but I love the feel and look of that place and have enjoyed eating at the bar.
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Dee
July 9th, 2009
12:25 pm
Kevin Rathbun Steak has a great bar area where you can almost always get a table when the restaurant is booked. It’s a comfortable way to dine there. You’ll quickly become uncomfortable if you eat the entire portion of any of their sides, which are meant for sharing. But who can keep from devouring their fantastic jalapeno creamed corn?
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Stan
July 9th, 2009
5:06 pm
That’s why I like to read your work John. You rave like about the simple pleasures with more feeling than you do the $35 dinner for one at the bar. (I almost choked at the thought of dinner for one costing more than ~$10 tops)
Note: I could not eat a raw tomato if my life depended on it. Cooked I’m fine with.
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marykayandrews
July 9th, 2009
5:28 pm
Two words. Duke’s rules. John, I’m headed for the Jersey shore this weekend. I intend to stop at the first farmstand I see, buy me one of them yankee ‘maters and check it out to see if it stands up to the ‘maters ripening in our garden back home in Atlanta. One hitch. I forgot to pack my jar of Duke’s in with my book-siging equipment.
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Ralph Ellis
July 9th, 2009
5:40 pm
Welcome to the Southland.
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DX
July 9th, 2009
5:44 pm
Delightful. Welcome to the South.
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Lynn Kessel
July 9th, 2009
6:01 pm
During the first weekend in May, you must come try our Ruskin tomatoes at the Ruskin Tomato Festival. Every visitor gets free, sliced tomatoes and tomato sandwiches are sold to benefit charity. Each year, around 2,000 visitors get fully grown tomato plants, as well.
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The Food Tutor
July 9th, 2009
7:08 pm
It really is quite amazing, isn’t it?
In disagreement with the Duke’s comment, I’d note that the reasons I like Duke’s are a) it’s really cheap, and sometimes the cheapest one on the shelf and b) it doesn’t contain sugar, which means you can have it if you’re low-carbing, in which case you couldn’t eat this as a sammich anyway, but I find it to be less sweet than other mayos, and certainly much less sweet than the Miracle Whip my mother prefers.
At any rate, my incredible stinginess usually brings me to make this sandwich with generic white bread (or banh mi bread, since that’s cheap too), generic mayo and roma tomatoes, if I must have one off-season. In-season, anything goes, but sometimes you just gotta have it.
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Lisa
July 9th, 2009
8:50 pm
We have some Rutger’s tomatoes on our deck. I am watching to see when they will be ripe enough for a ‘mater sammie. I am a yankee gal and I LOVE them. Don’t care a whit about adding bacon BUT I do require Hellman’s. Duke’s is too sweet and watery to me. Again, I am a yankee. Still waiting for my tomatoes..
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Stuart
July 9th, 2009
11:57 pm
I SERIOUSLY beg to disagree with anyone claiming Duke’s is too sweet. Duke’s has had the same recipe for 100 years, and it’s never involved adding sugar, as it clearly says on the label. “Contains no sugar.” Anyone claiming Duke’s is too sweet has never actually tried Duke’s. It’s a rural myth. I have eaten tomato sandwiches most of my 49 years, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. And I insist on Duke’s. When I lived outside the south, I brought jars with me, or had them sent. Hellman’s, Kraft, Blue Plate, etc….they’re like the Zima of mayonnaise.
Regarding “alternative ingredients….” Lou Reed once said “If it has more than three chords, it’s jazz.” Country music is called “three chords and the truth.” (Well, it used to be, anyway.) So if it’s got anything besides tomatoes, mayonnaise and bread, with a little salt & pepper, it ain’t a tomato sandwich.
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caren goode
July 10th, 2009
10:15 am
If you really want to live, put a slice of vidalia onion on it! Hellman’s forever!
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