Sunday, May 10, 2009
A+E, Food, Life, In this Issue..., Style, Atlanta
Reader's Choice
Sunday Best 2009
Food and Drink
BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT
BEST RESTAURANT TO SEE AND BE SEEN INTWO URBAN LICKS
THE LOWDOWN: Whether you’re on the prowl or completely happy with the one you’re with, Two Urban Licks is a hot spot for cruising—and dining. Executive Chef Cameron Thompson turns up the heat with innovative twists on wood-fired meats and fish. The live rotating rotisserie in the center of the eclectic restaurant set in a revamped warehouse adds to the excitement.
THE BASICS: 820 Ralph McGill Blvd. NE. 404-522-4622.
www.twourbanlicks.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Village Tavern (restaurant); Ecco (see and be seen)
BEST NEW RESTAURANTPARISH
THE LOWDOWN: With just a year under its belt, this New Orleans-style restaurant has easily won the city’s heart. Its nicely executed Cajun-inspired menu is complemented by the restored 1890s Atlanta Pipe and Foundry Company terminal building in the heart of Inman Park. In addition to its restaurant, Parish also offers a market and to-go ordering section, making it a really convenient spot for loading up on pastries, breads and fair-trade goods.
THE BASICS: 240 N. Highland Ave. 404-681-4434. www.parishatl.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: BLT Steak
Spark St. Jude
Kevin Rathbun
BEST LOCAL CHEF
KEVIN RATHBUN
BEST STEAKHOUSEKEVIN RATHBUN STEAK
THE LOWDOWN: In an increasingly vegetarian society, Atlanta has made it clear: We like our meat. And we know where the best steak is, and who cooks it for us the way we like it: Kevin Rathbun and his eponymous steakhouse. Not only does Rathbun know cooking, he’s also brought a lot more focus to Atlanta as a culinary city with his big win on “Iron Chef America.” On top of that, Playboy Magazine recently named KRS as one of the best steakhouses in the country. Nice.
THE BASICS: 154 Krog St. 404-524-5600.
www.kevinrathbunsteak.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Richard Blais (chef); Bones (steakhouse)
BEST WAIT STAFF Village Tavern
THE LOWDOWN: Our readers like the friendly, professional service at this Alpharetta destination, which presents a classier take on your American chain restaurant, with romantic dim lighting and a varied, well-executed menu featuring healthy portions of steaks, burgers, seafood and other staples (the meatloaf is, in a word, awesome).
THE BASICS: 11555 Rainwater Drive, Alpharetta. 770-777-6490.
www.villagetavern.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: One Midtown Kitchen
BEST BARBECUEFox Bros. Bar-B-Q
THE LOWDOWN: We’ve known barbecue fans to journey from as far north as Forsyth County for this Candler Park joint’s classic brisket, smoked chicken and pulled pork. But for us, the real draw is tantalizing appetizers such as fried pickles and “the Tomminator”—tater tots smothered in Brunswick stew and topped with melted cheese.
THE BASICS: 1238 Dekalb Ave. 404-577-4030.
www.foxbrosbbq.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Fat Matt’s Rib Shack
BEST DINERBUCKHEAD DINER
THE LOWDOWN: Your choice for Best Diner once again is this classy and upscale Buckhead staple. It’s always packed (with good reason), the rambunctiously retro scene is great fun, and it doesn’t hurt that the food is great, too. Expect generous portions and great service.
THE BASICS: 3073 Piedmont Road. 404-262-3336.
www.buckheadrestaurants.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Thumbs Up
BEST CHINESEChin Chin
THE LOWDOWN: No matter where you are in Atlanta, Chin Chin offers seafood, beef, vegetarian and noodle dishes in the classic Chinese tradition, ready to enjoy or take home.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.chinchinonline.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Golden Buddha
BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT
BEST MARTINITROIS
THE LOWDOWN: At the corner of 14th and Peachtree streets sits Trois, a stately three-level restaurant renowned for its modern French cuisine. At the lowest level is a cool jazz lounge with handcrafted libations, including the vodka Martinez, a vodka version of the classic martini. The second level boasts a sensuous dining room with sweeping views of the city. A special event space tops it all off.
THE BASICS: 1180 Peachtree St. 404-815-3337.
www.trois3.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: FAB—French American Brasserie (French restaurant); Bluepointe (martini)
BEST INDIAN RESTAURANTBHOJANIC
THE LOWDOWN: Bursting with flavor, the fare at Bhojanic is a fusion of homestyle Indian and tapas. The chef cooks traditional Northern Indian cuisine using olive oil, yogurts, authentic Indian spices and other fresh ingredients, which keeps the food nourishing and filling, but lighter than what Americans might expect from Indian cuisine.
THE BASICS: 1363 Clairmont Road, Decatur. 404-633-9233.
www.bhojanic.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Café Bombay
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTSOTTO SOTTO
THE LOWDOWN: Chef and restaurateur Riccardo Ullio has been filling Atlanta bellies for a full decade with his honest approach to simple Italian cooking. Sotto Sotto’s extensive wine list takes diners on a grand trip through the country of its founder’s birth. In a city where the understanding of authentic Italian cuisine sometimes gets a little fuzzy, Sotto Sotto clears everything up.
THE BASICS: 313 N. Highland Ave. NE. 404-523-6678.
www.sottosottorestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Maggiano’s
BEST KOREANHAE WOON DAE
THE LOWDOWN: Though there are plenty of Korean restaurants to choose from on Buford Highway, Hae Woon Dae wins the loyalty of its patrons with its late-night hours, authentic cooking and signature Korean barbecue. Just be ready to take off your shoes and sit on the floor.
THE BASICS: 2805 Buford Highway NE #5. 770-451-7957.
THE RUNNER-UP: Cho Dang Tofu House
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
BEST TEX MEXNUEVO LAREDO
THE LOWDOWN: No matter how many chain Mexican restaurants open in Atlanta, none manage to come close to Nuevo Laredo. This nonchalant dining destination in West Midtown serves up plate after plate of Mexican goodness, such as chicken mole (a traditional dish of chicken smothered with a rich sauce flavored by a hint of chocolate) and pork tender briskets.
THE BASICS: 1494 Chattahoochee Ave. 404-352-9009.
www.nuevolaredocantina.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: La Parrilla (Mexican); Frontera Mexican Grill (Tex-Mex)
BEST MIDDLE EASTERNZAYA
THE LOWDOWN: Middle Eastern and contemporary might not go together in some Atlantans’ minds, but at Zaya, they’re a perfect match. The hip Inman Park restaurant offers up terrific palate-pleasers such as chicken and beef schwarma, smoked lamb ribs, tabbouleh, moussaka, falafel, dolmas and spanikopita. Ever mindful of diners’ budgets, the owners consistently feature terrific wine specials.
THE BASICS: 240 N. Highland Ave. NE. 404-477-0050.
www.zayarestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Mediterranean Grill
BEST PUB FOODTAP
THE LOWDOWN: From a juicy burger on an English muffin to well-dressed salads with Asian-glazed BBQ chicken, Tap offers upscale pub grub in a very hot spot for singles or groups enjoying a girls’ or guys’ night out. We highly recommend the beer-drinkers club for earning major drinking and bragging points. For authenticity, Tap bartenders manually pull your pints from an authentic British beer engine.
THE BASICS: 1180 Peachtree St. 404-347-2220. www.tapat1180.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: The Porter
Courtesy of Atlanta Fish Market
Atlanta Fish MarketBEST SEAFOOD
ATLANTA FISH MARKET
THE LOWDOWN: With a 65-foot copper fish welcoming diners, this Buckhead restaurant is quite a catch. The menu changes twice a day to accommodate fresh arrivals. Executive chef Robert Holley’s simplistic French approach to dishes makes Atlanta Fish Market a winner—hook, line and sinker.
THE BASICS: 265 Pharr Road NE. 404-262-3165.
www.buckheadrestaurants.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Legal Seafood
BEST SUSHI
HARRY AND SONS
THE LOWDOWN: This restaurant’s full sushi bar is known for its consistent assortment, featuring all the fresh fish favorites from California rolls to salmon nigiri, plus a few surprises. Patrons craving something a bit (OK, a lot) more cooked can indulge in the restaurant’s many Thai options, and martinis and ice cream add some additional spice to the wasabi.
THE BASICS: 820 N. Highland Ave. 404-873-2009.
www.harryandsonsrestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Ru San’s
BEST THAINAN
THE LOWDOWN: Gracious and elegant with its cream-colored banquettes and gold silk pillows, this sophisticated restaurant serves wonderfully satiating Thai favorites, including curries, gang kai see dar, kung mung kron (lobster tail) and lemongrass pot de crème.
THE BASICS: 1350 Spring St. 404-870-9933.
www.nanfinedining.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Surin of Thailand
BEST VEGETARIANCAFÉ SUNFLOWER
THE LOWDOWN: Even carnivores can enjoy the food at Cafe Sunflower, which succeeds in its desire to prove that vegetarian foods don't have to be bland or unsatisfying. Its menu offers a wide variety of options with Caribbean, Asian, Southwestern and Mediterranean influences, and its cozy atmosphere, friendly service and precise presentation keep fans coming back.
THE BASICS: 2140 Peachtree Road. 404-352-8859. 5975 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs. 404-256-1675.
www.cafesunflower.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: R. Thomas
BEST VIETNAMESENAM
THE LOWDOWN: Alex and Chris Kinjo, the team behind the fantastic MF Sushi, bill this Midtown favorite as an “upscale, authentic Vietnamese restaurant.” The gorgeous interior is the perfect setting for such elegant “nouvelle Vietnamese” dishes as beef carpaccio and lotus root salad.
THE BASICS: 931 Monroe Drive. 404-541-9997.
www.namrestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Pho #1
BEST SOUTHERNSOUTH CITY KITCHEN
THE LOWDOWN: Down-home Southern fixins like fried green tomatoes, sweet potato pie, buttermilk fried chicken, chicken ’n’ dumplings, country pork chop, grilled Georgia mountain trout with truffled creamed corn, and crisp fried whole catfish are all so good, they’ll make you wanna slap your mama. (But please don’t.)
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.southcitykitchen.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Mary Mac’s Tea Room
BEST BISCUIT
BEST GRITSTHE FLYING BISCUIT
THE LOWDOWN: The biscuits are what we imagine heaven to be like: light, flaky with a little bit of sweet tang, compliments of the cranberry-apple butter we like to slather on them. Not only is the Flying Biscuit known for its biscuits and Southern fare, it’s also earned a cult following for its grits. They come in several styles: We like ’em Charleston-style, topped with sautéed jumbo shrimp in a roasted red pepper and tomato sauce.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.flyingbiscuit.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: West Egg Café (biscuit); Murphy’s (grits)
BEST BAKERY
BEST SANDWICH SHOPALON’S BAKERY AND MARKET
THE LOWDOWN: Whether you’re in the market for a quick lunch, pastries, decadent chocolates, fine cheese or a ready-to-eat dinner, this 17-year-old neighborhood bakery and sandwich shop offers it all. The flagship location in Morningside did so well, Alon opened a second location in Dunwoody last year, providing much more room for its artisanal loaves, exquisite pastries, buttery cookies, decadent tortes and tarts. Oh, and don’t miss the more than 120 artisanal cheeses and delightful deli meats, too.
THE BASICS: 1394 N. Highland Ave. 404-872-6000. 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road. 678-397-1781.
www.alons.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Highland Bakery (bakery); Henri’s (sandwich)
BEST BRUNCH
BEST DESSERT
BEST BLOODY MARY
BEST WINE LISTMURPHY’S
THE LOWDOWN: Murphy’s is the quintessential casually elegant neighborhood restaurant, perfect for a first date, a five-year anniversary, a family dinner, a business lunch or a gabfest over brunch. So it came as no surprise that SP readers chose it in four categories. Our tip: If you go for brunch, go early. This popular eatery gets packed quickly.
THE BASICS: 997 Virginia Ave. NE. 404-872-0904.
www.murphysvh.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Parish (brunch); Chocolate Pink (dessert); Front Page News (Bloody Mary); Ecco (wine list)
BEST ICE CREAMBRUSTER’S
THE LOWDOWN: Bruster’s seem to have as many flavors as it does locations around the state—and that's a good thing. If servings of ice cream flavors like birthday cake, caramel cashew, scotchy pecan, peanut butter cookie dough and coconut pineapple don't get your mouth watering, there are plenty of in-store-made pies, cakes and cones to sample, as well.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.brusters.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Jake’s
BEST RECESSION-FRIENDLY CHEAP EATS
BEST BUFFETTHE REAL CHOW BABY
THE LOWDOWN: There's a reason Chow Baby always packed. This Asian-fusion restaurant provides its guests with the opportunity to choose their own portions from more than 70 ingredients for as many custom-made stir fry bowls as they want. It's all the fun of experimenting, without having to do any of the cooking. And there are plenty of drink options to fuel your creativity.
THE BASICS: 1016 Howell Mill Road, Suite A. 404-815-4900. One Galleria Parkway Suite 1B1. 770-405-2464.
www.therealchowbaby.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Eats (cheap eats); Whole Foods (buffet)
BEST FAST FOOD
BEST SWEET TEACHICK-FIL-A
THE LOWDOWN: What sets Chick-fil-A apart? Is it the signature chicken sandwich, the delicious chicken biscuits, the crispy waffle fries? Yes, yes and yes. The creamy chocolate milkshakes and those adorable cow mascots—available as coveted plush dolls and in fun calendars—also help. And don’t forget their just-right take on the definitive Southern beverage, served with just the right amount of sugar in keep-it-cold cups that stop the ice from melting into the drink. Perfect.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.chick-fil-a.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: The Varsity (fast food); Mary Mac’s Tea Room (sweet tea)
BEST BURRITOWILLY'S MEXICANA GRILL
THE LOWDOWN: In Georgia, it's difficult to outdo this burrito joint—and it's not just because there are more than 19 locations across the state. With fresh-made salsa, guacamole and other ingredients and no microwaves or freezers, Willy's offers a variety of options for all your Mexican food cravings.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.willys.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Chipotle
BEST HOT DOGTHE VARSITY
THE LOWDOWN: This cherished local institution serves a warm hot dog on a soft bun, with chili and a stripe of mustard—need we say more? If you can brave the crowds, it's probably worth accompanying your dog with some onion rings and an orange shake as well.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.thevarsity.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Five Guys
FRIED CHICKENWATERSHED
THE LOWDOWN: The crunchy goodness of f Scott Peacock’s signature entree will you make you forget your Mama’s. There’s always a crowd on Tuesday nights just for this dish; book ahead so they don’t run out before you arrive.
THE BASICS: 406 W. Ponce De Leon Ave., Decatur. 404-378-4900.
www.watershedrestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: JCT Kitchen
BEST BURGERTHE VORTEX
THE LOWDOWN: A vortex can be defined as the shape of something spinning rapidly. If that shape happens to be round like a burger, it's no surprise that many a hungry customer has gotten sucked into this Atlanta favorite’s whirldwind. Patrons can choose from a wide selection of sauces and toppings. Our suggestion? Top it off with some tater tots.
THE BASICS: 438 Moreland Ave. 404-688-1828. 878 Peachtree St. 404-875-1667.
www.thevortexbarandgrill.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Flip Burger Boutique
BEST WINGS
BEST BEER SELECTIONTACO MAC
THE LOWDOWN: Wings and beer go together like—well, nothing goes together quite like a plate of buffalo wings and a mug or bottle of your favorite brew. So it’s no surprise that Taco Mac, which specializes in the guy’s-guy staples, delivers on both fronts. With as many as 108 beers on tap and 350 bottles to choose from, you’re sure to find just the right beverage to wash down the delicious, cooked-to-order lemon pepper wings. If you’re man enough, skip the medium or hot sauces and go straight for T.M.I. (Three Mile Island) or the intimidatingly titled Death.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.tacomac.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Buffalo Wild Wings (wings); TAP (beer)
BEST PIZZAMELLOW MUSHROOM
THE LOWDOWN: Who would've thought that trippy art and pizza could go together as well as melted cheese and bread? Mellow Mushrooms cover the state (and the Southeast) like its toppings cover these delicious pizzas, and fans are willing to drive as far as is necessary—which usually isn’t very far at all—for great food, good prices and plenty of variety.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.mellowmushroom.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Fellini’s
BEST TAPASECLIPSE DI LUNA
THE LOWDOWN: Grab the gang and get ready to share. This cozy eatery has two locations that provide the perfect atmosphere for passing plates of Spanish cheeses, paella, braised chicken bites or grilled salmon, to name a few.
THE BASICS: 764 Miami Circle. 404- 846-0449.
4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road. 678-205-5862.
www.eclipsediluna.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Pura Vida
BEST CHURASCARRIAFOGO DE CHÃO
THE LOWDOWN: Simply put, this is the Brazilian steakhouse against which all others in Atlanta are measured. We love the selection of delectable, flame-roasted meats; we dig the impeccably attired Gauchos who bring them to us on skewers and carve them up for us tableside; and we even appreciate the handsome, well-appointed salad bar and vegetable sides.
THE BASICS: 3101 Piedmont Road. 404-995-9982.
www.fogodechao.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Boi Na Braza
OUR FAVORITE ANSWER: Huh?
BEST OVERALL BARTHE LOCAL
THE LOWDOWN: This unpretentious Midtown watering hole—think PBR tallboys and attractive tattooed waitstaff—is the very definition of a comfortable neighborhood hangout, whether you’re lounging on the coveted couch by the front window or enjoying an evening breeze on the popular patio.
THE BASICS: 758 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E. 404-873-5002.
THE RUNNER-UP: Fadó Irish Pub
BEST BAR OR RESTAURANT FOR A GIRLS NIGHT OUTLOCA LUNA
THE LOWDOWN: Three words to describe Loca Luna: sexy, sexy and sexy. It comes as no surprise, then, that the ladies love to party here. With savory tapas inspired by the cuisines of Spain, South America and the Caribbean, plus tropical cocktails and dirty-dancing the night away to samba, salsa, and meringue—what’s not to love?
THE BASICS: 550 Amsterdam Ave. NE. 404-875-4494.
www.loca-luna.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Two Urban Licks
BEST BAR OR RESTAURANT FOR A GUYS NIGHT OUT
BEST SPORTS BARSTATS
THE LOWDOWN: In the wrong hands, this masculine combo platter of upscale sports-bar atmosphere and foodie-friendly fare could be a disaster. But STATS doesn’t overplay its competitive-sports theme, and the masculine menu doesn’t just gussy up your average pub grub. With offerings like blackened grouper tacos, pan-roasted rainbow trout and wood-grilled pork chops, you’re not going to leave feeling shorted in terms of either quality or price. And yes, with five bars, four pour-your-own-beer tables and scores of high-def TV screens, it’s the perfect spot to catch the big game.
THE BASICS: 300 Marietta St. 404-885-1472.
www.statsatl.com.
THE RUNNERS-UP: Fadó (Guys Night Out); Taco Mac (Sports Bar)
BEST BAR OR RESTAURANT FOR A FIRST DATEAPRÈS DIEM
THE LOWDOWN: Located in Midtown near Piedmont Park, Après Diem’s mellow ambiance and eclectic menu evoke the feel of a European café or bistro. In short, it’s the perfect setting in which to linger over a glass of wine while getting to know someone on a first date. Whether you choose to dine al fresco on the patio or cozy up on a comfy sofa in the lounge, this sister restaurant of Carpe Diem, Carroll Street Café and Village Pizza is sure to get the romantic vibe going.
THE BASICS: 931 Monroe Drive. 404-872-3333.
www.apresdiem.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: One Midtown Kitchen
BEST BAR OR RESTAURANT TO PICK UP THE OPPOSITE SEXEAST ANDREWS CAFÉ & BAR
THE LOWDOWN: Generally regarded as the best Buckhead nightlife has to offer, East Andrews offers roomy environs (which fill up quickly), a gorgeous patio and fountain, and a plethora of attractive young professionals. Attention, ladies: We’re told the guys-to-gals ratio is usually three-to-one or higher.
THE BASICS: 56 East Andrews Drive, Suite 10. 404-869-1132.
www.eastandrews.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Fadó Irish Pub
BEST BAR OR RESTAURANT TO BREAK UP INSHOUT
THE LOWDOWN: Maybe it's the energy, the music or the rooftop patio, but something keeps patrons of Shout from shouting in anger, even after a breakup. Hey, you're already dressed up; might as well have a good time and enjoy some sushi and single-mingling, right? This place hasn't earned the tagline "Food, Fun, Flirt" for nothing.
THE BASICS: 1197 Peachtree St. 404-846-2000.
www.heretoserverestaurants.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Waffle House
BEST PLACE TO PARTY AFTER 2 A.M.SUTRA LOUNGE
THE LOWDOWN: Everyone feels the itch to party all night at some point, but sometimes Wal-Mart and Waffle House just don't cut it. Luckily, Sutra is known to live up to the sexiness of its name with its stretched bar, red curtains and outdoor patio. The club's diverse pool of clients and music may have you asking the sitter to stay late.
THE BASICS: 1136 Crescent Ave. NE. 404-607-1160.
www.sutraloungeatl.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Pub 71
BEST COCKTAIL SPECIALSSTELLA TRATTORIA
THE LOWDOWN: With $2 beer specials and $4 well drinks, this Grant Park destination for “pizza, pasta and spirits” is a good bet for economizing imbibers any day of the week. But members of the restaurant’s Karma Club enjoy additional deals, such as $1 PBR every Monday and half-price bottles of wine each Wednesday. That’s the spirit!
THE BASICS: 563 Memorial Drive, 30312. 404-688-4238.
www.stellaatlanta.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Restaurant Eugene
BEST HOTEL BARWHISKEY PARK (W ATLANTA-MIDTOWN)
THE LOWDOWN: Who says hotels have to be all about business trips and pillow mints? The patrons of W in Midtown like to get away without traveling too far, as the hotel's bar features fancy decor and furniture and even fancier guests—not to mention signature cocktails.
THE BASICS: 188 14th St. NE. 404-892-6000.
www.starwoodhotels.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Whiskey Blue (W Atlanta-Buckhead)
DANCE CLUBOPERA
THE LOWDOWN: Combining the architecture of a 1920s performance theatre with some of the city's most attractive see-and-be-seen singles, this venue flings together the old and the new like the mash-ups spun by its DJs. There's plenty of space, but expect to bump bodies in a packed crowd, because patrons are willing to wait in a long line to get into this hot spot.
THE BASICS: 1150 B Peachtree St. 404-874-0428.
www.operaatlanta.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Sutra
BEST DIVE BARCLERMONT LOUNGE
THE LOWDOWN: Atlanta's oldest strip club is known for its over-the-top atmosphere with less-common and older dancers, including the legendary Blondie, who crushes beer cans with her you-know-whats. Perfect for a bachelor party—provided your bachelor has a good sense of humor.
THE BASICS: 789 Ponce De Leon Ave. 404-874-4783.
www.clermontlounge.net.
THE RUNNER-UP: Five Paces Inn
BEST GAY BAR
MARY’S
THE LOWDOWN: Not your typical gay club, Mary’s does an inspiring job of mirroring the rainbow of the gay flag. You’ll find people from all walks of life here, downing shots, sipping cocktails, dressing for theme nights and indulging in “Maryoke.” It’s been voted as the best gay bar in America by Logo, and continues to be a fantastic place to hang out.
THE BASICS: 1287 Glenwood Ave. SE. 404-624-4411.
www.marysatlanta.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Blake’s
BEST BARTENDERTODD AT THE ALBERT ATLANTA
THE LOWDOWN: According to some patrons, this friendly, attentive, generous and "super cute" drink slinger is one of the highlights of the bar. Been trying to use the tin ceilings to steal peeks, have we?
THE BASICS: 918 Austin Ave. 404-872-4990.
www.thealbertatlanta.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Eric Simpkins (Trois)
OUR FAVORITE ANSWERS: The blonde at Hell at the Masquerade; the drunk one upstairs at Flip Flops
BEST IRISH PUBFADÓ IRISH PUB
THE LOWDOWN: This bigger, better version of the original Fadó boasts a rooftop deck, a roaring fireplace, a loft area and plenty of TVs so you won’t miss a minute of the international football action. And the beer’s pretty good, too. Slainte!
THE BASICS: 273 Buckhead Ave. 404-841-0066.
www.fadoirishpub.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Limerick Junction
BEST MARGARITAAGAVE
THE LOWDOWN: The real question here is: Which one tonight? This neighborhood hangout in the heart of Cabbagetown offers 10 different margaritas to suit your mood, from fruity frozen to traditional.
THE BASICS: 242 Boulevard SE. 404-588-0006.
www.agaverestaurant.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: El Azteca
BEST LOCAL BEERSWEETWATER BREWING COMPANY
THE LOWDOWN: Sure, it's nice to live a consistent High Life wherever you go in the country, but no one can beat SweetWater for living it up in Atlanta. The award-winning brewery is best known for its SweetWater 420 pale ale, and has also won fans with its music festival and draft house.
THE BASICS:
www.sweetwaterbrew.comTHE RUNNER-UP: Numbers Ale
BEST COFFEE SHOPOCTANE COFFEE BAR AND LOUNGE
THE LOWDOWN: Sure, there's nothing wrong with frequenting your favorite coffee chain, but some people who've woken up and smelled the coffee gravitate toward this hip (but not too hip) West Midtown hangout. The coffee bar and lounge features baristas with real coffee knowledge, Wi-Fi, good music and a selection of snacks and alcohol.
THE BASICS: 1009 Marietta St. NW. 404-815-9886.
www.octanecoffee.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Starbucks
BEST LIQUOR STOREGREEN’S
THE LOWDOWN: Wines, liquors and beers: Green’s is the one-stop shop for a vast array of adult beverages. Don’t miss the under-$10 wine deals or the Glenlivet 1964 Cellar Collection, priced just under $2,000.
THE BASICS: 2615 Buford Highway. 404-321-6232.
737 Ponce de Leon Ave. 404-872-1109.
www.greensbeverages.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Pearson’s
BEST WINE SHOP
TOTAL WINE AND MORE
THE LOWDOWN: We love our local wine shops, as do our readers—of this, we’re sure. But Total Wine and More has amassed an impressive selection of wines, and they’re broken down by region. There’s even a catalog to help you find your way. So whether you’re buying for a party or just grabbing a bottle of vino to pair with dinner, you’ll find what you need here.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations (including a brand-new store in Alpharetta).
www.totalwine.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Sherlock’s
BEST HEALTH FOOD STOREWHOLE FOODS MARKET
THE LOWDOWN: Spacious, well organized and offering a veritable plethora of health foods and organic goods, Whole Foods tops the list for Best Health Food Store once again. Whether you’re stopping in to tackle your weekly shopping list or for one of the quick lunch or dinner options at the prepared food bar, you won’t be disappointed.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.wholefoodsmarket.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Sevananda
BEST INTERNATIONAL MARKETDEKALB FARMERS MARKET
THE LOWDOWN: With its impressive selection of produce from around the world, this Atlanta institution is a must-do for anyone serious about cooking. However, what sets this market above and beyond are the great cuts of meat, its variety of seafood, racks of fresh baked goods and the most reasonably priced spices in town.
THE BASICS: 3000 East Ponce De Leon Ave., Decatur. 404-377-6400.
www.dekalbfarmersmarket.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: International Farmers Market in Chamblee
BEST CATERERPARSLEY’S
THE LOWDOWN: After 20 years in Duluth, Parsley’s recently relocated to Marietta. But while the address has changed, the delicious food hasn’t. From delectable salads, sandwiches and wraps to yummy fried chicken, this outfit has the food your employees, clients, wedding guests and family members will love.
THE BASICS: 1127 White Circle NW, Marietta. 770-396-5361.
www.parsleys.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Endive
BEST BUSINESS LUNCHTED’S MONTANA GRILL
THE LOWDOWN: What says “power lunch” more eloquently than closing that big contract over a thick slab of bison or premium beef? Ted’s, founded by media mogul Ted Turner and restaurateur George McKerrow Jr., offers up eco-friendly comfort food in a turn-of-the-century Montana grill environment that makes it the perfect choice for businessmen looking to impress—or just dine well.
THE BASICS: Multiple locations.
www.tedsmontanagrill.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Houston’s
BEST LATE NIGHT DININGR THOMAS
THE LOWDOWN: Late eats don't always have to equate to unhealthy eats. The 24-hour, seven-day-a week R Thomas offers fresh vegan meals with no sugar, dairy or animal products for even the latest late-night hunger pangs. The zany atmosphere—complete with a collection of birds and other kitsch—doesn't hurt, either.
THE BASICS: 1812 Peachtree St. NW. 404-872-2942.
www.rthomasdeluxegrill.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: STATS
BEST PATIONEIGHBORS
THE LOWDOWN: Grab a seat under a canvas umbrella or work on your tan on the sprawling patio of this popular Virginia-Highland restaurant, where good food and great companionship are always on the menu.
THE BASICS: 752 N. Highland Ave. 404- 872-5440.
www.neighborsatlanta.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: The Nook
BEST GREEKKYMA
THE LOWDOWN: It’ll be all Greek to you at this ethnic member of the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group. Owner Pano Karatassos fashioned the menu after favorites from his homeland, and serves them in an elegant white and blue setting influenced by the sky and sea of the island he loves.
THE BASICS: 3085 Piedmont Road. 404-262-0702.
www.buckheadrestaurants.com.
THE RUNNER-UP: Taverna Plaka