Access Atlanta > Blog > Archives > 2007 > July > 19 > Entry
Best of the Big A
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The votes are in for our Best of the Big A contest! Read the results for all 50 categories here.
What do you think? Did your fellow readers miss the mark in a certain category? Join the conversation.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Mike J.
July 19, 2007 6:58 AM | Link to this
I will take New York Prime for best steaks anyday. I have been to all of the big steakhouses such as Ruth’s Chris, Bone’s, Chops, Morton’s, Palm, etc. and NY Prime is the best.
By David
July 19, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this
The fact that you guys did not even nominate Dantanna’s for Sport Bar, Seafood or Steak shows how bogus this list is! Objectivity seems to be lost with AA which is the main reason I look elsewhere!
By Marc
July 19, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this
Once again, metro Atlanan’s have shown their utter lack of taste when it comes to dining and culture. I can’t believe the category winners. We have far better available to us yet these rubes pick the most pedestrian.
By Lulu
July 19, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this
How can you list the best in Atlanta, then list a chain restaurant? Pizza Hut? Chili’s? Sony’s BBQ? Come on!
By alicia
July 19, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this
With all the great dining spots in Atlanta, I can never understand why national chains like Cheesecake Factory (best dessert), Ruth’s Chris (best steak), and Maggiano’s (best italian) win “Best of Atlanta”. Places like Bones, La Grotta, Alons, Tamarind, Carvers, etc., are so much better. (At least Nuevo Laredo and Vortex were selected over El Azteca and McDonalds.)If an out of town guest asks where to dine, I hope the locals will send them to one of our own. We should be proud of our local cuisine!
By alicia
July 19, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this
With all the great dining spots in Atlanta, I can never understand why national chains like Cheesecake Factory (best dessert), Ruth’s Chris (best steak), and Maggiano’s (best italian) win “Best of Atlanta”. Places like Bones, La Grotta, Alons, Tamarind, Carvers, etc., are so much better. (At least Nuevo Laredo and Vortex were selected over El Azteca and McDonalds.)If an out of town guest asks where to dine, I hope the locals will send them to one of our own. We should be proud of our local cuisine!
By alicia
July 19, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this
With all the great dining spots in Atlanta, I can never understand why national chains like Cheesecake Factory (best dessert), Ruth’s Chris (best steak), and Maggiano’s (best italian) win “Best of Atlanta”. Places like Bones, La Grotta, Alons, Tamarind, Carvers, etc., are so much better. (At least Nuevo Laredo and Vortex were selected over El Azteca and McDonalds.)If an out of town guest asks where to dine, I hope the locals will send them to one of our own. We should be proud of our local cuisine!
By RK
July 19, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this
How does a Moroccan restaurant win Best Indian Food?
I think you can tell the type of people who voted in this by looking at the radio show winners.
By Jeff M.
July 19, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this
How disappointing. The appearance of national chains on the list once again calls into question the validity of the entire list. Sure, some chain restaurants are very good, but they are almost never “best” when compared to top local spots. Another concern with the list is the inclusion of an obscure category for “sexiest radio voice”, but no category for best bookstore, coffee house, gym or a dozen other staples of urban life. Of course, in this list, those categories would probably be won by Borders, Starbucks and LA Fitness!
By kareena
July 19, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this
Like RK, I am totally baffled about the Indian/Imperial Fez connection. Now Imperial Fez is indeed delish, but…Morocco! India! Miles apart! Different continents! Stupid voters!
I’m looking at the bright side, though—this list can be a good way to decide where NOT to go!
By Jenny
July 19, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
It seems no one agrees with this list. Why is Moroccan food (Imperial Fez) now considered Indian? That’s like saying Best French Food goes to Maggianos. Why not make this category Ethnic/Other?
By Ashamed of the Winners
July 19, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this
Leave it to Suburbia to vote for national chains. The AJC shouldn’t allow national chains (unless they started in Atlanta) even be nominated. Ruth’s Chris? Maggiano’s? C’mon. Give me a break. It’s time to recognize the truly exceptional that calls Atlanta home.
By Jenny
July 19, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this
To say Imperial Fez wins Best Indian is like El Azteca winning Best French Food. Why not call this category Ethnic/Other? Oh people of Atlanta… sigh.
By Colleen
July 19, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
What an ignorant and offensive choice- Imperial Fez for best Indian? And why would people choose Starbucks for WiFi? You have to pay at Starbucks whereas Panera is free. These selections, like everything else on this list, show the ignorance and horrible taste of the voters.
By Reds
July 19, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this
Have to say that I agree with most of the comments. Taco Bell? Are you serious? One that amused me was the BBQ best winner was “Fat Matt’s” but the reviews on the AA website stated that the food was less than acceptable. I call for re-nominations of all categories!
By steve-o
July 19, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this
It’s evident that most of the people that filled out the survey are OTP.
By PK
July 19, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
Many of the winners only win because they are chains and our available to a much larger percentage of the population. I like Mellow Mushroom and Ru Sans, but there’s no way the latter is better than MF Sushi.
By Fulton County Mom
July 19, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this
PF CHANGS!????????? What did your taste buds die? That place is awful! To much salt and focus on plating….not on palating.
I could agree with Vortex and the only chain that won that I agree with is Waffle House (seriously, it is one of Atlanta’s own and so good!).
Italian hands down is tied to Scalini’s and La Strada.
Mexican I could do Tera Humata.
Pizza I agreed with
Do you get the drift that if they are truly local (Mellow Mushroom/Waffle House) and a chain we can accept that….but come on.
By c-bear
July 19, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
It is always good to know the “so-called” best places. It keeps me informed on which places not to patronize. There are so many other “BEST” places to dine. Follow your own beat!
By DBH 1
July 19, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
Best steaks and burgers are at my house. That Harold’s wasn’t even listed in the barbeque category is preposterous. Same for the fact that Pizza Hut and Papa Johns were listed in the pizza category.
By Cori
July 19, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this
I agree with all the other comments. Mary Macs as best soul food? NOT! You shouldn’t be allowed to vote having not tried all the nominations. And while we’re on the subject WHO made these nominations anyway?? Shouldn’t this be a forum to expose us to new dining experiences? Like Q’s in downtown East Point or The Beautiful - some of the best soul/southern cooking this side of heaven!
By Laura
July 19, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
Mike - good to know about NY Prime. Been wanting to go there but haven’t yet made it. David - next year you should fill out your own nominations so that you might see Dantanna’s as an option to vote on. We readers nominate the selections, not AA. I do agree with a lot of you that some of the nominations were awful. Whoever thinks that Red Lobster has the best seafood obviously needs to get out more. Unless they’ve seriously changed in the past few years, I consider their seafood passable at best.
By France Dupoy
July 19, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
The list is a joke and it just shows how little culture and/or foods experiences there are here in the Atlanta area. Looks like next year MacDonalds will be on it
By Rhett Butler
July 19, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this
Sounds like the people who nominated and voted for most of these places would vote Pepsi as best soft drink.
By Notthirdwheel
July 19, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this
Who voted in this contest? The Fish as the best radio station?? I think God had a hand in this……
By Embarrassed Atlantan
July 19, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
I am reeling at the nomination of Imperial Fez as “Best Indian.” Obviously AJC readers don’t seem to realize that Morocco is on a different continent than India. I am so embarrassed of yet another example of a terrible epidemic in this country: wilfull cultural ignorance. What an embarrassment for Atlanta and this country…
By WestSider
July 19, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
Maggiano’s best Italian? Whatever…
This list is a bone fide JOKE!!!
By Bill
July 19, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
Who are you all kidding here? Mention Atlanta to anyone and the first thing that comes to their mind is ” Oh Atlanta, where the ghetto thug Mike Vick plays football as the most overrated, worthless thug in the NFL..” I don’t know about you all, but that’s what I am hearing about Atlanta. Atlanta is fast becoming a city you may to avoid unless you want to be a victim of a crime. Be safe, eat at home and rent a movie in your house.
By Jumbo
July 19, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Here’s what I think AJC. When Sonny’s makes your top 5 list of BBQ and Olive Garden makes your top 5 of Italian and (OMG) Pizza Hut and Papa John’s makes your top 5 of pizza and RED LOBSTER makes your top 5 of seafood, then you have lost all credibility in ranking Atlanta’s eateries. These lists are a complete joke or should I say the rubes that vote on these places are a complete joke. Red Lobster? Olive Garden? Pizza Hut? Sonnys? Are you freaking kidding me?
By cm
July 19, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this
WT????? Imperial Fez - best Indian??? definitely OTP people don’t Know their moroccan from their indian.
By kathie
July 19, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
This list is such a joke. No one with a drop of taste would step foot in most of these places and I am ashamed that my fellow “Atlanta” peeps would think that the Imperial Fez is Indian food. Try Rose of India or Himalayas for some REAL Indian food.
By Susan M.
July 19, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this
You’re kidding me, right? WAFFLE HOUSE as Best Breakfast? PUBLIX as Best Bakery? Who voted in this, people in Alabama? Here’s a clue: Best Breakfast: Flying Biscuit, Thumbs Up, Ria’s Bluebird Cafe and a thousand other places before Waffle House. Best Bakery? Alon’s, hands down! Next time survey people in METRO Atlanta!
By Rogers Park Rob
July 19, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Based on the results it is clear the staff at the AJC is stealing from their employer. This is the same company who didn’t include Bobby Dodd or Jon Heisman in their Top 100 things about Georgia Football. Yet, the host of Uga dogs were included.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY!!! a 2nd newspaper in Atlanta would make a killing.
By Temp
July 19, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
Could the AJC have been any lazier in putting this list together? At least with Creative Loafing’s Best of Atlanta, they have both public picks and critic picks. The public picks there are also questionable a lot of the times, but at least the Critic’s picks are usually outstanding. I will thank them endlessly for introducing me to Anne’s Snack Shop a few years ago. This list is an abomination and the AJC should be slapped for putting out such a piece of garbage.
By RK
July 19, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
The editors are at fault for even allowing Imperial Fez into the Indian category.
Personally, I only nominated and voted in categories that I knew about.
By Gasper
July 19, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
Just read “”Jumbo’s”” piece above…that sums it up. Folks, this had to be a practical joke.
By Susie
July 19, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
This list simply shows how boring, mediocre chains will win out over innovative local talent. Obviously, everyone voting picked the one name they recognized (Imperial Fez - best Indian?!! Are you kidding? Does anyone know that’s not Indian food, it’s Moroccan?)
I trust CL’s reader’s choices a lot more. This list is simply ridiculous.
By Laura
July 19, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
No, not a practical joke. They’ve done this list for the past few years at least & there are always questionable wins/nominations on it.
By Susan
July 19, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
I wonder how The Imperial Fez will feel about being voted best Indian food. Has anyone called to get a reaction to the news? I can’t see that they would be pleased about that.
By what
July 19, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this
So the Georgia Bulldogs are a local team now? I believe there is a school that is one of the top 10 public universities in the world with 4 national football championships in the heart of midtown. They can’t get a nomination?
By jes
July 19, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
It doesn’t take much to get some of you all riled up on here!
By horrible
July 19, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
This list is horrible. I have to agree with previous posts, people who do not live or work in the atlanta area (ITP) should not vote. The things that shock me the most are the best bakery (publix?, obviously people in the suburbs have not been to Alon’s) and breakfast (I’d eat flying biscuit over waffle house any day). I also agree New York Prime is the best steak. I can’t believe it wasn’t even nominated, its an apparent indication that the people who voted have not tried many restaurants. At least they got sunday brunch correct…
By Yucky Chain Restaurants
July 19, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Come on Atlanta, you can do better than nominating chain restaurants. We have so many places that are one of a kind and so good. My biggest disappointment is that China Cooks/Sandy Springs did not place for Chinese. Publix winning the bakery category is another sad reminder that Atlanta does not have a solid legacy bakery offering. In NYC or Boston, Publix would never make the cut or even be nominated. I love Publix, but know this is about all we have to choose from. Glad to see some…good bakeries showing up in Atlanta. Must be a lot of suburbanites placing votes for their favorite strip mall chain restaurants. And as for BBQ, Atlanta, we can dig a little deeper on that one. The list could go on and on and still find much better than what won in this category.
By Randi
July 19, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
PF Chang, Pizza Hut, Publix?!?! After reading this I lost my appetite.
By Janini
July 19, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Alfredo’s on Cheshire Bridge….OldOldOld Atlanta born and bread….and fabulous! It’s neighbor, Nino’s..also oldOldOld and Atlanta born and bred should have made the Italian best, too. Bet lots of your voters [pretty sure most must be from way out suburbia ] don’t even know where Cheshire Bridge Road is….That’s why so many chains made your best list.
By Crummy Chain Food
July 19, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
What the heck?? C’mon AJC, don’t even allow national chains to be voted on— if you do, change this from “Best of Atlanta” to “Best of Crappy National Chains.”
Pizza Hut? Red Lobster? PUBLIX???? AJC, you all have seriously dropped the ball and have made a mockery of both the true best that Atlanta has to offer and of yourselves.
By Jazoit
July 19, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this
Do you people actually go out and explore outside the 2 mile radius of your home? RU SANS as best sushi??? PF CHANGS - best chinese??? IMP. FEZ- best indian! hahaha! the WHOLE entire list is CRAPTASTIC. Goto Buford Hwy for great ethnic restos, you’re not gonna find it in a chain. Atl masses have mediocrity written all over them. Most voters are probably OTP. It really is unbelievable how pedestrian these robots are.
By Record
July 19, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
I am glad to see that Fishmarket was #1.CC>Bones>Chops>NYP>Palm>Morton’s>Ruth’s. As much as I love Bones, I think it has slipped to #2 behind capital grille (which was not mentioned by anyone) because I subtley noticed the last few times at Bones that they act too big for their shoes and only appreciate business if your name is cousins/dewberry/etc, but CC makes you feel as though they are delighted to have you there and that you chose them for your special occasion-also tey have a slightly larger menu. Ruth’s Chris is very mediocre when placed in the category w/ Bones, chops, capital. How did Azteca receive any votes? Are there really people out there who consider this to be the best mexican? How did historic ATL restaurants Harolds/sprayberry’s NOT make the BBQ list while Sonny’s and other disgusting restaurants (Fat Mats). If there were a best overall category, I think that I would read about a draw b/w Golden Coral and Ryans. I guess I now have a little insight as to why reality shows are so popular and why our state is dead last in the SAT category.
By Who Really Cares Who I Really Am, Anyway?
July 19, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this
I agree..this list of “winners” is crappy!
People! REAL ethnic food is rarely found in chains!
Shane’s for barbecue? You’ve GOT to be kidding??? BTW, they are owned by Raving Brands…the owner of NUMEROUS mediocre chain restaurants, and precious few, IF ANY are ‘originals.’ (Doesn’t matter, can’t eat there without major gastrointestinal distress ANYWAY.)
Pizza? Hell, if you think chain pizza (a la Pizza Hut and Papa John’s) is real pizza, go to ANY streetcorner pizza joint in Brooklyn or Manhattan…that’s real pizza.
Moroccan as Indian? Hmm, that’s an editorial boo-boo.
One defense…Publix’s bakery is really above average…but the BEST in Atlanta? hmmmm, no. They’ll do in a pinch, tho!
And for your ITP snobs…I AM an “OTP” person who knows/enjoys good food. Don’t paint all of us as ignorant, please!
It’s time to make this a LOCAL home-grown restaurant contest again!
By G Whiz
July 19, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
OTP, ITP. Here is one native that could care less (by the way I’m BTP…..before the perimeter). Most of us are just looking for good eats. This survey was a joke and not even close to what is good in and around Atlanta. Try Sam and Dave’s for Q, Maritza and Frank’s for Southern and Son’s Place for Soul food. These are great examples of really good everyday Atlanta cuisine.
By DBH 1
July 19, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
Definitely agree with Record regarding Capital Grille. But one thing about all of the high-end steak houses, with the exception of Bone’s, they are all national chains. Longhorn also gets a pass since they started in Atlanta before selling out and going corporate. All of these steak houses serve pretty darn good steaks, but I just don’t understand how you can compare a steak that is broiled in a damn oven with one that is cooked over charcoal. Too bad there is not a steak house that cooks like that, or at least not that I’m aware of.
By mickeysu
July 19, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
This list is the absolute worst “Best Of” that I have ever seen for Atlanta. I don’t have time to list all the chains that were selected.
By Robin
July 19, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
Chain Resturants, why why why Publix best bakery, why why why Alon’s hands down. The Cupcakes at Aurora Coffee by Suger Mama rock…Everyone should try one…unbelievable.
OH but check out the best place to show off your pooch.. Thats my pouch in the picture…I have no Shame plugging the best rocking dog Shami!!!Though I have no idea when that pic was taken :)
By bluesneak
July 19, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
Holly Firfer voted Sexiest Radio Voice? Are you kidding me? She sounds perpetually hoarse, and she can’t read a simple sentence without in some way stumbling over the words or mispronouncing someone’s name.
By Jess
July 19, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Enough OTP bashing! I live OTP and I didn’t vote for any of these crappy chain restarants. Atlanta is not the only place in North GA with quality dining. Come up to Alpharetta, Roswell, Duluth and see for yourself you ignorant ITP elitists.
By your mom
July 19, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
PF Chang and Benihana? Are you kidding me?
By Czan
July 19, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
So the best Indian restaurant in town is…a Moroccan restaurant? I don’t even know where to begin…
By Bernie
July 19, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this
I haven’t read through the whole list, but STARBUCKS FOR BEST WI-FI!?!?!?!?!?!?
Are you people that stupid???
Good thing I know all the local FREE Wi-Fi spots that serve great coffee as well.
By BPJ
July 19, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
Yes, the restaurant picks are a joke; there are so many good one-of-a-kind restaurants (both ITP & OTP), that it takes a special kind of mindlessness to list mediocre places like Cheesecake Factory.
But the worst thing about this “Best of Atlanta” list is that there is NOTHING about the arts! Atlanta is a vibrant arts town, but the AJC, in its continuing effort to appeal to imbeciles who don’t read (not a promising demographic for a newspaper), didn’t list a single category for the arts. No theatre, no actor, no exhibition, zilch. This city deserves a much better paper!
By DBH 1
July 19, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
BPJ has made a poweful and valid point regarding the arts. And come on bloggers, we’ve beat the whole Imperial Fez thing to death.
By Denise
July 19, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
Wow…I am not surprised, but very disappointed with the outcome of best Soul/Southern. I think the Soul/Southern category needs to be seperated. The two are totally different and should not longer be lumped together.
By Steph
July 19, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
I agree with all of the blogs. We need another place where people can get better recs. Try the Creative Loafing best of - it’s better. And that Publix bakery winner is..well, someone nominated it and lots of people voted for it (euw crisco shortening). Try Southern Sweets in Decatur near the Farmers Market for the cafe and the delish cakes/pies/cookies. Slice of pie on a saturday morning? MMMMMMM
By Joseph
July 19, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this
It’s my experience that most of the suburbanights do not venture much into the city to experience all that local restaurants have to offer. It makes sense to me that a lot of the comments and favorite picks are for restaurants that have their roots in the suburbs. I am disappointed in the choice for best Mexican food. My wife and I often frequent “Uncle Julio’s Casa Grade” in Midtown and we love it, although their prices have gone up.
By Atlanta Born
July 19, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
Man this is so bogus. I guess nothing outside of midtown was in the running. Besides I’m more interested in what did Arthur Blank know and when did he know it?
By Phil
July 19, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this
I was also disappointed with some of the weak chains being considered the “best” of Atlanta. As a native of Atlanta, I have a few suggestions in the restaurant venue.
Breakfast and BBQ can be taken care of with one location, JR’s Loghouse. The best of both wonderful worlds. The BBQ chicken is the best. Vortex wins the hamburger vote. Best soul food is Busy Bee on MLK. Try’em you’ll like ‘em!!!
By A Huge Stuge
July 19, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
I just wish Suchita was the newscaster I would like to date the most.. Come on she is hot!
By mes
July 19, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
What about Delis?
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
Annual Events to Which BigDaddy has become accustomed:
Atlanta is an excellent restaurant town; really better than any city of comparable size. But you wouldn’t know that by this “Best Of” abomination.
So, for your consideration, BigDaddy would like to offer the following corrections:
Best Italian - Sotto Sotto (followed closely by La Grotta, Alfredo’s, and Nino’s in that order). If you are reading this and nominated either Maggiano’s and/or Olive Garden, may you be reincarnated as Mike Vick’s house pet. BigDaddy was forced to eat at Maggiano’s once. BigDaddy ordered a Campari Soda. The spiky-haired halfwit (who had told us, upon introduction that Maggiano’s “specialized in fine Southern Italian cuisine”) brought BigDaddy a Club Soda instead. And that was the best part of the “meal”…
Breakfast - Thumbs Up Diner (with Ria’s Bluebird, Highland Bakery, Java Jive and Pastries A-Go Go following behind. Sorry, but the Flying Hockey Puck, er Biscuit, is truly awful; I mean c’mon - turkey bacon as the only “pork” option? Why do you hate your customers?)
Burgers - can’t argue too vociferously with the Vortex choice, but it is BigDaddy’s firm belief that Five Guys (hey, they’re both chains), has just nipped by them. Still need to drag myself to Anne’s Snack Shop, which BigDaddy suspects will clip them both.
Best Desserts - since BigDaddy would rather chew glass than to ever set another foot inside the Cheesecake factory, BigDaddy will relay that the absolute best dessert in the city is the Tres Leches cake at Tierra by Ansley Park. Best Desserts overall? Hmm, may be the bakery at Star Provisions.
Best Moroccan - Imperial Fez. Idiots…
Pizza - Fritti. If you are reading this and nominated Pizza Hut, please order your next Pizza Hut pizza with extra lye and a**…
Japanese & Sushi - MF Sushi. Benihanna is great if you enjoy Alpo. Ditto Ru Sans.
Barbecue - let’s go with Smyth’s Olde Bar. BigDaddy has left Fat Matt’s hungry too many times due to BigDaddy’s lack of desire to knaw on fat.
Steak - nod to Bone’s, narrowly over Lobster Bar (which is much cozier than it’s upstairs big brother, Chop’s). BigDaddy thought it would be nice to take the kids to the Aquarium and follow that up with Ruth’s Chris. Bad idea - Ruth’s Chris is a shade superior to Outback - everything is pre-packaged frozen and annoyed BigDaddy.
Bakery - Alon’s, with nods to Atlanta Breadgarden on Amsterdam Ave.
Thai - Surin? Surin? Are you kidding BigDaddy? A truly terrible version of “Thai”… Let’s go with Nan here, though BigDaddy has a lunch meeting at Tamarind tomorrow, and like a woman, BigDaddy reserves the right to change his mind…
BigDaddy could go on…
By Johnny
July 19, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Shanes Rib Shack for BBQ? Hardly…. The whole list was a joke for ALL the food eateries.
As far as the night clubs go, this really shows that some writer somewhere is just naming places on the best of Atlanta. Mama’s Country Showcase was listed on the best of country club list, it has not been a country night club in years. “IF” it is even still around it changed to a hip hop place called Mamas prime time….
By Jason
July 19, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
“I just wish Suchita was the newscaster I would like to date the most.. Come on she is hot!”
I agree. She is perfect!
By DM
July 19, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Your lists are a total waste of time. “Pizza Hut” “Olive Garden”??!? That is a truly sad commentary on the food and restaurants (Some with Drive-Thrus - fries with that escargot?)we choose as the best we have to offer. If the Chamber of Commerce does not burn this list, it is doing all tourist a disservice. Imagine a poll of New Yorkers that listed Pizza Hut as a best pizza. A total waste of time. Pitiful.
By Nauseated by the results
July 19, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
I concur with most of the statements above. This survey just goes to show that this city is inhabited by a bunch of Philistines.
Anyway, nobody mentioned an ever bigger issue with the “Best Of” restaurant results: a lack of ethnic options. After having lived in NYC for several years, I have come to appreciate the ethnic restaurants here in Atlanta. This city has some amazing middle eastern restaurants (Persian—Rumi’s Kitchen, Lebanese,—Byblos and Mediterranean Bakery) as well as many Asian options (GREAT Korean BBQ-Hae Woon Dae), etc…But I guess it’s too high of an expectation for redneck Atlantans to appreciate cuisine which hails from countries dubbed part of the“Axis of Evil”…
By Kathie
July 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
I want to go to dinner with BigDaddy! Great picks!!!
By Reds
July 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
BigDaddy —- your post made me laugh, and to top it off, I actually LIKE most your suggestions!!!
Kudos, man.
By art
July 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
I think the AJC should grade based on an index of quality of product, cost, and service. I agree with many of the top selections. However, I can’t stomach Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Overpriced to say the least. Bone’s is better on the high end. Overall, our home-grown Longhorn’s chain is still the best for the money.
The really funny (and sad and true) thing about this survey is that many chain restaurants (eg, Maggianno’s) came out on top. Local restaurant owners just have no clue how to compete. The fact is that Maggiano’s is THE best Italian restaurant period. La Grotta? Puhleeze. I’m from a NY Italian family; all other Italian restaurants pale in comparison to the Big M.
Waffle House—our home-grown chain—is a phenomenon: Best coffee, best breakfast, best frikin’ business model of any chain restaurant (which is why it’s studied in a lot of B-schools).
Pizza: Cosmo’s Little Italy in Lawrenceville. Who wants pineapple on a pizza? Yuck! Thin-crust NY-style pizza is what most food afficianados want. Mellow Mushroom ain’t the place to get it.
BTW, since when did Imperial Fez qualify as “Best Indian”. Personally, I don’t care for Moroccan. The best Indian I have had was at Bombay. Then again, I rarely eat the stuff so I am not qualified on that one.
The critics and food snobs can snear and look down their noses while they suck down, over-priced, low-quality foods at Atlanta’s “proprietary” restaurants, including places in the “Buckhead Life Group”. I’ll be enjoying the truly good food at some of the top chains.
By art
July 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
I think the AJC should grade based on an index of quality of product, cost, and service. I agree with many of the top selections. However, I can’t stomach Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Overpriced to say the least. Bone’s is better on the high end. Overall, our home-grown Longhorn’s chain is still the best for the money.
The really funny (and sad and true) thing about this survey is that many chain restaurants (eg, Maggianno’s) came out on top. Local restaurant owners just have no clue how to compete. The fact is that Maggiano’s is THE best Italian restaurant period. La Grotta? Puhleeze. I’m from a NY Italian family; all other Italian restaurants pale in comparison to the Big M.
Waffle House—our home-grown chain—is a phenomenon: Best coffee, best breakfast, best frikin’ business model of any chain restaurant (which is why it’s studied in a lot of B-schools).
Pizza: Cosmo’s Little Italy in Lawrenceville. Who wants pineapple on a pizza? Yuck! Thin-crust NY-style pizza is what most food afficianados want. Mellow Mushroom ain’t the place to get it.
BTW, since when did Imperial Fez qualify as “Best Indian”. Personally, I don’t care for Moroccan. The best Indian I have had was at Bombay. Then again, I rarely eat the stuff so I am not qualified on that one.
The critics and food snobs can snear and look down their noses while they suck down, over-priced, low-quality foods at Atlanta’s “proprietary” restaurants, including places in the “Buckhead Life Group”. I’ll be enjoying the truly good food at some of the top chains.
By Reds
July 19, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
BigDaddy —- your post made me laugh, and to top it off, I actually LIKE most your suggestions!!!
Kudos, man.
By Ralph
July 19, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Best Mexican Restaurant
El Norteno on the corner of Chamblee-Tucker and Buford Highway, has got to be checked out for next year’s pick. It’s hole-in-the-wall autentico mejicano sabroso. Lots of comidas for less than $9.00 per persona. When I moved to Atlanta from Fresno, I looked all over for food that reminded me of home. El Norteno makes me feel at home. Try their awesome Chips and Salsa bar while you watch a Novela or international Futbol!
By Nick
July 19, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Horrible bar picks. Taco Mac is neither cheap, nor the best sports bar. Nominations seemed tame as well.
Oh well, easier to pick apart a list than it is to put together. Wish a few more surveys would have been taken instead of the apparent editors roundtable.
By JB
July 19, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
test……hello…… i think i’ve been banned…..
By BPJ
July 19, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
I tend to agree with Big Daddy’s choices. The best desserts in town, for me, are at Aria, which is also one of the best all-around restaurants. To the list of good italian, I would add VeniVidiVici. Maggiano’s is OK if you’re taking small children with you, but it’s nothing special. For Thai, I love Nan’s, but the new Tamarind is my favorite!
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
A few follow-up notes and comments. First of all, Kathie, are you flirting with BigDaddy, cause BigDaddy’s blushing… And Reds, thanks for the kind words; BigDaddy don’t know too much about no nevermind, but BigDaddy does know which end of the fork goes in the mouth (unlike art, who seems to support the Maggiano’s victory).
Addition to Best Steak - at least for consideration, Rathbun’s Steak. New, and a little uneven as of yet, but incredible potential, and a bit different than the normal Big Steakhouse fare.
Neighborhood Bar - there really is only one Neighborhood Bar in Atlanta, and that’s Atkins Park. And not one of the OTP reincarnations, but the original, and oldest continuously-running watering hole in the city, again on North Highland.
New Restaurant - um, what qualifies as new? Rathbun’s has been around for some three-odd years. How does that make the nomination list? (Editor’s Note: the same way Imperial Fez makes the nomination list for Best Indian. Duh!) If we’re going back a couple years for this category, then Restaurant Eugene on Peachtree is obscenely good. If we’re going recent, then the truffle fries, fried chicken, and fried oysters Rockefeller (notice a trend there?) put JCT Kitchen on top, just edging out Trois, which is well-executed, though a tad on the trendy side for BigDaddy.
Take-Out - Whole Foods prepared food is really pretty gross. BigDaddy announces the winner as Noodle, with Little Azio coming in in a not-so-close second place finish.
Sports Bar - Dantanna’s by Lenox in a walk over all others. Next year Dantanna’s will be pushed by the sports bar being constructed downtown by Steak Shapiro and 790 the Zone.
Gay/Lesbian Bar - BigDaddy has no clue. Ask Jon Kinkade; BigDaddy hears he hangs out at Cowboys in Midtown. Why is this even a category?
Day Spa - Jolie over Key Lime, uh, or so Mrs. BigDaddy tells him…
By Becky
July 19, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Just something else for people to know about Atlanta, that we have no culture..Why didn’t we vote for which county has the best jail?
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this
BPJ - thanks for the shoutout and the love, dog. BigDaddy likes to keep it real, yo. But BigDaddy can’t agree with the Veni Vidi Vici addition - too many times the meal has been okay with awful service. Which is different than Pano’s other Italian offering, Pricci, which too many times has had good service but awful food. Never the twain shall meet under the Italian tent in the Buckhead Life tribe, apparently.
One more addition:
Oh, and one more consideration:
By RK
July 19, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Rosa’s wasn’t even nominated for Best Pizza???
Before you all complain, you should know about the voting and nomination process — it is done by the readers of the AJC.
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
RK - thank you, BigDaddy totally forgot about Rosa’s. Many hurried meals between MBA classes at GSU - a true revelation - everyone behind the counter and everything there pulled straight out of Brooklyn. Love the enormously fat Yankees dressing the pies. And Rosa is very sweet.
By Laura
July 19, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
BigDaddy - I must agree with everyone else. Your comments today have been truly amusing & entertaining. You seem to have a pretty good take on several good choices for the various categories (& also which ones to avoid). Makes me want to ask your opinion before I head out to a new restaurant - lol!!
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
Laura, flattery will get you everywhere with BigDaddy, though you may have a catfight on your hands with Kathie for my attentions. And Mrs. BigDaddy will frown on the whole affair.
Anyway, like the Dude, BigDaddy abides…
By Speakeasy
July 19, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this
It seems the consenses is this list is awful, so my question is….who voted for this crap. MF, i’m sure you’re appalled by this list, please help us find a way to get redemption for atlanta’s real dining scene.
By kathie
July 19, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this
Oh BigDaddy, you have me drooling…. Maybe you could take a few of us out, Mrs. BigDaddy can come along too ;)
By BigDaddy
July 19, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this
kathie, BigDaddy has been known, in the past, to have that effect on the fairer sex, much to the chagrin of Mrs. BigDaddy…
Okay, more corrections, and then let’s introduce some new categories.
-Best Hangover Food - don’t know about you, but BigDaddy doesn’t jones for an omelet and a waffle when he’s cross-eyed. As appalling as this is, BigDaddy craves Krystal at those unfortunate times that BigDaddy’s face is greener than the lawn. The sliders, mini-chicken sandwiches, and chili-cheese pups always manage to put BigDaddy into a grease-induced torpor, which everyone knows is the key to hangover recovery…
And now for some new categories:
Best Sandwich - the Cuban at Havana Cafe on Buford Hwy. BigDaddy goes out of his way to stop there. Sorry, Kool Korners fans, but you know, deep in your heart of hearts, that the Cuban at Havana is better. Stop fighting it…
Best Tapas Bar - Alleuvia, at The Cheetah, on Spring Street. Wait, did BigDaddy say tapas? Oops, BigDaddy meant to say Pura Vida on N. Highland - incredibly creative and delicious and chased by pitcher after pitcher after pitcher of solid mojitos.
Best Place for Drinks with a View that Makes Mrs. BigDaddy Jealous - other than the aforementioned Alleuvia, the BigDaddy Claret Jug goes to The Tavern at Phipps. BigDaddy still can’t understand how those tiny cocktail-wench spinners fit into those near-obscene outfits and then stay upright (seeing how they’re all on the top-heavy side)…
Most Romantic Restaurant - Anis Cafe and Bistro on Grandview in Buckhead. If BigDaddy were searching for a new Mrs. BigDaddy, this would be the site of every first dinner date. The atmosphere and superb Southern French takes BigDaddy back to his days of stomping around Vieux Nice. Ooh la la…
Best Overall Restaurant - well, let’s do top three: 1) Bacchanalia 2) Restaurant Eugene 3) Dining Room at the Ritz in Buckhead.
By art
July 19, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this
Well, “BigDaddy” appears to have monopolized this blog.
I happen to agree that Bacchanalia is probably the best restaurant in town now that Seeger’s is gone, but that ain’t sayin’ much. Small portions and large prices rule the day there.
Anyone who claims Atlanta has good restaurants is sorely mistaken. The wife and I dine out at least 5 times a week and try new restaurants all the time, in the suburbs AND in the city. What passes for a good restaurant in this town wouldn’t make it in a true culinary capital like New York. Not to mention the fact that service is uniformly bad whereever you go in Atlanta. If it’s not obsequious like Bone’s, it’s horrible like (fill in blank with a “Buckhead Life” restaurant here).
While I may have given compliments to some of the chains (actually only the Big M and WH), it was only because the decent ones are usually consistently good, not great by any means.
Lastly, does anyone ever bother to check the Health Department inspection scores??? If you do, you will find that many of Big Daddy’s recommendations and the top restaurants of the AJC have some serious problems. Guess plebian Atlantans (ITP and OTP) are willing to tolerate a bad case of the squirts for what they consider to be good food.
Can we say “Ewwwwwww”???
By Charlotte
July 20, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this
COSMOS LITTLE ITALY in LAWRENCEVILLE, is indeed the BEST PIZZA restaurant. It’s located on the revitalized downtown historic Lawrenceville square.
By Kathie
July 20, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this
So Art, tell us what you DO like?
Ahhhh Mrs.BigDaddy is a lucky woman.
By justduckie
July 20, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
This is sad and disappointing. We have so many terrific places in Atlanta, and you guys pick Benihana’s and PF Chang? Seriously?? Are we living in Macon or Atlanta??
By robo
July 20, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
I totally agree with Lulu - when chain restaurants are selected as “best”, we have a serious problem! It shows that many families are hopeless when it comes to cooking at home these days.
Ru-Sans best sushi? Benihana’s as Best Japanese. You make my mother cry…. that isn’t Japanese food, that’s Japericanese food.
By Egger
July 20, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
I agree with pretty much everything that has been said here. Atlanta has a wealth of excellent restaurants and fun neighborhood places that deserve recognition - the selections offered in the poll are insulting to the truly good places and to the readers.
I also agree with almost all of Big Daddy’s recommendations, although I must take issue with the assertion of Havana Cafe having the best Cuban. Having lived in Tampa most of my life and my first job being at a Cuban sandwich shop there, I think Kool Korners has a far better, more authentic sandwich.
That being said, I must say I’m relieved that there was no sandwich category in the readers poll so we don’t have to see that Subway gets voted best sandwich in Atlanta!!!
By BigDaddy
July 20, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
Egger, you’ve stumbled on the great debate of Atlanta sandwiches. BigDaddy’s cousin, like you, also from Tampa (and who has lived in Miami as well), asserts the exact opposite.
Never having been to Cuba, BigDaddy can’t adjudicate which one is more authentic, but BigDaddy has no qualms about saying which is a better sandwich - Havana, all day, every day.
Of course, this debate will go on for the foreseeable future…
By kathie
July 20, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
BigDaddy how was Tamarind?
By BigDaddy
July 20, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
Kathie, I’m afraid I didn’t make it today. I had to reschedule for next week. Unforeseen circumstances and whatnot…
By asdfasdf
July 21, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Fat Matt’s is hands down the WORST barbecue I’ve ever had in my life. OK, maybe it’s tied with Maddy’s. And Sonny’s is on that ‘worst of’ list. It’s sad, but Atlanta has some of the worst barbecue of any city in the country. It’s horrid. It almost makes me cry to see what wins.
By FM Fats
July 21, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
Re the Best Country Bar nominations, will somebody please note that Mama’s on Covington Highway has been a hiphop club for at least four years?
By Saxman
July 22, 2007 4:03 AM | Link to this
I am always bemused (sadly) with every year’s “Best of Atlanta” lists, as I’ve never been anywhere where more CHAIN RESTAURANTS were the big winners! How loudly does THAT speak to a lack of creativity & appreciation of uniqueness?
Talk about thinking “inside the box”……waaaay inside, and such a small box, at that.
By BigDaddy
July 23, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this
And what happened to all the categories from last year?
By Laura
July 23, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
BigDaddy, I’ll have to agree with Egger re: the best cuban. I think Kool Korner has an excellent sandwich. Havana’s is fine, but to me not quite as tasty. Not sure which would be considered the most authentic version, just going by my own personal taste.
By w.t.f.
July 23, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
This is asinine.
By Jack M
July 23, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Maybe the Big A is really Alpharetta and you had to be located on or around Northpoint Parkway to be considered (unless you’re a Moroccan Indian restaurant)…overall it’s a pretty comical list. I feel sorry for your staff of food/restaurant critics who now have to answer on behalf of this city, which really is a thousand times better than this abominable list reflects. I guess the good news is that those of us in the know will have the good places to ourselves!
By O-Gee
July 23, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
what sort of clueless douchebags voted for these crap picks? how does an editor keep his job by publishing it? the result is a screaming example of what a crappy town atlanta continues to be. i guess there is some upside to the thought that the people who voted won’t be crowding up the real best places in atlanta.
By Suckerur
July 23, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
Every town is ‘crappy’ because every town does this stupid “best of list” and they always have crappy resturants on the list and great one off the list. You find me a city where everyone agrees.
By nolezfaninbamacountry
July 25, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this
Although I don’t live in ATL, I do spend alot of time there. How can anyone nominate sonny’s for best BBQ. Thats absurd…….Obviously the transplanted yankees took over the voting. I bet when you go to Destin or PC, ya’ll go to Red Lobster to eat “FRESH” seafood. The heart & soul of ANY city is ALWAYS the local mom & pop businesses. Although I work for a large fortune 500 company (who even won one of the awards in the voting), supporting local QUALITY businesses is important for the community to survive.. Surely OB’S or Sprayberrys would be a more worthy nominee than that of Sonny’s………
By G Whiz
July 25, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Big Daddy might think he knows it all, but Southern Food restaurants have cooks not chefs. Those places like Watershed don’t have a clue.
By BigDaddy
July 25, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
G Whiz, thanks for your obviously insightful commentary and useful feedback, as well as your wonderful restaurant recommendations. BigDaddy, et al, can’t wait to go out and try…? What? Is there anywhere you can send us that will prove your assertion correct? At least throw out sending us to Folks! The Dillard House? The Country Cafe on Lawrenceville Hwy? I mean, gee whiz, G Whiz, give us something…
And for the record, BigDaddy doesn’t “might” think he knows it all. BigDaddy abides…
At any rate, for those still checking on this blog, BigDaddy has now been to Tamarind Seed, and while normally BigDaddy is loathe to give feedback on a restaurant without having been there at least twice, BigDaddy is of the opinion that Nan is superior in every way, with the sole exception of the Thai tea, which BigDaddy rated dead even.
So Nan officially wins the highly-coveted BigDaddy Satay Trophy.
By BigDaddy
July 25, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this
Laura, you’re officially breaking BigDaddy’s heart…
Kathie, BigDaddy’s all yours now…
By Em
July 26, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Wow, I couldn’t agree LESS with these winners. I’m not sure where the judges for these categories live or how often they get out, but -RuSan’s for best sushi? Really? I like Ru San’s because the prices are cheap, the atmosphere is casual, and the service is fine, but it certainly tastes like cheap sushi. What about BluePointe? Or MF Sushi?
And Waffle House for breakfast? Come on.
The one that ticked me off enough to write was Mary Mac’s Tea Room. I am not sure what it is about this place - and it is charming - but the food is awful! It is hospital cafeteria level food. We went here for a birthday in Atlanta and I was incredibly disappointed with my dinner - in fact, we ordered a pizza an hour after we left because neither of us could handle very much of the MMTR food. Agnes & Muriel’s or SouthCity Kitchen have excellent food - MMTR isn’t even close to their league. I don’t own a restaurant, but if I did, I’m not sure if it would be a blessing or a curse to win one of these awards!