Affordable Atlanta Eats
This past week, I tried some new restaurants in my new hometown, Atlanta, Georgia. From healthy, seasonal fare, and award-winning ribs to burgers and nachos, check out the spots I loved and the one place that disappointed.
TRUE FOOD KITCHEN
https://www.truefoodkitchen.com/
Spaghetti Squash Casserole & Roasted Brussels Sprouts
I've been trying to eat healthier and this casserole made that much easier since this was delicious. Made with crushed tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions, and zucchini, this healthy casserole hit the spot. It was light and tasty, yet filling. My one tiny complaint is that it was served lukewarm, other than that, it's a great dish.
(Also pictured: Grass-fed Burger.)
It's hard to find a truly good Brussels sprouts dish, far too many come out bland, fortunately, this starter hit a home run with me. It's made with mushroom, miso sesame vinaigrette, and chili thread --these ingredients come together beautifully. It was a refreshing change to have them cooked in something other than balsamic vinegar.
I will definitely be returning to True Food Kitchen for their delicious seasonal, healthy fare.
GRINDHOUSE KILLER BURGERS
http://www.grindhouseburgers.com/
Euro Style Burger (double) and Grindhouse Salad
I love a big, juicy mushroom Swiss burger, and Grindhouse does it right. I asked for it cooked medium and it came out that way (that doesn't always happen) --so I was happy about that. The cheese was nice and melty, the bun was soft, and the burger was packed with flavor --I didn't even need ketchup. I would order this again.
I am trying to eat healthier these days, so I ordered the Grindhouse salad instead of fries (their crinkles fries are yummy though, I stole a few from my man's plate), and it was quite large and full of sunflower seeds, tomatoes, dried cranberries and tossed in a tasty lemon vinaigrette.
I can't wait to go back and try their other burgers; they have turkey and veggie burgers, too. Next time, I'm definitely getting the fries AND a milkshake.
FAT MATT'S RIB SHACK
https://fatmattsribshack.net/
Sorry about this photo, it doesn't do the food justice, this "unpretentious blues and barbecue joint" has really dim lighting, which sets the mood for their live music acts. Fat Matt's is known for their award-winning pork ribs, and they do not disappoint. The meat falls right off the bone and the tangy sauce is finger-lickin' good. Order a glass of sweet tea, a few sides, like their creamy macaroni and cheese and baked beans, and you're set. I can't wait to return for their incredible ribs.
NACHO DADDY
https://nachodaddy.com/
Supreme Tostado Nacho & Flaming Shrimp Tacos
As you might've suspected, Nacho Daddy serves nachos, but these are gourmet nachos --topped with everything you could think of, from southern fried chicken to filet mignon.
We ordered the Supreme Toastado Nacho with seasoned ground beef, Cheddar & Jack cheese, yellow queso, refried beans, pico de gallo, fried jalapeños, lettuce, avocado lime salsita, sour cream, and guacamole. I love their house-made chips, they're super light and crisp. They go heavy on the toppings as this is meant to be a meal. If you're craving nachos, this is the place to go.
I had the Flaming Shrimp Tacos: chipotle lime marinated shrimp served with shredded cabbage, Serrano aioli, mango salsa, and avocado lime salsita. They set the shrimp on fire when they bring it to your table. Overall, the tacos are pretty good; I especially liked the sauces.
FIRST WATCH
https://www.firstwatch.com/
This "Daytime Cafe" serves the usual breakfast/brunch dishes. I ordered their Ham & Gruyere omelet. I don't normally order omelets as I prefer to order entrées that I don't often cook myself, like a fried chicken biscuit, but I went for it. The multi-grain toast was good, but that's about it. I was disappointed with the presentation and the ingredients. Yes, that's a sad square slab of cheese thrown on top and it's stuffed with deli meat. I expected more from a restaurant known for its breakfast dishes. I don't plan on returning here anytime soon.
