Just a hop, skip and jump over the connector from Midtown, gay shoppers and nightlife denizens know that the former warehouse haven known as the Howell Mill Industrial area is a way to both enter another world and still find the comforts of home.
Whether you’re visiting the notorious gay strip club Swinging Richards by night, or some of the unique, vast furniture stores in the light of day, the time comes when you gotta eat. Luckily, the other mainstays in the neighborhood are some of Atlanta’s best restaurants. Taqueria del Sol, Baccanalia and Figo are among the most popular, but this week, let’s look at a few other gems that are worth a break in your activities.
JCT KITCHEN:
This new addition to Atlanta’s fine dining scene is sure to keep you coming back. With all the charm of a great neighborhood restaurant and solid southern fare, the chefs here put a modern twist on some old favorites. It’s hard to rate among the best when it comes to fried chicken in Atlanta, but JCT is already getting rave reviews for its succulent version. Pair it with inventive parmesan truffle fries, and suddenly the tradition is a whole new experience. Other faves are pork chops and delicious shrimp and grits.
The large dining room makes the acoustics boom, so diners either love the urban feel or are distracted by the noise. By the time the food arrives, the distraction is on your plate — in a good way.
NUEVO LAREDO:
Texans know Tex-Mex and will recognize this name as a small border town just this side of the Rio Grande. But everyone who’s been here knows that this small-but-bustling cantina on Chattahoochee Avenue is authentic Tex-Mex. The first chomp into fresh tacos, excellent cheese enchiladas and perfect gaucamole tells diners that they’ll be back.
The wait here is often long, so get there early and have a margarita while you wait for a table. The casual, upbeat atmosphere and arguably the best Tex-Mex in Atlanta is well worth the time. Venture over and prepare to be satisfied.
RISING ROLL:
Need a quick bite during daytime shopping? Thinking a sandwich will tide you over? Well, Rising Roll will see that bet and raise you with some of the most creative tastes to ever land between two slices of freshly made bread.
This food comes fast, but the comparisons with drive-through chains stop there. The friendly service is consistent and reliable, as is the to-die-for chicken and apples sandwich, a wonderful Cuban, or any others from the wide array of made-from-scratch choices. Of course, the onsite-baked bread is the big draw, but here’s an insider’s tip: don’t miss the cookies.
Once you’re hooked on Rising Roll from your weekend excursions, you should know they cater. Your coworkers will thank you. Look for other locations peppered around town, too.
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