2008 Atlanta Fall Dining Guide
Appetites up, Atlanta: It’s time for the Fall Dining Guide. I’ve spent the past three months adding to my waistline to bring you the best dining this city has to offer. Want to know the cream of the crop? Check out my picks for 2008's Top 50 restaurants in Atlanta. This year marks dramatic changes to an ever-changing list, since so many restaurants -- good ones -- have opened.
On our Top 50 map, the restaurants we consider the best in Atlanta.
In our guide:
We say goodbye, unfortunately, to some favorites to make room for newcomers making news. Some have lost chefs; others closed. A big au revoir, with hugs and kisses, to Banaras and Pao de Mel (both closed) and a hope-to-see-you-again-soon to Co’m Vietnamese Grill, La Tavola, MF Sushibar, Baroanda, the Globe (new management); Woodfire Grill (new owners); and Nam Chun Hong, Taqueria del Sol and Table 1280 (new chef). Rest (and eat) assured knowing that those spots with a new chef, management or owner will have their chance to get back on the list next fall.
Give a big Atlanta “hey” (it ain’t for horses) to Top 50 newbies Cuerno, 4th & Swift, Beleza, Cakes & Ale, the Hil, Holeman & Finch Public House, L’Thai Fine Organic Cuisine & Bar, Lime Taqueria, MF Buckhead and the National. And I’m happy to welcome Wisteria back to this year’s list.
Fall always brings my choice for restaurant of the year — a chef-driven, neighborhood spot that’s grown into a destination. This year’s pick, Tierra, is a gem among neighborhood restaurants in the metro area. Take a look and go for a taste, and read about chef-owner Dan Krinsky’s challenging ongoing battle with kidney disease.
With so many new openings, you’ll want to keep up with all the action. We give you a peek at what’s new and notable.
Be sure to chat with me about what did and didn’t get selected on my blog at Table Talk.
Most of all, enjoy. Atlanta’s dining is better than ever.
KEY TO RATINGS
Outstanding: Sets the standard for fine dining in the region. 
Excellent: One of the best in the Atlanta area. 
Very good: Merits a drive if you're looking for this kind of dining. 
Good: A worthy addition to its neighborhood, but food may be hit or miss. 
Fair: The food is more miss than hit. Restaurants that do not meet these criteria may be rated Poor.
Pricing code: $$$$$ means more than $75; $$$$ means $75 and less; $$$ means $50 and less; $$ means $25 and less; $ means $15 and less. (The price code represents a meal for one that includes appetizer, entree and dessert without including tax, tip and cocktails.)
