Atlanta Appetite: Dining Tips From a Local
Although the city is a booming, thriving metropolis full of energy and nightlife, Atlanta also has a history of being known as a genteel, charming Southern city. Fittingly, is known for its fine Southern dining spots. But don’t think that you’ll be stuck eating fried chicken, collard greens and fried green tomatoes (that is, unless you want!). No, Atlanta is also home to thousands of eclectic restaurants, promising any foodie’s taste buds to dance with delight.
Glen McDaniel, MS, MBA, MT, CLS, CLDir, clinical scientist, speaker and writer, lives in Atlanta and served on the host committee for this year’s ASCLS annual meeting. He shared some of his favorite dining spots as well as commentary on each. He said if you think Atlanta doesn’t offer a lot in terms of cuisine, you're woefully mistaken. He added that convention-goers should venture out and shouldn't be afraid to try something new while in the ATL.
Azio
“Walking distance or short cab ride. Authentic Italian fare and good wines. Nice atmosphere with rich woods and dramatic lighting.”
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
“Mary buzzes around the dining room. All of the Southern fare like fried chicken or roast pork, collard greens with cracklin’ cornbread, pickled beets and okra and Georgia peach cobbler, traditionally prepared. It’s not unusual to see local celebs there.”
Peasant Bistro
“Nice wine selection, charming atmosphere with French and Mediterranean influences. I love their mainstreamed Southern dishes. You can have small versions of Southern fare if you don’t want to commit to a huge plate of something you haven’t tried before.”
Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar and View atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza
“Basic American fare. Convention goers love this spot because you can get a 360-degree view of the city and beyond. Best part? You can go to the top for free and order a cocktail while walking around, taking in the stunning views. The Westin Peachtree Plaza is the tallest hotel in the Western hemisphere.”
Ted's Montana Grill
Close to convention center. “Although this restaurant is a chain, it was founded by Atlanta’s own, Ted Turner, namesake of the Turner Broadcast System or TBS, which is also based in Atlanta. “They have bison burgers here -- very lean.”
The Varsity
“Burgers, fries, chili and chili dawgs. Every U.S. president since Ronald Reagan has visited. Still have some car hops (drive up and place order and they bring you a tray you can hang on your window old school style).”
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